Correio newspaper | 3 prayers for Saint Ursula’s Day

Celebrated by the Catholic Church, she is considered the patron saint of young women and students

Ursula was a British Christian princess who had made a secret vow of consecration to God, committing herself to chastity. However, her father accepted the marriage proposal of the pagan general Conanus, and Ursula asked for three years to prepare, hoping to convert him or avoid the union, but to no avail. As she left for the nuptials, she was accompanied by eleven young virgins destined to marry the duke’s soldiers. During the pilgrimage, they passed through Rome, but on their way back, they were attacked by the Huns in Cologne.

The invaders demanded that the young women marry them, but they all refused in order to remain faithful to their faith. Attila, leader of the Huns, tried to force Ursula to be his wife. She, however, replied that she was promised to the most powerful of kings: God. Furious, Attila executed her on October 21, 383. In memory of the martyrdom of Ursula and her companions, the Church of Saint Ursula, in Cologne, guards their tombs, celebrating them as symbols of courage and devotion.

Below, check out 3 prayers for Saint Ursula’s Day!

Dear Saint Ursula, teach us to cultivate purity in our thoughts, words and actions, so that we are worthy of following the Lord’s paths with sincerity and love. It helps us to ward off the temptations and distractions of the world, keeping our hearts focused on God.

Grant us wisdom to discern what is good and fair and the strength necessary to live according to the divine will, even in times of trial. May, inspired by your example, we radiate the light of Christ’s love in our lives and find joy in fidelity to the Gospel. Amen!

Saint Ursula, intercede for us so that, faced with the difficulties and pressures of the world, we can maintain our faith unshakable and follow the example of your courage and love for Christ. Help us not to fear adversity, but to trust fully in divine providence.

It strengthens our spirit to witness the Gospel with firmness and humility, even in the face of misunderstanding or rejection. May, like you, we have the audacity to choose truth and justice, remaining faithful to the Lord until the end. Fill our hearts with hope and peace, knowing that Christ always walks with us. Amen!

Saint Ursula, an example of dedication and fidelity to God, intercedes for all religious women who consecrate their lives to the service of the Lord. Inspire them to live with joy, humility and love, strengthening their vocation in times of trial. May, like you, they can keep their hearts firm in faith, being light and hope for those they meet on their path.

Bless them with wisdom and perseverance, so that their actions may be a living testimony to the Gospel. Grant them serenity in difficulties, unity in their communities and the grace to always feel the loving presence of Christ on their journeys. May, through your example, continue to bring God’s love to the world with courage and dedication. Amen!