Septimius of Iesi

Saint Septimius of Iesi was born in what is now Germany and, after a solid education in the liberal arts, began a military career. Grace led him to Christ, and his conversion cost him dearly: when his family would not follow the new faith, Septimius left them behind and set out for Italy. In Milan he served the Church as a minister, but the storm of the Diocletianic Persecution in 303 drove him from the city. He journeyed on to Rome, where the Lord worked through him in signs and miracles that drew the attention of Pope Marcellus I. Recognizing his faith and zeal, the Pope ordained Septimius bishop and sent him to shepherd the people of Iesi. As the first bishop of Iesi, Septimius strengthened the young Christian community and established the cathedral. When a magistrate named Florentius demanded that he offer sacrifice to pagan gods, Septimius refused, choosing fidelity to Christ over safety. For this witness he was condemned and beheaded around 307, honored ever after as a martyr. He is venerated as the patron saint of Iesi. His feast day is September 22.