Saint Moura was a third-century Christian martyr who lived in Upper Egypt and Antinoöpolis. Married to a deacon named Timothy, she remained steadfast in her faith during a period of intense persecution. When local authorities pressured the couple to adopt paganism, they refused, leading to their execution by crucifixion. Depending on historical accounts, her death is attributed to either the reign of Decius or the period surrounding the rule of Carus and his sons.
Life and martyrdom
Originally from Upper Egypt, Moura lived with her husband, Timothy, in the city of Antinoöpolis. During a time when Christian practices were being suppressed, the governor Urban demanded that the couple renounce their beliefs. Their refusal to convert to paganism resulted in their martyrdom. Historical traditions suggest they suffered a slow death through crucifixion, occurring around 283 AD or potentially earlier under Emperor Decius.
Veneration and legacy
She is honored throughout Egypt and the Middle East, with several churches dedicated to her in northern Lebanon. These include sites in Mayfouq, Kfarsghab, and Miziara Bnachii. A monastery in Ehden, where the Lebanese Maronite Order was founded, also honors her. In Bekarzala Akkar, she serves as the patron saint, where a modern painting of her resides in the village church.