St. Hedwig of Silesia
Bavarian noblewoman who married Henry I the Bearded of Silesia at age twelve and bore him seven children. After her husband's death she retired to the Cistercian convent of Trzebnica, which she had founded, and lived an austere life of prayer, asceticism, and care for the poor. She is distinct from the later St. Hedwig (Jadwiga) of Poland, queen, and is venerated as a patron of Silesia and of those in difficult marriages.
Life & Times
Also known as: Jadwiga Śląska; Hedwig of Andechs · Born: 1174 · Died: October 15, 1243 · From: Bavaria; Silesia (modern Poland).
Patronage
St. Hedwig of Silesia is invoked as the patron of silesia, brides, widows, difficult marriages, the diocese of görlitz, victims of jealousy. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
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About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Hedwig of Silesia, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.