The foundation of the Confrérie is enshrined in legend, according to which two debating jongleurs, unable to settle their differences, were approached by the Virgin Mary, who sent them to Arras, which was under the curse of the plague.
Once there, the Virgin again appeared and handed them a candle, the Sainte chandelle of tradition, the melted wax from which, mingled with water, was found to heal the wounds of those afflicted with the plague, 144 that first night.
In gratitude and out of praise, the jongleurs founded a confrérie to safeguard the candle and celebrate the religious feasts.
Shortly thereafter, and quite historically, a tower was built to house the candle, which generated a sizeable profit from pilgrims.
The most important document for the history of the Confrérie is the necrology that records the deaths of members from 1194 to 1361.