Commemorated Mar 20 (New Calendar) April 2 (Old Calendar)
Saint Paraskovia, also known as Paraskevḗ, was a brave Christian martyr who lived during the time of Emperor Nero. She was one of the sisters of Saint Photini, the Samaritan Woman who met Jesus at Jacob’s Well. Paraskovia’s life was full of courage and love for Christ. She faced cruel punishments but never gave up her faith. Her story inspires many today.
Early Life with Saint Photini
Saint Paraskovia grew up in a family that followed Jesus. Her mother, Saint Photini, and her siblings, including Victor (later called Photinos) and Iosḗs, shared the Gospel boldly. Therefore, Paraskovia learned early to trust God. She lived in Carthage, where her family preached about Jesus. This set the stage for her strong faith.
Facing Nero’s Cruelty
When Nero, a harsh emperor from 54 to 68, persecuted Christians, Paraskovia’s family was targeted. Her brother Victor was a soldier, and Nero ordered him to arrest Christians. However, Victor refused because he believed in Christ. Meanwhile, Paraskovia and her sisters—Anatolḗ, Photó, Photida, and Kyriakḗ—were sent to Nero’s court. There, Saint Paraskovia stayed firm in her faith, even under pressure from Nero’s daughter, Domnina.
Courage in Suffering
Nero tortured the Christians to make them deny Jesus. For example, he ordered their fingers broken, but Paraskovia and her family felt no pain. God protected them. Later, Nero sent Paraskovia and her sisters to his court, hoping they would give up. Instead, Saint Paraskovia’s faith shone brightly. She even helped convert Domnina and others to Christianity. Consequently, Nero grew angrier.
Martyrdom of Saint Paraskovia
In 66, Nero’s cruelty increased. He ordered brutal punishments for Paraskovia and her sisters. Specifically, soldiers cut off their breasts and flayed their skin. Paraskovia endured this with courage. Tragically, her sister Photida was torn apart by trees, and the others were beheaded. Paraskovia, alongside her mother Photini, faced death bravely. After surviving a well, Photini was killed, and Paraskovia likely died around the same time, in 66.
Legacy of Saint Paraskovia
Saint Paraskovia’s story lives on in Orthodox Christianity. Her courage inspires believers to stand firm. Churches, like those in Constantinople, honored her mother, Photini, and her family. Today, Paraskovia is remembered on March 20, alongside her family. Her life shows that faith can overcome even the worst trials.
Paraskeva, Paraskovia, Paraskevḗ, Parascovia, Patty, Paraskevi