Adelina of Mortain
A monastic figure of the 12th century, the first Benedictine abbess of a community known as the «White Ladies». Sister of an order's founder, she organized a group of nuns before establishing an abbey dedicated to the Virgin, whose spirituality emphasized austerity and simplicity. Locally venerated, she is celebrated on October 20th and her cult is linked to the tradition of saints associated with Savigny.
- Middle Ages
- France
- Feast day October 20
- † 1125
- Virgin
- Founder
- Nun
Saint Adelina, born around 1060, was the sister of Saint Vitalis of Savigny, the founder of the Congregation of Savigny. Influenced by her brother, she embraced religious life and was appointed the first abbess of the Abbaye Blanche (White Abbey) of Mortain, a Benedictine monastery for women located in Normandy. She led the community with wisdom and piety until her death in 1125. Her dedication to monastic life and her role in establishing and growing this significant religious institution are celebrated. She serves as an example of female spiritual leadership in the medieval era.
Sayings for the day — October 20
- Octobre glacé, fait vermine trépasser.
Places
- Church
- Abbaye Blanche de Mortain