St. Bertille was born of one of the most illustrious families in the territory of Soissons and by her piety acquired the true nobility of the children of God. Through the guidance of St. Ouen, she entered the monastery of Jouarre. When Queen Bathildes, wife of Clovis II re-founded the abbey of Chelles she requested the most experienced and virtuous nuns of Jouarre to direct the novices in the rule of monastic perfection. Bertille was appointed first abbess and her reputation of sanctity and prudence drew several foreign princesses and two queens to her monastery including Queen Bathildes after ceding the thrown to her son. St Bertille governed this great monastery for 46 years until her death in 692.