St. Abdon and St. Sennen - Christian Martyrs and Patron Saints

ST. ABDON AND SENNEN

Saints Abdon and Sennen, martyrs for their faith, are honored by the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches. They were Persian noblemen captured during a military campaign in the third century and brought to Rome as slaves. They later converted to Christianity and were martyred for refusing to sacrifice to Roman gods during the reign of Emperor Decius. Their feast day is celebrated on July 30, though some places also honor them on March 20 or the first Sunday in May. Their relics are housed in the Basilica of San Marco Evangelista al Campidoglio in Rome.

Saints Abdon and Sennen, whose names appear in early martyrologies in various forms such as Abdo, Abdus, Sennes, Sennis, and Zennen, are Christian martyrs celebrated by both the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches. Little is known about their early lives, and their historical details remain uncertain. According to the Roman Martyrology, they were captured during a military campaign in the third century, likely in Persia, and brought to Rome. There, they were enslaved and eventually converted to Christianity.

Abdon and Sennen are said to have made a significant impact by aiding in the burial of Christian martyrs and supporting the faith despite their circumstances. Their Christian identity came to the attention of Emperor Decius, who sought to suppress the faith during his reign. When ordered to sacrifice to Roman gods, they steadfastly refused, standing firm in their belief. For their defiance, they were martyred, and it is believed that they were executed by the Roman authorities around the year 250 AD, likely in the Colosseum or some other public place of execution.

Following their deaths, their bodies were initially buried in the Graveyard of Pontianus on the Via Portuensis outside Rome, an area known for being a resting place for Christian martyrs. In the 6th century, a fresco was discovered on a stone casket depicting them receiving crowns from Christ. Their relics were eventually transferred to the Basilica of San Marco Evangelista al Campidoglio in Rome in 1474, although some cities, notably Florence and Soissons, claim to hold parts of their relics. A Benedictine convent in Arles-sur-Tech, France, also claims to be the site of their tomb.

The Acts of Saints Abdon and Sennen, written before the 9th century, describe their capture, conversion, and martyrdom, though many of the details are considered to be embellished or fictional. Despite the uncertainties surrounding their lives, the two saints’ steadfast faith has made them beloved figures in Christian tradition.

In addition to their recognition as martyrs, Saints Abdon and Sennen are the patron saints of Calasparra, a town in Murcia, Spain, where festivities in their honor date back to the 16th century. Their feast day is observed on July 30, although in some regions, such as parts of Spain, it is celebrated on March 20 or the first Sunday of May. Even though they were not formally canonized, they remain a symbol of unwavering faith in the face of persecution. The continued veneration of Saints Abdon and Sennen reflects their significance in the history of early Christianity and their role in inspiring future generations to remain steadfast in their faith.

Feast Day

30-7-

Birth Date

--

Died Date

--Circa 250 AD

Canonised Date

--

Graveyard of Pontianus, Via Portuensis, Rome

Saint Abdon and Saint Sennen, faithful servants of God, You endured trials with courage and remained steadfast in your faith. Pray for us that we may always find strength in the Lord, especially in times of difficulty. Intercede for us before the throne of God, that we may receive the grace to persevere in love and devotion. Through your example, may we be inspired to serve God with joy and follow His will in all things. Amen.
ST. ABDON AND SENNEN

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