Guild of the Holy Ghost

The Guild of the Holy Ghost was a charitable organization in medieval and early modern Europe, particularly in the Netherlands. It was dedicated to caring for the sick, poor, and widows, often operating within churches or communities. Members, called guildsmen, volunteered their time and resources to provide social support, healthcare, and spiritual aid. The guild helped foster community cohesion and demonstrated religious devotion through acts of charity, often organizing festivals and ceremonies. Overall, it played a vital role in social welfare before the development of modern public healthcare systems.