Saint Asclepiades

Saint Asclepiades, a devoted Christian layperson of the early Church, is commemorated for his steadfast witness during the persecution of Emperor Decius. Born in an era obscured by history, his life culminated in martyrdom on 23 February 250. Fearing arrest during the violent crackdown, Asclepiades and fifteen fellow parishioners spent the night of 22–23 February in fervent prayer. At dawn, as they concluded Mass, they were seized by Roman authorities. To demonstrate their unwavering resolve and refusal to renounce their faith, they had donned their own chains and shack