April 14, 2025
Sts. Tiburtius, Valerian, and Maximus were third-century Christian martyrs during the Roman Empire’s brutal persecution of the early Church. Valerian, a Roman nobleman, was the husband of St. Cecilia. Through her witness, he converted to Christianity, followed by his brother Tiburtius. Both dedicated themselves to burying the bodies of martyrs and caring for the persecuted faithful—acts punishable by death. Maximus, a Roman soldier tasked with guarding them, was moved by their faith and courage. He, too, converted and declared his belief in Christ.
All three were arrested and refused to renounce their faith. After enduring cruel tortures, they were executed—Maximus by beating, and Tiburtius and Valerian by beheading. Their shared martyrdom reveals the transforming power of Christian witness and the courage found in living the Gospel, even unto death. Their memory is honored as a testimony to faith lived boldly and with love for God and neighbor.
Practical Lessons:
- Let Your Faith Influence Your Relationships: Valerian’s conversion came through the quiet, steadfast witness of his wife, St. Cecilia. Be intentional about how you live your faith at home—it can deeply affect the hearts of family and friends.
- Serve the Vulnerable Boldly: Tiburtius and Valerian risked everything to care for persecuted Christians. You can live this today by helping those who are overlooked—visit someone who’s lonely, stand up for someone mistreated, or support those suffering injustice.
- Let Others See Your Courage: Maximus, a Roman soldier, became a Christian because he saw real courage in Tiburtius and Valerian. Don’t hide your beliefs. Simple acts—making the Sign of the Cross in public, praying before meals, or standing by your morals—can inspire more than you realize.
Prayer:
Sts. Tiburtius, Valerian, and Maximus, faithful witnesses and martyrs for Christ, pray for us. Help us to live our faith with courage and conviction, no matter the cost. Inspire us to care for the vulnerable, to stand for what is right, and to bring others to Christ through our daily example. Intercede for us, that we may one day share in the joy you now experience in heaven. Amen.
Quote:
“We do not fear death, for in dying we find life in Christ.” — St. Valerian
Other Saints We Remember Today
St. Justin (165) Martyr, Patron of lecturers
St. Lydwina (1433), Virgin, Patroness of Ice Skaters
photo by Francesco Botticini
