St. Jona and St. Barachisius – Martyrs of Persia

ST. JONA AND BARACHISIUS

St. Jona and St. Barachisius were early Christian martyrs from Persia who were executed for their faith under King Shapur II. They courageously supported persecuted Christians and were themselves arrested and tortured. Their steadfastness in the face of brutal punishment remains a powerful example of unwavering faith.

St. Jona and St. Barachisius were two courageous Christians from the Sasanian Empire—present-day Iran—who gave their lives in the 4th century during a time of intense persecution under the rule of King Shapur II. Their martyrdom is among the most poignant stories to emerge from the long history of Christian suffering in Persia.

The political and religious atmosphere of the Sasanian Empire was hostile to Christianity during Shapur II’s reign. Christians were seen as potential sympathizers with the Roman Empire, Persia’s long-standing rival. This led to waves of persecution, especially against clergy and committed laypersons who openly professed their faith.

St. Jona and St. Barachisius did not initially face arrest themselves. Instead, they chose to visit and care for fellow Christians who were imprisoned for refusing to renounce their faith. Their open acts of compassion and solidarity brought them to the attention of the Persian authorities, and they were promptly arrested.

The two saints were subjected to various brutal methods of torture aimed at forcing them to deny Christ and pay homage to the Persian gods. Historical accounts speak of their great endurance and unshakable resolve. St. Jona was condemned to be sawn in two, a horrifying method of execution reserved for those whom the authorities wished to make an example of. St. Barachisius was savagely beaten and died from the wounds inflicted during his tortures.

Their martyrdom is traditionally believed to have taken place around 327 AD, although precise historical documentation is limited. Their story is recorded in early Christian martyrologies and is honored in both Eastern and Western Christian traditions. The Roman Martyrology commemorates them on March 29, a date also observed by the Eastern Orthodox Church.

Although details about their birth, canonization process, and burial site are sparse—typical for saints from this early period—the legacy of St. Jona and St. Barachisius endures. Their example of voluntary solidarity with the persecuted, courage under torture, and steadfastness in faith has inspired generations of Christians.

Their memory also highlights the broader narrative of Christian resilience in non-Roman parts of the world. While much attention is given to Roman martyrs, stories like that of St. Jona and St. Barachisius show that the seeds of the faith were planted deep and wide, enduring even under fire and sword.

Their veneration likely began shortly after their deaths, spread through oral tradition, and was formally recognized in the wider Christian world over time. They remain particularly significant to Persian Christian communities and are honored as part of the great cloud of martyrs who suffered under Shapur II.

Feast Day

29-3-

Birth Date

--

Died Date

29-3-327 AD (Approximate)

Canonised Date

--Pre-congregation

Persia (Exact burial site unknown)

Holy martyrs Jona and Barachisius, Faithful witnesses to Christ, Grant us strength in trials and courage in faith. Pray that we may remain steadfast in God's love. Amen.
ST. JONA AND BARACHISIUS

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ST. JONA AND BARACHISIUS

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