Sunday, September 2, 2007

Saint Vassa of Edessa

Saint Vassa & Her Children
Daily we are met with experiences that present challenges to our Christian identities. Popular culture, the media, our occupations, our peers and even our families to some extent may present obstacles that can hinder our ability to walk in the way of righteousness. Fortunately, we have a rich Christian tradition that provides us numerous examples of hope, commitment and courage, even in the most awkward and disheartening of times. This Thursday, August 21 we commemorate Saint Vassa and her children: Theognios, Agapios, and Pistos who serve as such pious followers of Christ.
Persecution and oppression was commonplace by the pagan Roman state for such Christians in the third century. But, who would think that the pagan condemnation that fell upon this woman and her three sons would come from Vallarian, her husband? This act of wretchedness was unsurpassed, even for a pagan.
Vallarian looked upon his entire family as turncoats who betrayed not only his wishes but those of the Roman state. In turn, he turned his family into the city of Edessa's prefect, Vicarius known for his ruthless persecution throughout Mesopotamia of anyone who claimed to be a Christian. Vicarius, in an act of mercy afforded the family the opportunity to ironically choose whether they would denounce Christ and receive life or remain committed to Him and suffer the penalty of death.
The family members chose a similar fate. All remained committed to the fullness of life that is ultimately and eternally identified in Christ. The boys were first tortured and then finally put to death. Vassa, on the other hand, was imprisoned and suffered great indignities and indescribable punishments that ended in her beheading in the public square.
May the pious examples of Vassa and her children: Theognios, Agapios, and Pistos inspire us in our own commitments to Christ!

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