Feast Day: July 28
Biography:
- St. Nazarius: Born in Rome to a pagan father and a Christian mother named Perpetua. Baptized by Pope St. Linus, he became a zealous Christian and preacher.
- St. Celsus: A young boy who became a disciple of Nazarius. The two shared a deep bond, united in their mission to spread the Gospel.
- Martyrdom: Both were arrested and suffered martyrdom under the persecution of Emperor Nero. They were initially buried in a garden outside Milan. In 395 AD, their relics were discovered by St. Ambrose, who enshrined them in the Basilica of the Apostles in Milan.
Legacy:
- The discovery of their relics by St. Ambrose was accompanied by several miraculous events, reinforcing the devotion to these martyrs.
- They are remembered for their unwavering faith and courage in the face of persecution.
St. Victor I, Pope and Martyr
Feast Day: July 28
Papacy: 189-199 AD
Biography:
- Background: Born in Africa, St. Victor I became the Bishop of Rome during a time of significant theological and liturgical disputes.
- Actions as Pope:
- Known for enforcing the observance of Easter on a Sunday, in line with the Roman tradition, which led to the Quartodeciman Controversy. This was a significant step towards unifying the practice of celebrating Easter across Christendom.
- Authored several letters and documents to various churches, emphasizing orthodoxy and unity.
- Martyrdom: He suffered martyrdom under Emperor Septimius Severus, although specific details of his martyrdom are scarce.
Legacy:
- St. Victor I is remembered for his efforts to consolidate the liturgical practices of the early Church and his contributions to the development of Christian orthodoxy.
- His leadership helped to affirm the authority of the Roman See during a formative period in Church history.
St. Innocent I, Pope and Confessor
Feast Day: July 28
Papacy: 401-417 AD
Biography:
- Background: Born in Albano, near Rome, St. Innocent I was elected pope following the death of Pope Anastasius I.
- Actions as Pope:
- He was a staunch defender of orthodoxy against various heresies, including Pelagianism, which denied original sin and divine grace.
- Played a significant role in the affairs of the Church in the East and the West, intervening in disputes and providing guidance to bishops.
- Worked tirelessly to rebuild and support the Church and its members during the sack of Rome by the Visigoths in 410 AD.
- Legacy:
- Remembered for his pastoral care and his efforts to maintain doctrinal purity within the Church.
- His letters and decrees were influential in shaping the theology and discipline of the early Church.
These saints, through their lives and actions, contributed significantly to the growth and strength of the early Church, providing enduring examples of faith, leadership, and dedication to God’s service.