Saint Agnes, young Virgin and Martyr, pray for us!

We celebrate today the Feast Day of Saint Agnes of Rome. She was a martyr and is the patron saint of girls, virgins, engaged couples, victims of rape and for the virtue of chastity. Agnes consecrated her life and virginity to Jesus and promised Him that He would be her spouse.

When she rejected suitors, she was punished for being a Christian. She was placed in a brothel. Miraculously, she left unharmed. One man attempted to violate her and he was struck blind. She prayed for him and he was healed. During the persecutions of Christians, which were ordered by Diocletian, Agnes was beheaded at the age of thirteen.

The name Agnes means lamb. Amidst great sufferings and persecutions, she had courage and remained steadfast in her love and promise she made to Jesus, the Lamb of God.

Agnus Dei, qui tolis peccata mundi,
Lamb of God, who take away sins of world,
dona nobis pacem. grant us peace.

We have witnessed persecution and martyrdom of Christians throughout the world today. Saint Agnes is our powerful intercessor. We can ask her to help us have courage and to witness to Jesus. He dispels the darkness and shines His beautiful light.

Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world, grant us peace in our hearts, in our families, in our country and in the world.

O Blood and Water which gushed forth from the Heart of Jesus as a Fount of Mercy for us, I trust in You. Jesus I trust in You.  From the Chaplet of Divine Mercy

Saint Agnes, Virgin and Martyr, pray for us!