Did you know that here, in the village of Sainte-Suzanne, in Mayenne, we have a statue of Sainte-Suzanne, the patron saint of fiancés? But do you know her story?
In the rich history of saints, Susanna stands out as the protector of hearts united in love and commitment . She is venerated as the patron saint of engaged couples , fervently invoked by those who aspire to build a strong home. Through her life and example, Susanna embodies purity, fidelity, and true love . Her story inspires souls seeking a sacred union founded on mutual trust and devotion. She is the symbol of eternal love and the hope that blossoms in the hearts of lovers. She is often depicted in Christian art holding an open book, a symbol of wisdom and divine knowledge. Her benevolent presence is felt by those who pray to her, bringing them comfort and assurance on their journey toward marriage.
Biography of Sainte-Suzanne
Susanna was born around 278 in the region of Dalmatia, now divided between Croatia, Montenegro, and Herzegovina, along the Adriatic Sea. She was the daughter of Gabinius (likely Saint Gabinus), who entered the priesthood after her birth and the death of his wife, and the niece of Pope Gaius (283–296). From a young age, Susanna distinguished herself by her intelligence and wisdom, as well as her great beauty. At the age of twelve, she began studying the Holy Scriptures with her father, and at fifteen, she decided to dedicate her life to God by becoming a consecrated virgin.
Now, Diocletian, the nephew of Gabinus and Gaius, Roman emperor and great persecutor of Christians, considered marrying his adopted son, Maximian, to his cousin Susanna , renowned for her beauty. Susanna, remaining faithful to her faith, refused this union. Her uncle, Claudius, sent to persuade her, converted after being touched by the Holy Spirit. The emperor then sent another man, Maximus, accompanied by his brother, to persuade her, but they too converted after meeting Susanna. Furious at Susanna's repeated refusals, Diocletian had them arrested. Despite torture and threats, none renounced their faith. Susanna was beheaded and died a martyr at home, while Claudius, Maximus, and his brother suffered the same fate or were burned alive. Susanna died in 295. Her death was honored by Diocletian's wife, Prisca, a secret Christian, who collected her blood to make a relic. Pope Gaius celebrated a mass in her memory at the site of her execution, declaring that her house would become a place of veneration. Susanna's father, Gabin, died of grief upon learning of his daughter's death.
In the church: the statue of Saint Susanna and its stained-glass windows
If you come to Sainte-Suzanne, consider taking a stroll around the church in the center of the village, in the medieval town. In the back of the church, you can admire a 15th-century wooden reproduction of Sainte-Suzanne, who became the patron saint of engaged couples.
The church and village, originally named Saint-Jean de Hautefeuilles, were renamed in honor of Saint Suzanne after relics of the saint were reportedly brought back in the 10th century. You can also admire ten scenes from the life of Saint Suzanne, depicted in the stained-glass windows of the church's chancel. These works were created by the master glassmakers from Le Mans, Kuchelbecker and Jacquier, in 1886.
