About 1 in 8 U.S. women will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. The best defense against breast cancer is early protection. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best time to be screened.
Here at Saint, we support great cancer awareness. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month, we highlight Saint Agatha, who is highly venerated, and known as the patron saint of breast cancer.
AGATHA'S STORY
Saint Agatha was a Christian martyr who lived in Sicily during the 3rd century. According to her hagiography (a biography of a saint), she made a choice early on to devote her life to God and remain a consecrated virgin. That did not deter her male suitors, though, and one of them, in an effort to get her to renounce her vows, had her arrested and imprisoned. However, Agatha remained firm in her dedication to God. This angered the man, so he ordered her to be tortured and her breasts cut off.
Agatha received no medical care, but her wounds miraculously healed during a vision she had being comforted by St. Peter. Because of her ordeal and miraculous healing from her forced breast removal, Saint Agatha has become the patron saint of those with breast cancer and offers comfort, care and hope to those patients.
SYMBOL OF PURITY AND VIRTUE
Saint Agatha is often seen as a symbol of purity and virtue. Her story underscores the importance of maintaining one's faith and moral values in the face of adversity and temptation, which is a message that remains relevant in today's world.
ASSOCIATION WITH BREAST AILMENTS
Given the specific torture Agatha endured, her story has become associated with breast-related ailments, particularly breast cancer. Devotees began to pray to Saint Agatha for her intercession and assistance in cases of breast cancer and other diseases or conditions affecting the breasts.
INSPIRATION AND DEVOTION
Saint Agatha's life story and her unwavering faith in the face of persecution serve as an inspiration to many Christians today. Her dedication to her beliefs and her willingness to endure torture and martyrdom rather than renounce her faith resonate with believers who face challenges to their faith in contemporary times.
Overall, Saint Agatha’s story has impacted people over centuries, especially in select regions like Italy. Celebrate the Breast Cancer awareness month by lighting the Saint Agatha Patron Saint Candle. Rich Black Currant and soft White Rose combine with bright Lemon and warm Vanilla to envelope the senses in a healing embrace.
