Saint Ferbuta of Seleucia

Biography

Saint Ferbuta of Seleucia, also known as Saint Firbita, was a devout Catholic and sister of Saint Simeon. She was a widow who lived during a tumultuous period marked by religious persecutions under the rule of King Sapur II. Little is known about her early life, but it is believed that she was born in Seleucia, Persia. During the persecutions, Saint Ferbuta remained steadfast in her faith and refused to renounce her beliefs. Her unwavering devotion and determination to stand up for her Catholic faith eventually led to her martyrdom. In approximately 342 AD, she was martyred in Seleucia, Persia, where she resided. Saint Ferbuta's representation is not specifically noted in historical records, but given her status as a devout Catholic martyr, she is often depicted as a woman holding a cross or a palm branch, symbolizing her martyrdom and triumph over death. It is worth noting that Saint Ferbuta was canonized before the official establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, making her a pre-congregation saint. This means that her sanctity and martyrdom were recognized by popular devotion and local ecclesiastical authorities. The feast day of Saint Ferbuta is celebrated on April 5th every year, in commemoration of her martyrdom. Although she is not widely known as a patron saint of any specific cause or group, her inspiring example of faith and dedication to Catholicism continues to inspire believers around the world. Although Saint Ferbuta's life and martyrdom are not extensively documented, her strong commitment to her Catholic faith in the face of persecution serves as an inspiration for all believers. Her story reminds us of the courage and steadfastness required to uphold our beliefs, even in the most challenging circumstances.