St. Dymphna

St. Dymphna was a 7th-century Irish virgin martyr, venerated as the patron saint of those suffering from mental illnesses and emotional distress. Her tragic but faithful life continues to inspire healing and hope.

St. Dymphna was born in Ireland in the 7th century to a devout Christian mother and a pagan father, Damon, who was a petty king or chieftain. Raised in the Christian faith, Dymphna consecrated her virginity to Christ at a young age, taking a vow of chastity.

Tragedy struck when Dymphna’s mother died. Overcome with grief and mental instability, her father sought to remarry — but insisted the new wife must resemble his deceased spouse. Upon realizing that Dymphna bore a strong resemblance to her mother, he proposed marriage to his own daughter. Horrified and steadfast in her commitment to God, Dymphna fled with her confessor, Fr. Gerebernus, and a few loyal attendants to Geel, in present-day Belgium.

Damon tracked her down in Geel. When Dymphna again refused his advances, he beheaded her in a fit of rage. Fr. Gerebernus was also slain. The people of Geel buried the martyrs with reverence, and over time, miracles of healing — particularly for mental and nervous disorders — were reported at her burial site.

A church was built over her grave, and eventually, the town of Geel became renowned for its compassionate treatment of the mentally ill. To this day, Geel is known for its unique system of community care for psychiatric patients, inspired by St. Dymphna’s legacy of healing and love.

Feast Day

15-5-

Birth Date

--N/A

Died Date

--650

Canonised Date

--N/A

Geel, Belgium

St. Dymphna, comforter of the anxious and protector of the mentally afflicted, pray for us in our trials and bring us peace of heart. Amen.
ST. DYMPHNA

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ST. DYMPHNA

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