her story, His plan

Who is St. Sophia

Sophia raised three daughters, Faith, Hope, and Agape, in Italy during the reign of Hadrian (117-138 A.D). Word of their life in God reached the Emperor, who, hearing they were in Rome, send soldiers to bring them before him.

Faith, who wwas twelve years old, was brought to him first. She boldly condemned his shameless deeds and plots against Christians. The infuriated Emperor had her mercilessly beaten.

Next, Hope, confessing Christ as steadfastly as Faith, was beaten and cast into a raging furnance, but its fire went out upon touching her. She, too, died by the sword, giving thanks to God.

Agape was only nine years old, but was just as courageous and tenacious as her sisters. She was hung on a gallows and chained. She was then thrown into a furnace, from which she was delivered by an angel, and finally, beheaded.

Sophia rejoiced in spirit to see her daughters in the abodes of the rightous, but sorrow overhwlemed her heart. Her soul returned to God a few days later at her daughters’ tomb.

On the 17th of Semptember, we celebrate their memories.