Saint Apollonia: Martyr, Patron Saint of Dentists

ST. APOLLONIA

Saint Apollonia is known as a Christian martyr from Alexandria, Egypt, who suffered during the persecution of Emperor Decius around 249 AD. She was a deaconess and is remembered for her extraordinary faith and resilience, even in the face of brutal torture. She is often depicted holding a set of pliers, symbolizing the brutal method of torture she endured, which involved having her teeth pulled out.

Saint Apollonia is a virgin martyr who is believed to have lived in Alexandria, Egypt, during the time of the Roman Emperor Decius, who persecuted Christians. Little is known about her life prior to her martyrdom. She was a deaconess in Alexandria, a role that involved assisting with the care of the faithful, especially women, and providing various forms of service to the Christian community.

During the persecution of Christians by Emperor Decius in the 3rd century, Apollonia was arrested. It was reported that she was tortured by having all her teeth forcibly extracted, a particularly cruel form of torment. Despite the immense pain she endured, she refused to recant her faith.

When Apollonia was offered the chance to escape death if she renounced Christianity, she remained steadfast. The crowd of persecutors grew angry at her refusal, and in a final act of defiance, she was burned alive. Her courage, faith, and refusal to abandon her Christian beliefs made her an inspiration to Christians throughout the centuries.

Saint Apollonia is often invoked for relief from dental pain due to the manner of her martyrdom, and she is the patron saint of dentists and those suffering from toothaches. Her feast day is celebrated on February 9.

Feast Day

9-2-

Birth Date

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Died Date

9-2-249

Canonised Date

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Alexandria, Egypt

Saint Apollonia, patroness of dentists and those suffering from tooth pain, we ask for your intercession in our time of need. Please bring comfort and healing to those in pain and grant strength to those caring for them. May your example of faith and courage inspire us to trust in God's loving care. Amen.
ST. APOLLONIA

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ST. APOLLONIA

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