Codice prodotto: L10339
Memorial Day: May 12
When did Saint Pancras live: 289 - May 12, 303
BIOGRAPHY:
Saint Pancras was born around the year 289 in Synnada, Phrygia (modern-day Turkey). After the early death of his parents, he moved to Rome with his uncle Dionysius. Both converted to Christianity. During the persecution of Christians under Emperor Diocletian, the young Pancras was arrested for his faith. Despite his young age and the emperor's attempts to persuade him, he remained steadfast and refused to sacrifice to the Roman gods. He was eventually beheaded on May 12, 303, at the age of just 14, on the Via Aurelia in Rome. A Roman matron named Octavilla buried his body in the catacombs. Over his grave, Pope Symmachus later built the Basilica of San Pancrazio.
PATRONAGE:
Saint Pancras is the patron saint of children, health, and work. He is also invoked against cramps, false witnesses, headaches, and perjury.
SYMBOLISM, DEPICTION:
The symbols of San Pancras are the lance, which symbolizes his sacrificial death for the faith, and a shield, which refers to his beheading.
PATRON SAINT OF:
Pankratius, Pancrazio, Pancratius, Pankraz, Pancras, Pancho, Pancko, Kraut, Krauti, Kratzer, Kratius.