On October 29/November 11, we honor St. Anastasia of Rome, a 3rd century monastic and martyr whose spiritual mother was greatly influential in her great courage and faithfulness to Christ.
At three years old, St. Anastasia lost both of her parents and was raised by Sophia, the Igoumeness of a womens’ monastery in Rome. Igoumeness Sophia was known for her holy way of life, and St. Anastasia grew up surrounded by women who modeled ardent love and devotion to Christ as well as to each other. By the time she was twenty years old, St. Anastasia was known for being a fervent and holy woman in her own right, and admired by many for her beauty.
Then things suddenly changed. Emperor Decius began persecuting Christians, and commanded that Anastasia, whose reputation must have preceded her, to be brought to him. Before she left, Sophia blessed her spiritual daughter to have the strength to patiently suffer for Christ if need be.
After many attempts to dissuade her from her faith through argument and threats of torture, St. Anastasia was given a flash of grace so piercing it dispelled any doubt or fear she felt before the soldiers. She stood before them and cried, “My spouse, my riches, my life and my happiness are my Lord Jesus Christ, and you cannot turn me away from Him by your deceit!”
After this statement, Anastasia was subjected to tortures so terrible that the people of Rome finally protested. Seeing their disapproval, Emperor Decius ordered that she be beheaded.
Igoumeness Sophia searched and, with the help of holy angels, discovered Saint Anastasia’s mutilated body outside the city and buried it with the help of several other Christians.
We honor her courage and fervent commitment to Christ on October 29/November 11th.
Holy Mother Anastasia, pray to God for us!
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Kontakion
Cleansed by the waters of purity and the blood of martyrdom, Anastasia, you grant healing of every illness to those in need and salvation to those who come with love; for Christ, the ever-flowing fountain of grace, has given you power.