SAINT MODESTA, VIRGIN AND ABBESS - 4 NOVEMBER

 

ALL SAINTS CELEBRATED IN NOVEMBER

Saints celebrated on the 4th of November

SAINT MODESTA, VIRGIN AND ABBESS

Saint Modesta, the first documented abbess at the monastery of Horreum, died around A.D. 659. St Modoald, who founded the same, probably chose her for this position. Little is known about her origin, her achievements, etc.

It is known, however, that St Modesta was a devotee of St Gertrude of Nivelles, who announced to her the hour of her death by an apparition. The date of her death is October 6. The Bollandists* list her on October 6, stating that she was the third abbess of the above-mentioned institute. They say that she may have been a sister of St Willibrord. In older breviaries St Modesta's name is found on July 20. The Elenchus* mention her on November 4. Her grave was particularly honoured. 

(Information from Stadler's Complete Encyclopedia of Saints, Volume 4, Augsburg, 1875)

*A hagiography source used by the authors 

Stadler's Complete Encyclopedia of Saints - Sources and Abbreviations

PRAYER:

Grant, we beseech you, almighty God, that the venerable feast of Saint Modesta may increase our devotion and promote our salvation. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.