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 fiancés, invoked with fervor by those who aspire to found a solid home. Suzanne, by her life and her example, embodies purity, fidelity and true loveHer story inspires souls seeking a sacred union, based on mutual trust and devotion. She is the symbol of eternal love and hope that blooms 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 reassurance in their journey to marriage.
Biography of Sainte-Suzanne
Susanna was born around 278 in the region of Dalmatia, now shared between Croatia, Montenegro and Herzegovina, along the Adriatic Sea. She was the daughter of Gabinius (probably Saint Gabin), who entered the orders after his birth and the death of his wife, and the niece of Pope Caius (283-296). From a young age, Susanna was distinguished by her intelligence and wisdom, while being of great beauty. At the age of twelve, she began to study the Holy Scriptures with her father, and at fifteen, She made the decision to dedicate her life to God by becoming a consecrated virgin.
Now, the nephew of Gabin and Caius, Diocletian, Roman emperor and great persecutor of Christians, considered marrying his adopted son, Maximian, to his cousin Susanna., recognized for her beauty. Susanna, remaining faithful to her faith, refused this union. Her uncle, Claudio, sent to convince her, converted after being touched by the Holy Spirit. The emperor then sent another man, Massimo, 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, no one denied their faith. Suzanne was beheaded and died a martyr at home, while Claudio, Maximus and his brother suffered the same fate or were burned alive. Susanna gave up her soul to God in 295. Her death was honored by Diocletian's wife, Prisca, a secret Christian, who collected her blood to make a relic. Pope Caius celebrated a mass in his memory at the place of her execution, declaring that her house would become a place of veneration. Gabin, Suzanne's father, 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 the village, initially named Saint-Jean de Hautefeuilles, was renamed in honor of Sainte-Suzanne after relics of the Saint were reportedly brought back in the 10th century. You can also admire 10 scenes from the life of Saint Susanna, spread across the stained-glass windows in the church choir. These works were executed by master glassmakers Manceaux, Kuchelbecker, and Jacquier in 1886.
