The Basics: Born in the third century AD in Italy; died about 283 in Italy; canonized pre-congregation; feast day, October 25. Wife and martyr.
The Story: It is a moving story, the tradition of Daria and Chrysanthus. She was a beautiful high priestess, possibly a vestal virgin responsible for maintaining Rome’s sacred fire. He was the son of a senator, and his conversion to Christianity troubled his father greatly, to the point that he arranged for Chrysanthus’s marriage to Daria. But instead of Daria bringing her husband around to her way of thinking, the opposite happened. He converted her, and they agreed to live chastely, in separate homes, doing the Lord’s work. Together, they brought
thousands to Christianity. Ultimately, after torture, they were said to have been buried alive.
This, like many stories of early saints, came to be doubted. Perhaps it was an amalgam of stories. Perhaps it was a tale crafted with good intent to inspire the faithful.
However, relatively recent evidence indicates that the martyrs existed, and that the legend surrounding them may be true.
What We Can Learn from Daria: There’s nothing wrong with being a little skeptical about traditions and stories passed down for hundreds or thousands of years. But there’s also something to be said about being open to the miracles and lessons that they convey. After all, some doubt that Jesus lived, much less was resurrected. But our belief in Him changes our lives on a daily basis.
To Learn More About Daria: Read the National Geographic article about the skeletal analysis.
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.
