Wednesday’s Woman: St. Milburga

The Basics: Born in the 7th century in England; died after 700 in England; canonized pre-congregation; feast day, February 23. Philanthropist; woman religious.

The Story: They were three sisters, Milburga, Mildred and Mildgytha, and all became saints. Milburga, the oldest, served as abbess of the Wenlock convent her family founded. She was known for her humility and healing gifts. It is said that she loved the country, whether it meant going saints_milburga_wikimedia20150221about to see people in the area or time in the convent gardens. In addition, it’s reported she sometimes levitated, and had a special relationship with birds. Milburga’s sisters also became women religious.

Milburga’s Wisdom: Her deathbed words to the others at her convent were: “I have been mother to you. I have watched over you like a mother, with pious care. And in mercy, I go the way of all flesh. A higher call invites me.”

What We Can Learn from Milburga: Milburga’s last words remind that death is inevitable… and to love in the time we have on earth. Consider today what you might do to repair a troubled relationship. We never know when we will be called to the Lord.

To Learn More About Milburga: Visit the English Heritage site to view and learn more about the beautiful Wenlock ruins, where Milburga was abbess and where her remains were discovered.

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.

By Melanie

Melanie Rigney is the author of Radical Saints: 21 Women for the 21st Century and other Catholic books. She is a contributor to Living Faith and other Catholic blogs. She lives in Arlington, Virginia. Melanie also owns Editor for You, a publishing consultancy that since 2003 has helped hundreds of writers, publishers, and agents.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *