Memorial of Saint Agnes, Virgin and Martyr
Today is the memorial of Saint Agnes, Virgin and Martyr. While little is known for certain about her life, she died at a very young age, likely only twelve or thirteen years old. In the words of Pope Benedict XVI Saint Agnes gave, “…her young life totally and without reserve to ensure that the Gospel was proclaimed as the truth and beauty that illuminate existence.”
To inspiration reflection, I wanted to share a prayer I borrowed from St. Agnes Church in New York City. Particularly, this prayer moves me in the way it is directed towards children. I think of all the violence and fear that our children have witnessed over the last decade and I hope the saints are looking over them, instilling love and faith during such difficult times.
Prayer to Saint Agnes
St. Agnes, although you were only a child,
you believed that Jesus was always with you;
help us to remember that he is also with us,
and to remain true to his presence.
St. Agnes, you refused to give up your faith;
help us to be proud of our faith,
to love it, to be strong in it,
and to give witness to it daily.
St. Agnes, patron saint of children,
watch over the children of the world;
keep them safe from harm;
be with them in their hour of need;
and always pray for them.
Amen.
-Joe Oliveri
[Original at https://www.stagneschurchnyc.org/documents/2020/4/pewPrayerCard.pdf]