Commemorations
March 7
Perpetua
and Felicity and Companions, Martyrs at Carthage,
d. 202
Reflection
In the year 202 the emperor Septimus Severus forbade
conversions to Christianity and harsh persecutions followed. Several Christians
were arrested, including Perpetua, a young noblewoman 22 years old, Felicity, a
pregnant slave. Perpetua’s father repeatedly pleaded with his daughter to
renounce her faith so as to save her life, but she refused, replying, “We know
that we are not placed in our own power but in that of God.”
The prisoners were scourged, led to the amphitheater where
they were mangled by wild beasts, but survived to be beheaded with the sword.
Felicity, who had given birth prematurely three days before, was among them.
Her child was adopted by a Christian family.
Perpetua had a series of visions recorded in the Passion
of Perpetua and Felicity, which became enormously popular, even to the time
of Augustine (fifth century), who warned against putting it on the same level
as Scripture.
Prayer
Gracious God, Thank you for the witness of Perpetua and
Felicity and their companions, who held steadfast to faith in you even to
death. Give us that same steadfastness of faith in you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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