Saint Laura of Pollenza

Biography

Saint Laura of Pollenza, also known as Laura di Polizena, was a revered martyr of the early Christian Church. She is believed to have been born in the late 3rd century in Pollenza, a town in present-day Italy. Unfortunately, not much is known about her early life or family background. Laura's life gained significance during the reign of the Roman Emperor Diocletian, known for his fierce persecution of Christians. During this period, Christians faced immense hostility, and Laura was no exception. Despite the risks, she remained steadfast in her faith and continued to practice Christianity openly. Laura's devotion to her beliefs eventually caught the attention of local authorities, who viewed her faith as a threat to the prevailing pagan belief system. She was arrested and brought before the Roman authorities in the early 4th century, where she courageously refused to renounce her faith. Despite attempts to persuade her to abandon Christianity, Laura remained resolute in her devotion to God. In the face of her unwavering commitment, the authorities decided to execute Laura for her refusal to adhere to the imperial decree to worship the Roman gods. Historians believe that she was beheaded during this period of persecution. Laura's martyrdom is seen as a testament to her unwavering faith and dedication to her religious beliefs. After her execution, Laura's body was buried in the Roman catacombs, a common practice for Christian martyrs at the time. Centuries later, in 1846, her remains were exhumed and enshrined in the church of Santa Maria del Trebbio, located near the Franciscan convent of Pollenza. This act allowed devotees to venerate her relics and seek her intercession. Over the years, the devotion to Saint Laura grew, and her relics were re-enshrined in an urn in the Collegiate Church of San Biagio in May 1889. The faithful regarded her as a powerful intercessor to be invoked during times of trouble and persecution. Although Saint Laura of Pollenza's canonization predates the formal canonization process established by the Church, she is regarded as a recognized saint. Her recognition as a saint occurred before the creation of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, making her a pre-congregation saint. Despite lacking a defined patronage, Saint Laura's life serves as an inspiring example of uncompromising faith and devotion to God. Her tale echoes the stories of countless early Christians who faced martyrdom during the savage persecutions of Diocletian. Today, she remains a symbol of hope and courage for Catholics around the world who face religious oppression. On August 20th each year, the Church commemorates her martyrdom and celebrates her memory as she stands as a shining example of steadfast faith.