Today, December 22, is the memorial of Saint Flavian of Acquapendente.
Flavian was the father of Saint Bibiana and Saint Demetria, and the husband of Saint Dafrosa of Acquapendente.
He was greatly admired by Romans for his virtues and talents. Even Constantine the Great held him in high esteem, so much so that the emperor made him Governor of Rome.
When Constantine died, his son Constantius ascended to power. His twisted empress was a follower of the Arian heresy and was instrumental in making Constantius hate the Catholics. Still, Flavian defended his fellow Christians and his faith.
Constantius was succeeded by Julian the Apostate, who was even more ruthless to Jesus’ followers. Julian had Flavian’s forehead burned a mark. Flavian said, “I am a Christian, and will remain a Christian… I consider it the greatest honor to give not only all I possess, but also my life for the honor of Christ.” He was then exiled to Acquapendente, Tuscany, Italy.
Due to the numerous tortures and abuses, Flavian collapsed and died while in prayer in 362.