Saint Adelaide of Burgundy

Biography

Saint Adelaide of Burgundy, also known as Adelaide of Italy or Adelheid, was born in around 931 in the kingdom of Burgundy, which is now modern-day Burgundy, France. She was the daughter of King Rudolf II (Rupert II) of Upper Burgundy, a noble lineage that held significant power in the region. From a young age, Adelaide's life was intertwined with politics and diplomacy. At the tender age of two, she was promised in an arranged marriage as part of a treaty between her father, King Rudolf, and Hugh of Provence. This marriage would later prove to have a profound impact on her life and her spiritual journey. Adelaide's arranged marriage took place when she was sixteen years old. She married Lothair of Italy, who eventually became the king of Italy. However, tragedy struck when Lothair was poisoned, most likely by his successor to the throne, Berengarius. This left Adelaide widowed at a very young age, and her life took a drastic turn. Berengarius, in his quest to solidify his authority, ordered Adelaide to marry his own son. However, Adelaide courageously refused this forced marriage and was subsequently imprisoned. Her imprisonment was short-lived, as the German king Otto the Great emerged victorious in his battle against Berengarius and secured Adelaide's release. In 951, Adelaide married Otto the Great in Pavia, Italy. Otto was later crowned Emperor in Rome in 952, and Adelaide shared his reign for the next twenty years. During this period, she held the esteemed title of Empress and played an active role in the administration of the Holy Roman Empire. After the death of her beloved husband in 973, Adelaide faced mistreatment from her step-son, Emperor Otto II, and his wife Theophano. Nonetheless, Adelaide was able to reconcile with her royal in-laws and maintain her poise and grace even in difficult circumstances. Upon the death of Emperor Otto II in 983, Adelaide's infant grandson, Otto III, became the new emperor. However, Theophano, as the child's mother and regent, continued to harbor ill feelings towards Adelaide and utilized her power to exile her from the royal court. This period of exile lasted until Theophano's death in 991, at which point Adelaide returned to the court to act as regent for young Otto III. Adelaide's time as regent allowed her to use her position and influence to aid the less fortunate. She dedicated herself to helping the poor, evangelizing among the Slavic communities, and supporting the construction and restoration of monasteries and churches. Adelaide's commitment to spreading the faith and serving those in need made a lasting impact on the people around her. As Otto III matured, Adelaide withdrew from the political sphere and retired to the convent of Selta near Cologne. Although she never formally became a nun, she spent the remainder of her days there, devoting herself to a life of prayer and contemplation. It was in this peaceful setting that Adelaide passed away, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and piety. Saint Adelaide of Burgundy was canonized in 1097 by Pope Urban II, recognizing her exemplary life and virtuous deeds. Today, she is venerated as a patron saint of abuse victims, against in-law problems, brides, empresses, exiles, parenthood, parents of large families, people in exile, princesses, prisoners, second marriages, step-parents, victims of abuse, and widows. Her representation in art often depicts her as an empress dispensing alms and food to the poor, sometimes shown next to a ship. Other depictions showcase her escaping from prison in a boat or holding a church, symbolizing her dedication to the building and restoration of religious structures. Additionally, she is often shown wearing a veil, reflecting her modest and pious nature. Saint Adelaide of Burgundy's feast day is celebrated on December 16th, commemorating the day of her birth into eternal life. Her remarkable life serves as an inspiration to all, demonstrating the power of faith, compassion, and perseverance in the face of adversity.