Saint Perpetua and Felicity Noblewoman and a Slave

AD 181 (Perpetua)-203

Born: Tunisia

Died: Tunisia, gladiator sword

Patron Saint of mothers, expectant mothers, ranchers, and butchers

The story of Saint Perpetua and Felicity is horrifying of a noble young mother and a pregnant slave being gathered up among other early Christians to be used as entertainment through torture for Emperor Severus’ birthday. What stands out in this account however is that the closeness of these two women of different classes in society and who were willing to care for one another among persecution, continues to be touching and impactful to this day.

Standing together Perpetua and Felicity faced scourging, an attack by a boar, a bear, and a wild cow. Unfortunately their lives ended by the sword. Perpetua had stood against her wealthy father and husband in her steadfast faith. Having met in prison Perpetua had a choice to renounce her faith in order to gain freedom yet as a slave Felicity would never be given that possibility. Perpetua stood not with her privilege but with those who shared her faith. The women are painted to express their solidarity with one another as well as they are depicted in a golden prison holding the martyr’s palm.