St. Hildegard of Bingen

Feast Day: September 17

“Glance at the sun. See the moon and the stars. Gaze at the beauty of earth’s greenings. Now, think.” – St. Hildegard of Bingen

St. Hildegard of Bingen is honored as a mystic, writer, composer, and visionary who made extraordinary contributions to theology, medicine, music, and science. Her feast day, celebrated on September 17, commemorates her remarkable life as a woman of deep faith, intellect, and creativity.

A Visionary from an Early Age

Hildegard was born in 1098 in Germany to a noble family. From an early age, she experienced visions of divine light and spiritual insight. At the age of eight, she was entrusted to the care of a Benedictine monastery, where she received her religious education and discerned her vocation as a nun.

In time, Hildegard became the abbess of her own community, leading her fellow sisters with wisdom, strength, and holiness.

Mystic, Writer, and Teacher

Hildegard’s mystical visions became the foundation of several theological works, the most famous being Scivias (“Know the Ways”), in which she recorded her visions and their meanings. Her writings combined spiritual reflection with vivid imagery, offering profound insights into the nature of God, creation, and salvation.

She was also a gifted composer, writing sacred music that is still performed today. In addition to her spiritual writings, Hildegard authored texts on natural medicine, the healing properties of plants, and the harmony of the created world, blending faith and science in a way unique for her time.

A Bold Voice in the Church

Despite the challenges of being a woman in the 12th century, Hildegard became a highly respected figure in the Church. Popes, bishops, and rulers sought her counsel. She spoke boldly on issues of morality, reform, and the need for the Church to remain faithful to Christ.

Hildegard traveled widely to preach and teach, using her voice to call the faithful to holiness and to remind them of the beauty and order of God’s creation.

Canonization and Doctor of the Church

St. Hildegard of Bingen died in 1179 at the age of 81. Her influence continued to grow long after her death. In 2012, Pope Benedict XVI officially canonized her and declared her a Doctor of the Church, recognizing her as one of the greatest teachers and thinkers in Catholic history.

She is a patron saint of musicians, writers, and natural scientists, and a model for those who seek to unite faith, creativity, and intellectual pursuit.

A Witness to God’s Glory in Creation

St. Hildegard’s life is a powerful reminder that the created world reflects the glory of God, and that the gifts of intellect, creativity, and contemplation are to be used in service to truth and holiness.

St. Hildegard of Bingen, pray for us!