If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. 2 Corinthians 1:6
Cecilia (3rd century)
Botched Beheading
Cecilia was a devout young Christian woman from a reputable family in Rome, who was given in marriage to a pagan man named Valerian. When she explained her faith in Christ to him, he too became a believer and was baptised. His brother Tibertius was also converted. The brothers were arrested by the Roman authorities after it was discovered that they had been burying the bodies of the Christian martyrs killed in the city. They were both executed.
Cecilia was also arrested after her preaching of the Gospel led to the conversion of 400 people. When she refused to perform any pagan sacrifices, she was sentenced to death by suffocation. But Cecilia survived this attempt to end her life, so a soldier was sent to behead her. Cecilia’s death was prolonged by her executioner’s failure to complete the task. She lived for three days after the botched beheading during which time she prayed and encouraged the Christians who visited her.
Merciful God, grant us feeble people endurance in adversity. May wicked roots of envy and malice not grow in us. Pull out the wicked root of covetousness from us… Grant us love towards friends and enemies, that we may follow in your ways, our Father, and the example of your only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ.
Miles Coverdale (1488-1568)