Covering Everything You Need To Know About Saint Gertrude Of Nivelles And The Holiday That Celebrates Her
March 17th is widely known and celebrated as St. Patrick’s Day. However, March 17th also celebrates another great holiday known as the Feast Day of Saint Gertrude of Nivelles. Saint Gertrude of Nivelles is relatively famous among the pet loving community as she is considered the patron of cats. This article will discuss the history of Saint Gertrude, the significance of her relation to cats, and ways you can celebrate this March 17th.
Who Is Saint Gertrude Of Nivelles?
Saint Gertrude was born in the year 626 in the city of Nivelles (modern-day Belgium). She was the youngest daughter in a family of four. At a very young age, she was truly dedicated and committed to the catholic faith. Both she and her mother arranged and constructed a separate female only monastery in the city of Nivelles. She was appointed as the abbess of the monastery and faithfully served both the monastery and the city of Nivelles for many years. Gertrude died on March 17th, 659 at the age of 33.
History of Saint Gertrude
Saint Gertrude was a truly selfless and dedicated catholic. She spent most of her time studying religious scriptures and caring for the poor, elderly, and sick people of the city of Nivelles. Saint Gertrude inherited property from her mother which she then used to build monasteries, hospices, and churches. Upon her death on March 17th, 659, she was venerated as a saint by the catholic church for her many selfless and charitable contributions to the world.
So Why Cats?
Saint Gertrude is widely known and celebrated as the patron saint of cats. This is because she possessed the unique ability to ward off illnesses and rodent infestations, similar to cats. She was often called upon by the people of Nivelles to chase away rodents or anything else that could potentially carry diseases. Her cat-like predatory instincts for warding off illness and diseases were revered by many in the city of Nivelles. Thus, earning her the title of Patron Saint of Cats.
A Holiday Worth Celebrating
In honor of Saint Gertrude and her selfless contributions to the world, many Catholics celebrate March 17th as Saint Gertrude’s Feast Day. March 17th is also celebrated as Saint Patrick’s Day. But we say, why not both? Even if you’re not catholic, the life of Saint Gertrude and her burning desire to help the sick, poor, and elderly, is still worth celebrating. For more information about Saint Gertrude of Nivelles, patron saint of cats, check out this article on the U.S. Catholic website.
How You Can Celebrate
The best way to celebrate Saint Gertrude of Nivelles Feast Day is to spend some quality time with your kitty cat. Even something as simple as a new toy, new cat treats, or a can of fancy cat food for dinner is a great way to celebrate. Your furry feline friend deserves the best everyday. But, on March 17th, we encourage you to go above and beyond when it comes to spoiling your cat. Additionally, be sure to spread the word about Saint Gertrude of Nivelles Feast Day on social media like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. There are cat lovers out there that still don’t know about this amazing cat themed holiday! So do your part and share this information with other like minded cat people.
It’s Not Too Late To Book An Appointment!
Do you already have plans for March 17th? Maybe you won’t be home to celebrate this purr-fect holiday with your feline friend? No worries! Cool Cats Professional Cat Sitting has you covered! We are still taking reservations for March 17th along with the rest of the month of March. But, don’t wait because we tend to book up pretty quickly around holidays. Give us a call at 919-372-5985 or click here to become a client today. We hope to hear from you soon!
