St. Photina the Samaritan Woman
The Samaritan woman whom Jesus met at Jacob's Well in Sychar (John 4:1-42), to whom he revealed himself as the Messiah and offered the 'living water' of eternal life. Eastern Christian tradition gives her the name Photina, meaning 'enlightened one,' and recounts that after Pentecost she became a fearless missionary, preaching the Gospel as far as Carthage and being martyred at Rome under Nero by being thrown into a dry well. She is one of the most beloved saints of the Eastern Christian tradition.
Life & Times
Also known as: Photini; the Samaritan Woman at the Well; Svetlana (Slavic) · Born: 1st century · Died: c. 66 · From: Sychar, Samaria; Carthage; Rome.
Patronage
St. Photina the Samaritan Woman is invoked as the patron of converts, evangelists, missionaries to non-christians. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
“Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst.”— Gospel of John 4:15
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About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Photina the Samaritan Woman, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.