Life of Saint Martina
Saint Martina was a noble Roman maiden who lived in the 3rd century during the reign of Emperor Alexander Severus (222–235 A.D.). She was known for her deep Christian faith, her charity, and her dedication to virginity for the love of Christ.
Martyrdom
Under the persecution of Christians by the Roman authorities, Saint Martina boldly confessed her faith before the pagan magistrates. Despite cruel tortures, including being scourged, racked, and thrown to wild beasts, she remained steadfast in her love for Christ. According to tradition, the wild beasts refused to harm her, a miracle that astonished the spectators. She was eventually beheaded, receiving the glorious crown of martyrdom.
Veneration
- Pope Urban VIII (1623–1644) had a great devotion to Saint Martina and ordered the restoration of her church in Rome, which had fallen into disrepair.
- Her relics were discovered in the 17th century in the Church of Saint Martina and Saint Luke, near the ancient Roman Forum.
- She has been honored in the Roman Martyrology and continues to be venerated as a courageous virgin-martyr of the early Church.
Patronage
Saint Martina is invoked as a patroness of Rome and is particularly venerated by those seeking courage and perseverance in times of trial.