The name of the author of “Perpetua Essay 2” is Fr. Reagan Fernandes, whose work contemplates the efforts of Christians in the face of persecution. Drawing examples from real-life tragedies, like the murder of a Christian man by Al-Shabaab terrorists in Kenya and the beheading of a Christian father by the Taliban in Afghanistan, Fr. Fernandes highlights the harsh realities that Christians must face across the globe. These incidents are not isolated either, as reports from the charity Open Doors reveal a rise in the persecution of Christians around the world. Despite these difficulties, Fr. Fernandes encourages Christians to draw their strength and courage from the teachings and actions of Jesus, as exemplified by the story of Vibia Perpetua - a Christian martyr from the 3rd century.

Perpetua was a young, married woman with a nursing infant who was incarcerated along with her companions for professing her faith in Christ. Despite the harsh treatment from her captors and pleas from her father to denounce her faith, Perpetua stood firm in her devotion. She willingly faced death by wild beasts rather than concede to the demands of government officials. In doing so, Perpetua demonstrated her loyalty to Christ above all else, even choosing God over family. This action is in line with Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 10:37, where he says that one must love him above all else, including family members.

Similarly, Perpetua’s joyful and serene demeanor during her final moments echoes Jesus’ message in Matthew 5:11-12, where he blesses those who remain steadfast in the face of persecution and promises them great rewards in heaven. Fr. Fernandes urges Christians to look to Perpetua’s example of unyielding faith and courage to find inspiration in difficult times.

When Jesus was led to his crucifixion at Calvary, he did not resist the soldiers. He carried his cross with calmness and willingly died for the will of God. Despite the scourging, torment, and crucifixion, he showed serenity and acceptance. Perpetua, too, did not resist the guards when she was in prison. When condemned to face wild beasts, she approached the arena with calmness, knowing that this was the gateway to her place in heaven with Christ, her savior.

As a disciple of Jesus, I strive to emulate him in defending my faith. I come from Goa, a city located on the southern coast of India. When I was ordained as a priest, I was tasked to evangelize in a faraway village despite having to leave my home and family. Remembering Jesus's words from Matthew 10:37, I accepted this mission even though it was difficult leaving my loved ones.

Three years later, I was assigned another mission to be a missionary priest in a rural village dominated by Hindu fundamentalists in a different state. Despite being amidst hostility, I persisted in preaching the Good News of Jesus and praying with local families. Unfortunately, Hindu fundamentalist groups became aware of my evangelistic activities and barged into a family home while we were praying. They threatened me to stop preaching about Jesus and warned me of severe consequences. Despite their fury, I remained calm and expressed my intentions of sharing God's love for his people. Although they attacked and injured me, I was tranquil because I was walking in the footsteps of Jesus.

Perpetua's story is an inspiration to remain faithful to Jesus's teachings despite persecution from the government or pressure from family members. Following her example, I try my best to follow Jesus even amidst persecution.

Perpetua's legacy should inspire us to emulate Jesus's actions and teachings despite hardships and persecution. We should remain joyful witnesses of Christ in the world today instead of growing cold and distant. If we face trials and hardships on our journey, we should remember Christ's sacrifice for us and the joy and happiness we will experience when we join Him in heaven.