Martyr · 284-305
Sebastian at Rome
Martyr Sebastian at Rome with his companions: Martyrs Nicostratus, his wife Zoe, Castorius, Tranquillinus the Presbyter and his sons the Deacons Marcellinus and Mark, Claudius, his son Symphorian and brother Victorinus, Tiburtius and Castulus († c. 287)
New Calendar December 18 Old Calendar December 31
Why they are a saint
He grew up in Milan and became an army officer, where he distinguished himself so well that the Emperor Diocletian made him captain of the Praetorian Guard not suspecting that Sebastian was a Christian. The Orthodox Church commemorates Sebastian at Rome on December 18.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Sebastian at Rome as a patron when they bear the name Sebastian at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on December 18. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Sebastian at Rome, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.