Bl. Adeline

Bl. Adeline, a 12th-century French religious figure, was born into the nobility of Normandy. She was the sister of St. Vitalis of Savigny, a prominent figure in early medieval monasticism. Adeline's life was marked by her dedication to religious service, particularly as the first Abbess of the monastery at Mortain, which was founded between 1105 and 1115 by Count William of Mortain. The monastery followed the Rule of St. Benedict, with some Cistercian observances, and its members were known as the "White Ladies" due to their habit.

Adeline's leadership and spiritual guidance were instrumental in establishing the monastery as a center of prayer, mortification, and charitable works. Her reputation for sanctity was recognized even during her lifetime, and after her death in 1125, she was honored as one of the blessed. Her remains, along with those of her brother and other religious figures, were transferred to Savigny. Adeline's feast day is celebrated on October 20th, a testament to her enduring legacy in French monasticism and women's religious life. Her contributions to monastic leadership, spiritual guidance, and community building continue to inspire religious educators and monastic communities today.