Born in Thessalonica sometime in the 3rd Century, Anysia was born to wealthy and pious Christian parents. She devoted her life to Christ and made private vows of chastity and poverty. After the death of her parents, she spent her days in penance and prayer and gave her inheritance to the poor. One day she was accosted by a Roman soldier who wanted her to go with him to make a sacrifice to a pagan god. When she refused he angrily tore off her veil, which she wore as a sign of her chastity. One account says that out of fear she made the sign of the cross. Enraged at her refusal and now realizing she was a Christian, he drew his sword and killed her.
CHALLENGE
In different areas of the world from the beginning of Christendom, being seen in public as a follower of Christ has been the cause of every kind of persecution, from mocking to martyrdom. Many people are embarrassed to make the sign of the cross in public. Starting today, no matter where you are at noon, say the Angelus prayer… and make the sign of the cross, especially if you’re in public.
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