Step back in time to the end of the 3rd century and meet Lucia, a young woman whose story has been passed down through martyrdom records, traditions, popular narratives, and legends. Lucia was born into a wealthy and high-ranking family in Syracuse, Italy. Raised as a Christian by her mother Eutiquia after losing her father at a young age, Lucia harbored a secret desire to dedicate her life to God.
The Journey to Catania and the Intercession of St. Agatha
In 301, Lucia and her mother embarked on a pilgrimage to Catania to visit the tomb of St. Agatha. Eutichia was suffering from haemorrhages, and despite numerous treatments, she was not getting any better. Hoping for healing through the intercession of St. Agatha, the mother-daughter duo arrived on 5 February at the slopes of Mount Etna, coinciding with Agatha’s dies natalis.
During a Eucharistic celebration at the saint’s tomb, Lucia, inspired by the Gospel story of healing, urged her mother to touch Agatha’s tomb with faith. In a moment of ecstasy, Lucia received a vision from Agatha, assuring her mother’s healing and foretelling Lucia’s own dedication to God.
Empowered by the vision, Lucia approached her mother and shared her intention to renounce marriage, dedicating her life to charitable works for the poor.
Martyrdom
However, Lucia’s decision did not sit well with the young man betrothed to her, leading to her betrayal and subsequent arrest by the prefect Pascasius. Despite facing pressure to renounce her faith, Lucia remained steadfast, proclaiming her commitment to the eternal God. Refusing to yield to worldly desires, she faced various attempts to harm her, all of which she miraculously survived.
Ultimately, Lucia met her fate on 13 December 304, as she was beheaded for her unwavering faith and dedication to God.
