This observance appears in the catholic calendar with liturgical color green .
Saint Fabian, a third-century Pope and Martyr, is known for his miraculous election, organizing the Church's administration into diaconates, and courageously suffering martyrdom during the Decian persecution.
Pope Saint Fabian served as the Bishop of Rome from 236 to 250 AD, reportedly chosen by divine intervention when a dove settled upon his head during the papal election. During his pontificate, he significantly contributed to the Church's structure by dividing Rome into seven diaconates, entrusting each with the care of the poor and the supervision of charitable activities, and he also sent missionaries to Gaul. He is also credited with improving the Roman catacombs and initiating the collection of acts of the martyrs. Saint Fabian ultimately met his death as a martyr during the severe persecution initiated by Emperor Decius, demonstrating steadfast faith and leadership until his demise in 250 AD.
Saint Fabian, a figure of profound significance in the early Church, ascended to the Chair of Peter under extraordinary circumstances, marking the beginning of a fourteen-year pontificate characterized by administrative genius, pastoral zeal, and unwavering courage in the face of escalating persecution. His election as the twentieth Bishop of Rome in 236 AD was, according to the ancient account in the *Liber Pontificalis* and the historian Eusebius, a truly miraculous event. As the faithful gathered to elect a successor to Pope Anterus, Fabian, a simple layman with no apparent ecclesiastical experience, was present among the crowd. Suddenly, a dove descended from the heavens and settled upon his head, an unmistakable sign reminiscent of the Holy Spirit's descent upon Christ at His baptism. This divine manifestation so moved the assembled clergy and laity that they unanimously acclaimed him Pope, crying out, "Fabian is Pope!" This miraculous call underscored the belief that his leadership was divinely ordained, setting a powerful precedent for the spiritual authority of the Roman See.
Upon his unexpected elevation, Pope Fabian immediately set about consolidating and expanding the nascent Church's administrative structure, a task for which he proved remarkably adept. Recognizing the growing needs of the Christian community in Rome, he famously divided the city into seven diaconates, each presided over by a deacon responsible for the care of the poor, the administration of charitable works, and the oversight of the Church's temporal affairs within their designated district. This organizational innovation was crucial for managing the burgeoning Christian population and ensuring that pastoral care and material support reached all members, particularly the most vulnerable. Furthermore, he appointed seven subdeacons to assist in the collection and preservation of the *acta martyrum*, the official records of the martyrs' trials and deaths, recognizing the profound spiritual value of these testimonies for future generations.
Fabian's administrative acumen extended beyond Rome's internal organization. He was a Pope with a global vision for the Church, even in an era of intense Roman imperial scrutiny. Tradition credits him with sending missionaries, including the 'Apostles of the Gauls,' such as Saint Denis, to evangelize the distant regions of Gaul (modern-day France). This bold initiative demonstrates his commitment to the Great Commission, extending the reach of the Gospel beyond the immediate confines of the Roman capital. His pontificate also saw the reconciliation of the schism that had arisen between the Roman Church and the followers of Hippolytus, a prominent theologian and rival claimant to the papacy. Fabian facilitated the return of the exiled Pope Pontian and Hippolytus from the Sardinian mines, where they had been condemned, and arranged for their honorable burial in Rome, thus healing a painful division and promoting unity within the Roman Church.
Beyond his administrative and missionary endeavors, Pope Fabian actively engaged with theological challenges of his time. He corresponded with prominent figures like Origen, a highly influential but controversial theologian, recalling him to Rome to address certain doctrinal issues. While the exact details of their interaction are debated, Fabian's engagement highlights his commitment to upholding orthodox teaching and maintaining doctrinal purity. He also played a role in the early career of Novatian, who would later become a schismatic antipope, indicating Fabian's efforts to guide and integrate talented individuals into the Church's service, even those who would later stray. His leadership during this period helped to solidify the Roman Church's role as a central arbiter of faith and discipline.
However, the relative peace that marked much of Fabian's pontificate came to an abrupt and violent end with the ascension of Emperor Decius in 249 AD. Decius, a staunch traditionalist, launched the first empire-wide persecution of Christians, demanding that all citizens publicly offer sacrifices to the Roman gods as a test of loyalty to the state. This was not merely a localized persecution but a systematic attempt to eradicate Christianity, which the emperor viewed as a subversive force undermining the Roman state. Pope Fabian, as the visible head of the Christian community, became an immediate target and a symbol of resistance. He courageously refused to compromise his faith or the faith of his flock, standing firm against the imperial decree.
