Simple (1955 Calendar): February 15
Today is the Commemoration of Ss. Faustinus and Jovita, martyrs. While the modernists in 1969 suppressed the veneration of these saints for historically unsound reasons (along with an obvious departure from the Faith passed down through the Traditions of the Church), traditional Catholics on this day recall their heroic martyrdom.
Born to the nobility in 2nd century Italy, St. Jovita was the younger brother of Saint Faustinus. St. Jovita was an ordained deacon and a zealous preacher in Brescia, Milan, Rome, and Naples. St. Faustinus was a priest. Under the persecution of Emperor Hadrian, Ss. Jovita and Faustinus were condemned to die for adherence to the Catholic Faith.
The two brothers were sent to the amphitheater to be devoured by lions, but four of those came out and lay down at their feet. They were left without food in a dark jail cell, but Angels brought them strength and joy for new combats. The flames of a huge fire respected them, and a large number of spectators were converted at the sight. Finally sentenced to decapitation, they knelt down and received the death blow. Finally in the Year of Our Lord 120, the brothers were beheaded for the Faith of Christ and died as martyrs. They have been venerated widely since ancient times.
The Roman Martyrology (as read at the Office of Prime) declares of them:
At Brescia, in the time of Emperor Adrian, the birthday of the holy martyrs Faustinus and Jovita, who received the triumphant crown of martyrdom after many glorious combats for the faith of Christ.
Prayer:
We are made happy, O God, by the annual feast of Your holy martyrs Faustinus and Jovita. As we joyously remember the merits of these saints, may we also be inspired by their example. Through Our Lord...
Prayer Source: 1962 Roman Catholic Daily Missal
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