The Basics: Born about 635 in Portugal; died about 653 in Portugal; canonized pre-congregation; feast day, October 20. Woman religious and martyr.
The Story: Irene’s is a story that may ring familiar for some of us today. Tradition has it that she was born into a wealthy noble family, and as time went on, a young man of a similar background became enchanted by her. Irene, who had been sent to convent school since a very early age, explained to the gentleman that she had promised her life to the Lord, and planned to enter the convent. He was heartbroken, of course, but accepted her no.
Unfortunately, that is not the end of the story. A monk tutor made improper advances on Irene, and she spurned him as well. The monk, however, according to legend, was not as understanding as Irene’s initial suitor. The monk gave her a potion that caused her abdomen to swell, and told everyone she was pregnant. The enraged initial suitor then hired an assassin. Irene’s body was found in a river. When the truth was learned, she became the topic of deep veneration, and the town where her body was found was renamed Santarem in her honor.
What We Can Learn from Irene: Saying yes to the Lord often means saying no to the world. Let’s pray for the strength to do so.
To Learn More About Other Women Saints and Blesseds: Come back next week, or consider buying my books, Blessed Are You: Finding Inspiration from Our Sisters in Faith or Sisterhood of Saints: Daily Guidance and Inspiration.
