Saint Prisca of Rome

Today the Church commemorates Saint Prisca, also known as Priscilla, of Rome.

Prisca was of a noble family and at thirteen years of age she was brought before the emperor, Claudius, under the accusation of practicing Christianity. By his command she was taken to the temple of Apollo to sacrifice there, and when she refused, was buffeted and sent to prison. She was released from prison, but when she still held steadfastly to the faith, they flogged her, poured boiling tallow upon her, and sent her back a second time. She was at last thrown to a lion in the amphitheater, but it quietly lay down at her feet. She was starved for three days in a slaves' prison house, and then tortured upon the rack. Pieces of flesh were next torn from her body with iron hooks, and she was thrown on a burning pile. She marvelously still remained alive, and was accordingly beheaded outside the city.

Prayer of the Day

Gracious God, you filled your handmaid Prisca with grace to suffer and die while boldly confessing her faith. Grant that we may follow her example so that we may be found ready when the Bridegroom returns to bring us with him to the marriage feast. We make our prayer through your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.