Saint Apseus of Arbela

Biography

Saint Apseus of Arbela, also known as Acepsius, was a Christian deacon who was martyred during the persecutions of Shapur II. He was born in Arbela, Persia, and little is known about his early life. Apseus lived during a turbulent time in the history of the Church, when Christians were facing severe persecution under the rule of Shapur II. This period was marked by intense hostility towards the Christian faith, as the Persian Empire sought to suppress its spread. Despite the risks, Apseus embraced his faith with unwavering dedication and became a deacon, serving the local Christian community in Arbela. He was known for his piety, humility, and deep devotion to God. As the persecutions intensified, many Christians were forced to renounce their faith or face dire consequences. However, Apseus remained steadfast and refused to abandon his Christian beliefs. This unwavering commitment to his faith made him a target of the authorities. In the year 354, Apseus was arrested and brought before Shapur II, who demanded that he renounce his Christian faith. Apseus, unyielding in his convictions, defiantly refused to comply with this demand. Such fearless resistance against the emperor's authority enraged Shapur II, who ordered Apseus to be tortured and executed. Although the specific details of his martyrdom are not recorded, it is believed that Apseus endured immense suffering for his faith. His martyrdom serves as a testament to his unwavering dedication to Christ and his refusal to abandon his beliefs, even in the face of death. The exact date of Apseus' death is not precisely known, but it is believed to have occurred around the year 354 in Arbela, Persia. His feast day is celebrated on December 11th. While Saint Apseus of Arbela has not been officially recognized as a patron saint of any specific cause or group, his life and martyrdom serve as an inspiration to all Christians, reminding them of the importance of standing strong in the face of adversity and persecution. Although Apseus lived and died during a time before the formal canonization process was established, he is venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church. His sainthood predates the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, and therefore, he belongs to the category of saints known as "Pre-Congregation" saints. Saint Apseus of Arbela exemplifies the courage and steadfastness of early Christian martyrs who remained faithful to their beliefs, even at great personal cost. His life and martyrdom continue to inspire and remind Christians of the sacrifices made by those who came before them, strengthening their own faith and dedication to God.