The Basics: Born in the 4th century in Italy; died 362 in Italy; canonized precongregation; feast day, January 4. Wife, mother, martyr.
The Story: The two-year reign of Julian the Apostate was a horrible time to be a Christian. It’s estimated the emperor put hundreds of 
people to death. That’s the macro level. At the micro level, we look at the family of Flavian and Dafrosa.
The first to die was Flavian, who we’re told had his face branded as a slave after he refused to embrace new government laws favoring pagan idolatory. Within a few days, he would die of his wounds. The authorities ordered that no one provide assistance to Dafrosa and their two daughters. One of Flavian’s relatives came to the little family and entreated Dafrosa to do as the authorities wanted and offer homage to the pagan gods. She refused, and her eloquence and courage prompted the relative’s conversion. As a result, Dafrosa was beheaded.
The couple’s two daughters, Demetria and Bibiana, then were charged. While Demetria died almost immediately, Bibiana was mentally and physically tortured for sometime before she died.
Dafrosa’s Wisdom: “We called on our heavenly Father and he, the God of life and death, has deigned to preserve the lives of his servants.”
What We Can Learn from Dafrosa: When horrific things happen to those we love, it can be easy to become angry at the Lord. Let’s learn from Dafrosa, and use her example of witness and the bearing of suffering to deepen our own faith.
To Learn More About Dafrosa: The entry on Bibiana in Maidens of the Hallowed Names includes information on Dafrosa.
To Learn More About Other Women Saints and Blesseds: Come back next week, or consider buying my book, Sisterhood of Saints: Daily Guidance and Inspiration.
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