Saint of the day April 14, 2025

Lidiwina was born in 1380 in Schiedam, a town near Rotterdam. She was one of nine children of a poor laborer and a pious mother. She was a devout and cheerful girl who loved to pray and help the poor. She had a desire to enter a convent, but her parents could not afford the dowry.

When she was 15 years old, she went ice skating with her friends on a frozen canal. She fell and broke a rib, which caused her great pain and fever. She never recovered from this injury and became progressively disabled for the rest of her life. She could not walk, and eventually, she lost the use of all her limbs except her left hand. She also suffered from various ailments, such as ulcers, headaches, blindness, and paralysis. She was bedridden for almost 40 years.

Despite her physical sufferings, Lidiwina experienced many mystical graces. She had visions of heaven, hell, purgatory, and the lives of Christ, Mary, and the saints. She also received the stigmata, the wounds of Christ, on her hands, feet, side, and head. She had a special devotion to the Eucharist, which was her only food for many years. She also had a gift of healing, both physical and spiritual. Many people came to visit her and ask for her prayers and advice.

Lidiwina endured her trials with patience and joy. She offered her pains for the conversion of sinners and the souls in purgatory. She also prayed for the unity of the Church, which was divided by the Great Schism at that time. She had a deep love for God and his will. She said: “I have no other desire than to love him and to do what pleases him.”

Lidiwina died on April 14, 1433, at the age of 53. Her last words were: “Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me.” Her body was buried in the parish church of Schiedam, where it became a place of pilgrimage and miracles. Many people reported being cured or comforted by her intercession.

Lidiwina was beatified in 1890 by Pope Leo XIII and canonized in 1940 by Pope Pius XII. Her feast day is April 14. She is the patron saint of Schiedam, chronic pain, ice skaters, and multiple sclerosis patients.

Reflection

Lidwina’s life serves as an inspiration to many people today who struggle with physical or emotional suffering. St. Lidwina of Schiedam is remembered for her unwavering faith and her compassionate care for others, even in the face of great hardship.

St. Lidiwina of Schiedam is an inspiring example of holiness in the midst of suffering. She shows us how to trust in God’s providence and love, even when we face difficulties and challenges. She also teaches us how to use our gifts for the glory of God and the good of others. She invites us to join her in prayer and intercession for the needs of the Church and the world.