who is st. julia?
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VIRGIN MARTYR - FEAST DAY MAY 23RD
Julia was born a noble maiden of Carthage, who, when the city was taken by Genseric in 439, was sold as a slave to a pagan merchant of Syria called Eusebius. She lived an extremely exemplary life and became a valuable servant to her master. He trusted her greatly and admired her talents especially her cheerfulness and patience. When she was not employed in her master's business, all her time was devoted to prayer and reading books of piety. When Julia accompanied Eusebius to Corsica on a business journey, he went ashore to take part in a local heathen festival, but she remained on the ship refusing to assist in the ceremonies. Questioned by Felix, the governor of the island, regarding this woman who dared to insult their gods, her master admitted that she was a Christian slave, and he could never bring himself to part with so faithful and efficient a servant. Even when the governor offered four of his own best slaves in exchange for Julia, her master replied, " If you were to offer me all your possessions, they could not equal the value of her services ! " However, when Eusebius was asleep, the governor took it upon himself to try to induce Julia to offer sacrifices to their gods. He offered her freedom if she would comply, but she indignantly refused, protesting that all the liberty she desired was freedom to continue serving her Lord, Jesus Christ. Her boldness enraged the governor, who gave orders that she should be beaten on the face and her long hair torn out by the roots. She died of crucifixion. Julia, whether free or a slave, whether in prosperity or in adversity, was equally fervent and devout. She never complained and never ceased to praise and thank God under all her appointments, making them the means of her virtue and anctification. God raised her to the honour of the saints and to the dignity of a virgin and martyr. |
