Episode 2085: St Alda

St. Alda, also known as St. Aldina or St. Aleydis, was born in the early 13th century, around 1249, in the region of Brabant, which is now part of modern-day Belgium. She was born into a noble family, and from a young age, she demonstrated a strong inclination towards piety and devotion to God.

Despite her privileged upbringing, Alda felt a profound call to live a life of simplicity, humility, and devotion to God. She was deeply influenced by the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi and his emphasis on poverty, charity, and service to others. At a young age, Alda joined the Third Order of St. Francis, a lay religious order that allowed individuals to live out the Franciscan charism while remaining in the secular world.

Alda's decision to embrace a life of poverty and service was met with resistance from her family, who hoped for a more conventional path for her. However, Alda remained steadfast in her commitment to her faith and her chosen way of life. She dedicated herself wholeheartedly to serving the poor, the sick, and the marginalized in her community, caring for them with great compassion and tenderness.

Alda's life was marked by a deep spirituality and a strong sense of union with God. She spent long hours in prayer and contemplation, seeking to deepen her relationship with Christ and to discern God's will for her life. According to hagiographical accounts, Alda experienced mystical visions and ecstasies, during which she received spiritual insights and guidance.

Despite facing various challenges and hardships, including illness and persecution for her faith, Alda remained steadfast in her devotion to God and her commitment to a life of prayer, penance, and service. Her exemplary life of holiness and virtue earned her a reputation for sanctity among her contemporaries.

After her death, Alda was venerated as a saint by the local community, who regarded her as a model of Christian virtue and devotion. Her cult continued to grow over time, and she was eventually canonized by the Catholic Church. St. Alda is honored as a patron saint of the sick, the suffering, and those who care for them.