Firmina

Saint Firmina is venerated as a third-century Italian virgin and martyr, traditionally born into a noble Roman family, the daughter of Calpurnius, said to have been prefect of Rome. According to ancient tradition, a high official named Olympiadis sought to draw her away from Christ, but Firmina’s steadfast witness instead led to his conversion; for confessing the faith, he suffered martyrdom. Firmina then renounced privilege and withdrew to a life of prayer and hidden holiness, living in seclusion near Amelia in Umbria. During the persecution under Emperor Diocletian, she is believed to have sealed her consecration with martyrdom, her victory for Christ symbolized by the palm she is often shown holding. Other traditions place her final witness at Civitavecchia, where devotion to her is especially strong and where miracles are remembered, including the calming of a violent storm at sea through her intercession. Saint Firmina is honored as patroness of Amelia and Civitavecchia. Her feast day is November 24.