During the reign of the wicked Emperor Maximian in the city of Thessalonica, there lived a maiden named Anisia, the daughter of wealthy Christian parents. She was raised in the fear of God and, upon reaching adulthood, decided to distribute all her possessions to the poor in order to avoid the temptations of wealth. Anisia served prisoners, healed them, and helped all who were suffering, living in prayers and fasting.
When the time of persecution against Christians came, Saint Anisia, wishing to suffer for Christ, went out into the streets and was seized by a soldier who, unable to bear the name of Christ, pierced her with a sword. She surrendered her soul to God, becoming a martyr for her faith.
The relics of the saint were buried by the faithful not far from the place of her death, and a prayer house was built at that site. Anisia became an example for many, showing that even in suffering one can find joy in serving Christ.
