Saint Cecilia

Cecilia was a young Roman noblewoman of the 2nd or 3rd century. Her ancient story says she vowed her life to God, converted her husband Valerian and his brother, and was martyred for her faith. Much of the story is legend, but her name is in the First Eucharistic Prayer and her church in Trastevere, Rome, stands over her home.

Choirs and music ministries celebrate her feast with concerts. English composers have honored her for centuries: Purcell and Handel wrote odes for Saint Cecilia's Day, and Benjamin Britten wrote his Hymn to St Cecilia.