His unwavering resolve led to his arrest and imprisonment. On January 20, 250 AD, Pope Saint Fabian suffered martyrdom, likely by beheading, becoming one of the first and most prominent victims of the Decian persecution. His death sent shockwaves through the Christian world, leaving the Roman See vacant for over a year due to the intensity of the persecution, as no one dared to openly assume the leadership role. Fabian's martyrdom, however, was not an end but a powerful testament to his fidelity and a source of inspiration for countless Christians facing similar trials. He is revered as a model of episcopal courage and administrative wisdom, a shepherd who truly laid down his life for his sheep, leaving an indelible mark on the structure, mission, and spiritual fortitude of the early Catholic Church. He is buried in the Catacomb of Callixtus, a sacred resting place for many of Rome's early popes and martyrs.
The air in Rome was thick with anticipation. The venerable Pope Anterus had passed, and the Christian community, still a persecuted minority yet growing in strength and number, gathered to choose his successor. Many learned and esteemed priests, deacons, and respected elders were present, each with their own merits and supporters, their names whispered among the faithful as worthy candidates for the Chair of Peter. Debates were earnest, and the weight of the decision lay heavy on every heart, for the leader chosen would guide the flock through treacherous times.
Among the multitude, amidst the fervent prayers and discussions, stood a simple layman named Fabian. He was not a cleric, held no high office in the Church, and by all earthly measures, was not even considered a candidate for the papacy. He had come merely as a faithful member of the community, observing the solemn proceedings. His presence was unassuming, his thoughts likely focused on the future of the Church rather than any personal ambition.
Suddenly, as if a breath from heaven swept through the assembly, a hush fell. All eyes turned skyward, then fixed upon Fabian. For, in that sacred moment, a pure white dove descended from above. It did not flutter aimlessly, nor did it settle on any of the renowned clerics or the prominent figures in the room. Instead, with a gentle, deliberate grace, it came to rest directly upon the head of the humble Fabian.
A gasp rippled through the gathered faithful. The sight was unmistakable, a profound echo of the Holy Spirit descending upon Christ at His baptism. It was a sign so clear, so miraculous, that it transcended all human deliberation and earthly calculations. As one, a single, thunderous cry erupted from the throats of the entire assembly, cutting through the silence: "Fabian is Pope! Fabian is Pope!"
There was no further debate, no dissenting voice. The divine will had been made manifest. Overwhelmed by the undeniable sign, Fabian, the simple layman, was immediately seized by the people and, with reverent awe, was enthroned as the Bishop of Rome. His election was a testament not to human strategy or influence, but to God's mysterious and perfect plan, choosing the unexpected to lead His Church through the trials that lay ahead. It was a moment that solidified the conviction among the faithful that the Spirit of God truly guided the succession of Peter.
1909
Fabian, Saint, Pope and Martyr (236-250), succeeded St. Anterus as Bishop of Rome on 10 January, 236. Eusebius (Church History VI.29) relates that the Christians had assembled in Rome to elect a new bishop. Several prominent and noble persons were considered, when suddenly a dove flew in and settled on the head of Fabian, a layman, of noble birth, who was not even thought of as a candidate. The assembly, taking this as a sign from heaven, proclaimed Fabian bishop by acclamation. This is all that Eusebius records concerning the election of Fabian. The Liber Pontificalis says that Fabian was a Roman by birth, and that his father was Fabius. It is said that in the persecution of Decius, Fabian suffered martyrdom on 20 January, 250 (Eusebius, Church History VI.39, 41; VII.10). Cyprian, in a letter to Cornelius (Ep. lv, 9), says: “With the excellent Anterus, a worthy successor, Fabian was made, the glory of whose martyrdom matched the purity of his life.”
