Narcissus of Jerusalem

Saint Narcissus of Jerusalem was born around AD 99, likely of Greek origin. In an age when the Church in the Holy Land endured frequent trials and short episcopal reigns, he was chosen—already an elderly man—as the 30th bishop of Jerusalem. He also presided over a council of the bishops of Palestine at Caesarea, where it was decreed that Easter should always be celebrated on a Sunday, strengthening unity in Christian worship. Ancient testimony remembers Narcissus as a man of prayer and signs. During an Easter Vigil, when the church’s lamps lacked oil, he is said to have changed water into oil so the celebration could continue in reverence and light. Yet his holiness was tested by false accusations from within the community. Narcissus forgave his accusers and withdrew into solitude for years. When the truth became clear, the faithful sought him out and begged him to return. Because of his great age, he accepted Saint Alexander as coadjutor, continuing to guide the Church by prayer and exhortations to peace. He is patron of Saint-Laurent-de-la-Moraine Parish and Serbariu. His feast day is October 29.