Everilda was a 7th-century Anglo-Saxon nun who established a religious community in Yorkshire. According to the York Breviary, she belonged to the nobility of Wessex and converted to Christianity in 635 alongside King Cynegils under the guidance of Saint Birinus. Seeking a religious life, she left her home and was later joined by Bega and Wuldreda. These women were made nuns by Saint Wilfrid at a location known as the Bishop's Dwelling, which is identified with the modern site of Everingham.
Life and work
After fleeing her noble background to pursue a spiritual path, Everilda gathered a large community consisting of approximately eighty women. This group resided at a site called Everildisham, which later became known as Everingham. Following the successful fulfillment of her religious mission, she passed away peacefully around the year 700.
Veneration
She is recognized in the Martyrology of Usuard and is included in the church calendars for Northumbria and York. Her feast day is observed on 9 July. Several churches in the region bear her name, including sites in Nether Poppleton and Everingham.