St. Winifred
Welsh virgin and abbess (7th century, d. c. 660), of Holywell in North Wales; according to legend was beheaded by the spurned suitor Caradog and restored to life by her uncle St. Beuno, with the holy well of Holywell springing where her head had fallen. Lived afterward as abbess at Gwytherin. The Holywell shrine is the only continuously visited British pilgrimage site since pre-Reformation times. Pre-Congregation; biography largely legendary.
Life & Times
Born: c. 7th century · Died: c. 660, traditional · From: Wales.
Patronage
St. Winifred is invoked as the patron of healing springs, women, protection from unwanted advances. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
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Devotional items honoring St. Winifred, from our Sancta Lumina collection and beyond.
About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Winifred, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.