St. Chelidonia

October 13

Saint Chelidonia, also known as Celidona or Quelidona, was a hermitess and Benedictine nun who dedicated her life to serving God. She was born in Ciculum, Abruzzi, Italy, and lived during the 12th century. Chelidonia began her religious journey at Saint Scholastica Abbey near Tivoli, Italy, where she joined the Benedictine order. However, she felt a strong calling to live a life of solitude and contemplation, so after only a short time in the community, she left the abbey and settled in a cave near Tivoli. For the next six decades, Chelidonia embraced a hermitic lifestyle, withdrawing from the world to devote herself entirely to prayer, penance, and union with God. During her time as a hermitess, Chelidonia gained a reputation for her profound holiness and spiritual wisdom.