Our Lady of Guadalupe

Date: December, 30

Anysia was a young woman who lived in the year 304, during the reign of the cruel Maximian Galerius. She was the daughter of rich and noble Christian parents who died and left her an orphan. She dedicated herself to vows of chastity and poverty, praying and helping the poor.

Under the reign of Maximian Galerius, there was much persecution of Christians. Anysia lived in the region of Thessalonica, under the governorship of Dulcitius. Christians were unable to worship in an open place so would meet secretly.

One day as she left her home to go to the assembly of the faithful, she passed by the gates of Cassandra. One of the emperor’s guards took notice of her and stepped in front of her so that she couldn’t pass.

He asked her where she was going. Frightened, Anysia made the sign of the cross on her forehead and said nothing. This enraged the soldier and he grabbed her and again demanded that she tell him who she was and where she was going.

Anysia answered, “I am a servant of Jesus Christ, and am going to the Lord’s assembly.” The soldier quickly replied, “I will prevent that and will bring thee to sacrifice to the gods, for today we adore the sun.” Then the soldier tore off her veil.

When she lifted her arm to keep him from removing her veil, he became even more enraged, drew his sword and ran it through her body so that it came out the other side. Anysia immediately fell to the ground, bathed in her blood, and died.

PRAYER:

Holy Saint Anysia, virgin and martyr, strengthen us in faith and courage that we may resist all evil and remain steadfast in love. Pray for us that we may walk in purity and charity until we share in the eternal joy you now behold in heaven.