Saint Cecilia was born in Rome, Italy around 200-230AD, and was buried in the Catacomb of Callixtus. She is known as the patron saint of musicians, singers, and poets, and is one of the seven most famous virgin martyrs in history, as she “Sang in her heart to the Lord”. Although Saint Cecilia was not canonized during that time period, she is commemorated by name in the Roman Canon of the Mass, and the Church of Santa Cecilia in Trastevere was built upon where she had lived.
Saint Cecilia was born into a rich, Roman family, and was married to Valerian in her youth despite having vowed her virginity to Christ. She demonstrated great faith and loyalty to God by maintaining her vow and asking the saints and a flaming angel to protect her. She also converted both her husband, his brother Tyberius, and four hundred people, spreading God’s light to those around her. As she faced torture of suffocation in hot baths and attempted beheading three times, she miraculously survived and held steadfast in her faith, preaching until her martyrdom three days later.
Saint Cecilia’s impact gave a model of courage, evangelization, and perseverance when in strife, inspiring many to use music as a powerful and beautiful way to praise God in his glory.
Today, we pray for musicians and singers who are discovering their talents, that they may learn to give praise back to God with the gifts he has given them, and for the protection of people who face trials because of their faith.
In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
O glorious St. Cecilia,
virgin and martyr,
you won the martyr’s crown
without renouncing
your love for Jesus,
the delight of your soul. We ask that you help us
to be faithful in our love for Jesus,
that, in the communion of the saints,
we may praise Him twice in our song
of rejoicing for the Blood
that He shed which gave us
the grace to accomplish
His will on earth. Amen.
Saint Cecilia, pray for us.
In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
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