Meet St. Mena!

Tradition says that at 15, Mena’s courage led him to join the Roman army, a world of swords, shields, and strict orders. The empire, under Emperor Diocletian, was mighty, and tradition says Mena’s skill earned him a spot as deputy to a governor in Algeria, thanks to his father’s good name. One tale says he was skilled and strong, leading with calm despite his youth. But beneath his armor, Mena’s faith was in Christ, not Rome’s pagan gods. He prayed in secret, asking for Christ’s guidance in a place where faith could cost everything.

Tradition says that at 18, in 303 AD, Diocletian’s new rule shook Mena’s world: all soldiers must worship idols, or face death. Mena refused to bow. One night, he slipped away from camp, leaving his rank and riches behind. Tradition says he paused by a desert stream, praying for Christ’s strength to serve Him. He gave his gear to the poor and turned toward the wilderness, choosing Christ over the empire’s glory. One tale says his soldiers spoke of a commander who’d rather lose all than betray his God.

This bold step wasn’t just a goodbye to the army—it was Mena’s first stand as a soldier for Christ. In Coptic stories, it’s a spark of his martyrdom to come; in Ethiopian ones, it’s proof of his guardian heart. From Roman ranks to desert solitude, Mena’s choice showed a faith that no emperor could conquer, setting him on a path to heaven’s crown.