12/04/2024
ππ. πππ«πππ«π'π¬ πππ² - πππππ¦πππ« π
Our patron saint was the beautiful daughter of Dioscorus, a nobleman of the Roman Empire. Her father, fearful of her beauty and possibility to be taken from him, locked her in a tower and limited her exposure to Christianity. However, from her window, she looked out upon the countryside and marveled at the worlds beauty. She concluded that all living things must be a part of a master plan and was baptized into the Christian faith. She designed her bath house, commissioned by her father, to hold three windows, representing the Holy Trinity. Upon her father's return, he asked why three instead of 2, and she declared her faith. Despite his threats, she steadfastly held onto her beliefs. Dioscorus flew into a rage and dragged her before the local prefect who ordered her death. He tortured his daughter, then took her to a high mountain, where he beheaded her. Afterward, as he descended the mountain, he was caught in a sudden violent storm, struck down and consumed by lightning. Only his scorched sword remained as a reminder of God's vengeance.
Saint Barbara came to be regarded as the sainted patroness of those in danger from thunderstorms, fire, and explosions. Given the questionable reliability of early cannon misfires, muzzle bursts and exploding weapons were not uncommon -it is easy to see why our predecessors sought the protection of Saint Barbara. She has protected us well ever since.
On this day, we hope Saint Barbara continues to watch over all Redlegs, wherever you may be. π₯
