St. Bridget of Sweden

 "If we saw an angel clearly, we should die of pleasure."

 St. Bridget of Sweden

Today is the feast day of St. Bridget of Sweden. Sometimes known as Birgitta, Bridget was born in approximately 1303 into a wealthy yet pious family. As was the custom at the time, she married young, at age 13, and went on to have eight children with her husband, Ulf  Godmarsson, who was also a good and devout man.

From an early age Bridget claimed to have visions and religious inspirations. These intensified after the death of her husband, prompting Bridget to throw herself into religious projects. She is most famous for founding the Order of the Holy Savior (The Brigittines). She voluntarily lived an austere life, looked after the poor and sick, and used her outspoken personality to give advice to the popes regarding political and ecclesiastical problems of the time.

Bridget left behind many writings, most notably her "Revelations" about Christ's sufferings and future events. She died in 1373 in Rome, on her way home from a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Bridget is the patron saint of Sweden. 

St. Birgitta, fearless in the service of God, pray for us.
St. Birgitta, patient in suffer­ing and humiliation, pray for us.
St. Birgitta, marvellous in thy love towards Jesus and Mary, pray for us.