Boniface of Tarsus

Saint Boniface of Tarsus is remembered in Christian tradition as a martyr who died at Tarsus in Cilicia around the year 307. Though his early life was marked by paganism and moral disorder, Boniface served as steward in the household of Aglaida of Rome and, even then, showed a heart touched by grace: he was generous to the poor, welcoming to strangers, and compassionate toward the suffering. When Aglaida heard of healings connected with the relics of martyrs, she sent Boniface from Rome to Tarsus to obtain such relics. There he witnessed Christians being tortured for their faith. Moved with courage, he openly confessed Christ as his Lord. After enduring severe torments, he was finally beheaded, and his own body became the precious relic brought back to Rome. Aglaida, converted by his witness, embraced the faith, gave her wealth to the poor, and lived a life of penitence and prayer. Saint Boniface is invoked against drunkenness and is honored as patron of Cerchiara di Calabria, Oratino, and Popoli Terme. His feast day is December 19.