The significant influence and guidance of a mother is recognized as Nonna raised one of the holiest families in history with her devotion and prayer.

Nonna was born to Christians in 305 in a place called Nazianus, which was still under Roman rule. The area is present-day northern Turkey. Her parents raised her in the ways of the Catholic Church.

She was tested when she entered into an arranged marriage with Gregory of Arianzus, who was a wealthy landowner. She experienced great sadness because he was pagan and followed a sect. She prayed fervently for his conversion.

She bore 3 children, one of which became St. Gregory the Theologian. He wrote that his mother could not bear a half-united marriage to God and she sought a spiritual union, fasting and praying with tears, day and night.

Her husband had a strange vision while sleeping which created a desire for him to go to church. He embraced the faith and announced his conversion to Christ at the First Ecumenical Council of Nicea, and was baptized. He was later ordained a bishop and Nonna was made a deaconess and became completely involved in performing works of charity.

She was pious, strong and vigorous and used their wealth for God and the poor, especially those who were impoverished.

She became very ill and on her deathbed, experienced a Eucharistic Miracle, and the next day, was healed and described as being like her old self. She experienced great sorrow as her husband, youngest son and daughter died within several years of each other. Still, she remained dedicated to caring for widows, orphans and the poor.

She died while at Church participating in the Divine Liturgy.

Her son Gregory, became Bishop of Nazianzus and a Doctor of the Church. Her other two children, Gorgonia and Caesarius, also became saints.

She is the patron saint against the death of children.

Her feast day is August 5.

For God’s Glory.