ST. BLANDINA (JUNE 2ND)
A Contemporary Icon of St. Blandina of Lyon Compiled and Edited by Bp. Joseph ( Ancient Church of the West ) St. Blandina stands as a shining lamp of unwavering faith and courage in early Christian history. Born in Gaul (modern-day France), she was a slave who embraced Christianity, finding a profound and formidable strength in her faith. In 177 AD, during a severe persecution in Lyons, Blandina was arrested and tortured to renounce her faith. Despite being scourged, placed on a red-hot griddle, and thrown to wild beasts, she remained resolute, often repeating, “I am a Christian, and nothing wicked happens among us.” Her spirit stayed unbroken, astonishing her fellow Christians and persecutors. The climax of her martyrdom came in the amphitheater, where she was bound to a stake. The beasts refused to touch her, leading to her final execution by the sword. Her death marked the beginning of a legacy that inspired generations. St. Blandina’s story, preserved by Eusebius, is a testament to...
