St. Sebastian
Patron of Athletes, Soldier Martyr
Feast Day: January 20
Biography
St. Sebastian (c. 256–288) was a captain of the Praetorian Guard under Emperor Diocletian. He secretly encouraged Christians who had been imprisoned and converted many soldiers and prisoners. When his faith was discovered, Diocletian ordered him shot with arrows. Left for dead, he was rescued by St. Irene, who nursed him back to health. Rather than flee, he returned to confront Diocletian, who had him beaten to death with clubs. Because he survived the arrows, he became patron of archers and athletes; because of the plague that raged during his era, he is also invoked against plague and epidemics.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
St. Sebastian, you faced death twice for Christ and never wavered. Grant me strength in my trials and perseverance in the face of adversity. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. Sebastian, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. Sebastian, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.