St Januarius

Today we will be remembering about the life that was lived by St. Januarius.

Unfortunately a very small amount is actually known about the life that was lived by St. Januarius. St. Januarius was the bishop of Benevento during the Emperor Diocletian persecution.

St. Januarius is believed to have been martyred during the Emperor Diocletian’s persecution which occurred during the year 305. Legend has it that St. Januarius and his many companions were actually thrown to the bears in the amphitheater of Pozzuoli, however, the animals were not able to attack them. Due to this failed attack they were later beheaded, and St. Januarius' blood was later brought to Naples. St. Januarius’ blood is liquified and bubbles when it is exposed in the cathedral. Until this day scientists are unable to explain this miracle.

St. Januarius is the patron saint of blood banks, blood donors and Naples. St. Januarius was someone that stood up for the faith even when he had encountered persecution or danger. When we may feel embarrassed to pray in public or speak about the faith, it is important that we think of the saints like St. Januarius who passed away before us because they wanted to keep their beliefs. We shouldn’t be afraid to pray or talk about Christ in public, if we feel afraid let’s call on St. Januarius for peace and strength.

Prayer to St. Januarius:

St. Januarius intercede that we may be able to have the strength and courage we need in order to be able to pray in public and call on Christ for guidance during our day.

Amen

St. Januarius pray for us

St. Joseph pray for us

May we continue to strengthen our journey to sainthood and keep others in our prayers.

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Works cited

Information (read from, not taken):

Franciscan media. “Saint Januarius." https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-januarius. Accessed September 8, 2021.

Images:

Saint Januarius. September 8, 2021. St. Januarius.