(d.c.361) Little is known for certain about her beyond her tomb and martyrdom. According to legend, Bibiana’s parents were martyred under the persecutions of Emperor Julian the Apostate. Bibiana and her sister were turned over to a woman who attempted to force them into prostitution. Bibiana continually refused to cooperate, was imprisoned in a house for the mentally ill, and, finally, flogged to death.
Saint Bibiana models integrity and perseverance for us. Integrity can be compromised in active addiction, compulsion, and unhealthy attachment. It begins to be restored through both self-knowledge (Step 4) and repentance (the Sacrament of Reconciliation; many of the Steps). How have you found restoration of integrity in recovery?
“O God, the giver of all good gifts, in Your servant Bibiana, You joined the flower of virginity with the palm of martyrdom; be pleased, by her intercession, to join our souls by charity to You, so that all dangers being removed, we may obtain our eternal reward. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit, for ever and ever. Amen” (Collect Prayer for the memorial of Saint Bibiana).
Reflection by Brad Farmer