Our Patron Saint

St Hilda of Whitby

Who is St Hilda of Whitby?

St Hilda of Whitby lived in England in the 7th century (c.614-680).

What is her connection to the Archdiocese of Southwark?

Following the death of her father, she was brought up in King Edwin’s court. In 625, Edwin married Princess Ethelburga of Kent. As a Christian she continued to practice her faith when they moved to Northumbria. They were accompanied by her chaplain, Paulinus of York. On Easter Sunday 627, King Edwin and all his court, including Hilda were baptised. When war broke out again and King Edwin was killed, Paulinus once more accompanied Hilda and Queen Ethelburga and her companions to her home in Kent. The Queen founded a convent at Lyminge and it is thought that Hilda stayed with her as Abbess.

Why is she a good role model?

In 657 Hilda returned to the north of England as Abbess of a new monastery. She remained there for the rest of her life. St Bede recounts that life in the monastery was well disciplined with everyone sharing all in common. Everyone had to study the Bible and do good works. A spirit of peace and charity was said to prevail. Hilda is said to have great energy and has been described as a skilled administrator and teacher. As a landowner she was also responsible for the animals and the land under her care. Recognised for her wisdom, many kings in Anglo Saxon England sought her advice. She was so well thought of that when the first national meeting of the Church (synod) to be held in England was planned, it was held in the Abbey at Whitby. St Hilda along with many there decided to unite with the King and many of the people at the synod and choose to follow the Roman calendar for Church festivals, uniting Northumbria with Rome.

Why is she the patron for the Higher Education Chaplaincy?

She is considered to be one of the patrons of learning and culture. Alongside her reputation for being wise for kings and princes etc., she also cared for the ordinary folk. This is supported by the story of Caedmon who was a labourer in the monastery. He was inspired to write poetry and verse in praise of God and Hilda is said to have encouraged him.

When is her feast day?

Hilda died on 17th November 680 and her feast day in the Roman Catholic Church is kept on this day.