Saints Cosmas and Damian

Saints Cosmas and Damian were twin brothers born in Arabia in the third century. Embracing the Christian faith, they became skilled physicians and surgeons and practiced in the seaport of Aegeae in Cilicia, serving the sick without accepting payment. Because they healed freely, they were called the “unmercenaries,” and their charity drew many hearts toward Christ. Christian tradition remembers them as compassionate healers, credited with remarkable cures and with bringing hope to those who suffered. During the persecutions under Emperor Diocletian, their fame and faith made them targets. Arrested by the governor Lysias, they were pressured to renounce Christ, yet they remained steadfast through severe torments. At last they were put to death, sealing their witness with martyrdom; tradition also associates their younger brothers with their suffering. Devotion to Cosmas and Damian spread rapidly across East and West, and churches were raised in their honor. They are venerated as patrons of physicians, surgeons, pharmacists, barbers, medical workers, and as protectors against plague. Their feast day is September 27.