Gospel in Art: Saint Bridget of Sweden, Patroness of Europe

St Bridget of Sweden, by the Master of Soeterbeeck, Flemish, 1470 © Metropolitan Museum, New York, Gift of J Pierpont Morgan

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 23 July 2025
John 15:1-8

At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, 'I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine dresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch, and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.'

Reflection on the Carved Oak Sculpture

Saint Bridget of Sweden, born in 1303 into a deeply devout family, became one of the most influential mystics of the medieval Church. Following the death of her husband, she founded the Bridgettine Order, a unique monastic community comprising both monks and nuns, which followed a strict observance of the Rule of Saint Augustine. Bridget is best remembered for her profound mystical visions, many of which were meticulously recorded and offer vivid, intimate accounts of Christ's Passion, along with messages from the Blessed Virgin Mary. Her spiritual influence reached far beyond the borders of Sweden. She undertook numerous pilgrimages across Europe, most notably to Rome, where she worked tirelessly to call the Church back to its spiritual foundations and reformative zeal.

Saint Bridget was declared one of the patron saints of Europe by Pope John Paul II in 1999, alongside Saint Catherine of Siena and Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein). This recognition honours her profound impact on European Christian spirituality and culture. Bridget's life exemplified the unification of Christian values across diverse nations, fostering a sense of unity and spiritual renewal within the continent.

In our Flemish carved oak sculpture from circa 1470, we see Saint Bridget of Sweden (ca. 1303-1373) shown in the act of writing her "Revelations", which, according to tradition, were dictated to her by Christ himself. She is shown in the monastic habit of the order she founded, Saint Saviour of the Brigittines. The sculpture features the order's distinctive headdress, with its unique cross-shaped design. It consists of a white linen cloth that covers the head and shoulders, with a crown-like band that holds a small cross at the front. This cross is made of five red dots or jewels, representing the five wounds of Christ. The one on the sculpture was probably made of precious stones; although it has now been lost, we can still see the empty recess.

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/john-15-1-8-2025-2/

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