Sts Perpetua and Felicity Have Their Own Chapel At The National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
If you have been around here for a while, you know that we have mentioned the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC, a time or two, and who can blame us?
Billed "America's Church," the Basilica is a masterpiece inside and out, with different spaces dedicated to various saints, including Perpetua and Felicity:
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Sts. Perpetua and Felicity were Christian martyrs who died in Carthage, North Africa, in 203 AD. At the time of their arrest, Perpetua was a young noblewoman and new mother, while Felicity was her servant and pregnant. Both women were catechumens preparing for baptism when they were imprisoned for refusing to renounce their faith.
While in prison, Perpetua recorded her experiences in what is now known as The Passion of St. Perpetua, St. Felicity, and Their Companions, one of the earliest firsthand accounts of Christian martyrdom. Despite the suffering they endured, including separation from their families and harsh treatment, they remained steadfast in their faith. After Felicity gave birth, both women were executed in the arena, dying as witnesses to Christ.
In honor of their Feast Day on March 7th, you are invited to visit the Chapel of Sts. Perpetua and Felicity at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC.
Welcome to the jaw-dropping Sts. Perpetua and Felicity Chapel, located in the heart of the Crypt Church at the West Apse.
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception Facebook
The beautiful gold mosaic features the saints "journeying toward an oasis," surrounded by a flower and sword and a Latin phrase that translates to “Another will be within me, who will suffer on my behalf, seeing that it is for Him that I am to suffer.”
These great saints dedicated their lives to Christ, and this Chapel is a superb commemoration of these women and their great sacrifice.
In addition to Sts. Perpetua and Felicity, the West Apse honors other great saints, such as Agatha, Agnes, and Anastasia.
When you visit, check out everything the Basilica offers, including the Christ in Majesty mosaic, various chapels, and incredible sacred art.
To learn more about the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, please visit their website.