A portrait of St. Irene of Thessalonica
St. Irene of Thessalonica
d. 304
Feast
April 1 · IV c.
Patron of
Sisters · Young martyrs · Persecuted Christians
Order
Virgin / Martyr
Greek virgin martyr (d. 304), with her sisters Sts. Agape and Chionia of Thessalonica; arrested for possessing scriptures in defiance of Diocletian's edicts, the elder sisters burned, and Irene shot with arrows after a stay in a brothel where she remained inviolate. Authentic Acta survive. Pre-Congregation.
Life & Times
Died: 304 · From: Greece / Thessalonica.
Patronage
St. Irene of Thessalonica is invoked as the patron of sisters, young martyrs, persecuted christians. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
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About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Irene of Thessalonica, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.