Saint Aye was a Frankish Benedictine abbess who lived in the region of Mons during the late seventh and early eighth centuries. Born into nobility as the daughter of Count Brunulphe I, she was a relative of Saint Waldetrudis. After marrying Saint Hidulf of Hainault, she eventually left her marriage to pursue a religious vocation. She dedicated her life to the Abbey of Mons, where she served as an abbess and donated her personal property to the community of nuns.
Life and service
Following her decision to enter religious life, Aye joined the Abbey of Mons in what is now Belgium. She lived as a nun and later rose to the position of abbess. While specific details regarding her birth are scarce, historical accounts suggest she was part of a prominent Frankish family. She is sometimes confused with another holy woman named Agia, the mother of Saint Loup of Sens.
Veneration and patronage
She is remembered as the patron saint of lawsuits, a title stemming from a legal dispute involving her heirs and the Canonesses of Mons. Some traditions suggest she even intervened from beyond the grave to correct an injustice. Her memory is particularly honored by the Beguines of Belgium, and her feast day is observed on April 18.