Julian suffered in Campania, Italy, under Emperor Flavian, who sought to wipe out all followers of Christ. Meeting a band of soldiers, the young man greeted them with peace and boldly declared his faith in Christ the Saviour. He longed to bear pain and die for Jesus. Standing before Flavian, the saint prayed for strength to endure torture. A heavenly voice said, “Do not fear, Julian, I will be with you and give you courage.” Upheld by the Lord, the youth endured a week in jail without food or water. An angel came to him, bringing nourishment and strengthening him for the battle ahead.
Flavian attempted to persuade Julian to give up his faith and worship idols, but the saint once more declared his willingness to die for Christ. They tied the youth to a tree and beat him without mercy. Again, the Lord gave him strength, bidding him not to fear and to stand firm. Despite the brutality, Julian found voice to speak to the crowd: “Hear me, you wretched ones, do not trust in the gods you have made with your hands. Know the God who made the heavens and the earth from nothing.” After these words, dozens believed in Christ.
Julian prayed, and the local pagan temple fell in ruins. This news gave heart to the Christians, who praised God. The angry pagans accused Julian of evil powers and chose to kill him among the broken stones of their shrine. The holy martyr knelt and prayed to the Lord. For the third time, a voice called the youth to the Kingdom of Heaven. The saint welcomed death by beheading.
