Episode 2465: Twelve Holy Martyrs of Benevento

The Twelve Holy Brothers, also known as the Twelve Holy Martyrs of Benevento, were a group of Christian martyrs who suffered and died for their faith during the persecution of Christians under the Roman Emperor Diocletian around 303 AD. These twelve brothers, known for their steadfastness in faith, were venerated as saints and martyrs by the Catholic Church, and their feast day is celebrated on September 1.
The Twelve Holy Brothers
Janurus
Felix
Philip
Silvanus
Alexander
Vitalis
Martialis
Aristides
Faustinus
Septimus
Reparatus
Donatus
The Twelve Holy Brothers were Roman soldiers stationed in Benevento, a city in Southern Italy. They converted to Christianity during a time when the Roman Empire was hostile to the new religion, and Christians were being persecuted. After their conversion, they openly professed their faith in Christ, which led to their arrest. Refusing to renounce Christianity, they were subjected to various tortures and ultimately martyred for their beliefs.
The most detailed account of their martyrdom is found in local traditions and liturgical texts, which venerate their sacrifice. Each of the brothers was killed by different methods, including beheading, being burned alive, or tortured to death. Despite the efforts of their persecutors, they remained resolute, and their collective martyrdom became a powerful symbol of Christian perseverance under persecution.
Their bodies were initially buried in Benevento, where they were revered by the early Christian community. Over time, their relics were translated to various locations, including the Church of St. Sophia in Benevento, and other churches in Italy.

Veneration:
The feast of the Twelve Holy Brothers is celebrated on September 1 in the Catholic Church. Their story is one of communal faith and martyrdom, emphasizing the Christian virtues of steadfastness, courage, and devotion to God, even in the face of death.