The Basics: Born circa 1303 in Sweden; died July 23, 1373, in Italy; canonized in 1391, by Boniface IX; feast day, July 23. Mystic; adviser; monastery founder.
The Story: Bridget was a world traveler and outspoken woman. By turns she was a wife and mother; a lady in waiting to the Swedish king’s wife; a pilgrim to the shrine of St. Olaf and the Way of St. James; a widow; the founder of monasteries; and a critic of Pope Clement VI for his refusal to return to Rome from Avignon. Bridget went to Rome herself in 1349, where she pronounced prophecies and reformed monasteries. She complained loudly about the excesses of royalty and those in high office. Bridget was the founder of the Bridgettine Order (Order of the Most Holy Savior) of nuns, sisters, and monks.
St. Bridget of Sweden’s Wisdom: “The world would have peace if only the men of politics would follow the Gospels.”
What We Can Learn: Bridget wasn’t afraid to seek her mind about excesses she perceived as counter to God’s desires. There are times to be silent… and times to speak up. Pray for the Lord’s assistance in knowing when not to remain silent.
To Learn More About St. Bridget: Check out the Bridgettine Order in Sweden or the Vadstena Abbey Church, home to St. Bridget’s shrine.
To Learn More About Other Women Saints and Blesseds: Come back next week, or consider buying my book, Sisterhood of Saints: Daily Guidance and Inspiration.
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