These holy Martyrs dwelt in Italy during the reign of Emperor Hadrian (117-138 AD). They came from a rich and devout family and their mother Sophia brought them up in the one true faith. Their father died when they were young leaving Sophia a widow. Word of their pious Christian life reached the Emperor who, hearing they were in Rome, sent soldiers to bring them before him.
Considering their youth, he was amazed at how strong in the faith Sophia’s daughters were, and thinking it was only by supporting one another that they were able to hold their own against him, he decided to the question them separately.

Faith, who was twelve years old, was brought in first The Emperor offered her the promise of great gifts and wild riches if she would just sacrifice to the pagan idols. He told her how beautiful she was and what a wonderful life he could make for her. She boldly dismissed the tyrant’s flatteries and scorned him. The Emperor was infuriated and had her stripped and mercilessly beaten. He had her breasts cut off. However the 12 year old remained steadfast in her love for Christ. She endured many more tortures because of her courage and faith. When, at last, they came to cut off her head, Sophia encouraged her to accept with joy the death that would unite her to Christ and give her the crown of martyrdom.

Hope, who was ten years old, was brought in next. Confessing Christ as courageously as her sister, she was beaten and cast into a raging furnace. After many other tortures, she too died by the sword, giving thanks to God.

Love, the third of the sisters at 9 years old, was then summoned before the Emperor. His rage was great and his lust for blood even greater. She showed the same steadfast mind as her sisters. The Emperor thinking she was just a simple child tried in vain to convince her that she could save herself from the tortures of her sisters. Little did he know that she welcomed her martyrdom so she could be with Christ. She was hung on a gallows and chained so tightly that her limbs were broken by the bonds. She was then thrown into a furnace, and finally, beheaded.

Sophia rejoiced in spirit to see her daughters so gloriously making their way to the ranks of the martyrs. She wept over their graves for three days and then she gave back her soul to God. Their memories are celebrated on September 17.