The Basics: Born in the second century in Turkey; died about 120 in Italy; canonized pre-congregation; feast day, July 29. Martyr.
The Story: Persecution in Christ’s name marked Serapia’s life from start to finish. She and her parents left Antioch, where she was born, due to persecution and moved 
to Rome. Serapia received several marriage proposals, but opted against them and offered herself to a wealthy widow, Sabina, as a servant. As time went on, the two became friends and Sabina became a Christian. At Serapia’s urging, Sabina moved her household, including her friend and some other women, outside of Rome so that their little community might worship in peace.
But that peace was not to last. The authorities decided to make an example of the women, and ordered Serapia to sacrifice to the pagan gods. When she refused, it is said two people were sent to defile her; they fell dead at the effort, then returned to life after Serapia prayed over them. Ultimately, she was beheaded. Her remains were buried on a property owned by Sabina, who later was martyred herself. A basilica, St. Sabina at the Aventine, now stands there.
Serapia’s Wisdom: “The temple of my God is my body, my soul.”
What We Can Learn from Serapia: We can serve the Lord and evangelize in all sorts of situations, with people both higher and lower in life’s pecking order than we are. Show your faith today by wearing a cross necklace or sharing a Bible quote or some other small act. Sow the seed, just as Serapia did with Sabina.
To Learn More About Serapia: Take a look at Claude Lorraine’s painting “Landscape with the Burial of Serapia” at the Prado’s Website, and check out the Diocese of Rome‘s site to get an aerial view of the basilica.
To Learn More About Other Women Saints and Blesseds: Come back next week, or consider buying my books, Blessed Are You: Finding Inspiration from Our Sisters in Faith or Sisterhood of Saints: Daily Guidance and Inspiration.
