MEMORIAL: JANUARY 21
St. Agnes was born in the late 3rd century and promised her virginity to God at a young age. There are many varying stories of her martyrdom, but all of them centered around refusing Roman suitors despite their bribes of gifts and fame. St. Agnes held firm to her promise to God even when threatened with death. It is said that she was ordered to be dragged through the streets naked, but her hair immediately grew to cover her. In addition, all who tried to rape her were struck blind. When she was tied to the stake to be burned, fire refused to burn her. Finally, she was beheaded for her espousal to God. St. Agnes is the patron saint of young girls and rape victims.
