A remarkable few saints have lived over a century, achieving this feat without the benefits of modern medicine and comforts. Here are the stories of three remarkable saints who lived beyond 100 years:
St. Simon Stock (1165-1265)
St. Simon Stock, an English hermit and Carmelite leader, lived to be 100 years old. He played a crucial role in spreading the Carmelite order across Europe and England. The Brown Scapular, a symbol of salvation and protection, was entrusted to him by the Blessed Virgin Mary.
St. Patrick (circa 5th century)
St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, is believed to have lived to be 106 years old. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his life dates, his legacy as the founder of Christianity in Ireland remains unwavering.
St. Raymond of Penyafort (1175-1275)
St. Raymond of Penyafort, a Spanish lawyer, preacher, and priest, lived to be 100 years old. He made significant contributions to the Church, including the consolidation of papal decrees that shaped canon law for centuries. He was canonized as a saint in 1601 and is the patron saint of lawyers.
May these remarkable saints inspire us, and may their intercession bless us all, especially the abandoned elderly.