Feast Day: September 20
Title: Martyrs of Ancient Rome
Patronage: Hunters, trappers, firefighters
St. Eustace, also known as Placidus before his conversion, was a Roman general serving under the emperor Trajan. He was renowned for his military prowess and held high rank in the Roman army. His story, passed down through tradition, is one of dramatic conversion and steadfast faith amidst extreme trials.
The Conversion of St. Eustace
According to his legendary hagiography, Eustace was an ardent pagan until one day, while hunting in the forest, he experienced a miraculous vision. As he chased a large stag, he suddenly saw a luminous cross appear between the stag’s antlers, and the figure of Christ crucified appeared upon it. Christ spoke to him, calling him to abandon his pagan ways and follow Him. Struck by the vision, Eustace immediately sought out a Christian priest, was baptized, and took the name Eustachius (or Eustace), meaning “fruitful” or “steadfast.”
Eustace’s wife, Theopista, and their two sons, Agapitus and Theopistus, were also baptized, and the entire family embraced the Christian faith.
Trials and Tribulations
Soon after his conversion, Eustace’s life took a tragic turn. In a series of trials reminiscent of the Biblical figure Job, he lost all his wealth and status, and his family was separated. His wife was abducted, and his sons were carried off by wild animals, leaving Eustace alone and destitute. However, he did not waver in his faith, trusting in God’s providence despite these overwhelming losses.
After many years of wandering and enduring hardship, Eustace eventually regained his former position as a general when Emperor Trajan called him back to service to lead a military campaign. Miraculously, during his military travels, he was reunited with his family—his sons, now grown, and his wife. They joyfully embraced and gave thanks to God for their deliverance.
Martyrdom
Despite his victories in battle, Eustace’s faith would lead to his martyrdom. After the campaign, the new emperor, Hadrian, demanded that Eustace offer sacrifices to the pagan gods in thanksgiving for his military success. Eustace, refusing to renounce his faith in Christ, stood firm with his wife and children in their Christian conviction.
Infuriated by their defiance, Hadrian condemned them to death. They were thrown into a bronze bull, a common method of torture and execution in ancient Rome, where they were roasted alive. Their martyrdom occurred around the year 118 AD.
Legacy and Patronage
St. Eustace’s story became popular in the Middle Ages, especially among hunters, due to the association with his conversion while hunting the stag. His steadfastness through suffering and his eventual martyrdom are seen as powerful examples of Christian endurance and fidelity. Artists have frequently depicted him with the stag and the crucifix between its antlers.
St. Eustace and his companions—his wife and two sons—are remembered as holy martyrs who were faithful to Christ to the end, even under immense suffering. They are honored today as patrons of hunters, trappers, and firefighters, symbolizing perseverance through trials.
Their relics are said to have been buried in the Church of Sant’Eustachio in Rome, where devotion to St. Eustace has continued through the centuries. Their feast is celebrated in the Traditional Roman calendar on September 20.
Reflection
The life of St. Eustace and his companions calls the faithful to reflect on the virtue of perseverance in faith amidst trials and suffering. Their martyrdom serves as a reminder that, despite the harshness of earthly suffering, God’s promise of eternal joy and reunion remains for those who remain steadfast in their belief in Christ.
St. Eustace and Companions, pray for us!