Itta of Metz

Saint Itta of Metz was born around 592, likely of noble Frankish stock connected with the church of Metz, though the details of her parents are not certain. She married Pepin of Landen, the powerful Mayor of the Palace in Austrasia, and together they raised a family that would shape the future of the Frankish realms. Yet Itta’s holiness shone most brightly after sorrow: when Pepin died in 640, she turned from courtly life to seek Christ more wholly. With her daughter, Saint Gertrude of Nivelles, Itta withdrew to a life of prayer and service. Encouraged by Saint Amandus of Maastricht, she founded the Abbey of Nivelles around 647, which grew into a double monastery of women and men religious. There Itta embraced the Benedictine way, supporting Gertrude—likely the first abbess—with humble wisdom and maternal counsel. Itta died at Nivelles on May 8, 652, and is venerated for her faith, charity, and founding of monastic life. She is patroness of Itteville in France. Her feast day is May 8.