The Basics: Born after 646 in what is now Belgium; died after 680 in Belgium; canonized pre-congregation; feast day, January 8. Laywoman.
The Story: Tradition has it that one of Gudula’s sisters was martyred, and the other spent her life in an extremely unhappy marriage. Gudula’s path was much quieter. After being educated at the abbey of a relative (some say her godmother; others say a cousin), St. Gertrude of Nivelles, Gudula returned home and engaged in a ministry helping the poor. Legend has it she was devoted to attending Mass in the early hours at a church two miles away, and that a demon attempted to stop her by extinguishing her light. The Lord relit it for her, and she went on her way.
What We Can Learn from Gudula: Where is evil striving to put out your light, to make your cross heavier? Ask the Lord for his help in banishing this force from your life.
To Learn More About Gudula: St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral in Brussels has a relic of Gudula; you can learn more about the cathedral’s history and architecture here.
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.
