Ermenilda of Ely facts for kids

Saint Eormenhild (also known as Ermenilda) was an important figure from the 600s in Anglo-Saxon England. Her name means "battle-great." She is honored as a saint in both the Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches.

Her Life and Family

Eormenhild was born into a royal family. Her parents were King Eorcenberht of Kent and Saint Seaxburh. This made her a princess!

She married Wulfhere, who was the King of Mercia. Together, they had two children: a daughter named Wærburh (who also became a saint) and a son named Coenred.

Becoming an Abbess

After her husband King Wulfhere died around the year 675, Eormenhild decided to become a nun. Nuns are women who dedicate their lives to religious service.

She eventually became an abbess, which is the leader of a monastery for nuns. She led two important monasteries: first at Minster-in-Sheppey and later at Ely.

There aren't many records from her exact time that talk about her life. For example, a famous historian named Bede wrote about King Wulfhere but didn't mention Eormenhild or her daughter Wærburh. However, her name does appear as an abbess in an old document from the year 699. This document was signed by King Wihtred of Kent.

Saint Eormenhild's special day, called her feast day, is celebrated every year on February 13th.