Saint Saxburgh of Ely

Biography

Saint Saxburgh of Ely, also known as Saxburgh of Kent, Sexburga, Seaxburh, or Sexburgh, was born around the year 635 in England. She was born into a royal family as the daughter of the King of East Anglia, making her a princess. Saxburgh had three sisters who would also be recognized as saints: Saint Etheldred, Saint Ethelburgh, and Saint Withburgh. She also had a half-sister named Saint Sethrid. In her youth, Saxburgh was married to Erconbert, the King of Kent. Together, they had two daughters who would also become saints: Saint Ermenhild and Saint Ercongotha. Saxburgh's life took a significant turn when she decided to dedicate herself to the service of God. Saxburgh's journey towards a life of religious devotion began when she founded the convent of Minster in Sheppey, England. This convent became a place for women to live a life of prayer and devotion. Throughout her life, Saxburgh demonstrated her commitment to serving God and helping others, particularly women seeking a life of spirituality. In 664, after her husband's death, Saxburgh became a widow. Instead of returning to a life of comfort and royalty, she chose to embark on a religious vocation. Saxburgh joined the convent in Sheppey as a nun, dedicating herself fully to a life of prayer, meditation, and service to God and others. Later, Saxburgh's journey led her to the convent of Ely in 679. It was at the convent of Ely that she would spend her remaining years and ultimately rise to the position of abbess. As abbess, Saxburgh provided leadership and guidance to the community, inspiring the women under her care to deepen their faith, pursue holiness, and engage in acts of charity. Saint Saxburgh of Ely lived a life marked by humility, devotion, and an unwavering commitment to Christ. Her example and teachings continue to inspire countless individuals to this day. She passed away around the year 699 from natural causes. Although not much is known about the specific details of her life, Saxburgh's legacy lives on through the spiritual impact she had on those she encountered. Her life's work and dedication to God earned her recognition as a saint, though her canonization occurred prior to the formal establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, making it a pre-congregation designation. While Saint Saxburgh of Ely does not have a traditional representation associated with her, her spirituality and devotion make her a precious example for individuals seeking a life of holiness. On July 6th, the Catholic Church celebrates the feast day of Saint Saxburgh of Ely, honoring her life and her dedication to God. Although she does not have a specific patronage attributed to her, she serves as an inspiration for those seeking spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God.