Nino de Atoche (The Child Missionary)

The image originated at the time of the Moorish invasion of the town of Atocha, Spain.  Legend tells of the Moors forbidding anyone to visit the prison full of Christians on errands or mercy except children.  The prisoners' families prayed daily for deliverance of their dear ones, knowing that those imprisoned lacked sufficient food.  One day a child dressed as a pilgram came to the prison carrying a basket, a staff, and a gourd of water.  Even after he had served all the prisoners, the basket and gourd were still full. 

The Child of Atocha is patron for freeing prisoners.  He also performs miraculous rescues for people in every kind of danger, especially from violent acts and in particular, travelers.