Boniface of Tarsus
Saint Boniface of Tarsus was a legendary Christian martyr executed in 307 AD. According to tradition, he was a slave who converted to Christianity while on a mission to retrieve relics for his mistress, Aglaida, and ultimately became the relic himself. His martyrdom led to Aglaida's conversion and subsequent charitable acts.
- Feast Day
- May 14
- Century
- 4th century
- Country Or Region
- Asia Minor
Key Facts
- ›Boniface was a slave and steward in the household of Aglaida.
- ›He was sent from Rome to Tarsus to bring back relics of martyrs.
- ›Upon witnessing the torture of Christians, he declared himself a Christian.
- ›He was executed by beheading with a sword after enduring various tortures.
- ›His body became the relics brought back to Aglaida, leading to her conversion.
- ›He is invoked against drunkenness.
Martyr Boniface at Tarsus in Cilicia
Against Drunkenness
About Boniface of Tarsus
Saint Boniface of Tarsus is a figure from Christian legend, traditionally believed to have been martyred in the year 307 AD in Tarsus. According to the narrative, Boniface was a slave and the steward of the household of his mistress, Aglaida, with whom he lived a life described as debauched. Despite this, he was known for his generosity to the poor and his compassion.
Life and Historical Context
Aglaida, hearing of miracles associated with the relics of martyrs, sent Boniface from Rome to Tarsus to acquire some of these holy relics. Upon his arrival, Boniface witnessed the authorities torturing Christians. In response, he openly declared his own Christian faith. Following a period of torture, he was beheaded. His own body then became the relics that were brought back to Aglaida, who subsequently converted to Christianity. She then distributed her wealth to the poor, lived in a monastery for 15 years, and is said to have received the gift of exorcising evil spirits. A church was built in their memory, which is now known as the Church of Santi Bonifacio e Alessio.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Boniface of Tarsus?
Boniface of Tarsus was, according to legend, a Christian martyr executed in 307 AD at Tarsus. He was sent from Rome to collect relics of martyrs.
What led to Boniface's martyrdom?
Boniface openly declared himself a Christian upon arriving at Tarsus and witnessing the torture of Christians. He then endured various tortures before being beheaded.
What happened after Boniface's death?
His body became the relics that were brought back to his mistress, Aglaida. This event led to Aglaida's conversion to Christianity, and she subsequently founded a church in his memory and distributed her wealth to the poor.
When is Boniface of Tarsus venerated?
In the Eastern Orthodox Church, he is celebrated on December 19th along with Aglaida. In the Roman Catholic Church, his feast day was May 14th, though it was later removed from the General Roman Calendar.
Why is Boniface of Tarsus associated with 'Ice Saints'?
Due to the date of his feast day (May 14th), Boniface of Tarsus was one of the saints linked to the tradition of the 'Ice Saints' in parts of Europe, a period when cold spells were believed to be common.
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