In the ancient city of Catana, Sicily, during the year 304, under the rule of Dioclesian and Maximian, a pivotal event occurred on the 12th of August that became emblematic of the Christian faith’s resilience.

Saint Euplius, a devoted deacon, was ushered into the governor’s chamber. Even before his formal introduction, he boldly declared, “I am a Christian and will gladly die for Jesus Christ.” The governor, Calvisianus, took note of his fervor.

A notable man in Calvisianus’s circle, Maximus, criticized Euplius for carrying forbidden Christian writings. These writings, contradicting the edicts of the emperors, were held close by Euplius. When questioned, Euplius revealed he was arrested with the sacred texts and had no intention of parting with them.

Intrigued, Calvisianus asked him to share a verse from the book. Euplius recited verses emphasizing the blessings on those persecuted for their beliefs and the calling to take up one’s cross in the name of Jesus. When asked to explain, Euplius firmly stated, “It is the law of my Lord, given to me by Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God.”

This response led Calvisianus to order severe punishment. Euplius was subjected to excruciating torment. Throughout, he clung to his faith, repeatedly declaring his unwavering dedication to Christ. Calvisianus offered him freedom in exchange for worshiping the gods Mars, Apollo, and Æsculapius. Euplius refused, asserting his worship for the Holy Trinity and his identity as a Christian.

The torments escalated, but Euplius’s spirit remained unbroken. His prayers during the ordeal were heartfelt thanks and pleas for strength from Jesus Christ. He persisted even when his voice failed him, moving his lips in silent prayer.

Eventually, Calvisianus made the grave decision to execute Euplius. As a final mark of scorn, the Christian scriptures were hung around Euplius’s neck. The crier announced his crimes against the gods and the emperors as they led him to his fate. Yet, even in his final moments, Euplius continued to give thanks and pray, ultimately offering his neck to the executioner.

The faithful later retrieved his remains, providing a proper burial. Today, the legacy of Saint Euplius lives on, celebrated in martyrologies across the western church.

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17 COMMENTS

  1. Dear Lord, you know me through and through; please bend my heart to do your will and through the intercession of this saint grant me the grace to follow your footsteps. Thank you Lord.

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  2. Euplius was very brave indeed, the pain he endured would have been horrendous but he was not going to renounce his faith in Christ for any man or rank, and he valued his faith in the Lord even more than his own life; I am sure that he is with Christ in Heaven and close to him, Christ was and is his life. Pray for me St Euplius

  3. Dear St. Euplius,

    Please pray for me that I will love Jesus more than my life. Help me to be courageous and proclaim the Gospel no matter what!

    AMEN

  4. Saint Euplius, pray for us. Especially all Sicilians and their descendants. Heal Italy through your intercession, from the virus and console the families of the dead. Blessed Agostino Novello, pray for us. For the souls of my parents, grandparents, great-grandparents. Amen.

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