May 28
Ripsimena (+290)
Martyr
This Armenian girl was part of a group of consecrated virgins.
Biography
The Emperor Diocletian found her so pretty that he decided to marry her immediately. But, the maidens were warned of danger and fled to distant Armenia, where they settled on a farm near the capital. King Tiridates (261-317) appeared there with Diocletian's order to return Ripsimena. However, from the moment he saw her, Tiridates fell in love with her and, forgetting Diocletian's request, wanted to keep her for himself. When the young woman refused, he had her burned alive along with her companions. For the Armenians this martyr is their national saint. In Armenia their church celebrates its feast day on the second Monday after Pentecost.
Practical advice
Today, in the presence of God, fulfill a costly duty without giving in to fear and begin again with humility if it does not go well.