Saint Paulina of Rome

Biography

Saint Áurea of San Millán, also known as Oria, was born around the year 1042 in the village of Villavelayo, Spain. She was the daughter of Saint Amunia, a pious and devout Christian. Áurea grew up in a time when her village was invaded by the Moors, who posed a great threat to the Christian community. From an early age, Áurea demonstrated a deep devotion to her faith. She particularly revered three saintly figures: Saint Agatha, Saint Eulalia of Merida, and Saint Cecilia. Their lives and examples of martyrdom greatly inspired her, and she often sought their intercession and guidance. In her desire to live a life dedicated to God, Áurea decided to become a nun and dedicate herself fully to a life of prayer and penance. She entered the Benedictine order and became a nun at the monastery of San Millán de la Cogolla, located in La Rioja, Spanish Navarre. Áurea's commitment to a life of holiness and her thirst for spiritual knowledge led her to become a spiritual student of Saint Dominic of Silos, a renowned Benedictine monk. Saint Áurea's devotion to prayer and her contemplative life in the monastery were marked by a profound encounter. She received a vision from her heavenly patrons, Saint Agatha, Saint Eulalia of Merida, and Saint Cecilia. In this vision, they reassured her of her vocation and affirmed her commitment to a life dedicated to the service of God. This divine encounter further strengthened Áurea's resolve in her monastic vocation. Throughout her life, Áurea was renowned for her holiness and her exceptional spiritual gifts. She became known as a miracle worker, with many flocking to her seeking her intercession and blessings. Her prayers were said to have cured the sick, eased the suffering of the afflicted, and provided hope to those in despair. Saint Áurea of San Millán lived her life as a humble and devoted servant of God. After a life marked by unwavering faith and dedication to prayer, she passed away in 1069 at the monastery of San Millán de la Cogolla. Her death was attributed to natural causes. Today, Saint Áurea is venerated as a patron saint of Villavelayo, her birthplace in Spain. Her feast day is celebrated on March 11th, providing a time for faithful Catholics to reflect on her exemplary life and seek her intercession for their own spiritual journeys. Though representations of Saint Áurea are not widely known, she is remembered and honored for her profound devotion to God and her unwavering commitment to a life of holiness.