Firm in their faith

Their story is recorded in a document called The Passion of Saints Perpetua and Felicity, which provides valuable insights of the challenges faced by early Christians who were often persecuted by the Roman Empire.

Perpetua, 22, was a noblewoman from a wealthy family in Carthage, North Africa. Perpetua was a recent convert to Christianity and was married with a young son at the time of her death. Knowing her fate and despite the pleas of her family and friends, she refused to give up her beliefs.

Perpetua is also recognised as one of the earliest female Christian writers, as her diary and writings from prison have been preserved and studied. She is often depicted in artwork and is venerated as a patron saint of mothers, prisoners, and those facing difficult circumstances.

Felicity was a slave and pregnant at the time of her arrest. She reportedly was a mother of seven sons and was known as Felicity of Rome.

The Passion of Saints Perpetua and Felicity describes how Perpetua and Felicity, along with several other Christians, were arrested for refusing to worship the Roman gods and participate in pagan rituals. They were imprisoned and subjected to various forms of torture in an attempt to make them renounce their faith. Despite their different backgrounds, both women shared a deep commitment to their faith and were willing to face persecution and death rather than renounce their beliefs.

One of the most remarkable aspects of their story is the bond between Perpetua and Felicity. Despite their different social statuses, they supported and encouraged each other throughout their ordeal. Felicity, who was concerned about giving birth in prison, miraculously gave birth to a healthy baby girl just days before their scheduled execution. This event was seen as a sign of divine favour and strengthened their resolve to face martyrdom.

On the day of their execution, Perpetua and Felicity were led into the amphitheatre, where they were attacked by wild animals. The crowd, which included friends and family members, watched in horror as they were mauled and eventually killed. Their deaths were seen as a powerful testimony to their faith and inspired many others to embrace Christianity. Their martyrdom took place on March 7, 203 AD.

The story of Perpetua and Felicity highlights the courage and conviction of early Christian martyrs. Despite the risks and adversities they faced, they remained true to their beliefs and were willing to sacrifice their lives for the sake of their faith.

Their example and unwavering commitment to their principles serves as a reminder of the importance of staying true to one’s beliefs, even in the face of adversity. Their story also emphasises the power of friendship and support in difficult times. Saints Perpetua and Felicity were courageous young women who faced persecution and death for their Christian faith. Their example continues to inspire and encourage believers today.

Felicity’s feast day is held on November 23 and Perpetua’s is on March 7.

Footnote: For details about other Catholic saints go to: majellan.media/saintscape/

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