Commemorated June 10 (New Calendar), June 23 (Old Calendar)
Saint Antonina was a brave Christian woman from Krodamos, a city in Asia Minor. She lived during a time when Christians faced harsh persecution. Her strong faith led her to stand up for Jesus, even when it meant risking her life.
Early Life and Arrest
We don’t know much about Saint Antonina’s early years, but she was a young virgin devoted to God. Around 313, she was arrested for being a Christian. The governor, Festus, tried to make her worship pagan gods like Artemis. However, Antonina refused. She boldly told Festus to stop worshipping idols. Angrily, he had her slapped and locked in prison.
Time in Prison
In prison, Saint Antonina prayed day and night. She didn’t eat or drink, trusting God to guide her. Then, she heard God’s voice saying, “Antonina, eat and be strong. I am with you.” This gave her courage. When brought before Festus again, she still refused to deny her faith. Therefore, Festus planned to harm her by sending soldiers to attack her.
Escape with Saint Alexander
One soldier, Saint Alexander, was a Christian in secret. Inspired by God, he decided to help Antonina. He asked to speak with her, pretending he might convince her to obey Festus. Instead, he gave her his soldier’s uniform to wear as a disguise. Though scared, Antonina trusted God’s guidance and agreed. Dressed as a soldier, she walked out of prison unnoticed.
Martyrdom of the Saints
Soon, the soldiers found Alexander alone in the cell. He refused to answer Festus’s questions, so they tortured and beat him. Meanwhile, Antonina bravely returned to face Festus, standing by Alexander. The governor was furious. He ordered their hands cut off, then had them covered in pitch and thrown into a burning pit. When the fire died, snakes were added to prevent Christians from collecting their remains. Yet, their faith never wavered. They died as martyrs on May 3, 313.
Legacy and Relics
Festus faced a grim fate. After the martyrdom, he became paralyzed and couldn’t eat or drink. He died in agony seven days later. Meanwhile, the relics of Saints Antonina and Alexander were moved to Constantinople and placed in the Maximov Monastery. Their feast day is celebrated on May 3, though some records list June 10.
Why Saint Antonina Matters
Antonina’s courage inspires Christians today. She faced danger but never gave up on her faith. Alongside Alexander, she showed that trusting God can lead to strength, even in the darkest moments. Their story reminds us to stay true to our beliefs, no matter the cost.
Tonia, Toni, Tony, Tonya