Florian was an officer in the Roman army who was arrested for helping persecuted Christians. Refusing to renounce his faith, he was drowned in a river and is honored as patron of firefighters.
Life
Florian is remembered as a Roman army officer serving in the province of Noricum, in today's Austria, in the early fourth century. Tradition says that during Diocletian's persecution, hearing that Christians had been arrested, he went to help them and declared that he too was a Christian.
According to tradition, around 304 he was tortured and then thrown into the Enns River with a stone tied around his neck. The details of his life rely on later tradition. He is widely honored as patron of firefighters and of those seeking protection from fire.
Spirituality
Florian's spirituality is the courage to step forward for others. In the story handed down, he did not turn away from persecuted Christians but stood with them, which is perhaps why firefighters who rush into danger take him as their patron.
Reflection
Tradition says Saint Florian did not turn away from those in danger. Will I take a moment today to pray for the firefighters, police and medical workers who risk themselves for us?