St. Nicholas of Flüe, Patron of Switzerland

St. Nicholas of Flüe, also known as Brother Klaus, was a Swiss hermit and mystic who lived from 1417 to 1487. Born in the village of Flüe, he served as a member of the Swiss federal diet before retiring to a hermitage to devote himself to prayer and contemplation. He is known for having experienced visions and ecstasies, and for his profound spirituality and wisdom. St. Nicholas is venerated as the patron saint of Switzerland, and is particularly revered for his role in preventing a civil war in the country. He is also the patron saint of difficult marriages, peacemakers, and the sick.