Podcast: Sant’Anastasia: Faith in the Shadow of Empire
As we continue our Lenten journey through the Station Churches of Rome, today we arrive at Sant’Anastasia al Palatino, the designated church for the Tuesday of the First Week of Lent. Located at the foot of the Palatine Hill, this ancient basilica is steeped in history, standing as a silent witness to the contrast between earthly power and the enduring kingdom of Christ.
Receive all our content directly to your email by subscribing here:
The Church and Its Artistic Treasures
Stepping inside Sant’Anastasia, one is immediately drawn to its classical basilica structure—a long nave, side aisles, and an atmosphere that speaks to both antiquity and quiet reverence. While later renovations introduced Baroque elements, the church retains its ancient essence.
Notable artistic features include:
- A 17th-century fresco in the apse depicting Saint Anastasia in glory, a visual testament to her martyrdom and triumph.
- A revered icon of the Madonna and Child, long venerated in this church, which serves as a focal point for prayer and reflection.
Lenten Reflection: Witness and Perseverance
On this second day of the First Week of Lent, the station at Sant’Anastasia invites us to reflect on the cost of discipleship and the endurance of faith. Just as Saint Anastasia remained faithful through persecution, we too are called to remain steadfast in our spiritual journey.
The church’s location at the base of the Palatine Hill reminds us of the transience of earthly power. The emperors who ruled from above sought control through force, yet their reigns have long faded into history. Meanwhile, the Christian faith, once persecuted and hidden, has endured and flourished.
As we continue through Lent, we must ask ourselves: Where do we place our trust? In the fleeting power of the world, or in the eternal victory of Christ? Sant’Anastasia stands as a powerful challenge to place our hope in Christ alone.
Visit and Pray
For those on pilgrimage in Rome, Sant’Anastasia remains a place of quiet prayer and reflection, offering a respite from the noise of the city. Whether in person or from afar, today’s station church calls us to persevere in faith and seek the kingdom that does not fade.
Stay with us on this journey! Tomorrow, we move forward to the next Station Church, continuing our Lenten pilgrimage through Rome’s most sacred sites.
Virtual Visit of the Roman Basilica
If you need a helpful book of meditations for this Season of Lent, check out my publication of meditations on the Passion of Jesus written for young Passionist novices.
Crux Stationalis 