Orthodoxy for Kids: St. Sebastian the Martyr of Rome

Saint Sebastian lived a very long time ago in the third century. He was born in a place called Gaul (which is now part of France) and grew up to be a strong and smart soldier in the Roman Empire. He became the captain of the Praetorian Guards of the emperor’s guards, which was a very important job. Sebastian was kind, fair, and brave, and everyone respected him. He was characterized by discipline and consistency in his duties. He protected the poor and supported the suffering.Even though he worked for emperor Diocletian, he was also a Christian. At that time, being a Christian was dangerous, so Sebastian kept his faith a secret—not because he was afraid, but because he wanted to help other Christians who were being treated badly. Two Christian brothers named Marcellinus and Mark were put in prison because they believed in Jesus. Their families begged them to give up their faith so they could go free, and the brothers became very sad and unsure. Sebastian went to them and spoke with courage.He reminded them that God’s love lasts forever, and that following Jesus was worth more than anything else. His words gave them strength, and the brothers chose to stay faithful. God showed how pleased He was with Sebastian. People saw his face shine with joy, and angels comforted him. Many hearts were changed that day. A woman named Zoe, who had not been able to speak for many years, asked Sebastian for help. He prayed for her and made the sign of the cross—and she was able to speak again! She praised God, and many people believed in Jesus because of this miracle. Zoe's healing by Sebastian led to the baptism of her husband, Nicostratus, their family, and many prisoners.

Soon, many families, soldiers, prisoners, and leaders chose to become Christians. A holy priest baptized them, and the Church grew quickly, even though it was dangerous. Some of these new Christians were later arrested because they would not worship idols. They stayed brave and trusted God, even when it was very hard. Saint Sebastian himself was eventually found out. The emperor questioned him and ordered him punished. Sebastian was badly hurt, but kind Christians cared for him and helped him heal. When he was strong again, Sebastian did not run away. Instead, he stood up bravely and told the emperor that hurting Christians was wrong. This made the emperor very angry, and Sebastian was killed because he would not stop believing in Jesus. Saint Sebastian is the patron saint of athletes, soldiers, and archers, invoked for protection against plagues and epidemics due to his story as a Roman soldier martyred by arrows, and for his endurance, making him a symbol of strength, courage, and physical fitness. He is also the patron of the city of Rome, Italy and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Afterward, a Christian woman named Lucina buried his body with love and respect. Later, a great church, Basilica of Saint Sebastian Outside the Walls in Rome, was built where he was buried, and people still honor him today.

Sebastian's cranium was brought to the town of Ebersberg (Germany) in 934. A Benedictine abbey was founded there and became one of the most important pilgrimage sites in southern Germany.[15] It is said the silver-encased cranium was used as a cup in which to present the consecrated wine of the Blessed Sacrament to the faithful during the feast of Saint Sebastian.