A Truly Great Woman

Saint Gertrude the Great (January 6, 1256 – November 16, 1302) was a German Benedictine nun, mystic, and theologian. As of the publication of this article (2021), she is the only female to be called “The Great.” The title is bestowed upon a person whose intellectual influence within the Church was so profound that its impact continues to echo for generations after their death.

As often is the case in the lives of young women of deep devotion, a crisis developed within her; she was lost, lonely, and depressed. All of the plans she had made for herself began to crumble.

One evening during Advent 1281, as Gertrude made her way down the hall of the monastery, she bowed as a ‘sister’ passed by. When the 'Sister' stopped she saw that it was Our Lord who was appearing before her. Gertrude described Him in these words, "He is more beautiful than all the children of men."

Gertrude was awestruck by seeing Jesus standing before her, especially as she had been suffering spiritual aridity for some time. He said: "Thy salvation is at hand. Why are you so consumed by sorrow?" From that point forward, she had eyes only for the Word of God in Holy Scripture and the works of the Church Fathers.

Her studies shifted exclusively to the study of Scripture, the writings of the Church Fathers, and theological works. She truly became a theologian and began to write short treatises and works for her fellow sisters. These became spiritual treasures to those who were fortunate enough to read them.

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From Theologian to Mystic

Gertrude experienced many mystical experiences where Jesus would reveal His infinite love and ask her to spread it among the faithful, especially to those suffering and for sinners. She would write these mystical experiences down for the benefit of the faithful.

While in prayer one day Gertrude again saw Jesus who was carrying a great building on His shoulders. He explained its meaning to her saying:

“Behold with what labor, care and vigilance I carry this beloved house, which is none other than that of Religion. It is everywhere threatened with ruin, because there are so few persons who are willing to do or to suffer anything for its support and increase. You, therefore, should suffer with Me in bearing it; for all those who endeavor, by their words or actions, to extend religion, and who try to establish it in its first fervor and purity, are so many strong pillars which sustain this holy house and comfort Me by sharing with Me the weight of this burden.”

Another day, after she had received Communion, Gertrude offered the Host for the souls in Purgatory. Upon requesting that some souls may be released from Purgatory, Gertrude tried to divide the Host into small particles within her mouth to designate the number of souls thus released. Our Lord then revealed to Gertrude His immense mercy with these words:

“In order that you may know that My mercy is above all My works, and that the abyss of My mercy cannot be exhausted, I am ready to grant you, through the merit of this life-giving Sacrament, more than you dare ask Me.”

Saint Gertrude’s demeanor was always joyful and her countenance was always in a smile. She exuded humility and loved all she encountered. It was this indomitable spirit of joy that led others to Jesus. Indeed, Christ said to her:

“It would be good to make known to men and women how they would benefit from remembering that I, the Son of God and of the Blessed Virgin Mary, always stand before God for the salvation of the human race, and that should they commit some sin through their weakness, I offer my unblemished Heart to the Father for them.”

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Written by Tonia Long, April 9th 2021