August 5
Afra (+304)
Secular
She was a prostitute in Augsburg, Germany, where she was catechized and converted to Christianity.
Biography
When she was urged to make sacrifices to the pagan gods, she said: "My sins are too many for me to increase: my martyrdom will serve as my baptism. May God be praised for giving me such grace." They threw her into a bonfire where she burned to death.
Practical advice
When you begin your work, avoid criticism and speak with charity about those who have hurt you without leaving for tomorrow the good that you can do today.
Example of
Sanctified workFortitudeSacrifice