8 This is the secret of Blandina’s freedom. She belongs to a family of Christians, who consider all as children of the same Father. In their eyes, there are neither slaves nor masters, only the baptized, saved by Jesus Christ. Market Gossip “These Christians are suspect,” a customer nearby said in a low voice, once Pothinus and his two companions had moved away. The wine merchant turned to him, eyes widening. “And why is that?” “Their meetings,” the customer replied. “Terrible things happen there! They commit crimes that neither you nor I can even imagine.” The merchant stammered: “Do you—do you really think so? Christians seem like nice and honest people.” “Don’t be fooled by appearances,” the customer said. “They refuse to worship the emperor. Remember the floods this winter? That was their fault! They angered the goddess Cybele. And then,” the customer added, even lower, “they eat human flesh!” “We Are Christians, and We Have Done Nothing Wrong.” As time passed, rumors continued to spread. Before long, no one would risk defending Christians, so horrifying were the things said about them. One day, Roman authorities decided to put an end to their community. Blandina was arrested, along with fifty other Christians. Bishop Pothinus died of exhaustion in prison. The others were tortured. To save her life, a terrified Biblis told her accusers that she no longer believed in Jesus. But then she remembered that life on the earth is nothing compared to the eternal life promised by Jesus. So, she cried in a loud voice: “That’s not true! I am a Christian, and I’m proud and happy to be one!” Despite the Romans’ abuse, Blandina kept her cheer, repeating, “We are Christians, and we have done no wrong.” Her accusers grew angry. “That’s a lie!” they exclaimed. “And for it, you will be put to death in the arena!” But Blandina kept repeating the same words, in a clear voice: “We are Christians, and we have done nothing wrong.” Many witnesses were impressed. They knew that she was telling the truth. Later, despite the danger, some would dare to follow her example and ask to be baptized.
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