St. Agnes
Feast day: January 21
Born into Roman nobility, Agnes was raised in a Christian family. A beautiful young girl, she was sought after by many suitors who wanted her hand in marriage. She refused them all and instead dedicated her life to the Lord. The suitors, angered by her decision, started submitting her name to the authorities as a follower of Christianity. When she was brought before the court, she refused to renounce her faith, so she was put to death by the sword. She died a virgin-martyr at the age of 12 or 13. Agnes is commemorated by name in the Canon of the Mass. She is patron of young girls, rape victims, and of chastity.
Collect
Almighty ever-living God,
who choose what is weak in the world to confound the strong,
mercifully grant,
that we, who celebrate the heavenly birthday of your
Martyr Saint Agnes,
may follow her constancy in the faith.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
