Roman martyr of the late third century. Tradition remembers him as a soldier who survived being shot with arrows before his death; he is patron of soldiers and athletes.
Life
Sebastian is known to have been martyred in Rome in the late third or early fourth century, in the time of Emperor Diocletian, and was buried beside the Via Appia. Devotion to him began very early, but few facts about his life are known for certain.
Later tradition says he was a soldier of the imperial guard who secretly encouraged imprisoned Christians. When his faith was discovered he was shot with arrows but survived, then confessed his faith again before the emperor and was beaten to death. Because of this story he is often painted pierced with arrows and is honored as patron of soldiers and athletes.
Spirituality
The spirituality handed down in Sebastian's tradition is courage that does not waver in fear. He is remembered as one who encouraged suffering brothers and sisters from where he stood, and who confessed his faith again even knowing the danger. That courage came not from his own strength but from trust in Christ.
Reflection
Sebastian is remembered for quietly encouraging those in hardship. A small encouragement can become a great strength. Who around me needs a word of encouragement today?