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Saint Agape of Illyria

Virgin Martyr
Aquileia and Illyria
Feast day: April 16

Icon depicting the sisters Agape, Chionia and Irene.
Icon depicting the sisters Agape, Chionia and Irene. Image source: Wikimedia Commons

A life of faith

Agape is remembered with her sisters Chionia and Irene. Their shared Orthodox life places the sisters near Aquileia and records that they were orphaned while young. During the persecution under Diocletian, they refused orders to renounce Christ. The Church commemorates the three sisters as martyrs on April 16. The surviving account tells their story together; it does not provide a separate account of each sister’s daily work or personal character.

The Eastern Orthodox Church remembers saints in prayer and commemoration. Their lives offer examples for Christians learning to live their faith.

A reflection

Read Agape’s life together with those of her sisters. Their shared commemoration invites reflection on the support that faith and companionship can offer during hardship.

Read the Orthodox source

Feast dates follow the linked source. Local calendars and commemorations may vary. Themes describe a saint’s life; quiz suggestions do not assign a baptismal patron. Discuss choosing a patron saint with your priest.

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