Cecilia is a virgin and martyr of the third century. Born into royalty, tshe was betrothed to a pagan noble named Valerian, whom Cecilia persuaded to remain celibate on their wedding night. He agreed and was baptized; his eyes were then opened to see Cecilia's guardian angel, who crowned them both with wreaths of roses and lilies. Valerian and Cecilia's brother, Tiburtius, were eventually arrested and killed for burying the bodies of martyrs. When Cecilia took on the sad duty of burying her husband and brother, she, too, was condemned to death. An attempt to smother her failed; she was then sentenced to beheading. The soldier assigned to carry it out bungled the execution, and Cecilia died three days later from her injuries. So why then did she become the patron of musicians and composers? Apparently, during her pagan wedding ceremony she did not hear the secular music of the celebration, but experienced the sounds of angels singing and sang to the Lord in her heart, giving her the courage to remain true to her faith. Her feast day is November 22.

This sterling silver St Cecilia medal features a 3-D -like detailed image which is graded above the surface level of the medal to a maximum thickness of 1/16 inch. The medal measures 3/4 inch in diameter (about the size of a penny). Cecilia is pictured holding a harp with her left hand (reminiscent of the heavenly choir!), while her right hand rests reverently over her heart. The clasped, curb-style help maintain its shine.

Ideal for Communion, Confirmation and Name Day gifts. Packaged in an attractive green velvet hinged box, ready for gift-giving!

Catalog number 1120