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Why is St. Cecilia the patroness of music?

According to a legend that dates back to the 5th century, St. Cecilia was a young Roman woman who was betrothed to a pagan named Valerian. On the night of their wedding, Cecilia told Valerian that she had made a vow of chastity and that an angel would protect her. Valerian agreed to respect her wishes, and the two lived together as brother and sister.

Some time later, Valerian was converted to Christianity by Cecilia. He and his brother Tiburtius were later martyred for their faith. Cecilia was also martyred, but not before she had converted many others to Christianity.

St. Cecilia is often depicted playing a musical instrument, and she is considered the patroness of music and musicians. Her feast day is November 22.

There are a few reasons why St. Cecilia is associated with music. First, she is said to have sung hymns to God while she was being tortured. Second, she is said to have appeared to St. Augustine in a vision, playing the organ. Third, her name is derived from the Latin word for "blind," and it is said that she was blind from birth. This blindness may have made her more attuned to the beauty of music.

St. Cecilia is a popular saint among musicians, and she is often invoked by musicians who are seeking inspiration or protection. She is also a reminder that music is a gift from God, and that it can be used to glorify Him.

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