Saint Edith of Wilton

Biography

Saint Kinga, also known as Cunegonda, was born in 1224 in Buda, Hungary. She was the daughter of King Béla IV of Hungary and Maria Laskarina, and her siblings included Saint Margaret of Hungary and Blessed Jolenta of Poland. In addition, she was the niece of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary and the great-niece of Saint Hedwig of Andechs. Kinga's life took a turn when she was married to Prince Boleslaus V of Poland. The union was primarily a political arrangement, and Kinga initially felt reluctant about her position as a member of Polish royalty. However, she and her husband made the decision to live as brother and sister, dedicating their lives to piety and devotion to God. When Boleslaus ascended to the throne as Prince of Cracow, Kinga became a princess of Poland. Despite her high status, she retained her humility and displayed great charity towards the poor. Kinga is particularly remembered for her personal care for lepers, reflecting her deep compassion and concern for the marginalized. A significant milestone in Kinga's life came with the founding of a Poor Clare convent in Stary Sacz, Poland. This religious institution, established by Kinga, provided a place for women to dedicate their lives to prayer, service, and living out the Gospel message. The convent became an important center of spiritual and social well-being in the region, emphasizing the importance of caring for those in need. The year 1279 brought significant change to Kinga's life when she became a widow. Following her husband's passing, she chose to give away her wealth and retire to the Poor Clare convent as a prayerful Franciscan tertiary. This decision marked a turning point, as Kinga completely turned her back on governance and worldly life, focusing solely on her spiritual journey and commitment to a life of holiness. Kinga's dedication to her faith and devotion to God were recognized by the Catholic Church. On June 11, 1690, Pope Alexander VIII beatified her, confirming her cultus as a beloved and esteemed figure within the Church. Her reputation for heroic virtues was further acknowledged on July 3, 1998, by Pope John Paul II, when he issued a decree of heroic virtues after the Cause was re-opened. Finally, on June 16, 1999, Pope John Paul II canonized Kinga as a saint, acknowledging her exemplary life and the impact of her spiritual journey on the faithful. Though she does not have a specific patronage associated with her, Saint Kinga remains an inspiration for all who seek to live lives of selflessness, charity, and devotion to God.