St. Raymond Nonnatus
The order of St. Raymond Nonnatus, the patron saint of pregnant women and midwives, was founded by Maelgwyn ap Ceiwyn in 492. A small Nunnery was constructed in the hundred of Hillfort dedicated to the healing arts and assisting pregnant women. In the years to come the order became famous for it’s skilled midwives and healers.
St. Raymond Nonnatus
Raymond was born in Catalonia and was delivered by caesarean when his mother died in childbirth. Hence his name non natus (not born). He joined the Mercedarians under St. Peter Nolasco at Barcelona. He succeeded Peter as chief ransomer and went to the Barbary states to ransom slaves.
He remained as hostage for several slaves when his money ran out and was sentenced to be impaled when the governor learned that he had converted several Mohammedans. He escaped the death sentence because of the ransom he would bring, but was forced to run the gauntlet. He was then tortured for continuing his evangelizing activities, most notably his mouth was padlocked shut, but was ransomed eight months later by Peter Nolasco.
Raymund is the patron saint of childbirth, midwives, children, pregnant women, and priests defending the confidentiality of confession.
Tenets and Practices
The Order doesn’t differ much from other monastics orders excepts on a few points. Due to it’s parton saint the order places heavy emphasis on preaching to none believers and also have strict rules about confidentiality towards it’s patients.
Notable Members
- Sister Abigail – A sister of healing from the Tarren family.
- Mother Imelda – The nunneries first Mother Superior
History
| Year | Mother | Donation | Treasury | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 492 | Mother Imelda | £21 Maelgwyn, £7 King Uther | 21 £ | The nunnery is completed and Mother Imelda is chosen as acting Mother Superior until the next major Hundred Court. |
| 493 | Mother Imelda | £14 | ||
| 494 | Mother Imelda | £7 | ||
| 495 | Mother Imelda | £0 | ||
| 496 | Mother Imelda | £1 Padern, £1 Land Maelgwyn, £5 Maeglwyn | £0 | |
| 497 | Mother Imelda | £1 Cadry, £5 Maelgwyn | £0 | |
| 498 | Mother Imelda | £5 Maelgwyn | £0 | |
| 499 | Mother Imelda | £5 Maelgwyn | £0 | |
| 500 |