Saint Ursula

Saint Ursula was believed to have been born in Romano-Britain, possibly of royal lineage, in the late fourth century. Though the details of her life are largely veiled by time, the Church has long honored her as a virgin and martyr, remembered especially in connection with a company of consecrated women who suffered death at Cologne. From the earliest centuries, Christians in Cologne kept devotion to “holy virgins” martyred there, and by the Middle Ages Ursula’s name emerged as their leader. Tradition portrays her as a young woman who had given her heart to Christ and chose fidelity to Him above every earthly promise. In the best-known legend, she and her companions set out on pilgrimage and, returning to Cologne during a time of violence, met death rather than abandon their dedication to the Lord. Ursula is venerated in the Catholic Church, as well as in the Eastern Orthodox and Anglican traditions, and is honored as patroness of places including Campogalliano, Poirino, and Valls. Her feast day is October 21.