CAPG's Blog: SS. Tiburtius, Valerian, and Maximus, MARTYRS, A.D. 229.

SS. Tiburtius, Valerian, and Maximus, MARTYRS, A.D. 229.

by VP

Posted on Sunday April 14, 2024 at 01:00AM in Poetry

Saints Cecilia, Valerian, and Tiburtius by Botticini

"Valerian, being espoused to St. Cecily, by her persuasion embraced the Christian faith, and was baptized by St. Urban, pope, together with his brother Tiburtius. And now, changing their lives with their faith, they employed their substance in the relief of the poor, and their time in rescuing the bodies of such as were martyred from the contempt and fury of the heathens, and giving them decent burial. For which charitable offices being accused, and having made a noble defence of their faith in the public confession of the name of Jesus, and detestation of the idols, they were first scourged, and afterwards beheaded. So wonderful an effect had their constancy, resolution, and patience, on the mind of Maximus, one of the officers who had led them to execution, that he declared himself a Christian, and soon after received the crown of martyrdom with several others of his companions.

Pray for all those who suffer for their faith, or labour under any oppression or trouble, that God would give them courage and patience, support them against all dejection of spirit, and teach them to make a right use of their sufferings. Put up the same prayers for yourself.

Pray for all those who embrace the true faith, that with it they may begin a new life, follow the rules of the Gospel, and by their good example contribute to the salvation of others.

Pray for those whose quality and estates set them in a rank above their neighbours; that they may make a Christian use of all their blessings, that they may not rob their own souls or the poor, either by prodigality, or hard-heartedness; but by their moderation give good example, and by their charity learn to lay up treasures in heaven.

Pray for those who seem most obstinate against the truth; and for all oppressors and persecutors. Remember to despair of none, since you see that those who lead others to execution may come to lay down their necks on the same block. Your virtue and patience may be a help to this; and by these you may not only possess your own soul, but contribute to save the souls of others." The Catholic Year by Rev. John Gother.

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