Saint Neonilla Icon – Engraved Arched Metal Frame

Description

Saint Neonilla is an early-Christian martyr, though little is known about her life. She was married to Saint Terence of Syria, together they shared seven children: Eunice, Hierax, Sabelus, Theodoulus, Nitus, Photius, and Vele. All nine were arrested during the reign of Emperor Decius, who had a widespread campaign to persecute Christians in the Roman Empire.

During their arrest they were subjected to tortures in an effort to force them to renounce their Christian faith and acknowledge the pagan gods as the true gods. They remained steadfast in their faith throughout continuous torture until they were eventually beheaded and martyred.

This icon of Saint Neonilla is done in a Russian Orthodox style. She is depicted holding a cross, which symbolizes martyrdom in Orthodox icons.  Saint Neonilla is commemorated by the Eastern Orthodox Church on October 28.