Pontianus

Saint Pontianus was born in Spoleto, Italy, into a local noble family, and as a young man he embraced Christ with a courage that would soon be tested. During the reign of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, when Christians were denounced and punished, Pontianus—only eighteen years old—was accused of being a follower of Jesus and brought before a judge named Flavian. Offered the chance to save his life by renouncing the faith, he chose instead to endure torture and remain steadfast. Condemned for his witness, he was beheaded in the year 175, sealing his testimony with martyrdom. Pontianus was buried outside the city walls, and devotion grew around his tomb until a basilica rose over his grave, making him the beloved patron of Spoleto. The people of the city still invoke him especially for protection against earthquakes, trusting the ancient tradition that Spoleto would shake but not fall. His feast day is January 19.