The Catholic devotions and folklore of Medieval Europe are fascinating and enchanting in ways unlike any others. They are full of tales, customs, Romantic golden legends, and an intermingling of the supernatural and natural worlds in ways no longer seen in modern society. 

One particularly interesting custom was a devotion to Saint Agnes that was rumored to result in a young woman having a vision of her future husband in a dream. Saint Agnes, who was martyred for refusing to marry a rich man, was a highly venerated saint in the Middle Ages, and considered a patron saint of young girls. 

According to the tradition, young women would spend a day fasting. That night, they would take a sprig of rosemary and a sprig of thyme and sprinkle them with Holy Water. They would then put one sprig in a shoe and place it on one side of the bed, then do the same with another sprig on the other side. Before falling asleep they would pray, "Saint Agnes, that's to lovers kind, come ease the trouble of my mind, let me my future husband view, and be my vision chaste and true.” They would then in their dream see their future husband, who would either give them a kiss or give them a cup of water. 

Variations of this tradition existed all over Europe, from Scotland and England to France and Italy. This tradition continued into the 17th century, and was immortalized in a poem by Keats called “The Eve of St. Agnes”. Whether this devotion is true or simply medieval folklore, it remains a beautiful testament to the power of prayer in the desire to meet a chaste and true spouse. 

Now while it may not be as magical and enchanting as this old tradition, another way for you to potentially see your future spouse today, even though you may never have met, is by joining CatholicMatch. On CatholicMatch you can view thousands of single Catholics and experience “faith focused dating”. Get your free account today and start searching for your match! 

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