The Basics: Born in the 5th century in France; died in the 6th century in France; canonized precongregation; feast day, April 23. Hermit.
The Story: The Second Vatican Council writings included a reference to the family as the “domestic Church,” calling parents “the first preachers of the faith.” It appears that Pusinna’s parents, who lived fifteen centuries before Vatican II, took this responsibility very seriously and did well as preachers; all seven of their daughters chose to consecrate themselves to God. That means they agreed not to marry, instead devoting themselves to service to the faith and living at home. The Catholic Church considers all saints today.
Of special note was the life of Pusinna. After spending years at home with her sisters, she decided she was called to a more isolated life. She moved to a small room not far from her parents’ home, with plans to never leave it. When she neared her death, one sister, Lintrude, was able to visit Pusinna in her hermitage. Pusinna’s voice, which had disappeared, came back, and the sisters were able to pray together. (Lintrude and another sister eventually became hermits as well.)
Three centuries after Pusinna’s death, a nobleman offered some of her relics to his sister, who was abbess at a German abbey. Miracles resulted, and some of Pusinna’s relics remain at churches in the area today.
What We Can Learn from Pusinna: We don’t have to leave home to do God’s work; in fact, sometimes what we are called to do can be done in a single room.
To Learn More About Pusinna: Read more about her and her sisters in Anchoresses of the West by Darley Dale.
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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