During the reign of the emperors Diocletian and Maximian, the presbyter Gabinius, brother of Pope Gaius, composed many texts against paganism and the worship of idols. He also raised his daughter, Saint Susanna, in the principles of the Christian faith. When Diocletian learned of the young girl’s beauty and wisdom, he wished to marry her to his son Maximian. Claudius, a relative of the emperor, was therefore sent to Gabinius to ask for her hand. She, however, refused the marriage, declaring that she had already dedicated herself to Christ and that preferred to suffer for Him.
Seeing Susanna’s faith and courage, Claudius asked her advice in order to save his soul. She urged him to repent and be baptized. He indeed embraced Christianity and began distributing his wealth to the poor. When Diocletian learned of his conversion, he got enraged and ordered his execution, along with that of his entire family. He had also Gabinius and Susanna thrown into prison.
The girl was brought before the empress Irene, who secretly supported Christianity and attempted to defend her. Unable to obtain Susanna’s consent to the marriage, Diocletian ordered that she be forced to worship idols. As she stubbornly refused, she was lead to execution by sword. Her body was buried with great honor by the empress Irene.
Gabinius and Pope Gaius were also executed later.
The memory of Saint Susanna is celebrated by the Church on August 11.
