Saint Ursula (crown) walking her companions to martyrdom (4th century)
by Hosen Okubo at St Ursule High School, Sendaï, Japan

In 1535, Angela Merici chose Saint Ursula as patron of her Company.
During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the story of Ursula and her companions was commemorated in art, architecture, and universities (the Sorbonne, Vienna, Coimbra). Around the 12th century, there also existed an association of pious people called «St. Ursula's Skiff».

The story of St. Ursula is difficult to relate. 
Different versions, mingled with legend, have come down to us. Essentially, Ursula and several young women from Britain were requested to marry a pagan king. Ursula's father was upset by this request, yet, he feared that refusal on his part might result in retaliation. Moreover, Europe was being invaded by barbarians at the time. Ursula decided to flee with her companions. They took to sea but met up with a storm, and their small boats were washed up on the shores of Germany where they were put to death by the barbarians. A basilica in Cologne was built in their honour and attests to this event. Beyond the legends, a historical foundation for the story has been authenticated by archeological research. There was, indeed, a young woman called Ursula («Little Bear»). During the 3rd century, under Ursula's leadership, young women were martyred in Cologne (Germany), choosing to face death rather than betray their faith.