Memorial of Saint Cecilia, virgin and martyr
(Daniel 1:1-6.8-20; Luke
24:42a.44)
Although St. Cecilia
is among the most popular saints, little is known about her with
certainty. She is associated with Church
music which explains her popularity. It
is said that at her wedding she did not hear the nuptial music but sat apart
singing praise to God in her heart.
Also, it is reported that she remained a virgin after marriage!
Cecilia may be
compared to the poor widow of today’s gospel in different ways. Of course, nothing is said, much less known with
certainty, about her background. Yet she
is famous as well for the mite she put into the Temple treasury. It was a sacrifice of note because it was all
that she had to live on.
Both Cecilia and the
widow are recognized widely because they symbolize Christ. He too was a virgin who constantly praised
God. More importantly, he gave not just
his means but his life to the treasury of God’s love. By his sacrifice our sins are forgiven. By it, as well, we have a destiny of singing eternal
praise to God with Cecilia and the widow.
