Saint Bertin The Great

Biography

Saint Bertin The Great, also known as Bertin of Sithiu, Bercht, and Bertinus, was born in the early 7th century in Constance, which is now in modern Germany. He was educated at the renowned Abbey of Luxeuil in France, known for its strict adherence to the Rule of Saint Columban. This rule was known for its austerity, and even though Bertin was not a novice, he felt called to follow the rule with the monks at the abbey. As Bertin grew older, he decided to take the cowl and dedicate his life to God. In 639, he, along with two other monks named Mommelinus and Ebertram, joined Saint Omer in evangelizing the people in Pas-de-Calais. This region was notorious for its idolatry and immorality. Despite their efforts, the evangelists did not have great success in converting the people. However, they did manage to build a monastery in honor of Saint Mommolin, and Bertin became its first abbot. Bertin served as the abbot of the monastery for the remaining 60 years of his life. During this time, he sent monks from his monastery to found other monasteries in both France and England. He himself constantly traveled to teach and evangelize, spreading the faith far and wide. The monastery founded by Bertin served as an example to the locals and brought many people to the Christian faith. In fact, 22 of its monks have been canonized as saints. Throughout his nearly century-long life, Saint Bertin was known for his holiness and severe self-imposed austerities. He not only led a life of prayer and devotion but also subjected himself to various forms of penance and fasting. Despite his ascetic lifestyle, he was revered by his fellow monks and the people he encountered. Saint Bertin The Great passed away around the year 709, peacefully succumbing to natural causes. Upon his death, the monastery he had served as abbot was re-dedicated in his honor. Despite not having an officially recognized patronage, Saint Bertin continues to inspire countless individuals through his example of a devout and selfless life. His feast day is celebrated on September 5th, and although he lived before the establishment of the formal canonization process, he is venerated as a saint in the pre-congregation era. Saint Bertin The Great is symbolically represented by a small ship, which may symbolize his constant travel to spread the faith or his role in guiding others on their spiritual journey. In conclusion, Saint Bertin The Great, a monk educated under the Rule of Saint Columban, dedicated his life to the service of God. He evangelized the people of Pas-de-Calais, built a monastery named after Saint Mommolin, and served as its abbot for six decades. Through his teachings, travel, and austere lifestyle, he brought many to the Catholic faith. Saint Bertin The Great is remembered for his holiness, severe self-imposed austerities, and his role in founding numerous monasteries. Although he did not have an officially recognized patronage, his life continues to inspire and his feast day is celebrated on September 5th.