During his fourteen years' episcopate, the persecution of the Christians ceased, as the Emperor Maximinus Thrax, who had begun it, was killed in 238. Fabian therefore had time to organize the Roman Church. He divided Rome into seven diaconates and appointed seven deacons to supervise the charitable work of the Church in these districts. He also appointed seven subdeacons, who were to collect the acts of the martyrs, and seven notaries, who were to register the same. He is said to have instituted the four minor orders of porter, lector, exorcist, and acolyte, though this is not supported by historical evidence. He improved the Roman catacombs, and had the body of Pope Pontian, who had died in exile in Sardinia, brought to Rome and honourably interred in the papal crypt in the Catacomb of Callixtus. He sent missionaries into Gaul, among whom was St. Denys, the first Bishop of Paris. Origen addressed to Fabian a letter in defence of his orthodoxy, on account of the charges brought against him by Demetrius of Alexandria. In the Novatian schism, Fabian was one of those who opposed Novatian, who was later to become an antipope. Novatian, a Roman presbyter, was a man of great learning, but of a harsh and un charitable disposition. Fabian, however, recognized his abilities, and even wanted to promote him to the priesthood, but Novatian refused to be ordained.
After the death of Emperor Philip the Arab, who was well disposed towards the Christians, Decius became emperor in 249. He began a fierce persecution of the Christians, the first directed by imperial edict against the entire Church. The emperor’s object was to restore the ancient Roman religion, and he ordered that all citizens should offer sacrifice to the gods. Christians who refused were to be put to death. Fabian was one of the first victims of this persecution. He was arrested and imprisoned, and on 20 January, 250, he was martyred. Cyprian, in his letter to Cornelius (Ep. lxviii, 5), speaks of Fabian as “that most excellent man, the partner of your sufferings, and your most glorious predecessor.” His body was interred in the papal crypt in the Catacomb of Callixtus, where his original epitaph, in Greek, has been found. It reads: “Fabian, Bishop, Martyr.” His feast day is celebrated on 20 January.
Saint Sebastian, a Roman soldier martyred for his steadfast faith during the Diocletianic persecution, is venerated as a powerful intercessor, especially against plagues.
Saint Sebastian was a valiant Roman soldier and captain of the Praetorian Guard who secretly practiced his faith, comforting and encouraging fellow believers imprisoned for their convictions during the severe persecutions under Emperor Diocletian in the 3rd century. When his faith was discovered, he was condemned to be executed by archers, yet miraculously survived the volley of arrows, only to be later clubbed to death and thrown into a sewer, thus completing his martyrdom. Revered for his incredible courage and unwavering devotion, Saint Sebastian is widely invoked as a patron against plagues and infectious diseases, as well as by athletes, soldiers, and archers, serving as an enduring symbol of heroic faith in the face of immense suffering.
Saint Sebastian, Martyr, whose feast day is commemorated on January 20th, stands as one of the most revered and iconic figures among the early Christian martyrs. Born in Narbonne, Gaul (modern-day France), around 256 AD, he was educated in Milan, Italy, before embarking on a military career that would paradoxically place him at the heart of the Roman Empire's power structure. His exceptional skills and upright character led him to rise swiftly through the ranks, eventually becoming a captain of the Praetorian Guard, a prestigious unit responsible for guarding the Roman Emperor. This position, under the reigns of Emperors Carinus and Diocletian, was particularly perilous for a Christian, as Diocletian was known for initiating one of the most brutal persecutions against followers of Christ in the empire's history. Yet, Sebastian, a devout believer, maintained his faith in secret, using his privileged position not for personal gain, but as an instrument of divine grace, a silent sentinel for the persecuted Church. His life was a testament to courage, faith, and an unwavering commitment to his fellow Christians, even at the cost of his own life.
Sebastian utilized his esteemed military standing as a clandestine apostolate. He moved freely among Christian prisoners, offering them comfort, encouragement, and spiritual solace, strengthening their resolve to endure torture and face martyrdom rather than renounce their faith. His presence often renewed the spirits of those wavering under duress, reminding them of the eternal reward awaiting their steadfastness. Accounts detail how he miraculously healed and converted many, including Zoe, a mute woman who regained her speech after Sebastian made the Sign of the Cross over her, leading to her conversion and that of her husband, Nicostratus, a high-ranking court official. Through his fervent witness and divine intervention, entire families and even prominent figures, such as Chromatius, the Prefect of Rome, and his son Tiburtius, were brought into the Christian fold, demonstrating the profound impact of his secret ministry within the very heart of the pagan establishment.
