Saint Ermenilda of Ely

Biography

Saint Ermenilda of Ely, also known by various names such as Eormenhild, Ermengild, Ermenhild, Erminilda, Ermenildis, and Ermenegilda, was born as a princess, the daughter of King Erconbert of Kent, and Saint Sexburga of Ely. She was born into a Christian family and displayed a strong devotion to her faith from an early age. Ermenilda's life took a significant turn when she married Wulfhere, the pagan King of Mercia. Despite her husband's adherence to paganism, Ermenilda remained steadfast in her Christian beliefs and set a good example for others. Through her virtuous conduct and unwavering faith, she was able to convert King Wulfhere to Christianity, leading to his baptism and eventual conversion. As queen, Ermenilda used her position of influence to actively promote the Christian faith and played a vital role in the eradication of Anglo-Saxon paganism. Her dedication to spreading Christianity led to the subsequent conversion of many others, helping to establish a strong Christian presence in Mercia. Ermenilda and Wulfhere had two children, Saint Werburga of Chester and King Coenrad of Mercia. Both Werburga and Coenrad would later follow their mother's footsteps in pursuing lives of piety and devotion to God. Coenrad even abdicated his kingship to become a monk in Rome, Italy. Tragically, Ermenilda became a widow when King Wulfhere passed away. Following her husband's death, she made the decision to dedicate her life fully to God and entered the Benedictine Order as a nun. She joined the abbey at Minster-in-Sheppy, which had been founded by her own mother, Saint Sexburga. Ermenilda's commitment to her religious vocation led to her eventually becoming the abbess of both Minster-in-Sheppy and the abbey at Ely, England. During her time as abbess, Ermenilda continued to display exceptional leadership qualities and an exemplary prayer life. She diligently served her community, fostering spiritual growth, and providing guidance to those under her care. Saint Ermenilda lived a life devoted to God and selflessly used her influence as queen and abbess to advance the cause of Christianity. She passed away on 13th February 703, having lived a life dedicated to faith and service to others. Recognizing her sanctity, Ermenilda was venerated as a saint even before the formal canonization process was established. Her feast day is celebrated on 13th February. Although Saint Ermenilda is not widely recognized as the patron saint of a specific cause or group, her life serves as an inspiration to all those seeking to deepen their faith, exhibit piety, and use their influence for the greater glory of God. Her memory lives on as a testament to the power of faith and the transformative impact an individual can have on the world around them.