Saint Melania the Roman came from a pious family; her father and grandfather were senators. From a young age, she sought to preserve her virginity, but at 14, she was married to Apinian. Despite this, she continued to strive for purity and abstinence, persuading her husband to live without carnal relations. After the birth of their daughter, Melania made a vow of virginity for her.
She fasted and refused worldly pleasures, but her husband did not support her desire to live in purity. Melania contemplated fleeing, but upon hearing the advice of wise people, she remained for the salvation of her husband. After the birth of their second son, who soon died, Melania and Apinian vowed to live in chastity. After the death of their daughter, they decided to renounce the world and become monks.
They began to distribute their wealth to the poor but faced envy from Apinian's brother, Severus, who took their possessions. Queen Verina, learning of their life, protected them, but they preferred to endure the insults. They continued to give alms and build churches and monasteries.
After selling their estates, they went to Sicily and then to Carthage, where they founded monasteries and continued their good works. Melania diligently fasted and engaged in the reading of Sacred Scripture. Later, she went to Jerusalem, where she spent much time in prayer at the Holy Sepulchre.
After the death of Apinian, she founded another male monastery and continued her pious life. Melania visited Byzantium, where she converted her uncle Volusian and many others to Christ. She returned to Jerusalem, where, awaiting death, she continued to heal the sick and instruct people.
Saint Melania passed away, leaving behind many good deeds and spiritual heirs. Her burial was marked with honors, and she now prays for all who honor her memory.
