Saint Aquilina of Byblos

A life of faith

Aquilina was raised in a Christian family in the Phoenician city of Byblos. The OCA life remembers her sharing Christian faith with a friend while still very young. A report of her teaching reached the governor, who demanded that she abandon Christ. Neither flattering promises nor threats changed her confession. The traditional account describes suffering, divine help, and prayer before her death during Diocletian’s persecution. Christians buried her, and her relics were later honored in Constantinople. Her story joins the willingness to learn and teach with steadfast trust under severe pressure.

The Eastern Orthodox Church remembers saints in prayer and commemoration. Their lives offer examples for Christians learning to live their faith.

A reflection

Think about the responsibility involved in sharing faith with a friend. Let kindness and patient explanation accompany conviction, especially when another person disagrees.

Read the Orthodox source

Feast dates follow the linked source. Local calendars and commemorations may vary. Themes describe a saint’s life; quiz suggestions do not assign a baptismal patron. Discuss choosing a patron saint with your priest.