Anthelm of Belley was a 12th-century Carthusian prior and Catholic bishop. Born in Chignin around 1107, he initially held an ecclesiastical position before joining the Carthusian Order at Portes at age thirty. He eventually became the prior of the Grande Chartreuse, where he served as an influential administrator for many years. Later in life, he was appointed the bishop of Belley by Pope Alexander III. Known for his uncompromising nature, he was a dedicated reformer who sought to improve both his monastic order and his diocese.
Life and service
As prior of the Grande Chartreuse, Anthelm expanded the community and improved its infrastructure by building an aqueduct and defensive walls. He also standardized monastic rules, including allowing women to join the order. After a period of living as a hermit, he supported Pope Alexander III against an antipope. As bishop, he attempted to reform the clergy, once excommunicating a count for killing a priest. When the Pope overturned this decision, Anthelm withdrew from his diocese in protest.
Veneration
The Catholic Church recognizes him as a saint, with his feast day observed on June 26. The Carthusian Order has celebrated his feast since 1607, and his relics are kept in Belley. In religious art, he is often portrayed holding a lamp that is lit by a divine hand.