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Raymond
was born in Spain in the thirteenth century. Because his mother
died during childbirth his was a caesarean delivery, thus his
name Nonnatus (not born). His wealthy father put Raymond in
charge of one of the family farms to try and discourage his
son from the religious life he dreamed of. But when he learned
that Raymond had been spending his time studying and praying
with the local shepherds and farm-hands he gave up. Raymond
went to Barcelona and joined the priesthood and became renowned
for offering ransom to free Christian hostages. He traveled
to Algeria freeing Christians and, when his money had run out,
offered himself in exchange for prisoners. Believing that Raymond
was worth a handsome ransom it was agreed but when it was learned
that the imprisoned priest was converting Muslims he was sentenced
to be impaled. Holding out for a pay-off, his sentence was reduced
but his lips were pierced with padlocks to prevent any further
conversions. His ransom was eventually paid and Raymond returned
to Spain and made cardinal. He died a year later en route to
Rome for a papal visit. Raymond is also the patron of childbirth,
children, expectant mothers, midwives, obstetricians and
pregnant women; and he’s invoked against false accusation
and fever. His feast day is August 31. |
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| St.
Raymond
Patron St. of
Babies |
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