Rufina and Secunda were sisters in Rome who consecrated their virginity to Christ. During the persecution of the emperor Valerian they refused to renounce their faith and were martyred together.
Life
Saints Rufina and Secunda were virgin martyrs of Rome in the mid-third century, said to have died around 257 during the persecution of Emperor Valerian. It is clear that they were honored in Rome from early times, but the details of their lives are uncertain.
According to tradition they were sisters who, when their fiancés abandoned the faith to escape persecution, refused to follow them, remained faithful to Christ as virgins, and were arrested and martyred. Their remains are said to have been buried along the Via Cornelia outside Rome, and the Church remembers them on July 10.
Spirituality
The spirituality of these two saints is a faith kept together. Even when those closest to them turned away, they held each other up and kept their love for Christ to the end. Their bond shows us brothers and sisters in faith protecting one another.
Reflection
As sisters, Rufina and Secunda protected each other's faith. Why not thank a family member or friend today who helps hold up your faith? Even a short text message is enough.