Saints Perpetua and Felicity were young Christian women who were martyred in Carthage (modern-day Tunisia) in 203 AD during Roman persecution. Perpetua, a noblewoman, was a young mother, and Felicity, her servant, was pregnant at the time of their arrest. Despite their different social standings, they were united in faith. Imprisoned for refusing to renounce Christianity, they endured harsh conditions and persecution. Perpetua’s diary, written while she awaited execution, provides a firsthand account of her unwavering faith and courage. Felicity, despite her pregnancy, remained steadfast and gave birth just days before their execution. On the day of their martyrdom, they entered the arena together, supporting and encouraging one another in their final moments. Their sacrifice remains one of the most powerful testimonies of faith and friendship in Christian history.
Practical Lessons:
- Stay True to Your Beliefs, Even Under Pressure: Perpetua and Felicity refused to deny their faith, even when threatened with death. In daily life, this means standing by your values at work, school, or in social settings, even when it’s difficult.
- Support and Encourage One Another: Felicity and Perpetua strengthened each other in their suffering. Be a source of support for friends and family, especially in times of hardship, by offering encouragement and standing by them.
- Find Strength in Prayer: Despite imprisonment, they remained steadfast in prayer. Set aside time daily, even if brief, to pray and reflect, drawing strength from God in moments of stress or uncertainty.
Prayer:
Saints Perpetua and Felicity, you remained strong in faith and in friendship even in the face of death. Pray for us, that we may stand firm in our beliefs, support those around us, and turn to God in all circumstances. May your example inspire us to live with courage, trust, and love. Amen.
Quote:
“Stand fast in the faith, and love one another. Do not let our sufferings be a stumbling block to you.” — St. Perpetua
Other Saints We Remember Today
St. Thomas Aquinas (traditional day), Priest, Religious, Doctor, The Angelic Doctor, Patron of Catholic Schools, Scholars, Theologians, and Booksellers
image: The martyrdom of Perpetua, Felicitas, Revocatus, Saturninus and Secundulus, from the Menologion of Basil II (c. 1000 AD)
