St. Gertrude the Great, or St. Gertrude of Helfta, was born in Germany on January 6th, 1256. She eventually chose to follow the Lord by pursing a vocation as a Benedictine Nun. Her deep and devoted relationship with the Lord in prayer led to her being hailed as a mystic. She was also regarded as a great theologian. At 25 years old, Gertrude experienced her first series of visions that would continue until the day she passed away. The start of her visions would alter her life in such a way that she considered this moment a “new birth.” Her priorities turned from secular teachings to a more narrow and focused study of Scripture and theology. In so doing, her life became full with an awakening and she began writing for the spiritual benefit of others.