God Is Our Father and Mother

Julian of Norwich (c. 1343–after 1416) was an English anchoress of the Middle Ages. She is known for her book Revelations of Divine Love, which is one of the earliest surviving works of English literature by a woman.

Julian lived in the city of Norwich, England, during a time of great upheaval. The Black Death had ravaged the city, and the Peasants' Revolt had shaken the foundations of English society. In the midst of this turmoil, Julian experienced a series of visions of the Passion of Christ.

Julian's visions were profound and transformative. She saw the love of God in a new way, and she came to believe that all people are loved unconditionally by God, even in their sinfulness.

Julian's book is a beautiful and moving meditation on the love of God. She writes about the compassion of Christ, the forgiveness of sins, and the hope of salvation. She also explores the mystery of suffering and the role of pain in our spiritual growth.

Julian's writings were not published during her lifetime, but they were carefully preserved by her followers. In the 19th century, her book was rediscovered and translated into English. Today, Julian of Norwich is recognized as one of the most important Christian mystics and theologians of all time.

Here are some additional biographical facts about Julian of Norwich:

She lived in permanent seclusion as an anchoress in her cell, which was attached to St Julian's Church, Norwich.
Four wills are known in which sums were bequeathed to a Norwich anchoress named Julian, and an account by the celebrated mystic Margery Kempe exists which provides evidence of counsel Kempe was given by the anchoress.
Details of Julian's family, education, or of her life before becoming an anchoress are not known; it is unclear whether her actual name was Julian.
Despite the lack of biographical information, Julian's writings provide insights into her life and her spiritual journey. She was a deeply compassionate and insightful woman who had a profound understanding of the love of God.