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June 29th is observed in memory of the martyrdom of the Apostle Paul. This year, on this Day of the Christian Martyr, join Christians around the world in remembering the faithful witness of those who, like Paul, have given their lives for the advancement of the gospel. And be inspired by their example to have that same boldness to share Christ yourself.

 

The story of Perpetua is being remembered this year.

 

Perpetua was part of a small fellowship of new Christians in the ancient Roman city of Carthage, located in what is now Tunisia. City officials considered anyone who refused to worship pagan deities or the emperor to be threats to civil order, but the 22-year-old mother was determined to follow Christ.

Perpetua and other believers were arrested and detained in a Roman jail for their commitment to Christ. Perpetua’s father urged her to abandon her faith, but she was resolute.

Eventually, the imprisoned Christians were ordered to appear before a Roman official. As they approached the high official, Perpetua’s father suddenly appeared, holding her infant. “Have pity on your babe!” he cried. The official urged her to offer a sacrifice to the emperor to save her own life. She refused. “Are you a Christian?” the official asked. “I am a Christian,” she replied.

On March 7, A.D. 203, Perpetua and other Christians were led into Carthage’s coliseum and killed in front of a bloodthirsty crowd of spectators. The killing of Perpetua and others inspired the church to thrive in Carthage and follow Christ — at any cost.

 

You can learn more about Perpetua at https://www.persecution.com/martyr/ , and find more ways to be in prayer, and grow in boldness.