In the year 363, Julian the Apostate made Apronianus Governor of Rome. St. Bibiana suffered in the persecution started by him. She was the daughter of Christians, Flavian, a Roman knight, and Dafrosa, his wife. Flavian was tortured and sent into exile, where he died of his wounds. Dafrosa was beheaded, and their two daughters, Bibiana and Demetria, were stripped of their possessions and left to suffer poverty. However, they remained in their house, spending their time in fasting and prayer.

Apronianus, seeing that hunger and want had no effect upon them, summoned them. Demetria, after confessing her Faith, fell dead at the feet of the tyrant. St. Bibiana was reserved for greater sufferings. She was placed in the hands of a wicked woman called Rufina, who in vain endeavored to seduce her. She used blows as well as persuasion, but the Christian virgin remained faithful.

Enraged at the constancy of this saintly virgin, Apronianus ordered her to be tied to a pillar and beaten with scourges, laden with lead plummets, until she expired. The saint endured the torments with joy, and died under the blows inflicted by the hands of the executioner.

Reflection/Prayer: 

Blessed Saviour,

St. Bibiana lost everything except her faith in You.  Her parents and sister were killed int he persecutions and her possessions were confiscated.  The tragedy only increased her desire to rely on You, so the pagans killed her too.  I ask her to intercede for all those I know who are grieving the less of loved ones, homes jobs, health, the loss of innocence through rape, or the loss of safety through other forms of abuse.  Comfort them and fill their empty hearts with Your tremendous Love, O Lord.  Draw them close to You and give them compassionate friends who minister to them in the sorrow.  Saint Bibiana, pray for us.

Amen.