Saint Bibiana was a native of Rome, born in the fourth century, as the daughter of Flavianus and Dafrosa. It is said that in 363 AD, Emperor Julian appointed Apronianus as governor of Rome, who began persecuting Christians. Bibiana and her sister, Demetria, were deprived of material needs. Despite their hardships, the sisters remained steadfast, dedicating their time to prayer and fasting.
Governor Apronianus called the people together because he saw that hunger and suffering had not influenced them. After she confessed her faith, Demetria collapsed and died at the feet of the tyrant. St. Bibiana was reserved for greater suffering. She remained faithful even though she was handed over to a wicked woman called Rufina, who tried to defile her virginity in vain. Enraged at the zeal of St. Bibiana, Apronianus ordered her to be scourged and beaten to death. She endured the torments joyfully and died under the blows inflicted by the executioner. Her body was then put in the open air to be torn apart by wild animals, yet none would touch it. After two days, she was buried. According to legend, Pope Simplicius consecrated a "Basilica of the Holy martyr St. Bibiana", which contained her body, and this church in the city of Rome has existed since the fifth century.
Prayer
Saint Bibiana intercede for us, that we may be bestowed with steadfast faith firmly rooted in the Word of God. May our daily lives become a continual prayer to the Almighty God.
Prepared and updated by:
Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,
Penampang, Sabah Malaysia.
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