"True wisdom, then, consists in works, not in great talents, which the world admires; for the wise in the world's estimation . . . are the foolish who set at naught the will of God, and know not how to control their passions." - Saint Bridget of Sweden

Saint Bridget was the daughter of Birger Petersson, the Lagman of Uppland, and Ingeborg, his wife, who belonged to the same clan as the ruling dynasty. Bridget came from a religious family; her father went to confession every Friday and undertook strenuous, protracted pilgrimages that included trips to the Holy Land.

Bridget's mother passed away, leaving Bridget, who was ten years old, Katharine, who was nine, and Israel, a newborn child. For additional care and schooling, the children were given to their maternal aunt. When Bridget was ten years old, had a dream of Jesus on the cross. This dream had been realistic. Bridget asked Jesus about who had hurt him and he answered, "Those who despise me and refuse my love for them.” Birgitta never forgot this dream, and it might have even made a permanent impression on her subconscious as Bridget attempted to prevent others from disobeying Jesus ever since.

Bridget was 13 when she was married, as was customary in the Middle Ages, to 18-year-old Ulf Gudmarsson. Together, the couple had eight children—four sons and four daughters—one of them was St. Catherine of Sweden.

Bridget worked as the queen's personal maid in the Swedish court, where she was employed alongside Ulf. For the most part, King Magnus and Queen Blanche disregarded Bridget's attempts to improve their life.

Throughout her life, Bridget experienced amazing visions and unique messages from God. She went to see numerous bishops and other prominent members of the Church as per their orders. She gently laid out what God had in store for them.

Bridget lived as a lowly nun and stored her expensive clothing after her husband passed away. She later founded the Most Holy Saviour order, popularly known as the Bridgettines, in 1346. She continued to lead a hectic life, going from place to place and doing well wherever she went. Jesus also proceeded to reveal to her many secrets throughout all of this activity, and she accepted them without even the slightest sense of arrogance.

The saint traveled to the Holy Land just before she passed away. She saw glimpses of what Jesus had said and done at each of the shrines there.

All of Saint Bridget's insights into Jesus' sufferings were made public following her passing.

On July 23, 1373, in Rome, St. Bridget passed away. Pope Boniface IX canonized her in 1391.

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