Saint Bacchus The Younger

Biography

Saint Bacchus The Younger, also known as Bacchus of Jerusalem or Dahhat, was born in Palestine to a Christian family during a time of great religious and political turmoil. Raised in the area of Jerusalem, he witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by his family as some of them abandoned their Christian faith in favor of Islam. Despite the pressures surrounding him, Dahhat remained steadfast in his commitment to Christianity. Seeking solace and guidance, he decided to retreat to the Saint Saba monastery near Bethlehem. It was during this time that he chose to take the name Bacchus, embracing a life of devotion and service to God. After spending a significant period of time at the monastery, Bacchus returned to Jerusalem with a renewed sense of purpose. His heart moved with compassion for his family members who had converted to Islam, he embarked on a mission to help them rediscover their Christian faith. Bacchus approached his brothers, gently sharing the teachings of Jesus Christ and the love of God in an effort to bring them back to their roots. However, his evangelizing efforts did not go unnoticed by the Muslim authorities of Jerusalem. One of Bacchus' own brothers, swayed by the prevailing religious and political climate, denounced him to the Muslim authorities. Bacchus' commitment to spreading the gospel was perceived as a threat to the growing Islamic influence in the region. In response to this denunciation, the Muslim authorities apprehended Bacchus and charged him with proselytizing. Without giving him a fair trial, they condemned him to be executed. Bacchus, for his unwavering faith and unwavering dedication to his mission, was cruelly beheaded around the year 786. Bacchus' life and martyrdom exemplify the deep commitment to God and the unwavering faith of early Christians during a time of intense persecution. Though he faced immense challenges and opposition, Bacchus remained steadfast in his beliefs and actively sought to bring others back to Christianity. Although there isn't much information available about his representations or patronages, Saint Bacchus The Younger is venerated and celebrated in the Catholic Church on December 15th. Though he has not been officially canonized by the Catholic Church, he is recognized as a martyr and is honored as such. The life and sacrifice of Saint Bacchus The Younger serve as an inspiration to Christians around the world, reminding them of the importance of standing firm in their faith in the face of adversity. His story invites believers to reflect on the value of spreading the message of God's love and the gospel, despite the potential risks and hardships that may come with it.