Saint Cunera

Saint Cunera is remembered as a virgin and martyr, traditionally said to have been born a princess in the Orkney Islands. According to later medieval legend, she was the sole survivor of the company of Saint Ursula after the virgins were massacred at Cologne. Brought for safety under the protection of a king of the Rhine, Cunera was taken to his palace at Rhenen in the Netherlands, where her gentleness and generosity won the love of the people, especially the poor. The king trusted her deeply, even placing in her hands the key to his cellars—an honor that stirred bitter jealousy in the queen. While the king was away hunting, Cunera was murdered, strangled with a scarf and hidden in a stable, until the truth was miraculously revealed. Veneration of Cunera grew in Rhenen, where many sought her intercession for healings, protection from drowning, and help for horses and against animal disease. She is patroness of Rhenen. Her feast day is June 12.