Hildegard, a medieval (1098-1179) mystic, composer, author, preacher, poet, playwright and Benedictine nun was canonized in 2012 and named a Doctor of the Church (the fourth woman of 35 saints to be given that title by the Catholic Church). Pope Benedict XVI described Hildegard as "perennially relevant" and "an authentic teacher of theology and a profound scholar of natural science and music." (May 27, 2012)

Having had visions since she was three years old, Hildegard was ordered by her confessor to write them down. When they were read by Pope Eugene III, he encouraged her to continue. She also wrote commentaries on the Gospels, the Athanasian Creed, and the Rule of St. Benedict, as well as lives of the saints and a medical work on the well-being of the body. She wrote over 300 letters to people who sought her advice.

Hildegard carried out four preaching missions in northern Europe (an unprecedented activity for a woman in that time). She did not hesitate to call out religious leaders who were corrupt, authorities who abused their power, and people in religious life who created an easy way of life rather than going into their communities and working with the people they were called to serve.

Hildegard is a witness for us as catechists in her numerous roles: artist, author, composer, mystic, pharmacist, poet, preacher, theologian.

Perhaps one that is especially pertinent for us today is seen in a theme that occurs constantly in her writings and prayer: the stewardship of creation and holistic living. Hildegard valued the earth as a place of wonder, of delight and glory to God.

She communicated creation spirituality through music, art, poetry, medicine, gardening, and reflections on nature. Hildegard created the word “viriditas” or “greenness” to describe the reality of God’s presence in all living things. She had visions of air pollution and deforestation centuries before either became an issue, and had a strong conviction that the job of humans was to cherish and protect the world they live in.

Reflections to Hold, Pray, and Live

• How might I incorporate care for creation into prayer time with my learners?

• Within your catechetical setting, how might I reject our throw-away culture?

Author:

Sister Janet Schaeffler, OP
Member, NCCL Board of Directors

Her book, SAINTS & MENTORS for Catechists: 41 Models of Faith to Support and Guide You, can be purchased from Twenty-Third Publications
[GET YOUR COPY HERE]

Learn more about Janet and her publications at https://www.janetschaeffler.com/