August 27
Saint Euthalia of Leontini
Virgin, Martyr
(Unknown – 257)
“Indeed I am, and am ready to die for my Lord.”
Saint Euthalia of Leontini’s response when questioned by her brother if she was a Christian
Her Early Years
Euthalia (also known as Eutalia) was born in Sicily, Italy at an unknown date. She was the daughter of Saint Eutropia of Lentini, a devout Christian. Little is known of her father.
Her mother, Saint Eutropia of Lentini, fell gravely ill, She prayed fervently for her healing. In her vulnerable state, her mother had a vision of Jesus, who appeared to her and miraculously cured her of her illness. This profound encounter with the divine solidified her faith. So, Euthalia decided to embrace Christianity fully and was baptized. Euthalia withdrew from the world as much as possible, desiring to dedicate her life solely to the service of God. She led a quiet and devout existence, praying diligently and seeking spiritual enlightenment. Her steadfast devotion and piety made her a model for others in the community.
Her Martyrdom
However, during the reign of the Roman Emperor Decius, a time of intense persecution against Christians, Euthalia’s faith was severely tested.Her own brother, Servilian, who had not embraced Christianity, became enraged by her steadfastness and zeal for her beliefs. Servilian was so angry with his mother that he locked her up, intending to strangle her. Her mother was liberated by one of her maids and escaped.
Euthalia reproached her brother for his barbarity.
Servilian fiercely demanded, ” Art thou also a Christian?”
Euthalia answered, ” Indeed I am, and am ready to die for my Lord.”
Servilian stripped and beat her, and gave her to one of his slaves. But, Euthalia prayed and the man became blind.
When her wicked brother saw this on August 27, 257, in Leontini, Sicily, Servilian cut off Euthalia’s head.
Her martyrdom demonstrated her bold courage in the face of persecution and served as a powerful example of faith, devotion, and unwavering commitment to Christ. Her death inspired many others in the Christian community, strengthening their resolve to remain steadfast in their faith, even in the face of adversity.
Born : Unknown Date in Sicily, Italy
Died: August 27, 257 in Leontini, Sicily, Italy
Beatified: Pre-Congregation
Canonized: Pre-Congregation
Feast Day: August 27
Reflection
Saint Euthalia of Leontini’s unwavering faith in God remained unshaken even as she endured persecution and martyrdom. Her life challenges us to remain faithful to God’s teachings and commandments, even when we encounter opposition or hostility from others. In times of adversity, her example encourages us to trust in God’s providence and to remain steadfast in our faith.
What opposition do you encounter with your Christian faith today? Remember, like Saint Euthalia of Leontini, trust in God’s love to strengthen you to stand boldly for your faith, even when it is difficult or unpopular to do so.
Prayers
Saint Euthalia of Leontini,
You endured persecution and martyrdom for your love of Christ.
Intercede for us before God so that we may have the courage to stand firm in our faith, even in the face of adversity and persecution.
Help us to prioritize our relationship with God above all else.
Guide us in our journey of faith and grant us the strength to persevere in times of trial.
May your intercession bring us closer to God and may we, like you, be willing to sacrifice everything for the sake of our faith.
Saint Euthalia of Leontini, pray for us. Amen.
Saint Links
CatholicSaints.Info – Book of Saints – Euthalia by Monks of Ramsgate
Orthodox Church in America – Virgin Martyr Euthalia of Sicily
Saint for a Minute – Saint Euthalia of Leontini
Video Link
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