Episode 1405: St Samona and her seven sons

Saint Samona and her seven sons were early Christian martyrs who were killed in Persia during the Diocletianic Persecution. They are venerated as saints in the Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and the Anglican Communion.
Samona was a wealthy widow who lived in the city of Edessa, in what is now modern-day Turkey. She was a devout Christian, and her seven sons were also raised in the faith. When the Diocletianic Persecution began in 303, Samona and her sons were arrested and brought before the governor of Edessa. The governor tried to force them to renounce their faith, but they refused. They were then tortured and killed.

Their bodies were buried in Edessa, and a church was later built over their tomb.
Saint Samona and her seven sons are remembered as martyrs for their faith. They are an inspiration to Christians who are persecuted for their beliefs.
Here are some additional details about their lives and martyrdom:
• Samona's sons were named Agapios, Euthikios, Theodosius, Barlaam, Eutyches, Martyrius, and Nicanor.
• The governor of Edessa who tried to force them to renounce their faith was named Apollinaris.
• Samona and her sons were tortured in various ways, including being beaten, burned, and thrown into a furnace.
• They were eventually beheaded.
• Their martyrdom is said to have inspired many other Christians to remain faithful during the Diocletianic Persecution.
Saint Samona and her seven sons are a reminder of the power of faith and the cost of discipleship. They are an inspiration to Christians who are facing persecution today.