St Gertrude of Nivelles Wooden Doll Ornament

Handmade original St Gertrude of Nivelles Wooden Doll Ornament. Perfect for the Christmas Tree. Bring out on her feast day or for a Novena. Gift for a birthday or sacrament (Baptism, First Communion, Confirmation, Holy Orders, Marriage) celebration. Teacher, priest, grandparent gift.

Born in 626 in Nivelles (Belgium) to a wealthy noble family. Her father, Pepin I, mayor of the palace of Austrasia, arranged powerful marriages for his daughters (his oldest daughter’s son was Pepin II, Frankish Emperor) but at 10 she refused any marriage prospects, with Christ alone as her bridegroom. Her mother helped protect Gertrude and upon the advice of a bishop, she built a double monastery in Nivelles (one for men, one for women); after Pepin I died, her mother appointed her abbess at age 14. Gertrude left the administration to trusted nuns and monks so she could devote time to studying scripture and caring for the poor. She used her inheritance to build churches, monasteries and hospices. Nivelles became known for welcoming lay and religious pilgrims. Known as a mystic, townspeople called her to ward off rat and mice infestations (especially during the bubonic plague), thus becoming the patron of cats, also gardeners and travelers. Died at 33.
Feast Day: March 17

Made of wood, felt, ribbon, and handmade accessories. Includes tag and card with Saint's biography and description. Approximately 4" tall. Packaged in cellophane bag. Shipped in box with bubble wrap.