To understand the importance of St. Verena’s living witness to the faith, we must understand the world she was born into. Imagine choosing Christianity, not only as your faith tradition, but as your political and social environment as well. Then imagine that Christians were regularly arrested, taken to Rome, and martyred before a roaring crowd, amassed to watch you suffer and die.

Saint Polycarp was one of the earliest defenders of Christianity. He was a disciple of Saint John the Apostle, and therefore provided a bridge between those who knew Christ directly and those who would learn indirectly about Him and His teachings and make the choice to devote their life to His way. 

Catholics are trying to keep Advent as a time for prayer and reflection as we wait for the coming of Christ. We aren’t just worrying about all the decorations or checklists, but we are using this time to pray and reflect on Christ. This Beatitude reminds us that following Christ often means standing firm in our values, even when it’s uncomfortable or unpopular.