The celebration of the saints’ calendar makes it possible to learn about the lives of men and women who stood out for their faith, dedication and commitment to others. Among them is Saint Regina of Autun, venerated as an example of strength and fidelity to her beliefs.
SAINT REGINA OF AUTUN
Saint Regina of Autun, also known as Saint Reine, was a young Christian who lived in the 3rd century in the region of Autun, in Gaul, a territory that is now part of France. According to tradition, she was born into a pagan family and lost her mother shortly after birth. Her father entrusted her to a nurse, who raised her in the Christian faith.
Tradition holds that Regina rejected the marriage proposals of a Roman governor named Olibrius, telling him of her intention to remain faithful to Christ. Because of her refusal and profession of faith, she was imprisoned and subjected to various tortures. During her captivity, according to Christian tradition, she was visited by an angel who strengthened her in her suffering.
Saint Regina was eventually beheaded on the governor’s orders, probably around the year 251. The Church venerates her as a martyr and celebrates her liturgical feast on September 7. Her story became a symbol of perseverance and fidelity to the faith, especially in the French Christian tradition.
WHY ARE SAINTS CELEBRATED?
The celebration of saints’ feast days has its roots in our culture through the Christian tradition that took hold in Spain. But what does it really mean to celebrate a saint? (To commemorate) those important Christians who also suffered persecution from those who rejected the Catholic faith.
The Roman Martyrology lists the names in the calendar of saints as we know it. The name refers to a kind of encyclopedia that the Vatican updates by adding new saints after canonization.
