September 9, 2024

Feast of San Gorgonio

San Gorgonio, ora pro nobis
Sanctus tuus, Dómine, Gorgónius sua nos intercessióne lætificet: et pia fáciat solemnitáte gaudére. Per Dóminum.

September 9th is the Feast of St. Gorgonius, Martyr. Born in Nicomedia, he served in the imperial palace of Diocletian. During the Emperor's persecution of Christians, Gorgonius and his companions Peter, Dorotheus and others were imprisoned and savagely tortured. Whipped and burned, the victims were finally strangled to death in 304 AD. Cast into the sea, their bodies were recovered by their brethren. St. Gorgonius’ relics were later translated to Rome. From there, portions of his body were distributed to several churches throughout France, but many were lost during the pillaging and desecration of churches during the French Revolution.

In celebration, we’re posting a prayer to St. Gorgonius in Latin and English. The accompanying photo comes courtesy of Father Eugene Carrella. The holy card is part of Father Carrella’s impressive collection of religious artifacts. Evviva San Gorgonio!

Prayer to St. Gorgonius

May Gorgonius, Thy saint, o Lord, gladden us by his intercession, and make us joyful on his propitious festival. Through our Lord.