Saint Largus

Biography

Saint Largus, also known as Largo, was a Christian martyr who ministered to the Christian slaves who were tasked with building and staffing the baths of Diocletian in Rome. He lived during a time of severe persecution of Christians under the reigns of Emperor Diocletian and Maximian Herculeus. Not much is known about Saint Largus' early life or background, but it is believed that he was born in Rome during the third century. He dedicated his life to serving and spreading the message of Christianity, especially to those who were oppressed and enslaved. During the persecutions of Diocletian and Maximian Herculeus, Saint Largus openly professed his faith in Christ and refused to renounce his beliefs. Along with a group of 19 other Christians, he faced torture and ultimately martyrdom for his unwavering dedication to Christianity. In 303 AD, Saint Largus was subjected to excruciating tortures as a means of forcing him to abandon his faith. Despite the intense suffering, he remained steadfast in his commitment to Christ. His tormentors, enraged by his unyielding spirit, ultimately sentenced him to death. Saint Largus was beheaded on the Salarian Way in Rome, Italy. His body was buried near the Salarian Way, a road that ran out of Rome towards the northeastern part of Italy. After his death, the faithful began to venerate him as a martyr and his burial site became a place of pilgrimage. Eventually, the relics of Saint Largus were translated to the Church of Santa Maria in Via Lata in Rome, where they were placed for veneration. Additionally, relics of the saint were also found in Neuhausen. Though Saint Largus was recognized and honored by the faithful for his martyrdom and dedication to the Christian cause, he has not been officially recognized as a patron saint or given specific areas of patronage. His canonization occurred in the pre-congregation era, prior to the establishment of the formal canonization process of the Catholic Church. Today, Saint Largus is celebrated and remembered on the 8th of August each year, the day of his martyrdom. His story serves as an inspiration to Christians around the world, reminding them of the courage, faith, and dedication necessary to stand firm in the face of adversity.