Wilgefortis

By Crusader1307

A 14th Century ''pseudo-Saint'', - ''Wilgefortis'' and Her Cult were well known in the early Middle Ages. Her ''Legend'' was as such. A ''beautiful Girl'' (unprecedented it seems), was doomed to marry a Nobleman against her will. Wilgefortis prayed and prayed to God for help. She prayed to always retain Her virginity if He would only deliver Her from this plight. Overnight, it goes – She ''grew a long beard'', which made Her repulsive to Her Suitor. Examples of Her Cult would endure well into the early 20th Century. Her dispute of authenticity with The Catholic Church (at the time), was her portrayal in Regional Art. Shown with a Beard was not an issue – but being crucified in the same manner as Jesus Christ was. Hence, She was often ''disputed'' by The Church and never officially made a ''Saint'' (although She is referred to as such still today in parts of Spain and Portugal).