St. Cecilia

Their story

Cecilia is one of the most beloved martyrs of the early Church in Rome. Although few historical details are certain, the ancient story of her life has inspired Christians for centuries, and her name is still prayed in Eucharistic Prayer I at Mass. According to tradition, Cecilia was a young Roman noblewoman who had consecrated her life to Christ. Her family arranged for her to marry a young pagan named Valerian. On her wedding day, as the musicians played, Cecilia sang to God in her heart. This is why she became the patron saint of music. She told Valerian of her promise to God, and he came to believe in Christ and was baptized, along with his brother Tiburtius. Both brothers were soon martyred for burying the bodies of Christians. Cecilia was then arrested. The authorities tried to kill her by suffocation in the steam of her bathhouse, and when that failed, an executioner struck her with a sword. She lived for three days, continuing to pray and encourage others, before dying. Her home was later made into a church, which still stands in Rome.