Engratia

Saint Engratia was born in Braga, in what is now Portugal, and from her youth she belonged wholly to Christ as a consecrated virgin. Tradition says she was promised in marriage to a nobleman from Roussillon, and set out toward Gaul under the protection of her uncle Lupercius, accompanied by a small company of noble companions and a servant named Julia. Passing through Zaragoza, they found the city shaken by a fierce persecution of Christians under the governor Dacian. Moved by courage and charity, Engratia sought to dissuade him from his cruelty, openly confessing her faith when questioned. For this witness she was scourged and imprisoned, and she died from her wounds, sealing her fidelity with martyrdom. Her companions were likewise put to death, and Engratia came to be honored among the Martyrs of Zaragoza, whose memory spread throughout Spain and the Pyrenees. Churches were dedicated in her name, including those that remain places of prayer today. Saint Engratia is commemorated on April 16.