Inevitably, Sebastian’s unwavering devotion and clandestine activities were discovered. Emperor Diocletian, who regarded Sebastian with high esteem, felt a profound sense of betrayal upon learning of his captain’s Christian faith. The emperor, enraged by what he perceived as disloyalty and defiance, condemned Sebastian to a particularly cruel execution: he was to be tied to a post and shot with arrows by Mauritanian archers, a death designed to be slow and agonizing. This horrific scene, often depicted in art, shows Sebastian pierced by numerous arrows, left for dead by his executioners. The archers, believing him to be dead, departed, leaving his body exposed as a warning to other Christians.
However, divine providence intervened. A pious woman named Irene of Rome, the widow of another martyr, Saint Castulus, went to retrieve Sebastian’s body for burial. To her astonishment, she found him still alive, though gravely wounded. She carefully brought him to her home and nursed him back to health, tending to his many arrow wounds. This miraculous recovery further solidified his reputation as a man favored by God, and it presented him with an extraordinary, second opportunity to bear witness to his faith. Rather than fleeing Rome or seeking refuge, Sebastian, with renewed strength and an even bolder spirit, chose to confront the emperor directly.
Having fully recovered, Sebastian positioned himself on the steps of a temple where Emperor Diocletian was about to enter. With remarkable courage, he accosted the emperor, openly rebuking him for his cruel persecution of Christians and condemning his idolatry. Diocletian, utterly astonished and even more infuriated to see the man he believed dead now standing before him, alive and defiant, immediately ordered his re-arrest. This time, the emperor ensured there would be no miraculous escape. Sebastian was taken to the Hippodrome, where he was mercilessly beaten to death with clubs, ensuring his martyrdom was complete. His body was then ignominiously thrown into the Cloaca Maxima, Rome's main sewer, to prevent Christians from recovering and venerating his relics.
Despite the emperor’s efforts to obliterate his memory, Sebastian’s body was recovered by another devout woman, Lucina, who was guided by a vision. She retrieved his remains from the sewer and reverently buried them in the Catacombs, specifically in the Catacombs of Callixtus, on the Appian Way. His tomb quickly became a revered pilgrimage site, and his cult spread rapidly throughout the Christian world. Saint Sebastian's enduring legacy is multifaceted: he is widely invoked as a patron saint against plagues and infectious diseases, a patronage that originated from the visual association of arrows with the sudden onset of plague, and his intercession during historical outbreaks like the Roman plague of 680 AD. He is also honored as the patron of soldiers, athletes, and archers, embodying strength, perseverance, and unwavering faith in the face of adversity. His life serves as a powerful reminder of the ultimate triumph of spiritual conviction over temporal power, inspiring countless believers through the centuries to stand firm in their faith, even unto death.
In the grim days of Emperor Diocletian’s relentless persecution, where Christian faith meant certain death, there walked a man named Sebastian, a captain of the elite Praetorian Guard. His position was a cloak, for beneath the soldier's uniform beat the heart of a fervent Christian. While others hunted believers, Sebastian sought them out in their dungeons, not to imprison, but to embolden. One day, he found himself amidst a group of Christians condemned to martyrdom, their spirits faltering under the weight of fear and despair. Among them was Zoe, the wife of Nicostratus, a chief jailer. Zoe had been mute for six years, unable to speak, her affliction a source of profound sorrow.
As Sebastian spoke words of comfort and encouragement to the trembling captives, urging them to remain steadfast for Christ, Zoe, though silent, listened intently. Her eyes, filled with longing, fixed upon him. Sensing her profound faith and suffering, Sebastian approached her. With a heart full of compassion and the power of his conviction, he made the Sign of the Cross over her lips, invoking the name of Christ. Immediately, a miracle unfolded: Zoe's tongue was loosed, and she cried out with a clear voice, glorifying God! The sound, so long absent, filled the dismal prison cell, astonishing all who heard it.
Nicostratus, her husband, along with his brother Castorius and many others present, witnessed this undeniable sign of divine power. Overwhelmed by the miracle and Sebastian's unwavering faith, they fell to their knees, confessing their belief in Christ. News of this astounding event reached even the ears of Chromatius, the Prefect of Rome, a man of high authority and influence, who was himself suffering from a severe illness. Intrigued and desperate, Chromatius summoned Sebastian.
