Maximilian, martyr (+295)

Biography

When he was twenty-one years old he had to appear as a rebel before Cassius Dion, proconsul of Thebaste. In the statement he said before his judge: “I am a Christian, a soldier of Christ, and I will not fight for anyone else.” I have been marked by the seal of Christ and I will not hand him over to the enemy. Therefore, I refuse to carry the image of the emperor on my shield; and if I am forced, I will break it.” After trying to convince him without success, Cassius had his name erased from the recruiting lists and told him: "Since you refuse to kill as a soldier, you will die, and your punishment will serve as a lesson to all who want to imitate you." "I thank God and yourself for the favor you do me," Maximilian replied. When they approached the place of execution, addressing the Christians who were present, he said: "May God grant that you may very soon participate in my destiny, dear brothers, and that you may also go with Him." The Maximiliani Acts record that Fabio Víctor returned home proudly and converted to Christianity. He died shortly after with the same convictions as his son.