St. Sebastian

Feast Day: January 20

“The devil strains every nerve to secure the souls which belong to Christ. We should not grudge our toil in wrestling them from him.” – St. Sebastian

St. Sebastian, a Roman martyr, is honored for his courageous witness to Christ during the persecutions of the early Church. His feast day, celebrated on January 20, commemorates his steadfast faith, his role as a protector of Christians, and his reputation as a powerful intercessor in times of plague and suffering.

A Soldier for Christ

Sebastian was born in Narbonne, Gaul (modern-day France) in the 3rd century, and later moved to Rome. A Christian in secret, he served as an officer in the Roman Imperial Guard, admired for his bravery, discipline, and virtue.

While serving in the army, Sebastian used his position to comfort, encourage, and secretly assist imprisoned Christians, strengthening them in the faith and helping many to convert.

A Martyr’s Courage

When his Christian identity was discovered during the persecution under Emperor Diocletian, Sebastian was ordered to be executed. He was tied to a tree and shot with a hail of arrows, left for dead.

Miraculously, Sebastian survived. A Christian widow, St. Irene, found him, cared for his wounds, and nursed him back to health.

A Bold Witness to the End

Rather than flee, Sebastian boldly returned to confront Emperor Diocletian, denouncing his persecution of Christians. Enraged, the emperor ordered that Sebastian be beaten to death with clubs. This time, Sebastian gave his life fully for Christ, entering into the glory of the martyrs.

Protector Against Plagues and Patron of Soldiers

Throughout history, St. Sebastian has been invoked as a protector against plagues, especially during the Middle Ages, when his intercession was credited with halting deadly outbreaks. His image, often depicted as a figure tied to a tree and pierced with arrows, became a symbol of endurance, courage, and hope in times of suffering.

He is the patron saint of soldiers, athletes, archers, and those afflicted by plagues, a reminder of courage in the face of adversity and trust in God’s protection.

A Witness of Faith and Perseverance

St. Sebastian’s life calls all Christians to stand firm in the faith, to offer spiritual support to others, and to face trials with courage and perseverance. His unwavering commitment to Christ, even unto death, continues to inspire the faithful around the world.

St. Sebastian, pray for us!