Did you know that Saint Sebastian, the 3rd century soldier and martyr, whose feast we celebrate today, is the most popular male saint chosen as a patron by young people receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation across the Diocese of Lansing? Well, he is! But why?
“I believe many young people, especially boys, select Sebastian as their patron and confirmation name due to the fact that he is the patron saint of athletes – and we live in a culture where sports and athletics are very popular,” says Brian Flynn, Director of Parish Youth Discipleship for the Diocese of Lansing, pictured below.
“After surviving being tied to a tree and shot by arrows at the behest of the Roman emperor, Diocletian, Sebastian went to the emperor to warn him of his sins and was swiftly sent off to his martyrdom -- this level of strength and courage and faith is very inspiring to young people and thus the reason many select him as their patron.”
The survey conducted last year by the Diocese of Lansing’s Office of New Evangelization. It also found that Saint Cecilia, the 3rd century Roman martyr and patroness of music, is the most popular female saint. So, now you know. Happy Feast of Saint Sebastian!
