Saint Mechtilde | |
|---|---|
 Mechtilde of Hackeborn | |
| Born | c.1241 Helfta |
| Died | 19 November 1298 Helfta |
| Venerated in | |
| Feast | 19 November |
| Attributes | Scales and a sword, heart, book and dove |
| Patronage | Against blindness |
Mechtilde of Hackeborn, OSB, also known as Mechtilde of Helfta (1240/1241 – 19 November 1298), was a Saxon Christian saint (from what is now Germany) and a Benedictine nun. She was famous for her musical talents, gifted with a beautiful voice. At the age of 50, Mechtilde went through a grave spiritual crisis, as well as physical suffering. In the modern Benedictine calendar, her feast is celebrated on the anniversary of her death, November 19. She died in the convent of Helfta, near Eisleben.