Pancras of Rome
Pancras of Rome was a Roman citizen and Christian martyr beheaded around the year 304 at the age of fourteen. His name, derived from Greek, signifies 'all-powerful.' He is venerated as the patron saint of children and is traditionally the second of the Ice Saints.
- Feast Day
- May 12
- Century
- 4th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›He was a Roman citizen who converted to Christianity and was martyred at fourteen.
- ›His name, Pankrátios, means 'all-powerful' in Greek.
- ›He was traditionally martyred around 304 AD during the persecution under Emperor Diocletian.
- ›He is traditionally the second of the Ice Saints, with a feast day on may 12th.
- ›He is known in Syriac traditions as Mor Izozoel, remembered on may 12th and August 12th.
- ›He is the patron saint of children.
Sanctus Pancratius, Mor Izozoel, Mar Azazael
About Pancras of Rome
Pancras (Latin: Sanctus Pancratius) was a Roman citizen who converted to Christianity and was martyred for his faith at a young age. His name, derived from Greek, signifies 'all-powerful.' He is a revered figure in Christian tradition, particularly for his martyrdom during the early persecutions of Christians.
Life and Historical Context
According to legend, Pancras was born around 289 AD near Synnada in Phrygia Salutaris to parents of Roman citizenship. After his mother and father died when he was a child, he was entrusted to his uncle Dionysius. They both moved to Rome, where they were converted to Christianity by Marcellinus. Pancras became a zealous adherent of the religion. During the persecution of Christians by Emperor Diocletian, around 303 AD, Pancras was brought before the authorities and ordered to sacrifice to the Roman gods. Despite promises of wealth and power, he refused and was ultimately ordered to be beheaded on the Via Aurelia, traditionally on May 12, 303 AD. Historical analysis suggests the traditional year of martyrdom may not align with certain historical records regarding Diocletian's presence in Rome and the Bishop of Rome at the time.
Veneration and Legacy
Devotion to Pancras dates back to at least the fifth century, with the basilica of Saint Pancras built by Pope Symmachus (498–514) on the site where his body was believed to have been buried. Pope Gregory the Great further promoted his cult by sending relics of the saint to England with Augustine, leading to numerous English churches being dedicated to him. In medieval iconography, Pancras is often depicted as a young soldier, a representation influenced by his association with the soldier saints Nereus and Achilleus.
Since 1969, Pancras has been venerated separately on May 12. He is traditionally considered the second of the Ice Saints. In Syriac traditions, he is known as Mor Izozoel and is remembered on May 12 and August 12. He is widely recognized as the patron saint of children and is also invoked for protection against various ailments and forms of deceit.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Pancras of Rome martyred?
Pancras of Rome was beheaded for his faith around the year 304 AD, traditionally on May 12th. The article notes that this traditional year cannot be squared with historical details of Emperor Diocletian's presence in Rome.
What does the name Pancras mean?
The name Pancras is of Greek origin (Pankrátios) and means 'all-powerful'. This reflects the strength and resolve he displayed in his faith.
What is Pancras of Rome the patron saint of?
Pancras is popularly venerated as the patron saint of children. He is also invoked against ailments and situations such as cramps, false witnesses, headaches, and perjury.
How is Pancras of Rome venerated today?
Since 1969, Pancras has been venerated separately on May 12th as an optional memorial in the General Roman Calendar. He remains traditionally the second of the Ice Saints.
What is the legend of Pancras's upbringing?
According to legend, Pancras was born near Synnada in Phrygia to parents of Roman citizenship. After his mother and father died when he was young, he moved to Rome with his uncle Dionysius, where they both converted to Christianity.
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