Martyrs (d. ca. 68)
Their story
+ According to ancient tradition, Acestas, Longinus, and Megistus were three Roman soldiers who were converted the Christian Faith by the Apostle Paul as they led him to the place of martyrdom.
+ Because of their public profession of faith, they were among those Christians who died during the persecutions of Rome’s Christians by the emperor Nero.
For prayer and reflection
“The saints by faith conquered kingdoms, did what was just, obtained the promises in Christ Jesus our Lord.”—Hebrews 11:33
Spiritual bonus
On this day, we also remember Blesseds Giovanni and Pietro Becchetti. These two brothers were Augustinian priests in Fabriano, Italy. Known as gifted scholars whose work and piety did much to enrich the Augustinian Order. Giovanni died around 1420 and Pietro pass about one year later. Devotion to these holy men was confirmed by Pope Gregory XVI in 1835.
Prayer
Lord, hear the prayers of the martyrs Acestas, Longinus, and Megistus and give us courage to bear witness to your truth. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
(from The Liturgy of the Hours: Common of Several Martyrs)
Saint profiles prepared by Fr. Silas Henderson, S.D.S.
And today we celebrate...