Virgin, born near Eisleben, Saxony, c.1240;died in the monastery of Helfta, 1298. She was of a noble, influential Thuringian family, sister of Saint Gertrude, Abbess of Helfta. She entered the convent of Rodersdorf, later transferred to Helfta, and progressed rapidly in the religious life. She cared for the novitiate of Saint Gertrude the Great. The "Book of Special Grace," composed by Saint Gertrude and another sister, has had many editions. Feast, February 26,. See also, patron saints index.