Hand painted icon on wood, "Saint Amelia", 20x26 cm

This hand-painted icon on wood by Ana Drăgan illustrates Saint Amelia (Amalberga of Temse, also called Amalia), whose feast day is July 10.

Saint Amalberga of Temse (also known as Amalia or Amelia; born in 741 in the Ardennes, Belgium – died July 10, 772 in Bilsen) was a consecrated virgin, remembered for her steadfast faith and devotion. Raised by Saint Landrada, the foundress of Munsterbilsen Abbey, she embraced the monastic life and declined an offer of marriage from Charlemagne. Amalberga became a nun under Saint Landrada’s guidance and later either succeeded her as abbess or led a community of nuns on her own estate.

Tradition tells of several miracles in her life. When Charlemagne sought to compel her into marriage and broke her arm, it was miraculously healed. As she fled, a sturgeon rose from the waters of the Scheldt River and carried her safely across. Because of these wonders, she is often depicted with fish, and miracles involving sturgeon and large fish are linked to her memory.

Each year, a procession is held in her honour near Pentecost. The faithful invoke her intercession especially for healing of fevers, intestinal illnesses, and pains of the arms and shoulders. She is venerated as the patron saint of Temse, Belgium, and of those suffering upper limb injuries. Her feast is celebrated on July 10.