November 17

Reading

Our righteous Mother Hilda was of noble birth, being a kinswoman of Saint Edwin, King of Northumbria (celebrated Oct. 12). At the age of thirty-three she renounced the world, and lived another thirty-three years as a nun and abbess. The last six years of her life she suffered a burning fever with patience and nobility, and reposed in peace in the year 680.

Apolytikion of Mother Hilda of Whitby

Plagal of the Fourth Tone

The image of God, was faithfully preserved in you, O Mother. For you took up the Cross and followed Christ. By Your actions you taught us to look beyond the flesh for it passes, rather to be concerned about the soul which is immortal. Wherefore, O Holy Hilda, your soul rejoices with the angels.

Kontakion of Mother Hilda of Whitby

First Tone

For three and thirty years in the world, chaste and modest, for three and thirty years as a righteous monastic, thou camest, O Hilda, unto Christ's stature, and perfect man; and on being cleansed through grievous bodily sickness, thou wast taken up in light and glory to Heaven, Where thou dost pray God for us.