Born in France in 1786, St. John Vianney grew up in a faithful family. His childhood was marred by political turbulence-he even received his first Holy Communion under secrecy! Once ordained, he was known to spend 12 hours a day hearing confessions which is represented by the purple stole. He had a deep devotion to the Rosary and the Eucharist which have been woven into the design as they were so intimately woven into his life as the fuel for his ministry. He is the patron of parish priests and the intricate design resembles priestly vestments.
