Saints Perpétua and Felicidade, martyrs

Saints Perpétua and Felicidade: Friends and Martyrs

Saint Perpétua and Felicidade are considered some of the first martyrs of the Catholic Church. They were arrested due to the Decree of the Roman Emperor, Lucius Septimius Severus, which would sentence those who considered themselves Christians to death. Both possessed different qualities that brought them together in prison. While Perpétua was a noble woman from a wealthy family, Felicidade was her slave and, when they were arrested, she was eight months pregnant.

During their time in prison, they became great friends. Perpétua wrote in her diary, known as Passion of Saints Perpétua and Felicidade, the atrocities she experienced in prison, highlighting the courage that the two possessed. They were then thrown into the arena along with other companions to be trampled by bulls and cows. Felicidade was the first to be decapitated and Perpétua, before the soldier cut off her head, raised her hand and indicated the place to be cut.

These two women, with their exemplary attitude, showed that true friendship has no barriers. Even in the midst of all the violence and fear they felt, with their words of encouragement to their companions, they were motivated to follow the true faith. Thus, they became examples for other martyrs in modern times.

The example of Perpétua and Felicidade are a great inspiration for many people. His love, faith and courage are the virtues that motivate all those who believe in the power of love, regardless of any barrier. True friends until the end, these women are an example of how love can overcome any obstacle.