This calendar of saints is drawn from several denominations, sects, and traditions. Although it will no longer be updated daily, the index on the right will guide visitors to a saint celebrated on any day they choose. Additional saints will be added as they present themselves to Major.

Thursday, November 29, 2012

November 29 -- Feast of Blessed Jutta of Heiligenthal

There's not so much to say about Blessed Jutta, whose name apparently means "woman of Judah" or perhaps "woman of Judea."  She founded a Cistercian abbey in the thirteenth century and served as it's first abbess for sixteen years.  She died in 1250 and was deeply revered by those who served under her leadership. 
Probably not how it looked.
If she is distinguished from other beatae at all, it is because she had a remarkable relic.  True, there are lots of cool relics out there.  That eyeball is pretty impressive; a vial of reliquifying blood is an impressive thing.  But folks who were sick in the Middle Ages had the option of visiting Heilengenthal, Bavaria and drinking from a golden cup.  The special part about the cup?  It was fused to the arm of Jutta.  She was effectively holding the cup, extending to the faithful to drink.  It is communion of the saints on another whole level. 

Sadly, the relic was lost at some point.  I would like to think that it will turn up in the attic of some German castle someday and returned to an abbey or cathedral where it might be offered to the faithful once again.  Creepy, yes, but so friggin' venerable. 

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