St. Bridget of Sweden

Bridget was born in Sweden around 1303. Her father was the governor and provincial judge of Uppland and both her parents were very devout. From age seven, Bridget showed signs of being close to God. In 1316 she was married to Ulf Gudmarsson and this happy union produced eight children, including St. Catherine of Sweden. Bridget became famed for her charity. Her husband died in 1344, returning from a pilgrimage and Bridget devoted herself to prayer and good works. She experience visions and founded the order of St. Savior—the Brigittines. She went to Rome in 1349 to obtain approval for her order and became as well-known in the Eternal City as she was at home. She remained in Rome for the rest of her life, except for some pilgrimages, including one to the Holy Land. St. Bridget died July 23, 1373. She was canonized in 1391. Her feast day is July 23.