Chrysanthus of Rome

Holy Martyr Chrysanthus of Rome was put to death about the year 300, together with his wife, Daria. The Church commemorates both on 19 March (new style).

Chrysanthus was born in a pagan family, received an excellent education and read the pagan writings about Christians. Wishing to read also the books of the Christians, he found the New Testament, which enlightened his soul. He sought out the priest Carpophorus, who was hiding because of the persecution, and received Holy Baptism from him. Then he began to preach the Gospel openly, and his father tried by every means to turn him aside. According to tradition he took Daria as wife and both lived in chastity, bringing many souls to Christ. Seized, they were condemned: Chrysanthus and Daria went down into the pit prepared for them, singing and praying, and received the death of martyrdom, being covered alive with earth and stones at the tyrant's order.