Anonymous (Peruvian, 18th century)

The patron saint of childbirth, midwives, expectant mothers, and those falsely accused, Saint Raymund was born in Catalonia, Spain sometime around the turn of the 13th century. Nicknamed “Nonnatus” Latin for “unborn,” Raymund was delivered via Cesarian section after his mother died during labor. Little is known of his early life, some accounts claim he was born to a noble family, while others claim he was from a family of local shepherds. What is known is that he was drawn to the Christian faith at a young age, eventually joining the newly-established Mercederians who dedicated themselves to saving Christians captured by the Moors and held for ransom in North Africa.

Trained and taught by founding member Saint Peter Nolasco, Saint Raymund attained priesthood around 1222, and later succeeded his mentor as the second master-general of the order. Raymund passionately followed his calling, submitting himself as ransom to free enslaved Christians across the region. He was repeatedly tortured during captivity, including having his lips pierced and padlocked to silence his prayers. Saint Raymund was made a cardinal in 1239, but died shortly after on his way to Rome.

Saint Raymund is widely venerated in Spain, and subsequently throughout the Americas, as evidenced by the many towns named in his honor in Peru, Argentina, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Chile, and Brazil. His persistence in preaching God’s word despite suffering harm and oppression has made him a particularly captivating figure for those needing to confess, and frequently, offerings would be placed below the saint’s image in exchange for his secrecy and confidentiality.