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December 24 · Optional · White

St Tharsilla

(d. c. 550) Roman virgin, aunt of Gregory the Great, who lived hidden in her father's house in prayer and vigil; her knees and elbows, Gregory says, were hard as a camel's. On Christmas Eve she cried out, 'Stand back — Jesus is coming,' and died.

When is the feast of St Tharsilla?

The feast is celebrated on December 24 each year, kept as a optional in the General Roman Calendar, with white vestments.

Frequently asked

When is the feast of St Tharsilla?

The feast of St Tharsilla is celebrated on December 24 each year, kept as a optional in the General Roman Calendar.

Who was St Tharsilla?

(d. c. 550) Roman virgin, aunt of Gregory the Great, who lived hidden in her father's house in prayer and vigil; her knees and elbows, Gregory says, were hard as a camel's. On Christmas Eve she cried out, 'Stand back — Jesus is coming,' and…

How can I keep a saint's feast day?

Attend Mass if you can, read about the saint's life, and ask their prayers for your intentions. Liturgical Living shows you the saint of every day and can count down to your own patron's feast.

More saints

• Sts Chaeremon and Ischyrion — December 22
• St John of Kanty — December 23
• Nativity of the Lord — December 25
• St Stephen, Protomartyr — December 26