During the persecution of Christians, many believers sought refuge in remote mountains, deserts and caves. Among them was the mother of Saint Quadratus. She gave birth to her son in solitude and died almost immediately. The infant survived, nourished by the providence of God and protected by his guardian angel. Like the Israelites, he lived on manna from the sky and sweet dew from a cloud.
When he turned twelve, he left his solitary abode and was adopted by a family who gave him an education. He mastered the art of medicine and began to cure people with potions, herbs, and, most importantly, by his faith and prayer.
When the Roman Emperor Decius unleashed harsh persecution of Christians, he was denounced, captured and imprisoned. Five people among his friends came out to support him and declared themselves Christians. All six were dragged across the town to the place of their execution, as the Pagans stoned them and struck them with sticks along the way.
On the spot where the martyrs were beheaded in 250, a spring of water gushed out. It was given the name of Saint Quadratus in honour of him and his five friends.
