Saint Raymund Penafort, Priest

  January 7

He was born in Catalonia, living a hundred years, from 1175-1275. He studied both philosophy and canon law at Bologna, and was noticed by the Bishop of Barcelona, Spain while on a visit there. Raymund was already known for his sanctity and the Bishop wanted him in Spain. Raymund complied and joined the Dominicans in 1222, assisting St. Peter Nolasco in the founding of the Order of Mercedarians. Raymund compiled the Decretals of canon law under Pope Gregory IX. When he died devotion to him sprung up immediately. In art he is either shown as a Dominican or a Mercedarian [above]. Sometimes he is depicted holding keys. His name is German for "protector of advice".