ALL SAINTS CELEBRATED IN DECEMBER
Saints celebrated on the 18th of December
SAINT GATIAN, BISHOP AND CONFESSOR
Saint Gatian [Gratian] came from Rome with St Dionysius of Paris, about the middle of the third century, and preached the faith principally at Tours in Gaul, where he fixed his episcopal see. He was the first Bishop of Tours.
A TRUE APOSTLE
The Gauls in that part were extremely addicted to the worship of their idols. But no contradictions or sufferings were able to discourage or daunt this true apostle; and by perseverance he gained several to Christ.
He assembled his little flock in grots and caves, and there celebrated the divine mysteries.
HE RECEIVED DEATH THREATS
For he was obliged often to lie hid in lurking holes a long time together in order to escape a cruel death, with which the heathens frequently threatened him, and which he was always ready to receive with joy if he had fallen into their hands.
Having continued his labours with unwearied zeal amidst frequent sufferings and dangers for near the space of fifty years, he died in peace, and was honoured with miracles.
Source: Fr Butler's Lives of the Saints
PRAYER:
Grant, we beseech you, almighty God, that the venerable feast of Saint Gatian may increase our devotion and promote our salvation. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
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