Hildegard to an Abbess
The Letters
Now, as for you, O man, whose duty it is to watch over your sheep, look with the eye of your knowledge where these clouds are in your sheepfold, and anoint those who are struggling under these penalties with mercy and consolation. But correct these gluttonous sins with the rod of discipline [cf. Prov 22.15], lest your subordinates fall into the lake [cf. Ps 27.1; 29.4]. For the refulgent sword flashes in your consciousness, but your character is beset by whirlwinds. Look, however, to the true light [cf.John 1.9], and you will live.
Regensburg (Niedermiinster)
Hildegard to an Abbess About 1162(?) The one who gives aid to those who suffer in His name, Hildegard assures the abbess, will herself be aided.
The will of God had laid me low, as it were, in the seal of death, as if my soul had sighed its last in this world, but now His grace has raised me up a little with His new gift.
As I see in a true vision, the mysteries of God say to you: Whoever, for my sake, gives aid to someone who suffers in My name will himself be aided—this is the reward of praise. Your mind is ablaze as if sprinkled with flaming oil, and for this reason you sometimes grow weary with grieving, as if you were unaware what your potential is.
Now live in God and devoutly bear your burden as far as your strength will allow, and God will grant that you continue in His service.
An Abbess to Hildegard Before 1173 The abbess asks for the consolation of a letter from Hildegard.
R., through God's grace humble steward of those serving the blessed Mary at Niedermunster in Regensburg, to her intimate friend Hildegard, offering whatever ceaseless prayer and the devotion of appropriate service can achieve.