Saints of 5 February

St Agatha, virgin and martyr

At Catania, in Sicily, in the time of the emperor St. Agatha, virgin and martyr. After being buffeted, imprisoned, tortured, racked, dragged over pieces of earthenware and burning coals, and having her breasts cut off, she consummated her sacrifice in prison while engaged in prayer.

Many holy martyrs (Pontus, under Maximian)

In Pontus, during the persecution of Maximian, the commemoration of many holy martyrs, some of whom had molten lead poured over them, others had sharppointed reeds thrust under their nails, and were oftentimes horribly tormented in many other ways. Thus, by their glorious passion, they deserved at the hands of God palms of victory and unfading crowns.

St Isidore of Alexandria

At Alexandria, during the persecution of Decius, St. Isidore, martyr, who was beheaded for the faith of Christ by Numerian, general of the army.

The Twenty-six Martyrs of Japan

In the kingdom of Japan, the passion of twenty-six martyrs, who, by being crucified for the Catholic faith, and pierced with lances, gloriously died in praising God and preaching that same faith. Pius IX. canonized them in 1862.

St Avitus of Vienne

At Vienne, blessed Avitus, bishop and confessor, whose faith, labors and admirable learning protected France against the ravages of the Arian heresy.

Ss. Genuinus and Albinus, bishops (Brixen)

At Brixen, the holy bishpos Genuinus and Albinus, whose lives were illustrious for miracles.