Vitus

Saint Vitus was born in Sicily, though the dates and many details of his life are veiled by ancient legend. From the earliest Christian memory he is honored as a martyr, long associated in tradition with Modestus and Crescentia. The stories tell of a boy steadfast in faith during the persecution under Emperor Diocletian, refusing to deny Christ despite threats and torture. In one well-loved account, Vitus is brought to Rome to free a tormented member of the imperial household, and when he remains faithful after this deliverance, he suffers further torments and dies for the Gospel. Whatever the exact circumstances, devotion to Vitus spread quickly through Sicily and southern Italy, then to Rome, and later across Europe through the translation of relics, especially to Germany and Prague. In the Middle Ages he was numbered among the Fourteen Holy Helpers, invoked in times of trouble. He is remembered as a patron of dancers and entertainers, and is called upon against “St. Vitus’ Dance.” His feast day is June 15.