St. Pelagia the Penitent – Desert Saint of Radical Conversion

This ultra-lifelike, hyper-realistic portrait of St. Pelagia the Penitent captures her later life as a humble desert hermit, veiled in simplicity and radiant with the beauty of repentance. Shown seated at the entrance of her cave on the Mount of Olives, she holds a wooden cross and contemplates a scroll bearing Psalm 25:7:

“Remember not the sins of my youth, or my transgressions… according to your steadfast love remember me, for your goodness’ sake, O Lord!”

Above her glows a gold halo engraved with the Latin word "Penitentia" (Penance), while a luminous border inspired by illuminated manuscripts frames the entire scene with reverent splendor.

St. Pelagia (4th–5th century) was once a famed actress and courtesan in Antioch, known for her wealth, beauty, and sin. After encountering the preaching of Bishop Nonnus, she was struck to the heart, converted, and was baptized. She gave away all her riches, dressed in a male hermit’s habit, and lived the rest of her life in hidden penance under the name “Pelagius.” Her radical transformation has inspired generations to believe in the boundless mercy of God.

Symbolism in the Art:

• Brown Habit & Bare Feet – Her renunciation of vanity and comfort

• Scroll with Psalm 25:7 – A prayer of memory and mercy for her past

• Cave & Pathway – Representing both solitude and her journey toward holiness

• Golden Halo with "Penitentia" – Her sanctification through repentance

Perfect For:

• Catholic prayer corners or Lenten decor

• Encouragement for those battling past regrets

• Gifts for RCIA candidates or those returning to the Church

• Homeschool or catechesis lessons on mercy and repentance

Product Details:

• Format: High-resolution PNG (digital download only)

• Size: Portrait orientation – 300 DPI print-ready

• Style: Watercolor with Renaissance detail, golden halo, ornate manuscript frame

• Instant download upon purchase

• No physical item will be shipped

Feast Day:

October 8