The Basics: Born second century AD in France; died 177 in France; canonized pre-congregation; feast day, June 2. Martyr.
The Story: Blandina, a slave, learned about Jesus from her mistress. Then there came the day when her mistress was 
decapitated for her faith. It was a difficult time for Christians in Lyons, France; torture upon torture resulting in death occurred. Blandina was taken into custody during this time of persecution. But her tormentors complained they could not break her. It is said that neither lions nor tigers would touch her; she was placed into an iron chair, heated red-hot, and still the girl would not denounce Christ. Ultimately, she was either gored to death by a bull, or killed by a dagger.
Blandina’s Wisdom: “I am a Christian; no wickedness is transacted among us.”
What We Can Learn from Blandina: If the faith of an uneducated slave girl could withstand even a tenth of the tortures history ascribes in Blandina’s case, how can we not stand strong against the slights and slings that are flung at us as Christians each day by family, coworkers, neighbors, and others we may find difficult to love?
To Learn More About Blandina: Check out the History’s Women newsletter entry on this brave martyr.
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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