Salaberga of Laon (d. around 665)

Sainted abbess of Laon. Born in France; died around 665; married Blandinus Boson, a Frankish noble; children: at least six, including Anstrude of Laon, an abbess. Her feast day is September 22.

Little is known about the early life of Salaberga of Laon. Born in France in the mid-7th century, she came from the Frankish nobility, and seems to have always felt drawn to a religious life. But Salaberga was unable to fulfill this calling, due to pressure from her parents to lead a more conventional life. Thus she married Blandinus Boson in her teens and gave birth to at least six children, including a daughter, Anstrude of Laon . After her children had grown and she had been widowed, Salaberga, who did not wish to marry again, was able to live as she had wanted to.

She became an active religious woman, using her own resources to found no less than seven churches. Taking the vows of a nun, she gained a widespread reputation for her piety, generosity, and energetic personality. Salaberga took her responsibilities seriously, and did not want to relinquish control over her churches or convents to any male church officials. She became one of the numerous holy women of the 7th century who had more authority than women were supposed to, taking on the duties of a priest, and managing the spiritual and material lives of more than 300 nuns. Salaberga of Laon was highly respected and after her death her followers pushed successfully for her sainthood. Her daughter Anstrude succeeded her as abbess.

Laura York , Riverside, California