Rionero Patron Saints

Saints Marian and James - San Mariano e San Giacomo

Born in North Africa, Marian was a lector; James was a deacon. For their devotion to the faith they suffered end were persecuted during the reign of the Roman emperor Valerian.

Prior to their persecution Marian and James were visited by two bishops who encouraged them in the faith not long before they themselves were martyred. A short time later, Marian and James were arrested and interrogated. The two readily confessed their faith and, for that, they were tortured. While in prison they experienced visions, including one of the two bishops who had visited them earlier. On the last day of their lives, Marian and James joined other Christians facing martyrdom. They were blindfolded and put to death. Their bodies were thrown into the water.

The year was 259.

In the Holy Rosary Church in Cleveland, Ohio they are honored every year by Italians from Rionero Sannitico with a Sunday Mass.

Prayer:

Glorious martyrs James and Marian, our great patron saints, we pray that from heaven where you rejoice in God, you obtain for us strength and perseverance of faith, love for sacrifice and prayer. Turn your pious eyes on us, our families and our country; help and assist us in all our needs; assist us in every good action so that in following your steps we will be granted to meet you some day in heaven to share with you eternal happiness. Amen

April 28, 2013 - Members of the Rionero Sannitico Recreational Club after the mass celebrating the patron saints.