Saint Aquilina, new martyr of Thessalonica

Saint Aquilina was born in Zagliveri, Thessalonica. Her mother raised her as a holy Christian.  Her father, however, turned his back on Christ and became a Moslem.  By the time Aquilina was eighteen years old, the authorities expected her to join her father as a Moslem.  She refused.  Strengthened by her mother's godly influence, devout faith and moral teaching, Aquilina endured her tortures with courage.  Finally, Aquilina died from her wounds in the arms of her mother on September 27, 1764. "Aquilina" comes from an ancient Roman name meaning "eagle." We honor this Holy Virgin Martyr on September 27. Holy Virgin Aquilina, pray to God for us that we may follow your example to remain true to our Lord Jesus Christ if even our own families pressure us to deny Him.  May we have the strength to resist the temptations of fancy gifts and even marriage when they are aimed at separating us from Christ, the only True Heavenly Bridegroom.  Amen.