Deepertruth: Stand In The Gap With Us And Saint Sebastian Patron of Athletes

Stand In The Gap With Us And Saint Sebastian Patron of Athletes 1/20/2024

St Sabastian became very important to me growing up as I was very active in sports from a young age and learning that St. Sabastion is the patron of Athletes, his story aided in my Catholic faith as I placed the importance of being steadfast in the faith.

St. Sebastian grew up as a Christian in Milan. In order to assist the confessors and martyrs in their sufferings, he went to Rome about the year 98 and enlisted in the army. He became an officer and a favorite of the Emperor Diocletian. Marcus and Marcellinus, twin brothers, had been imprisoned for the Faith. Sebastian seeing this, exhorted them to remain loyal to Christ.

Sebastian entered the Roman army because there he could assist the martyrs without arousing suspicion.

He is also mentioned in a sermon on Psalm 118 by 4th-century bishop Ambrose of Milan (Saint Ambrose): in his sermon, Ambrose stated that Sebastian came from Milan and that he was already venerated there at that time.

St. Sabastion had roots coming from southern France and he was educated in Milan. He joined the Roman Army in 283 AD, ostensibly to be of service to other Christians who were being persecuted by the Romans. St. Sebastian distinguished himself and for his excellent service, he was promoted to serve in the Praetorian Guard to protect Emperor Diocletian.