Blessed Gertrude Van Oosten

Biography

Blessed Gertrude Van Oosten, also known as Gertrude of Delft or Gertrude of the East, was born around 1310 in Voorburch, Netherlands. She was born into a humble and poor family, and as she grew older, Gertrude sought employment as a servant for a wealthy family in the town of Delft.

However, her path in life took an unexpected turn when her engagement was abruptly broken off by her betrothed. This event deeply affected Gertrude, causing her to reevaluate her priorities and seek solace in her faith. Moved by a strong spiritual calling, she decided to renounce her worldly pursuits and dedicate herself to a life of devotion.

Gertrude joined the Beguine religious community in Delft, where she found a supportive and nurturing environment to explore her spiritual gifts. It was within the confines of this convent that she began to experience profound mystical encounters and receive extraordinary graces.

One of the remarkable aspects of Gertrude's spiritual life was the reception of the stigmata, the wounds of Christ, on her hands and feet. This visible sign of her union with Christ's suffering became an integral part of her identity as a mystic. Additionally, she also possessed the gift of prophecy, allowing her to foresee future events and offer guidance to those around her.

It is worth noting that Gertrude's surname, van Oosten, was believed to be a nickname given to her due to her frequent repetition of the hymn "Het daghet in den Oosten" (The Day Breaks in the East). This nickname serves as a testament to her constant focus on the spiritual realm and her deep longing for the dawn of God's eternal light.

Despite her remarkable experiences and gifts, Gertrude remained humble and dedicated to her religious duties as a Beguine. She served as an example of piety and devotion to her fellow sisters, always keeping her arms outstretched in prayer and her eyes lifted towards heaven.

Blessed Gertrude Van Oosten passed away on 6 January 1358 in Delft, Netherlands, from natural causes. She was laid to rest in the church of Saint Hippolytus in Delft, where her memory continues to be honored.

Though Gertrude is not officially venerated or beatified by the Catholic Church, her life and spiritual journey serve as an inspiration to those seeking a deeper connection with God. Her unwavering faith, endurance through suffering, and willingness to surrender her personal desires for the sake of divine love make her a beloved and admired figure in religious history.