Vanessa Hessler
Barbara
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As one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers, Barbara is a popular saint, perhaps best known as the patron saint of armourers, artillerymen, military engineers, miners and others who work with explosives because of her legend's association with lightning. She is also the patron saint of mathematicians.
Saint Barbara, also known as the Great Martyr Barbara, was an early Christian Greek martyr born mid-third century in Heliopolis, Phoenicia. Barbara was the daughter to a rich pagan named Dioscorus. After the death of Barbara's mother, Dioscorus dedicated his life to his only daughter.
St. Barbara (died c. 200 ce; feast day December 4) was a legendary virgin martyr of the early church. Venerated as one of the 14 Auxiliary Saints (Holy Helpers), she is invoked in thunderstorms and is the patron saint of artillerymen and miners.
Who Was Saint Barbara? The Holy Great Martyr Barbara lived and suffered during the reign of the emperor Maximian (305-311). Her father, the pagan Dioscorus, was a rich and illustrious man in the Syrian city of Heliopolis. After the death of his wife, he devoted himself to his only daughter.
St. Barbara has often been depicted in art; she is represented standing in a tower with three windows, carrying the palm of a martyr in her hand; often also she holds a chalice and sacramental wafer; sometimes cannon are displayed near her. (Taken from Catholic Encyclopedia)
Saint Barbara is a highly venerated saint in the Eastern Orthodox Church, known for her courage, faith, and martyrdom in the early centuries of Christianity. Her story is one of bravery and steadfast devotion in the face of persecution.
Explore St. Barbara the Great Martyr's in-depth biography, theological teachings and divine miracles. Read their inspirational quotes, prayers, and books that illuminate their spiritual journey.
