Patron SaintSaint library
The saint library

Saint Sebastian of Rome

Soldier and martyr
Narbona, Milan and Rome
Feast day: December 18

Icon of Sebastian of Rome.
Icon of Sebastian of Rome. Image source: Holy Metropolis of Oropos and Phyle — Iconological Synaxarion

A life of faith

Sebastian was born in Narbona and grew up in Milan. He entered the Roman army and sought to help Christians in distress. His received life remembers him encouraging the imprisoned brothers Mark and Marcellinus and recounts the restoration of Zoe’s speech. Sebastian later suffered martyrdom in the hippodrome.

The Eastern Orthodox Church remembers saints in prayer and commemoration. Their lives offer examples for Christians learning to live their faith.

A reflection

Visit or assist someone who feels isolated, without encouraging anyone to seek danger.

Read the Orthodox source

Feast dates follow the linked source. Local calendars and commemorations may vary. Themes describe a saint’s life; quiz suggestions do not assign a baptismal patron. Discuss choosing a patron saint with your priest.

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