PRAYERS

letters for and from the heavens...

To St. Agnes





Let us gain courage for our own battle 
by honoring the martyrdom of the glorious virgin Agnes. 
St. Agnes, vessel of honor, 
flower of unfading fragrance, 
beloved of the choirs of Angels, 
you are an example to the worth of virtue and chastity. 
O you who wear a Martyr's palm 
and a virgin's wreath, 
pray for us that, 
though unworthy of a special crown, 
we may have our names written in the list of Saints. 


The Life of St. Agnes




St. Agnes was a Roman girl who was only thirteen years old when she suffered martyrdom for her Faith. Agnes had made a promise, a promise to God never to stain her purity. Her love for the Lord was very great and she hated sin even more than death! Since she was very beautiful, many young men wished to marry Agnes, but she would always say, "Jesus Christ is my only Spouse."


Procop, the Governor's son, became very angry when she refused him. He had tried to win her for his wife with rich gifts and promises, but the beautiful young girl kept saying, "I am already promised to the Lord of the Universe. He is more splendid than the sun and the stars, and He has said He will never leave me!" In great anger, Procop accused her of being a Christian and brought her to his father, the Governor. The Governor promised Agnes wonderful gifts if she would only deny God, but Agnes refused. He tried to change her mind by putting her in chains, but her lovely face shone with joy. Next he sent her to a place of sin, but an Angelprotected her. At last, she was condemned to death. Even the pagans cried to see such a young and beautiful girl going to death. Yet, Agnes was as happy as a bride on her wedding day. She did not pay attention to those who begged her to save herself. "I would offend my Spouse," she said, "if I were to try to please you. He chose me first and He shall have me!" Then she prayed and bowed her head for the death-stroke of the sword.
Feastday:  


January 21
Patron of the Children of Mary

source: www.catholic.org

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