Saint Fabian of Rome

Today the Church commemorates Saint Fabian. He was Bishop of Rome for 14 years. He organized the city of Rome into parishes and appointed scribes to record the lives of the martyrs for posterity. When the Emperor Decius began a persecution of Christians, probably the first one to be waged simultaneously in all parts of the Empire, Fabian was one of the first to be put to death, setting a courageous example for others. His tombstone, with the inscription dimly visible, can still be seen at Rome.

Prayer of the Day

Gracious God, in your providence you called your servant Fabian to the office of Bishop, and guided him to strengthen the Church at Rome so that it could stand fast in the day of persecution. Grant that those whom you call to any ministry in the Church may be obedient to your call in all humility, be enabled to carry out their tasks with diligence and faithfulness, and be willing, like him, to give their lives for the glory of your name. We make our prayer through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.