St. Thecla
Iconian virgin (1st century, traditional), of Lycaonia, converted by St. Paul's preaching and according to the apocryphal "Acts of Paul and Thecla" (2nd-century romance) escaped martyrdom by fire and beasts and lived as hermitess at Seleucia. "Equal-to-the-Apostles" in Eastern tradition; pre-Congregation cultus, biography apocryphal/legendary.
Life & Times
Born: 1st century, traditional · From: Turkey / Syria, tradition.
Patronage
St. Thecla is invoked as the patron of women disciples, martyrs, protection from fire and wild beasts, traditional. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
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Devotional items honoring St. Thecla, from our Sancta Lumina collection and beyond.
About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Thecla, 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.