Saint Phocas The Gardener

Biography

Saint Phocas The Gardener, also known as Phocas of Hovenier, Phocas of Sinope, Phocas the Martyr, Foca, Focas, or Fokas, was a devout Christian who lived during the early 4th century. While not much is known about his early life, his selfless acts of charity and his martyrdom have made him a revered figure in the Catholic faith. Phocas was known as an innkeeper and gardener, and he used his position to provide for the less fortunate. He had a deep compassion for the poor and would use surplus crops from his garden to feed them. Not only did he generously give food to those in need, but he even cared for the soldiers who were sent to execute him for his Christian faith. When Phocas learned of the soldiers' orders, he did not flee or hide from them. Instead, he welcomed them into his home, nurturing them with food and shelter. He showed them kindness and love, even though he knew they intended to harm him. This act of selflessness and forgiveness left a profound impact on the soldiers, who eventually converted to Christianity themselves. Realizing their wrongdoing, the soldiers refused to carry out the execution and instead allowed Phocas to dig his own grave. Phocas accepted his fate willingly, knowing that he would soon be rewarded for his faith and sacrifice in Heaven. Phocas was beheaded near Sinope, Pontus, in modern-day Turkey, around the year 303. His courageous and compassionate actions made him a revered martyr within the early Christian community. Additionally, his willingness to forgive his persecutors further endeared him to believers, creating a legacy of forgiveness and virtue. Although Saint Phocas The Gardener was canonized before the formal process of canonization was established, he is recognized as a saint in the Catholic Church. His feast day is celebrated on the 23rd of July. Furthermore, there are some calendars that list an alternative feast day of March 5th, referring to him as Phocas of Antioch, while others observe September 22nd. His patronage is diverse, reflecting his connection to agricultural labor. Saint Phocas is invoked for protection against insect bites, poisoning, and snake bites. He is also considered a patron saint of agricultural workers, boatmen, farm workers, farmers, field hands, gardeners, husbandmen, mariners, market-gardeners, sailors, and watermen. Castiglione Marittimo, Italy, is honored to have him as their patron saint. Today, Saint Phocas The Gardener serves as an inspiration for Christians to be generous, compassionate, and forgiving, and his life stands as a testament to the power of faith and selflessness in the face of persecution.