Ludolf of Ratzeburg, St.

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LUDOLF OF RATZEBURG, ST.

Bishop of Ratzeburg 123650; d. Wismar, Mar. 29, 1250. As bishop he continued to observe the premonstratensian rule and imposed it upon his cathedral chapter. With Prince John of Mecklenburg he established a convent of Benedictine nuns, which in 1319 became a Premonstratensian convent. He is sometimes honored as a martyr because of his conflict with Duke Albert of SachsenLauenburg. During his long struggle the bishop suffered imprisonment, maltreatment, and banishment. His death is attributed to the tortures endured while in prison. His unflinching courage and severe discipline were outstanding. He was canonized in the 14th century, and is venerated at Wismar in Mecklenburg.

Feast: Mar. 30 (formerly 29).

Bibliography: Acta Sanctorum March 3:789791. c. l. hugo, S. Ordinis Praemonstratensis annales (Nancy 173436) 2:599612. a. butler, The Lives of the Saints (New York 1956) 1:702.

[m. j. madaj]