Gertrude More facts for kids
Gertrude More (born Helen More; March 25, 1606 – August 17, 1633) was an English nun and writer. She was a key person in starting a religious community (called an abbey) in Cambrai, France. This abbey later became Stanbrook Abbey.
Life of Gertrude More
Gertrude More was born in Low Leyton, Essex, England. Her father, Cresacre More, was the great-grandson of the famous Thomas More. Her mother, Elizabeth Gage, died when Helen was five years old. Her father, who had planned to become a monk, then took care of her education.
A monk named Dom Benet Jones encouraged her to join a new religious community. This community was being planned in Cambrai, France. On December 31, 1623, Helen More was one of the first nine young women to join. She took the religious name Gertrude.
Gertrude was guided by a monk named Augustine Baker. Her family's connection to Thomas More, her good education, and money from her father helped the new community get started.
In 1629, Catherine Gascoigne was chosen to be the leader (abbess) of the community. She was older than Gertrude. At first, Sister More did not agree with all of Baker's ideas. But she eventually followed his advice, which included writing spiritual books.
Her own writings were inspired by other spiritual writers. These included Julian of Norwich and Teresa of Ávila. She also helped publish their works.
Gertrude More died in Cambrai from smallpox when she was 27 years old.
Her Writings After Death
After Gertrude More died, some of her papers were found. Father Baker organized them. These writings were later published in two books. One was called The Holy Practices of a Divine Lover (published in Paris, 1657). The other was Confessiones Amantis (published in Paris, 1658).
