Saint Ascla of Antinoe

Biography

Saint Ascla of Antinoe, also known as Ascla of Thebaid, is a revered Catholic saint who was martyred during the persecutions of Diocletian in ancient Egypt. Although not much is known about his life, his unwavering faith and courage in the face of persecution have made him a revered figure in Christian history. Born in Thebes, Egypt, Saint Ascla lived during a tumultuous time when Christians were fiercely persecuted for their faith. He was known for his deep devotion to God and his unwavering commitment to proclaiming his Christian beliefs. Ascla fearlessly preached the Gospel, openly proclaiming his faith despite knowing the dangers that awaited him. During the reign of Emperor Diocletian, Governor Arrian of Thebaid initiated a brutal wave of persecution against Christians. Saint Ascla, who stood firmly in his faith, became one of the primary targets. Governor Arrian, infuriated by Ascla's public proclamation of his faith, ordered him to renounce Christianity. However, the saint remained steadfast and resolute, refusing to recant his beliefs. In an attempt to break his spirit and force him into renouncing his faith, he was subjected to severe tortures. Despite enduring unimaginable pain and suffering, Saint Ascla remained resolute in his faith. It is said that he found strength through prayer and relied on God's grace even in the darkest moments of his torment. Ultimately, Governor Arrian, frustrated by his inability to break Saint Ascla's spirit, sentenced him to death. He was drowned in the river Nile with a heavy stone tied around his neck at Antinoe. This cruel and brutal execution was meant to humiliate him and serve as a warning to other Christians. Saint Ascla's martyrdom serves as an inspiring example of unwavering faith and courage in the face of persecution. His steadfastness and refusal to renounce his beliefs have made him a revered saint in the eyes of the Catholic Church. Although not officially recognized as a patron saint of any specific cause or group, Saint Ascla's life and martyrdom continue to inspire and strengthen the faith of many believers. His feast days are celebrated on January 20th, 14th December (according to Simeon Metaphrastes), and January 23rd (according to the Bollandists). Saint Ascla of Antinoe, a man of great faith and resilience, stands as a shining example of the power of unwavering devotion to one's beliefs and the ultimate sacrifice made for the sake of the Gospel. He serves as an inspiring figure for Christians of all generations, reminding us of the incredible strength found in faith when faced with adversity and persecution.