A MEDIEVAL VOICE OF FAITH SPEAKS TO THE MODERN WORLD
New online resource explores the life of Hildegard of Bingen,
12th century German saint regarded as most influential woman of her time
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (Oct. 17, 2017) – For many, modern life is busy and filled with distractions, but what if we could turn down the noise and listen to a voice from a quieter age, one with a worldview in which faith, reason, nature, humanity, and God are harmoniously interconnected? That voice belongs to St. Hildegard of Bingen, the 12th century German writer, composer, healer, prophet, visionary, and leader, regarded as the most influential woman of her time.
Hildegard's holistic message of spiritual truth, natural healing, and caring for the earth has never been more relevant than today. As St. Hildegard herself said, "the light you are seeking longs to shine forth from within you." If we listen closely, she can not only teach us about the Middle Ages, but show us how to overcome the frustrations of our own modern world.
While women played critical roles in medieval society, individual women rarely had influence as public figures or the leaders of visible institutions. Those who did were usually noblewomen who had political significance because of family connections or the alliances their marriages could create.
St. Hildegard was unique because her influence came from her professional accomplishments, already recognized in her day. There were other women who ran convents of nuns, but Hildegard's writing, composition, and public speaking gave her visibility and earned her recognition far beyond other women of her era. Nearly 500 years before Gutenberg's press revolutionized book publishing, Hildegard's prolific writing on theology and natural science, as well as her musical compositions, were widely copied and read. She was also a popular and widely traveled public speaker on a variety of topics.
International mezzo soprano Linn Maxwell brought the saint's writings and music to life for the 21st century. Now a new online resource, www.hildegardofbingen.net, has been created for others to explore the life and lessons of St. Hildegard of Bingen and the issues she addressed that are even more relevant in the 21st century, including the environment, natural medicine, the role of women, and the church.
The website highlights St. Hildegard’s story and includes a list of films about her life: St. Hildegard: Trumpet of God, and Hildegard of Bingen and the Living Light, a one-woman play created and performed by Maxwell. There is also a collection of music by the Hildegard Singers, featuring a number of Hildegard songs, medieval instrumentalists, liturgical chants, and Christmas carols from the Middle Ages and Renaissance.
Included in the online resource is a seven-part study guide to help others discover the Middle Ages through the eyes of the St. Hildegard. Topics include medieval worldview, monastic life, the medieval church, saints and doctors, medieval intellectual life, geography and chronology of St. Hildegard.
Please be advised that all the information in this course is provided to educate, enlighten, and broaden your views in life. The information provided is not a substitute for medical, legal, dietary, financial/accounting, or religious professionals.
Always consult a professional before you act on any of the information you find in this course.
Please be sure to consult your attorney, accountant, and/or other professionals with any specific questions. There is no one right answer to any business question that will cover all circumstances.
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