Illustration - Saint Flavian

Solon was procurator in Carthage when the persecution raised by Valerian entered its second year. A revolt in that city led to the deaths of many and Solon, rather than trouble himself to find the guilty, used the tragedy to turn the people against the Christians.

Ten of the clergy were arrested and imprisoned, Flavian the deacon among them, where they suffered many trials and deprivations. Given little in the way of provisions, Flavian furthered his suffering by distributing his share of food among the others. They were heartened by visions that promised them the glorious crown of martyrdom, as they followed in the footsteps of the Lord.

The edict of Valerian decreed that only bishops, priests and deacons should be put to death and Solon had nine of the ten put to the sword without delay.

But the people so loved Flavian that they cried out to the judge, claiming he was no deacon and should be set free. Flavian, however, never wavered. At every turn and at every examination, he held to his confession, insisting that he was a deacon.

The people pleaded that the deacon be saved from death and undergo torture instead but the judge sentenced Flavian to be beheaded. As he was led to the place of execution a pounding rain fell from heaven and the unbelievers in the crowd ran for cover. Flavian was thus permitted by God to take his leave of the faithful without one profane person being present.

He prayed for the peace of the Church and the union of the brethren. So engaged in prayer, he fell beneath the sword. -The Book of Saints: The Deacons