Holy Martyr Agrippina

Life

The holy Agrippina was born and raised in Rome. From childhood itself she trained herself to live according to the Gospel, driving the stench of the passions from her heart and filling her heart with the fragrance of virginal purity, chastity, and modesty. She was betrothed to Christ the Lord, and as a bride of Christ she suffered in the time of Emperor Valerian. She endured beating with rods until her bones were crushed. An angel of God appeared to her and strengthened her. Under new torments she gave up her spirit to God. Her companions Bassa, Pavna, and Agathonica transferred her relics to the island of Sicily and there honorably buried them. Later a church was built there in the name of Saint Agrippina. From her relics countless miracles occurred. By the power of her relics even the Hagarenes were driven back from the city where those relics rested. She reposed and was crowned with glory in the year 275.

From the Hymn of Praise

Agrippina, purer than a lily,The betrothed of the Son of God,Her soul brighter than a flame,And her faith firmer than stone.