He didn’t die. A Christian widow named Irene came to bury him, found him alive and nursed him back to health. Then Sebastian did something remarkable: instead of hiding, he went and confronted the emperor about his cruelty to Christians. This time Diocletian had him beaten to death, around the year 288. He was buried in the catacombs on the Appian Way, where the Basilica of San Sebastiano stands today.
Historical Context
He became the patron of athletes because of his physical endurance, and of soldiers because he was one. During the plague years of medieval Europe, people invoked him because arrows were a common image for sudden disease.
A Prayer to St Sebastian
St Sebastian, you survived the arrows and went back to speak the truth.
Pray for me, that I may be strong in body and stronger in faith.
Give me endurance when I’m tired,
courage when I’m afraid,
and the boldness to stand up for what’s right.
Amen.
An Athlete’s Prayer to St Sebastian
St Sebastian, patron of athletes,
pray that I compete with all my strength and with honour.
Protect me from injury,
and help me remember that my body is a gift from God.
Amen.
For Soldiers
St Sebastian, soldier of Christ,
watch over those who serve in the armed forces.
Keep them faithful, brave and safe.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- On 20 January, his feast.
- Before a game, race or competition.
- For a family member in the military.
- During illness or epidemic.
Scripture Connection
“Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.” — 2 Timothy 2:3
Paul uses the image of a soldier for the Christian life. Sebastian was both, and he endured more than most.
Related prayers
For athletes, see the Runner’s Prayer, Basketball Prayer and Coaches Prayer. For soldiers, the Marine Corps Prayer.