Sebastian, with the same quiet confidence that marked his every action, ministered to the Prefect. Through his prayers and the grace of God, Chromatius was not only cured of his debilitating illness but, like Zoe and Nicostratus, also embraced the Christian faith. This profound conversion led to Chromatius liberating all his Christian prisoners and even resigning his prefecture to devote his life to God. Such was the extraordinary impact of Saint Sebastian, a man who, though disguised as a persecutor's agent, was in truth a beacon of light, healing bodies and souls, and fearlessly spreading the Gospel even under the very shadow of death, revealing his profound faith and unwavering devotion to Christ and His suffering Church.
1483
Here followeth the life of Saint Sebastian, and first of his name.
Sebastian is said of two words, that is to say, of seba, which is counsel, and styan, which is going, as a man going by the counsel of God. Or Sebastian is said of sebas, which is a prince, and styan, which is going, as a prince going, for he went before to martyrdom, and was a prince of the host. He was a knight of Narbonne, and was brought up at Milan, and was so beloved of Diocletian the emperor, that he made him prince of his host, and was so courteous and so well beloved of all them of the palace, that they that were Christian might well believe that he was Christian, and they that were pagan might well believe that he was pagan, and yet was he Christian. He comforted them that were put to martyrdom, and said to them: My brethren, be ye not moved of these light torments, for they be not but for a little while, and then ye shall come to everlasting glory. And then they were much comforted.
There were two brethren, Mark and Marcellian, which were taken and delivered to Nicostratus the prince, and he put them in prison. And when their father and mother came to them, and their wives and their children, and began to weep and cry, and admonish them to do sacrifice to the idols, because they would not leave them so young, then Sebastian came and comforted them and said: O ye knights of Christ, do not for the tears of your wives and children lose the everlasting life. And when they heard him, they began to be comforted. Then Nicostratus the prince said to him: What art thou that hast so great speech? And he said: I am Sebastian, and I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Nicostratus said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Nicostratus said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Nicostratus said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Nicostratus said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ.
And when the wife of Nicostratus, named Zoe, which had been six years dumb, heard Sebastian speak, she ran to him and fell down at his feet, and Sebastian made the sign of the cross upon her mouth, and she began to speak, and said: I bless thee, Lord Jesu Christ, for thou hast opened my mouth. And then Nicostratus and all his household, and all the people that were there, believed in Christ. And then Sebastian said to them: My brethren, be ye not moved of these light torments, for they be not but for a little while, and then ye shall come to everlasting glory. And then they were much comforted.
Then Chromatius, the Prefect of Rome, which was then present, and had the gout, was converted to the faith of Christ by the miracle of Zoe, and was baptised, and all his household, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, believed in Christ. And then Sebastian said to them: My brethren, be ye not moved of these light torments, for they be not but for a little while, and then ye shall come to everlasting glory. And then they were much comforted. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ.
Then Chromatius, the Prefect of Rome, which was then present, and had the gout, was converted to the faith of Christ by the miracle of Zoe, and was baptised, and all his household, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, believed in Christ. And then Sebastian said to them: My brethren, be ye not moved of these light torments, for they be not but for a little while, and then ye shall come to everlasting glory. And then they were much comforted. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ.
And then Chromatius was baptised, and all his household, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, believed in Christ. And then Sebastian said to them: My brethren, be ye not moved of these light torments, for they be not but for a little while, and then ye shall come to everlasting glory. And then they were much comforted. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ.
And then Chromatius was baptised, and all his household, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, believed in Christ. And then Sebastian said to them: My brethren, be ye not moved of these light torments, for they be not but for a little while, and then ye shall come to everlasting glory. And then they were much comforted. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ.
And then Chromatius was baptised, and all his household, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, believed in Christ. And then Sebastian said to them: My brethren, be ye not moved of these light torments, for they be not but for a little while, and then ye shall come to everlasting glory. And then they were much comforted. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ.
And then Chromatius was baptised, and all his household, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, believed in Christ. And then Sebastian said to them: My brethren, be ye not moved of these light torments, for they be not but for a little while, and then ye shall come to everlasting glory. And then they were much comforted. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ.
And then Chromatius was baptised, and all his household, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, believed in Christ. And then Sebastian said to them: My brethren, be ye not moved of these light torments, for they be not but for a little while, and then ye shall come to everlasting glory. And then they were much comforted. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ.
And then Chromatius was baptised, and all his household, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, believed in Christ. And then Sebastian said to them: My brethren, be ye not moved of these light torments, for they be not but for a little while, and then ye shall come to everlasting glory. And then they were much comforted. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ.
