St. Dymphna was a young Irish princess of the seventh century who fled her disturbed father’s violence and was martyred at Geel in Belgium at about fifteen years old. Around her shrine grew one of history’s most remarkable traditions of compassionate care for the mentally ill, carried on at Geel to this day. She is the patroness of those suffering anxiety, depression, and every affliction of the mind. Feast day: May 15.
Prayer to St. Dymphna
Good St. Dymphna, great wonder-worker in every affliction of mind and body, I turn to you with confidence in this time of trial.
Intercede for me, and for all who suffer in ways no one else can see: the anxious, the depressed, the exhausted, and the afraid. Obtain calm for troubled minds, rest for weary hearts, and the sure knowledge that God has not looked away.
I thank you in advance for your intercession, and I ask you to walk with me until the peace I am praying for arrives.