The Feast of St. Agatha – Martyr

Born in Sicily in the third century her parents were Roman Nobles and Agatha, at a young age, became a Christian convert. 

But, this was during the reign of Decius when being accused as a Christian was essentially a death sentence. 

She was a beautiful young lady and attracted many suitors, including a young man named Quitainus, who was a local judge. 

When Agtha refused his advances he accused her of being a Christian, assuming she would deny her faith and marry him, and he was the judge who would preside over the case. 

But, Agatha refused to recant saying: 

“Jesus Christ, Lord of all, You see my heart, you know my desires. Possess all that I am. I am your sheep. Make me worthy to overcome the devil.” 

In an attempt to force her to change her mind, Quintainus had Agatha sent to a brothel but she remained in her faith. 

He sent for her again, thinking she would deny Jesus, but she refused. 

So, he had her subjected to many tortures. 

St. Peter appeared to Agatha at one point, healing her wounds. But, Aatha remained in prison where she eventually died. 

Including The Blessed Mother, Agatha is one of seven women mentioned in the Canon of the Mass.

St. Agatha, please pray for us.