Saint Agnes of Bohemia
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Saint Agnes of Bohemia, also known as Agnes of Prague, was born into royalty, the daughter of King Ottokar I of Bohemia and Queen Constance of Hungary.
She was a prominent figure in the medieval period, known for her choice of a life of charity over the opulence of royal marriage. Agnes rejected several high-profile marriage proposals, including from Emperor Frederick II, to dedicate her life to God.
She founded the Hospital of St. Francis in Prague and a monastery for the Poor Clares, becoming its abbess. Her life was a testament to humility, charity, and devotion, leading to her canonization centuries after her death in 1282.
Biography
Birth
Agnes was born on January 20, 1211, in Prague, which was then part of the Kingdom of Bohemia.
Early Life
Educated under the care of the Cistercian nuns in Trzebnica, Poland, from a young age, Agnes was raised with religious values despite her royal status.
Occupation
Although a princess by birth, she chose to serve as an abbess in the monastery she founded.
Vocation
Agnes took her vows as a Poor Clare, following the example of St. Clare of Assisi, and devoted her life to prayer and service to the poor, founding institutions for their care.
Death
She died peacefully on March 2, 1282, in Prague after a life dedicated to religious service.
Significant events
- Founded the Hospital of St. Francis in Prague around 1232-1233.
- Established a monastery for the Poor Clares in Prague, becoming its first abbess in 1236.
- Corresponded with Saint Clare of Assisi, receiving spiritual guidance.
Death
Agnes of Bohemia met her end peacefully in Prague from natural causes on March 2, 1282.
Canonization
Servant of God
The process to recognize Agnes as a Servant of God began in the 19th century, with investigations into her life and virtues.
Venerable
She was declared Venerable for her life of heroic virtue, though specific dates are not commonly documented.
Beatification
Agnes was beatified on November 21, 1874, by Pope Pius IX, based on her life of virtue and her contributions to the Church.
Canonization
Canonized on November 12, 1989, by Pope John Paul II, recognizing her as a saint.
Miracles
Miracles specifically attributed to Agnes for her beatification or canonization are not widely documented, but her canonization was also based on her exemplary life.
Miracle for beatification
Not specifically documented.
Miracle for canonization
Not specifically documented.
Other notable miracles
Agnes was known for her prophetic visions and healings during her lifetime.
Patronage
Saint Agnes of Bohemia is the patron saint of the Czech Republic, charity workers, the poor, and the city of Prague.
Feast day
The feast day of Saint Agnes of Bohemia is celebrated on March 2 in the Roman Catholic calendar, and March 6 in some liturgical calendars.
Veneration
Saint Agnes is venerated through the preservation of her history and legacy at the Convent of Saint Agnes in Prague, now part of the National Gallery. Her relics are venerated there, and she is remembered through various cultural and religious events.
Books
Written about the saint
Written by the saint
No known writings by Saint Agnes of Bohemia exist.
External links
- Catholic Online - Saint Agnes of Bohemia
- Wikipedia - Agnes of Bohemia
- Franciscan Media - Saint Agnes of Bohemia