Zoe of Rome was a noblewoman living in Rome during the reign of Emperor Diocletian. Married to a high-ranking court official named Nicostratus, she had suffered from an inability to speak for six years. Her speech was restored after Saint Sebastian performed the sign of the cross over her, leading her to request baptism. Because of her Christian faith, she was eventually arrested while praying at the tomb of Saint Peter.
Life and martyrdom
Following her conversion, Zoe was arrested for her religious devotion. She met her end by being hung over a fire until she was stifled by smoke. After her death, her body was cast into the River Tiber. Her life and death occurred during the early persecutions of Christians in the Roman Empire.
Veneration
She is recognized as a saint in both the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions. Her primary feast day is observed on 5 July, though the Eastern Orthodox Church also commemorates her on 18 December alongside Saint Sebastian and other martyrs.