1256–c.1302
Saint Gertrude the Great, 1256–c.1302
November 16
Saint Gertrude was a German nun. Her parents died when she was very young, so she lived in a convent. Gertrude was very smart and loved to read. She was especially good at reading Latin, but she liked to read all different kinds of books. Another thing Gertrude loved to do was pray. She especially liked to pray for people who had died, asking God to take them to Heaven. She prayed for her family, her friends, and everyone she met. Many other Saints have used Saint Gertrude as an example of a very holy woman.
Discuss: Who do you like to pray for?
Saint Gertrude is the patron of travelers and the West Indies. She was devoted to personal prayer and reflection. Gertrude was well educated in philosophy and literature, and wrote books, including a collection of prayers. She is often shown holding a flaming heart, or a mouse!
Activity
Write a Prayer
Verbal/Linguistic
Have the child write a list of people they can pray for.