The Basics: Born in the 7th century in Germany; died 734 in Germany; canonized precongregation; feast day, November 27. Wife, woman religious.
The Story: Bilhildis’s parents planned to have her baptized. They really did. They were Christians living in an area that still had many pagans and pagan customers, so when she was three or so, they sent her to live with a pious aunt. However, an invasion came about, and the child was sent home. When she was sixteen, her parents made for Bilhildis what they considered a good match to the duke of Franconia. There was just one problem: he was not a Christian, and had no interest in Bilhildis’s pleas and entreaties that 
he convert. So, in a sequence of events that is somewhat unclear, Bilhildis left her husband (or, waited until after he was killed) and eventually founded a convent, where she became the abbess.
There, all went well.. until some members of the community learned through a sort of divine message that Bilhildis had not been baptized or confirmed. There was much discussion over whether this message was inspired by the devil, but eventually, records showed that indeed, Bilhildis had not received the sacraments as a child. So, as an adult, she was initiated into the Church and, with reverence, continued to guide her community.
What We Can Learn from Bilhidis: Next time you attend a baptism or confirmation, put yourself in the position of the person being newly welcomed. Listen to the words carefully and offer the responses with feeling and humility.
Bilhildis’ Wisdom: “I must now think only of God and the day of judgment.” (near the time of her death)
To Learn More About Bilhildis: Read the entry about her in Lives of the Saints, Volume 2 by Francis Xavier Weninger.
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.
