Saturday, January 20, 2007

Feast of Pope Saint Fabian and Saint Sebastian

Today is the feast of Pope Saint Fabian, and Pope Saint Sebastian.

Although they are separate feasts liturgically, not only are they celebrated on the same day, but they are also venerated in the same place.

Now there is some ambiguity over where the remains of Pope Saint Fabian are. Some books say they are at the catacombs of Saint Callistus, although other books say his remains are at the church of the catacombs of Saint Sebastian.


There is a side chapel off to the right of the sanctuary which has a statue of Pope Saint Fabian, and some of his relics are either in the altar or buried beneath the floor of the chapel.


The catacombs below the church are named after Saint Sebastian who was originally buried in the catacombs. It is a rather extensive maze of tunnels. There is a "large" (compared to the tunnels) chapel in the place where Saint Sebastian's body was originally located. Eventually, a church was build above the catacombs and his body was moved to a side altar in the church which bears his name.


Another interesting relic on the other side of the church is one of the arrows which shot Saint Sebastian.


As I've mentioned earlier, it's really good to get to know the Saints. They can be very helpful, not only in their example, but also through their intercessions and guidance. Visiting tombs and seeing relics can really help you to gain a closeness to the Saints, even more than reading about them. I've been very blessed to be able to visit so many places in Rome and other parts of Italy as well. I would highly recommend that if you get an opportunity to make a pilgrimage you should take it.

My next desire is to make a pilgimage to the Holy Land.

RS

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