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ix Foreword Among the thousands of saints recognized by the Roman Catholic Church or by other Christian confessions, there are only a few dozen who stand out in prominence. Others’ prestige is more limited, confined to a country or geographical region. Some, after having enjoyed immense popularity, fall into nearly complete oblivion; but the abundance of artistic works dedicated to them still witnesses to their former renown—a renown that can reemerge at any moment. This is demonstrated by the registers at any vital records office which show a surprising fluctuation in the popularity of names, and the unexpected resurgence of long forgotten ones. Though, by definition, a selection —such as this one—is incomplete, it nonetheless serves to demonstrate the rich diversity of, as well as the religious dimension inherent in, these baptismal names. ...

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