Saint Ava was a Benedictine nun and abbess who lived during the ninth century. Born in 845 to the family of Pepin II of Aquitaine, she experienced a miraculous recovery from blindness through the intervention of the abbess Ragenfredis. Following this healing, she donated her entire wealth to the Church. She subsequently entered the Benedictine order and eventually served as the leader of her monastery located in the County of Hainaut, which is situated in modern-day Belgium.
Life and career
After her sight was restored, Ava dedicated her life to religious service. She transitioned from a wealthy noblewoman to a member of the Benedictine order. Her leadership led her to the position of abbess within her monastic community. She passed away around the year 899, leaving behind a legacy of devotion and service to the Church.
Veneration
The Catholic Church honors her as a saint, and she is specifically recognized as a patron saint for those who are blind. Her feast day is observed annually on April 29, which coincides with the date of her birth.