Saint Theodore Stratelates (d.319)
for February 7
Saint Theodore Stratelates was a Christian general during a time of persecution. When his faith was exposed, a military panel concluded that he was a respectable soldier who had simply made the mistake of becoming a Christian. They told him to relinquish his beliefs and released him. Immediately after being released, Theodore burned down a pagan temple. He was rearrested, and after refusing to deny his faith was tortured. In response to this cruel torture, Theodore recited the Psalms. Saint Theodore Stratelates died a martyr and is the patron saint of soldiers, the recovery of lost items, and Brindisi, Italy.
Read more about Saint Theodore Stratelates (d.319)
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Reflection
Some people see religion as a mistake, or something that is low on the totem pole in life. Saint Theodore Stratelates refused to relinquish his beliefs, even though he knew the consequences of doing so. Ask the Lord to help strengthen your faith, even in the face of opposition.
Prayer
God of strength, grant me courage to live out the vision of the good life that you have planted in me. Help me to be strong in doing right in the face of opposition. (Taken from “Good News Day by Day: Bible Reflections for Teens.”)
