Saint Raymond Nonnatus was born around 1204 in Catalonia, Spain, and was called 'Nonnatus' (not born) because he was delivered after his mother died in labor. He joined the Mercedarian Order, which was devoted to ransoming Christians held captive in North Africa, and he freely offered himself as a hostage so that others could go home. He died in 1240 and is honored as the patron of expectant mothers, midwives, and all who face a difficult birth.
Raymond gave everything he had, and then gave himself, so that captives could be free. His life reminds us that love is not measured in words but in what we are willing to lay down for one another. Even in suffering he kept his trust in God, and God did not abandon him.
Saint Raymond Nonnatus, who gave your own freedom to set others free, pray for us and for all children and parents in danger, that Christ may hold them safely in his love. Amen.