Saint Astius of Durazzo

Biography

Saint Astius of Durazzo, also known as Asteio, Astio, or Aberisto, was a prominent figure in the early Christian Church. He served as the Bishop of Durazzo, a city in modern-day Albania. His life and death are intertwined with the persecutions of Emperor Trajan, as he became a martyr for his unwavering faith. Not much is known about Astius' early life or upbringing. However, it is believed that he was born in the first century, around the time of the Roman Empire's dominance. He dedicated himself to the service of God and quickly rose through the ranks of the Church to become the Bishop of Durazzo. During this period, Christianity faced significant persecution, and Emperor Trajan sought to eradicate the growing influence of this new faith. Astius, as a prominent Christian leader, became a target of the emperor's wrath. According to historical accounts, Saint Astius was martyred in a particularly gruesome manner. He was tied to a cross and covered in honey, a symbolic act of sacrifice to the pagan god Dionysus. This method of execution aimed to attract insects and other biting creatures, causing prolonged suffering and torment. Astius was then left in the scorching sun, deprived of water and exposed to the elements. The intention was to subject him to a slow and agonizing death. It is said that he endured these tortures with unwavering faith and without renouncing his beliefs. After enduring this harrowing ordeal, Saint Astius eventually succumbed to thirst, exposure, and the relentless attacks of insects. Though his physical body was tortured and destroyed, his spirit remained unbroken and steadfast until his last breath. The canonization of Saint Astius of Durazzo took place before the formal establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. As such, his canonization is categorized as Pre-Congregation. Today, Saint Astius is remembered and venerated on different feast days. The Synaxarion of Constantinople commemorates him on July 5th, while Saint Basil's Menologium honors him on July 6th. Some calendars also recognize him on July 7th. While Saint Astius does not have a designated patronage, his story serves as an inspiration for all Christians facing adversity and persecution. His unwavering faith, courage, and endurance in the face of such extreme suffering stand as a testament to the power of belief and trust in God. Saint Astius of Durazzo's life and martyrdom remind us of the sacrifices made by early Christians and call us to emulate their steadfastness, even in the face of persecution. Despite the brutality he endured, his memory continues to inspire and encourage believers to stand firm in their faith and to resist the forces that seek to extinguish the light of Christ in the world.