Saint Sosthenes of Chacedon: Executioner Converted by a Martyr’s Faith

“Saint Sosthenes of Chalcedon, also known as Sostene, was an executioner who was assigned to torture Saint Euphemia during the early Christian persecutions under the reign of Emperor Diocletian. It was during this encounter that Sosthenes witnessed the steadfast faith and fervent prayers of Saint Euphemia, which deeply moved his heart and ultimately led to his conversion to Christianity…” (Source: https://saintforaminute.com/saints/saint_sosthenes_of_chalcedon)

I have been walking with the Saints for some time, learning about their lives in faith and faith in death from a variety of sources. Most recently, my Spiritual Director introduced me to the Laudate App which provides exhaustive research on the Saints each day. As part of my Catholic education and spiritual growth, I have been praying to the Saints listed there and noting those Saints to whom I am particularly drawn. Today’s featured Saint was St. Sosthenes of Chalcedon, a Roman Executioner whose conversion to Christ began in an encounter with Saint Euphemia, martyred at the hands of Sosthenes.

I am inspired by so much in this story. First, the depth of faith and commitment to prayer by Saint Ephemia. Having lived a life of faith, she carried this faith to her death and in dying, planted the seed of faith in Sosthenes and fellow Executioner Victor. This seed of faith would blossom in their conversion to Christ and lead to their own martyrdom. I am both inspired and humbled by the faith in life and death of these Saints and pray that I have the courage and conviction to be steadfast in a life of prayer so that others might find faith in me.

St. Euphemia, St. Sosthenes, St. Victor, pray for us.