Faith Under Fire: Stories of Unshaken Courage

Throughout history, believers in Jesus Christ have faced trials that tested their faith to the breaking point. Some were ridiculed, others imprisoned, and many even gave their lives—all for the sake of the One they followed. Jesus himself forewarned His followers, saying, "He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it" (Matt. 10:39). This timeless call has echoed through generations, inspiring countless Christians to stay true in the face of persecution.

The theme of persecution is one that has shadowed believers since the early days of Christianity, shaping our faith and reminding us of what it truly means to follow Christ. Students in the 7th-12th grade Student Advancement Day Writing Class (An Introduction to Journalism) have taken on the challenge of exploring this theme through selected stories in Foxe's Book of Martyrs. This book recounts powerful accounts of believers who paid the ultimate price for their faith. John Foxe, a man who dedicated 25 years of his life to gathering these stories, captured the courage of those who endured Rome’s ten great persecutions and beyond.

Our class has studied these stories, not just as historical accounts, but as testimonies to the unshakable courage that faith can inspire. We hope that by sharing what we’ve learned, we can encourage other Christian teens to stand strong in their faith. While we may not face the same trials, the courage of these martyrs is a reminder that faith worth living for is also faith worth standing for—no matter the cost.


Below, you’ll find links to each student’s article. Each piece offers a unique perspective on a story of courage and sacrifice, as seen through the eyes of a young writer inspired by Foxe’s Book of Martyrs. As you read, consider what these lives say to us today and how they might encourage you to stand firm in your own faith journey.

EPIPODIUS by Micah Ace: Epipodius

JUSTIN by Jinger Hening: Justin

PETER by Johanna Henning: Peter

SEBASTIAN by Derek Henning: Sebastian

BLANDINA by Bethany Roberts: Blandina

SYMPHOROSA by Haylie Henning: Symphorosa & Her Seven Sons

QUIRINUS by Peyton Lemay: Quirinus

THE CATACOMBS by Daniel Roberts The Catacombs

DOMITIAN'S PERSECUTION by Caleb Gulczynski: Domitian's Persecution

THE FAITHFUL by Luke Gulczynski: The Faithful

NERO by Jeremiah Holt: Nero's 1st Persecution

THE THEBAN LEGION by Mikey Lemay: The Theban Legion

RUFUS by Matthew Roberts: Rufus

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