The origin of Saint Anastasia was from Rome. Her father’s name was Praetextatos and he was a Roman patrician, while her mother was called Fausta.
Anastasia was distinguished for her physical beauty, education, impeccable morals and her prudence.
She was married at a young age to Poplion, ruler of the Romans and a fanatical pagan. Anastasia, however, was indoctrinated in the word of Christ and received Divine Baptism. Because she did not publicly reveal her Christian faith, because of her husband, she secretly helped those in need of a helping hand or a word of comfort. She dressed scantily and went to the prisons bringing food and money. That is why she was called “Pharmacolytria”.
When Poplion found out of the Saint’s activities, he was outraged. At first he tried to persuade her with advice. But Anastasia remained steadfast in her faith even when her husband abused her.
This persistence of hers angered Poplion and he handed her over to the Emperor Diocletian, who ordered her imprisonment.
Because she continued to praise the Lord, Diocletian ordered her torture. Finally, Saint Anastasia surrendered her spirit to the pyre in 290 AD.
She is celebrated on December 22 of each year.
