Saint Berka Zdislava

Saint Berka Zdislava was born in the Czech Republic in the early 13th century. It is said that Zdislava once attempted to run away from home at the age of 7 to become a hermit. Years later, she was married to the Duke of Lemberk, who was quite wealthy, and together they lived in a castle. Saint Berka Zdislava is most famous for her work with the poor as well as aiding refugees from war and constructing a Dominican monastery. Known as the patron saint of difficult marriages and people who are ridiculed for their piety, her feast day is celebrated January 1. If Saint Berka Zdislava was alive today, she might be working with refugees fleeing war and violence around the world.

Reflection Questions:

  • When have you wanted to run away from a situation? What did you hope to run to? How did you resolve your feelings of wanting to get away?
  • When have you struggled with a personal relationship (spouse, close friend, family member)? How did you move forward with your relationship? Were you able to reconcile?