How to be completely faithful to our convictions and to accept the moral martyrdom that follows

December 16 -- St. Eusebius
           St. Eusebius (283-371) lived in Sardinia, Italy where he distinguished himself as the first Bishop of the city. His staunch defense of the Church brought on him many moral and physical sufferings.

The Emperor threatened him and the Arian bishops insulted him.  He suffered exile and persecution , was dragged through the streets, thrown in jail, and left without food.  In addition , he endured an organized campaign of calumnies and persecutions that resulted in a lifelong ignominy. 

For these sufferings, he is recognized by the Church as a martyr. The Church recognizes that moral sufferings can be equal to or superior to physical  martyrdom. Imagine the suffering of the uncompromising Catholic who is despised in his own home or in the workplace. He is often shunned or ridiculed with words of being "old-fashioned" or "out of touch" or worse. Today , it is a matter of refusing to negotiate with evil---the evil that "everyone" is doing.  To go against public opinion this way is a martyrdom.

St. Eusebius can give us the grace of understanding the importance of being completely faithful to our convictions and to accept the moral martyrdom that follow.  Through suffering we can share in the Passion of Our Lord.