Saint Agatha was born in Sicily in the year 251. Like many young women of her day, in early Christianity, she devoted her life to God and to the practice of her religion. She promised God virginity as a very concrete sign of her love and devotion.
When challenged to set aside her choice of celibacy and virginity by hostile, forceful and lustful men, Agatha prayed to God for strength - and she endured the punishment of the body that came as a result.
We thank Agatha for demonstrating for us that when we turn to God, when we call upon him for help – he does in fact hear us, and answer us! She died a martyr's death in prison as a result of wounds incurred for her faith!
She is venerated and honored especially in Sicily!
In the life and martyrdom of young Agatha we see how God –as described in the first reading – chooses those who are considered weak, foolish and lowly – to bring to nothing the strong, falsely wise, and self-exalted. He does this to make it known that in him alone is boasting to be done. Of ourselves we are nothing, and can do nothing pleasing to God – or truly helpful to anyone else.
In the gospel passage, Jesus presents the condition of discipleship which Agatha embraced wholeheartedly: you must take up your cross and follow in my footsteps – if you wish to gain everlasting life. He says in so many words; I carried my cross, so you must carry yours!
Agatha carried hers – well – and felt the Spirit of God rest upon her as she endured persecution for the sake of the Kingdom!
Into your hands, O Lord, we commend our spirits.
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