Feast day: February 4th
When did St. Gilbert live: 1093 until 1189
Biography of St. Gilbert of Sempringham:
Gilbert was born in 1093 in England as the son of a knight. He studied in France, became cleric in Lincoln and was then ordained priest of Sempringham. On his property, he founded a monastery for women. In 1149, he founded a community for canons that cared for the sick and poor, which developed into the Gilbertine Order. He had a good relationship with King Henry II until he helped Thomas Becket to escape. He died in 1189 and was canonized in 1202.
Statues and wooden sculptures representing St. Gilbert of Sempringham - portrayal, imagery and emblem: St. Gilbert of Sempringham is shown as priest with simple religious gown and book.