St. Mary of Edessa

Mary was born to a noble family in 4th century Syria. Her parents died when she was only 7. Fortunately for Mary, she was adopted by her uncle, St. Abraham Kidunaia, and began a life of holiness.

For 20 years, Mary sought the advice of her hermit uncle. One day a dissonant monk came through the town and had an interest in Mary. For over a year he gained her trust and seduced her, until one day she gave herself to him.

Horrified by her sin, she abandoned her uncle quietly and fled to the brothel where she lived as the sinner she believed she was destined to be.

After two years her holy uncle finally found out where Mary was hiding and went to bring her back. Abraham made an appointment with Mary the prostitute, who didn’t recognize him until he began to weep. Moved by her uncles love, Mary repented and returned home.

Her feast day is October 29 and she is the patron of fighting sexual temptation.