January 3rd is the feast of St. Genevieve (c. 419 – 502 AD), patron saint of Paris, revered for her piety, courage, and leadership during times of crisis in early medieval Gaul. Born in Nanterre, near present-day Paris, to a Gallo-Roman family of modest standing, she displayed signs of extraordinary devotion from an early age. According to tradition, when she was around seven years old, she encountered St. Germanus of Auxerre, who recognized her vocation and blessed her dedication to God.
St. Genevieve, ora pro nobis
Genevieve embraced a life of consecrated virginity, renouncing marriage and devoting herself to prayer, fasting, and works of charity. She became renowned for her asceticism and her influence as a spiritual leader, guiding both laypeople and clergy. By the mid-5th century, she had moved to Paris, where she became a key figure in the city’s religious and civic life.
Her most celebrated act of courage came during the approach of Attila the Hun in 451 AD. While panic swept Paris, Genevieve rallied the citizens, urging them to remain in the city, fast, and pray for deliverance rather than flee. The Huns ultimately changed their course, and Paris was spared—an event attributed in popular devotion to her intercession.
The tomb of St. Genevieve
Genevieve was equally resolute during later crises, organizing relief during famines, distributing grain from distant regions, and interceding with political leaders on behalf of the poor. She developed a deep devotion to St. Denis, patron of the Parisian church, and oversaw the construction of a basilica in his honor.
She died around 502 AD and was buried in the church she had helped to build, later the site of the Abbey of Sainte-Geneviève. Her tomb became a major pilgrimage destination throughout the Middle Ages, and she was invoked especially for protection against siege and plague. She remains a symbol of steadfast faith, civic responsibility, and the transformative power of prayer.
In celebration, we’re posting a prayer to St. Genevieve. The accompanying photographs of the Chapel and tomb of St. Genevieve at Saint-Étienne-du-Mont in Paris are courtesy of Cav. Charles Sant’Elia. Evviva St. Genevieve!
Prayer to St. Genevieve
Saint Genevieve, you who, through days of penance and prayer, ensured the protection of Paris, intercede with God for us, for our country, and all devoted Christian hearts. You who cured the sick and fed the hungry, obtain for us the light of God, and make us strong to reject temptation. You who cared for the poor, protect the sick, the abandoned, and the unemployed. You who resisted armies and encouraged the besieged, guide us in the ways of truth and justice. You who, through the centuries, have never ceased caring for your people, help us to keep the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ. May your example encourage us always to seek God and serve Him through our brothers and sisters. Amen.