Saint Longinus of Satala

Biography

Saint Longinus of Satala, also known simply as Longinus, was one of seven Christian brothers who served as soldiers in the imperial Roman army during the third century AD. Although information about his early life and family background is scarce, his story is a testament to his unwavering faith in the face of persecution. Longinus was born in the town of Satala, located in modern-day Turkey. Alongside his six brothers, he decided to join the Roman military, likely drawn by the prestigious and respected nature of the profession. As Christians in a predominantly pagan society, they were aware of the risks and challenges they would face, but were determined to live and defend their faith no matter the consequences. It is unclear how Longinus and his brothers managed to reconcile their military service with their Christian beliefs, but it is believed that they upheld their convictions while still fulfilling their duties as soldiers. However, during the reign of Emperor Maximian, Christianity faced severe persecution, and the brothers' faith could no longer go unnoticed. Emperor Maximian ordered a religious purge in the Roman army, demanding that soldiers denounce their Christian beliefs or face severe consequences. The seven brothers, including Longinus, refused to renounce their faith and were subsequently discharged from the military. Stripped of their titles and privileges, they were effectively exiled from society. Despite their exile, the brothers did not waver in their commitment to Christ. They became wanderers, preaching the Gospel wherever they traveled, and actively defying orders to abandon their faith. This unwavering dedication eventually led to their capture and martyrdom. While details are scarce, it is believed that Longinus and his brothers were persecuted and put to death for their faith around the year 311. Longinus himself met his tragic end at sea, near the port of Pityonte in modern-day Armenia. It is said that they bravely faced their execution, embracing their fate with courage and steadfast faith. Longinus and his brothers were revered as courageous martyrs, and their acts of faith were an inspiration to the early Christian community. Their testimonies exemplified the unwavering devotion and refusal to compromise one's faith, even in the face of grave danger. Although not much is known about the physical representation of Saint Longinus of Satala, he is often depicted as a Roman soldier holding a spear or lance. This representation is attributed to him being traditionally identified as the centurion who thrust a spear into the side of Jesus during his crucifixion, as mentioned in the Gospel of John. It is worth noting that Saint Longinus of Satala's canonization occurred before the establishment of the formal canonization process, as it exists today. As a result, he is recognized as a saint in the Catholic Church, but his canonization is considered to be pre-congregation. While Saint Longinus of Satala does not have a specific patronage assigned to him, his courageous witness to the faith can be an inspiration to all Christians, particularly those who face persecution or struggle to remain steadfast in their beliefs. His feast day is celebrated on July 28th, commemorating the day of his martyrdom and testament to his unwavering faith in Christ.