Saint Berthevin of Lisieux

Biography

Saint Berthevin of Lisieux, also known as Berthevin of Laval, Berthevin of Parigny, Berthevin of Vicoin, Berthevin of Val-Guidon, Bertevin, Bertewin, Bertewinus, Berthvin, Berthwinus, Bertininus, Bertivinus, Bertunius, Bertunus, Bertuwinus, Bertuwius, Bertwin, and Brévin, was a priest in the diocese of Bayeux, France during the 10th century. Born in the area of modern Lisieux, France, Saint Berthevin led a life of deep faith and dedication to God. During the time of Norman invasions, he sought refuge in Laval, France, where he became the tutor to the children of the Count of Laval. Additionally, he served as a courtier and advisor to the count. Despite his worldly responsibilities, Saint Berthevin remained deeply committed to his spiritual life. He spent his free time studying the Scriptures and engaging in fervent prayer. There were two places that held special significance to him for his solitary devotion: a nearby pond and the church of Saint Nicolas near Mayenne, France. These places allowed him moments of solitude and communion with God. Saint Berthevin's piety and virtue often clashed with the worldly ways of certain members of the count's court. Unfortunately, these differences led to his untimely and tragic death. In an act of violence and opposition to his unwavering faith, some individuals at the count's court conspired against him. Saint Berthevin was brutally murdered, a martyr for his faith. After his murder, his body was callously thrown into the pond where he frequently prayed in solitude, fearing discovery. However, his killers later retrieved the body and hid it in the Vicoin river. In a turn of events guided by divine intervention, heavenly voices led his godmother to the hidden body, concealed in a crevice on a cliff overlooking the Vicoin river. Moved by her discovery, Saint Berthevin's godmother arranged for his burial in Parigny, France. His remains were later enshrined in the cathedral of Lisieux, France, as a testament to his holiness. Unfortunately, during the tumultuous period of the French Revolution, the relics of Saint Berthevin were destroyed, along with many other sacred artifacts. Nevertheless, Saint Berthevin's memory remains alive, and the towns of Saint-Berthevin and Saint-Berthevin-la-Tannière in France are named in his honor. Although Saint Berthevin is not widely recognized as a patron saint of any specific cause or profession, his courageous witness to the faith and immense devotion make him an inspiration for all who seek to deepen their relationship with God. His feast days are celebrated on July 11th in the diocese of Bayeux, France, June 11th for the translation of his relics, and September 8th on some calendars. Saint Berthevin of Lisieux, a pious priest, tutor, courtier, and advisor, remains a shining example of steadfast faith, even in the face of persecution and adversity. May his life and martyrdom continue to inspire Christians to embrace their faith with unwavering devotion and love for God.