medieval-religion: Scholarly discussions of medieval religion and culture
Today (16. February) is the feast day of:
Onesimus (d. c. 90) Onesimus was a slave, the subject of Paul's letter to
Philemon (O's master). At Paul's urging, O. returned to his master. Later
he is said to have become a preacher, bishop, and martyr, although it is
not clear where---four regions claim him.
Porphyrius and Seleucius (d. 309) P and S were martyrs of Caesarea
(Palestine). After some Christians were executed, Porphyrius protested
that they should be allowed proper burial, thus drawing the governor's
attention. So he was arrested, tortured, and finally burned slowly.
Seleucius was a bystander, who encouraged P. while he was being tortured.
The disgruntled governor had S arrested too, and immediately beheaded.
Juliana (early 4th cent.) Juliana was a martyr (a virgin, of course) of
Cumae or Naples. Her legend tells of a long contest of words between
Juliana and Satan---the devil said she should obey her father and marry.
So she is shown in art with a winged devil (or dragon) at her feet.
Bernard Scammacca (blessed) (d. 1486) Bernard was a native of Sicily. He
had a good education and then had a frivolous life until he was badly
wounded in a duel. During his long convalescence, Bernard converted and
entered the Order of Preachers. Bernard wasn't a great preacher, but was
famous for his goodness in the confessional and the care of souls. He had
a close rapport with animals; birds liked to flutter around him, but would
shut up so they didn't disturb the saint when he was in ecstasy. Bernard
was also known for his prophecies, including one of his own death.
Dr. Phyllis G. Jestice
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