Genesius of Arles

Saint Genesius of Arles was born in Arles in Gaul and lived during the fierce persecutions of the early fourth century. He first served as a soldier, but his skill with writing led him to become secretary and notary to the magistrate of Arles. Though still a catechumen preparing for baptism, Genesius’ conscience was already formed by the light of Christ. When an imperial decree ordering persecution of Christians was read aloud in his presence, he could not lend his hand to injustice. In a bold act of witness, he threw down his writing tablets at the magistrate’s feet and fled, refusing to cooperate with violence against the faithful. Captured soon after, Genesius was condemned and executed under the reign of Maximian, receiving, as the ancient tradition says, “baptism in his own blood.” His veneration spread quickly throughout the Church, and he is honored especially as patron of notaries and secretaries, and in places such as Dairago, L’Ametlla del Vallès, Navàs, and San Miniato. His feast day is August 25.