Saint Gertrude was born at Eisleben in Thuringia in 1256. As a young girl she was received into the Cistercian nuns at Helfta and applied herself to her studies, concentrating on literature and philosophy. Devoting her life to God, she dedicated herself to the pursuit of perfection, and gave herself over to prayer and contemplation. She died November 17, 1301.
Quotes from St Gertrude
"I understand that, each time we contemplate with desire and devotion the Host in which is hidden Christ's Eucharistic Body, we increase our merits in heaven and secure special joys to be ours later in the beatific vision of God."
"Bodily and spiritual affliction are the surest sign of Divine predilection. Gratitude for suffering is a precious jewel for our heavenly crown....Man should always firmly believe that God sends just that trial which is most beneficial for him."
"Let the soul who is desirous of advancing in perfection hasten to My Sacred Heart."
"Soften my hard self-opinionatedness, which time has hardened so exceedingly!"