Amalberga of Temse
Amalberga of Temse (b. 741 in Ardennes, Belgium, d. July 10, 772 in Bilsen) was probably a Frisian venerated Christian woman who was likely a Frankish subject from the Ardennes, located in Francia. She was a consecrated virgin, and probably the superior abbess of nuns in a religious community. She is considered as a saint in both the Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church, despite never being officially canonized as a saint. Raised by Saint Landrada, who founded Munsterbilsen Abbey, she is known for her refusal of Charlemagne's offer of marriage. Amalberga became a nun under Landrada and either succeeded her as abbess or governed a community of nuns on her own lands.
According to legend, Amalberga experienced miraculous events while escaping from Charlemagne. This included the healing of her arm after it was broken by Charlemagne, and a sturgeon miraculously appearing to carry her safely across the Scheldt River. Other miracles reportedly occurred surrounding the appearance and provision of sturgeon and large fish, and she is often depicted with them. A yearly procession in Amalberga's honor occurs near Pentecost. Amalberga is invoked to heal intestinal disease, fever, and pains in the arms and shoulders. She is the patron saint of upper limb injuries and of Temse, Belgium. Her feast day is July 10.
In the Martyrology
- July 10 Saint Amelberga, virgin