Hieu facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hieu |
|
|---|---|
| Abbess | |
| Born | c. 7th century |
| Died | 12 March, c. 7th century Healaugh, Yorkshire, England |
| Venerated in | Eastern Orthodox Church Roman Catholic Church |
| Feast | 2 September |
Hieu was an important Irish abbess who lived in the 600s. She worked in a part of England called Northumbria. Hieu started two special religious communities, or abbeys, in England. These were in places called Hartlepool and Healaugh in Yorkshire. She was also one of the first holy recluses in Northumbria. A recluse is someone who lives alone for religious reasons. Hieu was also the first known woman to lead a "double monastery." This was a monastery for both men and women.
Who Was Hieu?
Hieu was a very important religious leader in the 7th century. She was from Ireland but spent much of her life in England. She is known for her work in setting up religious communities. These communities were places where people lived together to pray and serve God.
Her Early Life and Work
We don't know much about Hieu's early life. We know she met a famous saint named Aidan of Lindisfarne. Saint Aidan was a very respected bishop. He saw Hieu's leadership skills. He chose her to be the abbess of Hartlepool Abbey. An abbess is the head nun of a monastery.
Founding Monasteries
After Hartlepool, Hieu also started another monastery. This one was in Healaugh, near a town called Tadcaster. These monasteries were important centers for learning and faith. Hieu was a pioneer because she was the first woman known to lead a "double monastery." This means it was a community for both monks (men) and nuns (women).
Her Legacy
Hieu died in Healaugh on March 12. The exact year in the 7th century is not known. Some people think that the towns of Hartlepool and Healaugh might even be named after her. Her life is remembered on September 2 each year.
