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Meinrad of Hohenzollern (better known as Meinrad of Einsiedeln) was born into a noble family at the end of the 8th century and chose a path of monastic solitude and devotion.He was educated at the Benedictine monastery of Reichenau and later served as a monk and priest before seeking hermit lifedriven by the call to devote oneself to meditation and prayer.
Around 829 AD, Meinrad built his hermitage on the slopes of the Etzel Pass after a nearby abbess gave him a miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary. There he lived a life of strict asceticism, inspired by the spiritual practices of the Desert Fathers. . Despite Meinrad’s desire for solitude, his reputation for wisdom and holiness spread far and wide, attracting many who sought his advice and prayers.
Meinrad’s unwavering hospitality became central to his life and legacy. He generously provided for the physical and spiritual needs of all who visited him and often shared any gifts he received with the poor. He loves to welcome others, He was later awarded the title “Martyr of Hospitality”.
Tragedy struck in 861 when two bandits, believing Meinrad to possess a hidden treasure, murdered the benevolent hermit. Meinrad’s selfless nature, even in the face of evil, cemented his status as a revered figure in both the Catholic and Orthodox traditions.Although he was originally buried in Reichenau, his relics were later returned to Einsiedeln, where they are laid to rest In the monastery founded in his honor.
The legacy of Saint Meinrad is closely linked to the Abbey of Einsiedeln, A thriving pilgrimage site that attracts devotees from all over the world. The Black Madonna of Einsiedeln, a statue cherished by Meinrad, remains a focal point of the monastery and serves as a reminder of his humble origins and the transformative power of hospitality.
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