The Virgin Archelais lived in a small monastery near Rome, having devoted both her soul and body entirely to God. During the persecutions of Christians under Emperor Diocletian, she and her sisters, Thecla and Sosana, fled to Campania, wearing men’s clothing to hide their femininity. They spent their days in prayer, healing the sick who sought their help, and calling people to worship the true God.
When Leontius learned of their deeds, he ordered them to be brought before him for questioning. Archelais boldly confessed her faith, speaking of the love of Jesus Christ and of the healings that were performed in the name of the Lord. Enraged, Leontius commanded that she be thrown to the lions, yet he watched in astonishment as the wild beasts became gentle in her presence. Following this, the holy women were left in prison, where an Angel of the Lord appeared before them, giving them courage and strength to endure all pain and suffering.
At the next trial, the Virgin Archelais once again confessed her faith, calling upon the governor to join her in the worship of the true God. Refusing to believe her words, he subjected her to severe tortures, from which she emerged unharmed. She prayed for the strength to endure every suffering and humiliation until a divine light illuminated her path and filled her with courage.
In the end, the holy virgin-martyrs were executed, and their souls found rest in the heavenly Kingdom of God.
The Church commemorates Saints Archelais, Thecla, and Sosana, honoring the significance and grace of their holy figures.
