Oxford Dictionary of Saints – David Farmer

Just updated, this book details the lives and good deeds of over 1700 saints, including our own Saints Cuby, Mawes and Petroc. The reasons for sainthood are many and varied, although it helps to be a Nun and die young. There are lists of pilgrimages, maps, emblems and details of the processes of beatification and canonisation.

An interesting reference book for those of a Christian persuasion, but also fascinating to lovers of trivia. For example, Clare of Assisi is apparently the patron saint of television. Born in 1194, she was obviously a far sighted woman.

Verdict: We are also offered saints for headache sufferers, cats and accountants. This book is a mine of information. So if you need saintly intervention it can probably steer you towards a suitable “contact”. For supporters of The Hub radio, might I suggest Gabriel, patron saint of telecommunications? ***

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