Saint Ursula Ledóchowska

Biography

Saint Herlindis, also known as Herlinde, was born as the daughter of Count Adelard in the 8th century. She had a sister named Saint Relindis. Herlindis was a devout Christian from a young age and felt a strong calling to dedicate her life to God. When Herlindis and her sister expressed their desire to join a religious order and become nuns, their father lovingly supported their decision. Count Adelard built a convent for them in Maaseyk, a town situated on the banks of the Meuse River. This convent would later become known for its sanctity and the holiness of its inhabitants. Herlindis and Relindis became part of the religious community at Maaseyk and were guided by the renowned missionary, Saint Willibrord of Echternach, and later Saint Boniface. Both of these saints played a significant role in the spread of Christianity in what is now the Netherlands and Germany. Herlindis, along with her sister, led a life of prayer, self-discipline, and service to others within the walls of the convent. As the years passed, her deep spirituality and leadership qualities became apparent. Herlindis was eventually chosen as the abbess of the convent at Maaseyk, entrusted with the responsibility of guiding her fellow sisters in their spiritual journey. Under her guidance, the convent flourished, becoming known for its piety, intellectual pursuits, and its dedication to the well-being of the local community. Herlindis was admired by her fellow sisters and respected by the people of Maaseyk for her wisdom, compassion, and unwavering faith in God. Saint Herlindis lived a life of exemplary holiness, always striving to deepen her relationship with God and to inspire others to do the same. She was deeply committed to the teachings of the Catholic Church and devoted her life to serving God and His people. After a long and fruitful life dedicated to God, Saint Herlindis passed away around the year 745 from natural causes. Her sanctity and the impact she had on the religious community and the people of Maaseyk were acknowledged, and she was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church, although the exact date of her canonization is unknown. Today, Saint Herlindis is remembered for her piety, devotion, and her role in establishing the convent at Maaseyk. While she is not widely recognized as a patron saint for any particular cause or group, her life serves as an inspiration for all who seek to follow God with unwavering devotion and love. Her feast day is celebrated on the 12th of October, commemorating her life and the impact she had on her community and the Church as a whole.