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Feast Day: March 3
Saint Arthelais of Benevento, also known as Artelais, Artellais, Artellaide, or Arthellais, was born in the year 544 in Constantinople. She was the daughter of the prominent Roman imperial proconsul Lucius and Aithuesa. Although she was desired by the emperor Justinian, she had taken vows of holy chastity and was determined to dedicate her life to God. In order to escape the emperor's advances, Saint Arthelais fled Constantinople and sought refuge in Benevento, Italy. She found shelter with her uncle Narses Patricius, who was known for his devotion to the Christian faith. However, her journey was not without hardships. Along the way, she was kidnapped by highwaymen who intended to exploit her noble lineage. Saint Arthelais, being a woman of great faith, entrusted herself to the protection of God during her captivity. Miraculously, after three days of captivity, Saint Arthelais was freed from her captors. It is said that through her unwavering faith and constant prayers, an angel of the Lord appeared and rescued her from her captors, leading her back on the path to Benevento. This miraculous intervention further strengthened her determination to live a life of holiness and devotion to God. Upon her arrival in Benevento, Saint Arthelais continued to deepen her relationship with God and serve the people around her. Her virtuous life and unwavering commitment to her vows inspired many who came into contact with her. She became known for her compassionate nature and her ability to heal the sick through her prayers and intercession. Unfortunately, Saint Arthelais's life was cut short when she succumbed to a fever and passed away in Benevento in the year 560. Recognizing her extraordinary holiness and the numerous miraculous occurrences associated with her, the relics of Saint Arthelais were transferred to the Benevento Cathedral, where they became objects of veneration for the faithful. Saint Arthelais was officially canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in the Pre-Congregation era. She is celebrated on her feast day, which falls on the 3rd of March each year. Her remarkable life and intercession have made her a patron saint against bodily illnesses, sickness, and all forms of illness. Additionally, she is regarded as a protector of the people of Benevento, Italy, as well as those who have been exiled or kidnapped. Saint Arthelais of Benevento is remembered as a shining example of faith, chastity, and devotion to God. Her life serves as an inspiration for all believers to persevere in their faith and to trust in God's providence, even in the face of adversity.