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Pudens

Pudens was an early Christian saint and martyr, mentioned as a layman of the Roman Church in the New Testament. He is notable for his baptism by Saint Peter and his family's early conversion to Christianity in Rome. Pudens is primarily remembered for his martyrdom under Emperor Nero and his association with early Roman Christian sites.

Feast Day
April 14
Country Or Region
Italy

Key Facts

  • Pudens was an early Christian saint and martyr.
  • He is mentioned as a layman of the Roman Church in 2 Timothy 4:21.
  • He was born to a family of wealth and distinction, possibly of the Gens Cornelia.
  • Pudens was baptized by Peter, who was a guest in his parents' house in Rome.
  • He was a member of the Roman Senate and the father of Novatus, Timotheus, Praxedes, and Pudentiana.
  • Pudens was martyred under Nero and buried in the Catacomb of Priscilla.
Manner of Death
Role Type
Relics Location
Catacomb of Priscilla

About Pudens

Pudens was an early Christian saint and martyr, recognized as a layman within the Roman Church. His existence is noted in the New Testament, specifically in 2 Timothy 4:21. He is believed to have been born into a prominent and affluent family, possibly of the Gens Cornelia. His father was Quintus Cornelius Pudens, a Roman senator, and his mother was Priscilla, who is counted among the first converts made by Saint Peter in Rome.

Life and Historical Context

According to tradition, Pudens was baptized by Saint Peter, who resided as a guest in his parents' home in Rome. Pudens himself was a member of the Roman Senate. He is traditionally credited as the father of two sons, Novatus and Timotheus, and, in legend, two daughters, Praxedes and Pudentiana. Pudens met his end as a martyr during the reign of Emperor Nero (54–68 AD). He was subsequently buried in the Catacomb of Priscilla, situated on the Via Salaria.

The historical presence of a church associated with Pudens is evidenced by the acts of the synod of Pope Symmachus in 499. This synod documented the existence of a "titulus Pudentis," a church empowered to administer sacraments. This ecclesiastical entity was also known by the name "ecclesia Pudentiana."

Veneration

Pudens is commemorated liturgically on April 14. Within the Eastern Orthodox Church calendar, he is also honored on January 4. Additionally, the Dominican Martyrology lists his commemoration on May 19.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Saint Pudens?

Pudens was an early Christian saint and martyr, mentioned in the New Testament as a layman of the Roman Church. He is believed to have been born into a wealthy and distinguished family in Rome.

What is Pudens known for?

Pudens is known for being baptized by Saint Peter, who was a guest in his parents' home. He was also a member of the Roman Senate and is noted for his martyrdom under Emperor Nero.

Where is Pudens buried?

According to tradition, Pudens was martyred under Nero and subsequently buried in the Catacomb of Priscilla on the Via Salaria in Rome.

When is Saint Pudens' feast day?

Saint Pudens is commemorated on April 14. In the Eastern Orthodox Church, he is also commemorated on January 4. The Dominican Martyrology lists his commemoration on May 19.