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Feast Day: May 11
Saint Anastasius of Lérida, also known as Anastasius of Badalona or Anastasi, was a Roman soldier who lived during the reign of the Emperor Diocletian. He was born in Lérida, Catalonia, Spain and grew up in a devout Christian family. From a young age, he developed a deep love for his faith and showed great piety and devotion. Anastasius joined the Roman army and was known for his bravery and loyalty. However, during this time, Christians were facing severe persecutions under the rule of Diocletian, who sought to eradicate the Christian faith. This posed a dilemma for Anastasius, as he was torn between his duty as a soldier and his allegiance to Christ. Despite the risks, Anastasius chose to remain steadfast in his Christian beliefs. He refused to renounce his faith and continued to practice it in secret, even while serving in the army. When his fellow soldiers discovered his faith, they reported him to the authorities, who considered him a threat to the imperial order. As a consequence, Anastasius was arrested and brought before the Roman officials. Despite being tempted with promises of wealth, honor, and positions of power, he resolutely refused to renounce his belief in Christ. His unwavering faith and refusal to comply with the Roman authorities infuriated them, and they subjected him to cruel tortures in an attempt to break his spirit. According to tradition, Anastasius was tortured by being hung on a gibbet and pierced with arrows. Even in the face of unimaginable pain and suffering, he remained unwavering in his faith, offering his suffering as a testament to his love for Christ. It is said that during his torment, Anastasius displayed immense courage and forgiveness towards his torturers, praying for their conversion and salvation. Finally, in the year 303, Anastasius embraced martyrdom, giving up his life for his faith. His execution has been recorded to have taken place in Catalonia, Spain. Though his physical body perished, his spirit lives on as an inspiration for Christians throughout the ages. Saint Anastasius of Lérida was recognized for his heroic witness to the Christian faith and was eventually venerated as a saint. Although his formal canonization process did not take place before the establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, he was universally regarded as a saint by the faithful. Thus, his canonization is considered to be pre-congregation. Saint Anastasius is honored and celebrated on May 11th each year. He is especially venerated in the regions of Badalona and Lérida, both in Catalonia, Spain. He is regarded as the patron saint of these areas, and many believers seek his intercession for protection, strength, and courage in the face of adversity. The life of Saint Anastasius of Lérida serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, devotion, and unwavering commitment to Christ. His martyrdom stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith in the face of extreme persecution and serves as an inspiration for all believers to stand firm in their convictions, regardless of the challenges they may face.