St. Paraskevi (ca. 140-180?), healer of the blind, was born in Rome to wealthy Greek Christian parents. Paraskevi was impressed with the Christian life they led. She received both a secular and a Scriptural education and was very knowledgeable about philosophy.

At the age of 20, both her parents died and she sold her inheritance and gave most of her money to the poor. The remainder went to a community treasury which supported a home for women who had dedicated their lives to the teachings of Christianity. Paraskevi taught in this home for many years.

Eventually, she went out to teach the way of Christ during a period of intense persecution. At this time, Antonius Pius was emperor and would not execute Christians without a formal complaint and trial. He tortured and imprisoned Paraskevi. During a torture session, she is said to have withstood being immersed in a vat of boiling oil and tar. Antonius Pius thought she used magic to keep the contents cool, but Paraskevi told him he could test it and threw some of the boiling liquid in his face. Antonius was blinded and burned by the mixture. Paraskevi stepped out of the vat and went to Antonius, telling him that only the Christian God could cure him. He immediately regained his sight, freed Paraskevi, and ended all persecutions against the Christians. Paraskevi left Rome to continue teaching.

After the death of Antonius Pius, Paraskevi was captured and thrown into a pit with a snake for refusing to sacrifice to the pagan gods. She made the Sign of the Cross and the snake didn't harm her. The ruler of the city released her realizing that a mighty power protected her.

Finally, Paraskevi was captured again, tortured, and taken to the temple of Apollo, where she made the Sign of the Cross. A loud noise was heard and all the idols in the temple were destroyed. She was condemned to death and beheaded outside the city.