Saint Apollonia

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==Saint Apollonia ==

Saint Apollonia is a Christian martyr who is venerated as the patron saint of dentistry and those suffering from toothache. She is one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers and is often invoked for relief from dental pain.

Life

Saint Apollonia lived in Alexandria, Egypt, during the 3rd century. She was an elderly deaconess who was known for her devout faith and charitable works. During a local uprising against Christians in 249 AD, she was seized by a mob. According to historical accounts, including those by Eusebius of Caesarea, she was tortured and had all her teeth violently pulled out or shattered. The mob then threatened to burn her alive unless she renounced her faith. Instead of complying, Apollonia willingly leaped into the flames, thus embracing martyrdom.

Veneration

Saint Apollonia's feast day is celebrated on February 9. She is particularly revered in the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church. Her relics are said to be distributed among various churches, with some notable ones being in Rome and Naples.

Iconography

In Christian art, Saint Apollonia is often depicted holding a pair of pincers with a tooth in them, symbolizing her suffering and martyrdom. She may also be shown with a palm branch, a common symbol of martyrdom, or with a crown of martyrdom.

Patronage

Saint Apollonia is the patron saint of dentists, dental diseases, and those suffering from toothache. Many dental associations and dental schools have adopted her as their patron.

Legacy

Saint Apollonia's story has inspired many to seek her intercession for dental issues. Her legacy continues to be honored in various liturgical celebrations and by those in the dental profession.

See also

• Fourteen Holy Helpers
• Martyr
• Patron saint
• Dentistry
• Toothache