St. Symphorosa and Her Seven Sons – Martyrs of the Early Church

ST. SYMPHOROSA AND HER 7 CHILDREN

St. Symphorosa and her seven sons were martyred during the reign of Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century. As devout Christians, they refused to renounce their faith and suffered brutal deaths. Symphorosa was drowned, while her sons were tortured and executed in various ways. Their unwavering faith and courage became an enduring symbol of Christian martyrdom. Their feast day is celebrated on July 18.

St. Symphorosa and her seven sons were early Christian martyrs who suffered persecution under the Roman Emperor Hadrian around 138 AD. Symphorosa was the widow of St. Getulius, a Roman officer who had converted to Christianity and was executed for his faith. After his death, Symphorosa and her children continued to practice Christianity, despite the growing hostility from Roman authorities.

The emperor, seeking to suppress Christianity, ordered Symphorosa to sacrifice to the Roman gods. When she refused, she was subjected to brutal torture. According to tradition, she was beaten and eventually drowned near Tivoli, where her husband had also been martyred.

Her seven sons—Crescens, Julian, Nemesius, Primitivus, Justin, Stacteus, and Eugene—were then brought before the authorities and ordered to renounce their faith. Each of them stood firm in their belief in Christ, refusing to make sacrifices to the Roman gods. As a result, they were sentenced to death in various horrific ways. Some were hung, others were beaten or thrown into the sea, while others were executed with the sword. Their deaths mirrored the biblical story of the Maccabean martyrs, who also chose to die rather than renounce their faith.

Their sacrifice quickly became well-known among early Christians, and their courage inspired many to remain steadfast in their beliefs despite persecution. Their bodies were buried together near Tivoli, and a church was later built in their honor. The site of their martyrdom became a place of pilgrimage for Christians who sought strength in their story of faith and perseverance.

St. Symphorosa and her sons are often remembered alongside the Maccabean martyrs and St. Felicitas, another mother who suffered the loss of her children for the Christian faith. Their feast day, celebrated on July 18, continues to be a reminder of the strength of faith in the face of oppression. Their legacy remains a powerful testament to Christian martyrdom, symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice for Christ.

Feast Day

18-7-

Birth Date

--2nd century

Died Date

--c. 138 AD

Canonised Date

--

Tibur (modern Tivoli, Italy)

Saint Symphorosa and your seven noble children, You endured great suffering for your unwavering faith. Intercede for us, that we may be strengthened in our own trials. Help us to live with courage, hope, and steadfast love for God. Pray that we may follow your example of faith and family, and remain firm in our devotion to Christ. May your sacrifice inspire us to always trust in God’s plan for us. Through your prayers, may we grow in holiness and grace. Amen.
ST. SYMPHOROSA AND HER 7 CHILDREN

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ST. SYMPHOROSA AND HER 7 CHILDREN

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