Saint Glyceria was a Roman virgin and early Christian martyr who lived during the second century. Born in Rome, she eventually faced persecution for her refusal to offer tribute to a stone statue of Jupiter. According to tradition, the statue was destroyed while she stood in its presence. Following her refusal, she was imprisoned and sentenced to death by wild animals, though she died before the animals could harm her.
Martyrdom and miracles
After her condemnation in Heraclea, Glyceria died as a martyr. Her remains are associated with a miraculous phenomenon where a sacred substance, often called the Oil of Saints, flowed from her relics. Historical accounts suggest this flow was briefly interrupted when a man named Paulinus attempted to use a silver basin for witchcraft, an act that resulted in his execution and the resumption of the oil's flow.
Veneration
She is honored as a saint within the Catholic Church and Eastern Orthodox traditions. Her name, which translates to sweetness, reflects her spiritual legacy. Believers commemorate her annual feast day on May 13.