Discover the story of the African saints Perpétua and Felicidade who, despite being pregnant, chose the path of faith and were martyred by the emperor of the time
Today, March 7, we celebrate the Day of African Saints Perpetual AND Happiness, known in the Catholic community as the protectors of pregnant women. This is because, even after the birth of their children, they chose the path of faith and were martyred by the Roman emperor of the time.
The story of Perpétua and Felicidade
The story of Perpétua and Felicidade takes place in the city of Carthage, located in the north of the African continent, today called Tunisia, in the year 203 AD Perpétua was a rich woman and, despite coming from a pagan family, she chose the path of faith in Christ , as well as Happiness, his slave.
A few days after giving birth to her son, Perpetua was arrested and condemned by the government of the Roman emperor. Lucius Septimius Severus. At the time, any Christian demonstration was considered a crime. Shortly afterwards Felicidade was captured for the same reason. She was eight months pregnant at the time and she gave birth to her daughter in prison.
The diary of happiness in prison
Felicidade even wrote about her experience trapped alongside Perpétua in a diary. The text, preserved to this day, is known as one of the oldest writings of the Catholic Church. It received the name “Passion of Saints Perpetua and Happiness”. Check out an excerpt below:
“They threw us in prison and I was shocked, because I had never been in such a dark place. The heat was unbearable and there were many people in a very narrow underground room. I felt like I was going to die from the heat and suffocation, and I suffered from not being able to have my son near me, who was only a few months old and needed me so much. What I asked most of God was the grace to be able to suffer and fight for our holy religion”.
After being trampled by animals, such as oxen and cows, by order of the emperor, Perpétua and Felicidade were beheaded, with a sad end. Today, many women remember the saints during pregnancy or when they wish to become pregnant.
Prayer for Saints Perpetua and Felicidade
“Almighty God, who gave the holy martyrs Perpetua and Felicidade the grace to suffer for Christ, also help our weakness, so that we can live firm in our faith, as they did not hesitate to die for your love. For Our Lord Jesus Christ, Your son, in the unity of the Holy Spirit. Amen.”
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
