Martyr Augusta, the Empress of Rome
Martyr
Saint Martyr Augusta, also known as Vasilissa, lived in the 3rd–4th centuries and was the wife of the Roman Emperor Maximian, one of the most ruthless persecutors of Christians. Her name “Augusta” indicates the high title granted to empresses, while “Vasilissa” is its Greek equivalent meaning “queen.”
She was born into a noble pagan family, received an excellent education, and was distinguished by beauty, intelligence, and diplomatic skill. After marrying Maximian, she attained a prominent position at the court, took part in state affairs, and wielded influence among the imperial entourage.
Despite the environment steeped in paganism and cruelty, Augusta preserved inner purity and a longing for truth. Her spiritual search began when she observed the Christians persecuted and executed by order of her husband. The encounter with the Great Martyr Catherine of Alexandria, who was imprisoned at the time, became a turning point in Augusta’s life, awakening in her an interest in the Christian faith and beginning her path toward spiritual transformation.
Augusta secretly visited the prison where Catherine was held and spoke with her about faith, the meaning of life, and the true God. These conversations deeply moved the empress, and she gradually began to abandon pagan rituals, increasingly turning toward Christianity. Catherine became her spiritual mentor, explaining the foundations of the faith and telling her about the life of Christ and the apostolic martyrdom.
Soon Augusta was baptized in secret from her husband and the court, and she began to practice Christianity in her personal life. She refused to participate in pagan festivals, ceased making sacrifices, and began helping imprisoned Christians by providing them with food, clothing, and comfort.
After several months of secret service, Augusta resolved to openly confess her faith. She publicly denounced the pagan gods and accused Maximian of cruelty and spiritual blindness. The emperor considered this an act of treason and immediately ordered her arrest. Augusta was imprisoned, interrogated, and threatened. They tried to persuade her to renounce Christ, promising to spare her life and restore her former position, but she firmly refused. Her steadfastness inspired other prisoners, and even some guards began to show interest in Christianity.
Not wishing a public scandal, Maximian ordered Augusta to be executed secretly. Her martyrdom took place around the year 305, shortly after the death of Catherine, with whom she was spiritually connected. Her death became an act of the final triumph of spirit over power, of love over fear. Her body was secretly buried by Christians, and the place of her burial became a site of prayer and veneration.
Her feast day is commemorated on December 7 as a day of spiritual triumph and confession of faith.
