Genevieve
Genevieve was a consecrated virgin and is a patron saint of Paris, venerated in both the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches. She is remembered for her religious devotion from a young age, her prayers that are said to have saved Paris from Attila the Hun, and her involvement in significant construction projects in the city.
- Feast Day
- 3 January
- Century
- 5th century
- Country Or Region
- France
Key Facts
- ›Genevieve was born C. 419 or 422 in Nanterre, France, and dedicated herself to a virginal life at a young age.
- ›Her prayers are credited with saving Paris from being destroyed by the Huns under Attila in 451.
- ›She was involved in the construction of two major basilicas in Paris: one in honor of Saint Denis of Paris and the Basilica of the Holy Apostles.
- ›Genevieve was recognized as the patron saint of Paris in the 14th century.
- ›Devotion to her was publicly invoked during emergencies in Paris 153 times between 885 and 1791.
- ›Her vita claims to be written by a contemporary, though its authenticity is debated.
Sainte Geneviève, Genovefa, Genofeva
Paris, Shepherds, Shepherdesses
About Genevieve
Genevieve: Patron Saint of Paris
Genevieve, also known by her French name Sainte Geneviève and Latin name Genovefa, was a consecrated virgin who lived from approximately 419/422 AD to 502/512 AD. She is a prominent patron saint of Paris in the Catholic Church and is also venerated in the Eastern Orthodox Church. Her feast day is celebrated on January 3rd.
Life and Historical Context
Born in Nanterre, a village near Paris, Genevieve demonstrated profound religious devotion from a young age. Her life took a significant turn when she met Germanus of Auxerre and Lupus of Troyes as a child. Inspired by their guidance, she dedicated herself to a life of perpetual virginity. Miracles and healings began to occur around her early on, leading to her reputation for influencing the weather. After her parents' death, she moved to Paris, where her piety, healings, and miracles were recognized, though she initially faced resistance and even threats from some residents.
Major Contributions and Interventions
Genevieve is most famously remembered for her role in saving Paris from invasion. Her prayers are credited with diverting Attila the Hun's army in 451 AD, and she is also said to have saved the city from other wars. Her organization of the city's women in a "prayer marathon" is considered her most significant achievement. She was also instrumental in two major construction projects in Paris: a basilica in honor of Saint Denis of Paris in 475 AD and the Basilica of the Holy Apostles, dedicated to Saint Peter and Saint Paul, around 500 AD.
Later Life and Legacy
Genevieve continued to be a figure of spiritual authority and charitable action throughout her life. She was recognized as the patron saint of Paris in the 14th century and became a beloved figure across social strata. Her public invocation during emergencies occurred frequently between the 9th century and the French Revolution. While devotion to her remains, it has not returned to its pre-Revolutionary widespread and unifying status. Her cult has flourished on civil and national pride, cementing her place in the history and cultural memory of Paris.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Saint Genevieve born and when did she die?
Saint Genevieve was born between 419 and 422 AD and died between 502 and 512 AD. She lived to be about 82 years old.
What is Saint Genevieve most famous for?
Genevieve is most famous for her prayers that are said to have saved Paris from being destroyed by Attila the Hun in 451. She is also known for her piety, healings, and miracles, and for organizing the city's women in a 'prayer marathon'.
What are Saint Genevieve's patronages?
Genevieve is a patron saint of Paris. She is also invoked by shepherds and shepherdesses.
What miracles are attributed to Saint Genevieve?
Numerous miracles are attributed to Genevieve, including changing the weather, healing the blind, restoring sight to her mother, raising the dead, and expelling demons. Water from a well in Nanterre, associated with her, was also considered to have healing powers.
Where is Saint Genevieve venerated?
Genevieve is venerated in the Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church. Her feast day is celebrated on January 3.
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