Saint Dymphna Patron Saint of Nervous and Mental Afflictions Necklace with Cross

This is a beautiful 1.25in x .75in of Saint Dymphna, Patron Saint of Nervous and Mental Afflictions, Medal and cross on a 24inch steel curb chain. Saint Dymphna is the Patron of Nervous and Mental Afflictions and epilepsy. Dymphna was born in Ireland sometime in the seventh century, to a pagan father and devout Christian mother. When she was fourteen, she consecrated herself to Christ and took a vow of chastity. Soon afterward, her mother died and her father - who had loved his wife deeply - began to suffer a rapid deterioration of his mental stability. In his frame of mind, he intended to marry Dymphna, since he could not find the right woman to replace his wife. When she heard of her father's misguided plot, Dymphna fled and sailed toward what is now called Belgium, and settled in the town of Geel. There she built a hospital for the poor and sick. In defense of her purity, Dymphna received the crown of martyrdom around the year 620 and became known as the "Lily of Éire. In 1349, a church honoring St. Dymphna was built in Geel, and by 1480, many, many pilgrims were arriving in need of treatment for mental illness, that the church was expanded. The expanded sanctuary was eventually overflowing again, leaving the townspeople to accept them into their homes, which began a tradition of care for the mentally ill that continues to this day. Lean on Saint Dymphna ....wear the medal, carry it, look at it, touch it, pray with it...Let her in, Let her help....You are not alone... According to the manufacturer in Italy, this item is made with Lead Free Zinc Alloy, with silver oxidizing, to make these excellent European quality religious pendants. This beautiful necklace will arrive in an Eco-friendly cotton lined, white glossy embossed, 2 1/2 x 1 1/2 x 7/8 Gift Box - No Extra Charge! It is ready for gift wrapping or to attach a small bow!