Saint Abdas of Cascar

Biography

Saint Abdas of Cascar, also known as Abdas of Susa, Abdas of Persia, and by various other names including Abda, Abdiaeus, Abdias, Abdiesus, Abdjesus, Abieso, Audesius, Audius, Audus, and Hebedjesus, was a revered Catholic bishop in the ancient city of Beth-Cascar, Chaldea (known today as Susa, Persia). His life, marked by unwavering faith and courage, exemplifies the virtues of a true martyr. There is limited historical information available about Saint Abdas, but the accounts of his martyrdom shed light on his remarkable character. During the reign of King Isdegard, Abdas unflinchingly destroyed a Zoroastrian temple, standing firm in his allegiance to the Catholic faith. As a result of his actions, he was immediately arrested and subjected to unimaginable suffering and torture, all in an effort to make him renounce his beliefs. Despite the horrific treatment he endured, Saint Abdas refused to yield. He was maimed and imprisoned, enduring further agonies for his unwavering commitment to God. During this time, he was given an opportunity for release and rewards if he would break the seal of confession, a sacred duty he was bound to uphold as a bishop. However, Saint Abdas remained steadfast, having the utmost respect for the sacrament, and he vehemently declined the temptation. Saint Abdas ultimately met his martyrdom, joining the ranks of countless faithful who sacrificed their lives for the sake of their beliefs. Unyielding in the face of persecution, he was beheaded in approximately 420 AD in Ledan, Persia. In addition to Saint Abdas, numerous individuals who shared his dedication to the faith and were part of the Catholic community also suffered a similar fate. These included 16 priests, 9 deacons, 6 monks, and 7 nuns, although their names have unfortunately not been preserved through the centuries. Their collective martyrdom serves as a powerful testimony to the strength and resilience of the early Christian community, even in the face of extreme adversity. While Saint Abdas does not have any specific patronages associated with him, his example as a courageous martyr and defender of the faith continues to inspire and encourage believers to this day. Saint Abdas of Cascar, although his life and feats might be relatively obscure, left an indelible mark in the annals of the Catholic Church. His unwavering commitment to his beliefs, even in the face of death, portrays the epitome of faithfulness and devotion. His feast is celebrated on May 16, and in some calendars, it is also observed on September 5. Although his canonization took place before the formation of the modern Congregation for the Causes of Saints, Saint Abdas is recognized as a saint in the pre-congregation era, commemorated as a true martyr in the Church's history.