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Oil Dedicated to St Germaine Cousin 4 (Patron for Abandoned People)

St Germaine Cousin 4 (Patron for Abandoned People) from A Blessed Call To Love, Ireland.

Saint Germaine Cousin is recognized as the patron saint of disabled people, particularly those with physical and mental disabilities. She was a French shepherdess who lived during the late 16th century.

Germaine was born in Pibrac, France, in 1579. She was born with several physical deformities, including a partially paralyzed right arm and a disfigured hand. Her mother died when she was still an infant, and her father remarried, leaving Germaine to be raised by her stepmother. Unfortunately, Germaine faced neglect and mistreatment from her stepmother and other members of her family due to her disabilities.

Despite her difficult circumstances, Germaine developed a deep faith in God. She found solace in spending time alone in prayer and tending to her flock of sheep. It said that she would frequently pray at a small shrine dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary while tending her sheep.

Germaine’s story gained attention when miraculous events  attributed to her. She  said to have performed healings and to have been provided with supernatural assistance, such as finding food for her flock during times of scarcity. People began to recognize her holiness and the purity of her heart, despite her outward disabilities.

Sadly, Germaine’s life  cut short when she died at the age of 22 in 1601. Her death met with great mourning by the people of Pibrac, who regarded her as a saintly figure. Over time, her reputation for holiness and her ability to intercede on behalf of disabled individuals grew, leading to her eventual recognition as the patron saint of disabled people.

Today, St. Germaine Cousin venerated as a model of faith, perseverance, and compassion, particularly for those facing physical or mental disabilities. She invoked by individuals seeking her intercession for healing, strength, and support in their own lives or on behalf of loved ones with disabilities. Her feast day celebrated on June 15th each year.