Bertilia was a 7th-century noblewoman from northern France who dedicated her life to religious service. Although she initially desired to live as a hermit, she eventually married a nobleman named Guthland. The couple lived together in chastity, dedicating their wealth and time to acts of mercy and hospitality for the poor. Following the death of her husband, she donated much of her property to the church and established a monastery in Artois, where she eventually spent her final days.
Life and devotion
Born into a wealthy family, Bertilia chose a life of piety from a young age. Despite her parents' insistence on marriage, she and Guthland maintained a chaste relationship, acting as brother and sister to serve those in need. After her husband passed away, she focused on building a church dedicated to Amandus and a monastery. She lived in a small cell near the church until her death in Marœuil.
Veneration and legacy
The saint's remains were moved to Cambray in 1081 and later transferred to Marœuil in 1221. Her relics have been honored by the church for centuries, and her feast day is observed on January 3. Historically, pilgrims traveled to a spring in Marœuil, seeking relief from blindness through the intercession of this holy woman.