And then Chromatius was baptised, and all his household, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, believed in Christ. And then Sebastian said to them: My brethren, be ye not moved of these light torments, for they be not but for a little while, and then ye shall come to everlasting glory. And then they were much comforted. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ.
And then Chromatius was baptised, and all his household, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, believed in Christ. And then Sebastian said to them: My brethren, be ye not moved of these light torments, for they be not but for a little while, and then ye shall come to everlasting glory. And then they were much comforted. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ.
And then Chromatius was baptised, and all his household, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, believed in Christ. And then Sebastian said to them: My brethren, be ye not moved of these light torments, for they be not but for a little while, and then ye shall come to everlasting glory. And then they were much comforted. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ.
And then Chromatius was baptised, and all his household, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, and all the people that were there, and all the prisoners that were there, believed in Christ. And then Sebastian said to them: My brethren, be ye not moved of these light torments, for they be not but for a little while, and then ye shall come to everlasting glory. And then they were much comforted. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ. And then Chromatius said to him: Thou art a Christian, and thou art in the host of the emperor, and thou hast this long time served him, and thou hast not done sacrifice to the idols? And he said: I have served him, and I have done the service to God that is due to him, and for this cause I am come hither for to comfort them that be in the faith of Christ.
And when the emperor Diocletian heard that Sebastian was a Christian, he was much wroth, and commanded that he should be bound to a stake and shot with arrows till he were dead. And when he was so shot, that he was left for dead, there came a woman named Irene, which was a Christian, and found him alive, and brought him to her house, and healed him. And when he was whole, he went to the palace, and stood before the emperor, and said to him: O emperor, thou hast done wickedly, for thou hast persecuted the Christians, which be innocent, and thou hast shed their blood, and thou hast done sacrifice to the idols, which be devils. And when the emperor saw him, he was much astonished, and said: Art thou not Sebastian, whom I commanded to be shot to death? And he said: I am Sebastian, and I am come hither for to accuse thee of thy wickedness. And then the emperor commanded that he should be beaten with rods till he were dead, and that his body should be cast into the privy. And so he was martyred. And then a woman named Lucina, which was a Christian, took his body out of the privy, and buried it in the catacombs, at the place where now is the church of Saint Sebastian. And so he rested in peace. Amen.
Elaborate street processions and festivals are held in numerous towns, particularly in Southern Italy (e.g., Acireale, Sicily; Mistretta, Sicily; Vibo Valentia, Calabria) and Spain (e.g., San Sebastián, Basque Country) on his feast day.
These traditions honor Saint Sebastian as a powerful patron and intercessor, often in towns where he is the principal patron saint, celebrating his martyrdom and protective powers.
Invocation and prayers for protection against plagues and infectious diseases are widely offered to Saint Sebastian, a practice that gained prominence during historical outbreaks like the Roman plague of 680 AD and subsequent epidemics in Europe.
His depiction pierced by arrows became symbolically linked to the sudden onset of plague, and his miraculous survival of the first martyrdom attempt was seen as a sign of divine protection against death by affliction.
Athletes, archers, and soldiers frequently invoke Saint Sebastian as their patron, leading to specific prayers or dedications in sports clubs, military units, and even the naming of athletic events or teams.
This patronage stems from his background as a Roman soldier and his physical endurance, strength, and unwavering courage displayed during his martyrdom.
Churches and parishes dedicated to Saint Sebastian, including many in the United States, observe his feast day with special Masses, novenas, and community gatherings, often featuring veneration of his relics.
These celebrations serve to honor his life and martyrdom, foster devotion among the faithful, and seek his intercession for various needs, particularly protection from illness.
A type of thin, fresh sausage, typically made with minced pork, garlic, salt, and paprika, giving it a characteristic red color. It is often fried or grilled and served with bread.
Txistorra is traditionally consumed in the Basque Country, especially in the city of San Sebastián, during the Tamborrada (drum parade) celebrations on the eve and day of Saint Sebastian's feast, marking the start of the city's main festivities.
A traditional alcoholic beverage made from fermented apple juice, often consumed in large quantities from pouring it from a height to aerate it.
Sidra is a popular drink accompanying the Txistorra and other celebratory foods during the lively festivities of Saint Sebastian's Day in the Basque Country, particularly in San Sebastián.