Saints Dionysia and Companions

In 484 the Arian Vandal king Huneric launched a harsh persecution against Catholics in North Africa. Among the victims was Dionysia, a noble widow who was publicly scourged but stayed faithful and encouraged others to do the same. She strengthened her young son Majoricus, who died bravely for the faith, and buried him in her own house. The bishop-historian Victor of Vita, who lived through these events, recorded their witness along with that of her sister Dativa, the physician Emilian and other companions.

Their story is a reminder of how mothers and families have passed on the faith even in times of persecution.