St. Narcissus of Jerusalem
Bishop of Jerusalem
Feast Day: October 29
Biography
St. Narcissus (d. c. 216) was bishop of Jerusalem in the late second and early third centuries. Nearly everything we know of him comes from the historian Eusebius of Caesarea, who counted him as the thirtieth bishop of Jerusalem in succession from the apostles. Around 195 he presided with Theophilus of Caesarea over a council of Palestinian bishops that supported celebrating Easter on Sunday. Eusebius records traditions of his holiness, including a miracle in which, when oil for the Easter Vigil lamps ran out, he prayed over water that was then used as oil. Three men later accused him of a serious crime, and though the charges were false, Narcissus withdrew into the wilderness and lived as a hermit for years. After his accusers suffered misfortunes, he returned and was received with joy by his people. In extreme old age he accepted St. Alexander, a bishop from Cappadocia, as his coadjutor, one of the earliest recorded examples of a bishop being given an assistant with the right of succession. In a letter quoted by Eusebius, Alexander wrote that Narcissus was then 116 years old. He is honored as a confessor and a model of patience.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
St. Narcissus, faithful shepherd of Jerusalem, you bore false accusations in silence and entrusted your good name to God. When I am misunderstood or wrongly accused, help me to remain patient, to forgive, and to trust in the Lord's justice. Pray for the elderly, that they may grow in holiness and peace all the days of their lives. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. Narcissus of Jerusalem, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. Narcissus of Jerusalem, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.