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| Santa Dorotea, ora pro nobis |
February 6th is the Feast of St. Dorothy of Caesarea, 4th-century Virgin and Martyr. One of the Four Capital Virgins, she is the patron saint of florists, gardeners and greengrocers. According to tradition, St. Dorothy was arrested and tortured for being a Christian. Instead of renouncing her faith, she converted the two apostatized sisters trying to persuade her to abjure the one true God. They were all sentenced to death. Driven before the pagan judge, Teofilo, he mockingly said, “Bride of Christ, send me some fruits from your bridegroom’s garden.” Praying before her execution, an angel in the form of a boy appeared and offered the astonished judge a basket of flowers and fruit. Bowing her head, St. Dorothy was beheaded. Following her example, Teofilo converted and was immediately decollated.
In celebration, we’re posting a prayer by St. Dorothy of Caesarea. The accompanying photo comes courtesy of Father Eugene Carrella. The holy card is part of Father Carrella’s impressive collection of religious artifacts. Evviva Santa Dorotea!
Prayer to St. Dorothy of Caesarea
By the radiance of your holy life you did draw the two sisters united in spirit into Eternal Light; and did send roses and apples from Paradise to Theophilus. O Dorothy, as fellow contestants you were counted worthy of Divine glory. Ask that we who praise you may receive the forgiveness of our sins. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
