Hildegard to the Priests Conrad
The Letters
We rejoiced and were gladdened by the report that a delegation would come to us to console us. And we waited with expectation, but you have not yet directed that company to us. We were saddened, therefore, but are still awaiting the grace of God, "who hath not forsaken them that hope in him" [Judith 13.17].
Now, however, because you have commanded that a messenger be sent to you, we are consoled. But, beloved of God, please remember that although we have steadfast hope, we are at the mercy of the fragility of our mortal bodies (in which we long to remain, like weak, untrained soldiers), and, therefore, we humbly pray you, holy mother and "helper in due time in tribulation" [Ps 9.10], to intercede diligently for us so that He may direct our paths [cf. I Thess 3.11], for we put all our faith in you, after God.1
We do not say these things as if, oppressed beyond measure [cf. II Cor 1.8], we had excessive grief over this fact Rather, we say them so that you, saintly lady, may obtain for us who are weak some consolation from God's mercy—a consolation that our sins obstruct—lest we falter. We do not dare to suggest anything further about this matter, but still we wish to commit this our petition to the Judge of your heart, Who knows what is best for each. For He Himself says that your heavenly Father "knoweth what is needful for you, before you ask him" [Matt 6.8], and He knows what medications are appropriate for each, and He does not cease to supply them at His own fitting time. This alone should be our outcry: Woe, woe for this earthly matter. When, do you think, will it hide itself in the presence of the Living Eye?
Finally, we greet in the Lord your provost,1 your sisters, and all those who dwell with you. We devoutly ask in turn that you be mindful of us, His poor ones.
Note 1. That is, Volmar, who remained Hildegard's provost and secretary until his death in 1173.
188r Hildegard to the Priests Conrad and Bertolf Before 1153 Hildegard praises the priests as pilgrims in the exile of this world, and urges them to continue in the battle.
The Living Light says: O you valiant knights who argue against the contradictions uttered by the double-tongued, listen: O who are these who seek life in pilgrimage, and are exiles for God's sake? The hands of those who labor always