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St. Hildegard Stained Glass Window |
On October 7th Pope Benedict XVI proclaimed St. Hildegard of Bingen a Doctor of the Church. Some may wonder what this title means. “Doctor of the Church” comes from the Latin word “doctor” meaning to teach. In this understanding of the word, one can be a Doctor of the Church by being a teacher and/or writer. This title is given to saints who have made an especially important contribution to theology, doctrine, and spirituality. There are now thirty-five Doctors of the Church. Four of them are women.
St. Hildegard of Bingen was a 12th century German Benedictine abbess, mystic, prophet, poet, and musician. She was a woman of great intelligence, sensitivity, and spiritual authority. She had a great love of creation and was learned in medicine. Her writings and music continue to inspire people today. As Benedictines, we rejoice in this honor she has received! We also rejoice that more people will now have an opportunity to learn and to be inspired by this important Benedictine Saint! |
