The saint library

Saint Bassa

Martyr
Edessa, Macedonia and the Hellespont
Feast day: August 21

Group icon of Bassa and her sons: Agapius at left, Pistus in front and Theognius at right. Image source: Holy Metropolis of Oropos and Phyle — Iconological Synaxarion

A life of faith

Bassa was a Christian woman married to Valerius, a pagan priest. She raised their sons Theognius, Agapius and Pistus as Christians. After Valerius reported her faith, she and the boys were imprisoned. The sons were killed, and Bassa was taken to Macedonia. Her received life recounts her continued refusal to sacrifice and her destruction of an idol before further persecution. She was eventually beheaded.

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

A reflection

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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.

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