Stay informed with the latest news of the day. Subscribe for FREE today!

January 21 – Saint Agnes

Articles, Saints | January 21, 2025 | by Catholics for Catholics

Saint Agnes’ Story

Almost nothing is known of this saint except that she was very young—12 or 13—when she was martyred in the last half of the third century. Various modes of death have been suggested—beheading, burning, strangling.

Legend has it that Agnes was a beautiful girl whom many young men wanted to marry. Among those she refused, one reported her to the authorities for being a Christian. She was arrested and confined to a house of prostitution. The legend continues that a man who looked upon her lustfully lost his sight and had it restored by her prayer. Agnes was condemned, executed, and buried near Rome in a catacomb that eventually was named after her. The daughter of Constantine built a basilica in her honor.

Reflection

Like that of Maria Goretti in the 20th century, the martyrdom of a virginal young girl made a deep impression on a society enslaved to a materialistic outlook. Also like Agatha, who died in similar circumstances, Agnes is a symbol that holiness does not depend on length of years, experience, or human effort. It is a gift God offers to all.

Saint Agnes is the Patron Saint of:

Girls
Girl Scouts

Source: Franciscan Media


Support Our Mission

We're inspiring a new wave of Catholicism and love of country. We are restoring what it means to say “I’m Catholic” in the public square. We are changing the nation and shaping a more holy and moral future for America!

Support our mission to reclaim our country’s Christian roots and its guiding documents: The Bible and Constitution.
Donate Today