Wednesday’s Woman: Achahildis of Wendelstein

The Basics: Born in Germany; died about 970 in Germany; canonized precongregation; feast day, October 29. Wife; mother.

The Story: Achahildis, it seems was one busy–and talented woman. She may not be well known outside her hometown near Nuremberg, but

Aarp65 [CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)]; https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/38/St._Georg_Wendelstein_04.JPG/1024px-St._Georg_Wendelstein_04.JPG
she was beloved there in her time.

This noblewoman had five children, and at some point after their births, Achahildis and her husband agreed to live celibately. Despite her home responsibilities, Achahildis was known for her work among the poor, and a few surprising transformations. It’s said that her husband once challenged her for preparing to take wine to the needy, and when he tasted it, the liquid had turned to oil. There’s also a marvelous story about her bringing a roast goose back to life. In more mundane manners, Achahildis also came up with the funds to establish St. George’s church in her hometown.

What We Can Learn from Achahildis: Achahildis didn’t look for fame or recognition. She just helped others, and relied on the Lord to provide a miracle or two when needed for their conversions. May we remember He is always in charge.

To Learn More About Achahildis: Read the entry about her in Taxonomies of Knowledge: Information and Order in Medieval Manuscripts.

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.

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