Today’s Readings – Saint Agnes, Martyr

St Agnes, Virgin and Martyr (Memorial)

Agnes was martyred at the end of the persecution of the Roman Emperor Diocletian, probably in the early years of the 4th century.  She is thought to have been between 12 and 15 years of age.  It is clear that her death was the result of a determination to preserve her virginity.  The Church, following the teaching of St. Paul, always considered the state of virginity or celibacy preferable in itself to the state of marriage. And, of the many virgin martyrs in Rome, few were held in greater esteem by the early Church.

Very few details of Agnes’ life are known.  However, in the ancient Roman calendar of the feasts of the martyrs (Depositio Martyrum), her feast is listed on January 21.  This record also … Continue

Yesterday’s Readings – Thursday of week 2 of Ordinary Time - First Reading

Commentary on 1 Samuel 18:6-9; 19:1-7

Saul was deeply impressed by David’s great exploit in killing Goliath and took him into his palace. And a deep friendship developed between David and Jonathan, Saul’s son. We are told a little earlier that “Jonatha … Continue