St. Agnes

Saint Agnes
Virgin, Martyr
Feast Day: January 21
Symbol:young woman bearing a palm leaf or sword and holding a lamb

   The feast day of Saint Agnes, whose name signifies chaste in Greek, and a lamb in Latin, is celebrated on January 21st. The Catholic Church has always looked upon her as a special patroness of purity. According to St. Ambrose and St. Austin, she was only thirteen years of age when she was martyred. Young noblemen of Rome wanted to propose marriage to Agnes because of her great beauty and riches. She answered all suitors that she had consecrated her virginity to a heavenly spouse who could not be seen. Because she continued to refuse all offers of marriage, they accused her of being a Christian. She was brought to Roman trial and at first was made alluring promises to which she professed no interest. Threats and displays of torture by fire, hooks, and racks with condemnation of execution were next. Agnes never wavered with her conviction that she could have no other spouse than Jesus Christ.
     Since these actions were useless, the governor ordered Agnes to be taken to a house of prostitution. Those who had once lusted for Agnes were now struck with awe at the sight of the saint who was singing hymns of praise to Christ, her protector. However, one who did attempt rudeness toward Agnes was struck blind and fell to the ground. His fearful friends brought him to Agnes and the virgin restored him to his sight and health through her prayers.
    The governor condemned Agnes to be beheaded. According to St. Ambrose, Agnes “went to the place of execution more cheerfully than others go to their wedding.” Agnes was fearless under the hand of the executioner. Her body was buried a short distance from Rome and later a church was built on the spot. Another church of Saint Agnes within the city of Rome was built by Pope Innocent X.
    Many miracles and graces have been received through her intercession.

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