Birthplace: Unknown
Date of Birth and Death: 4th century
Feast Day: December 4th

Notable: Patroness of Firefighters, Prisoners, Builders and Others

Life:According to legend, Barbara was a fourth century Christian martyr. her father, Dioscorus, imprisoned her in a high tower while she was growing up so no man would be tempted by her great beauty. Barbara passed the time studying philosophy and eventually, she converted to Christianity. When Barbara reached a marriageable age, she refused all suitors. Angered, her father sent her back to the tower and set off on a long journey.

Before Dioscorus left, he told workmen to build a bathhouse with two windows. But Barbara asked them to ass a third. When her father returned and learned she had requested the third window, he demanded to know why. She replied, “Three windows lighten all the world and all creatures but two make darkness”. She explained the windows symbolized the Holy Trinity - Three Persons in One God. Infuriated, Dioscorus dragged Barbara to pagan authorities who ordered him to behead her. before she died though, Barbara confessed her sins and was reassured by a heavenly voice that God awaited her. On his way home, Dioscorous, still carrying the bloodied sword was struck by lightening. The flame consumed him so completely that only ashes remained.

Barbara has been venerated since the seventh century and her story of courage and her deep faith in the Hoy Trinity resonates with Christians today.

Prayer

O God, one of the marvelous examples of your great powers is
the granting of the strength and conviction needed to endure martyrdom
to those once thought weak and powerless.
Please grant me the grace to follow the example of the virgin barbara,
whose legendary faithfulness and courage inspired many to face
mortal danger bravely.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.