The Roman grain goddess CERES was the goddess of agriculture, grain crops, fertility and motherly relationships. She was also associated with the underworld and was the daughter of Saturn and Ops. Her name is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *ker, meaning 'to grow'. She was worshipped in ancient Rome and was the patron goddess of the Roman plebeians. She was also venerated in the mystery religions of Demeter and Persephone.