Genevieve was born in Nanterre, near Paris, in 422. When she was 7, Saint Germain of Auxerre went through her village on the way to Great Britain to fight Pelagius’ heresy. He singled her out in the crowd and told of her future sanctity then led her to a church and consecrated her as a virgin to God.
 
At 15, Genevieve formally consecrated herself as a virgin, but continued to live as a laywoman. Because of her generous giving to the poor, she became widely known in the vicinity around Paris. Soon, she began to have frequent visions of heavenly saints and angels. She reported her visions and prophesies, until her enemies conspired to drown her in a lake of fire. Through the intervention of Saint Germain, their animosity was finally overcome. The Bishop then appointed her to look after the welfare of the Nuns dedicated to God.
 
Genevieve was an advisor to kings and frequently brought food and supplies to people in need during battle. In 451,when Attila the Hun was advancing on Paris, Genevieve persuaded the panic-stricken people of the city not to leave their homes and to pray. The invader changed his course and Paris was spared.  Later, during Childeric’s siege and blockade of Paris in 464, Genevieve passed through the siege lines in a boat to Troyes, bringing much needed grain to the starving city.  She also pleaded to Childeric for the welfare of his prisoners of war, and received a favorable response.  Later, Clovis I, liberated captives and showed great lenience to them after Genevieve urged him to do so.  He founded an abbey where Genevieve would minister, and where she herself was later buried.
 
This print is part of the "Happy Saint" collection by Anna Morelli.
 
The image is professionally printed, hand-signed by the artist, and comes enclosed in a plastic sleeve to ensure protection.