Laetus of Nepta was a 5th-century Christian bishop and martyr who lived within the Vandal Kingdom in North Africa. Serving as the bishop of Nepta, located in the region of Byzacena, he faced persecution during the reign of King Huneric. Following a period of difficult imprisonment, he was executed by being burned alive in Carthage in 484. His life and death are recorded in historical accounts of the era, marking him as a significant figure of Nicene Christianity during the Vandal period.
Life and death
As a presbyter and later the bishop of Nepta, Laetus lived in what is now modern-day Tunisia. His leadership in the church led to his arrest by the authorities under the orders of King Huneric. After enduring a period of captivity, he met his end in Carthage, where he was burned alive for his faith.
Legacy and veneration
According to the writings of Victor of Tunnuna, Laetus is said to have appeared in a vision to Emperor Justinian roughly fifty years after his death. In this dream, he reportedly urged the emperor to free African Christians from barbarian rule. He is commemorated as a saint with a feast day on September 6.