Saint of the Month – St. Christopher, “Christ-Bearer” and Martyr

There is very little known about Saint Christopher’s life. What little we know about him is that he was a Christian martyr that lived in the third century under Roman Emperor Decius.

A stone discovered in 1878 in the ruins of the ancient city of Chalcedon, which was in Asia Minor, now modern-day Turkey, was the cornerstone of a church dedicated to the martyrdom of Saint Christopher. The construction of the church took place between 450 and 452 B.C.

Other than the recording of his martyrdom, there is no recorded history of the life of Saint Christopher. However, many stories and legends have been passed down through the centuries.

Saint Christopher is said to have been extremely tall, even giant-like, with a fierce countenance and quick temper. We believe he came from Canaan and decided to seek out the most powerful of kings to serve.

He found the king, who was said to be the greatest, and served him until Christopher noticed the king crossing himself at the mention of the devil. He asked about this devil his great king feared and decided to seek him out to serve him since many feared him.

Christopher came upon a band of brigands, one of whom declared himself the devil, so Christopher offered to serve him, and the devil accepted.

Christ Seeker

One day Christopher noticed the devil shy away from a crucifix and asked who the figure was on the cross. When told it was Jesus Christ whom the devil feared, Christopher sought Christ. He found a hermit who instructed him in the Christian faith and dedicated himself to the service of God.

In this service, Christopher assisted travelers safely over a dangerous river. One day a small child asked to be carried over the river. As he carried the child, the river rose and swelled as the child became heavier and heavier.

When he finally reached the shore, Christopher said, “You have put me in great danger. I do not think the whole world could have been as heavy on my shoulders as you were.” The child replied: “You had on your shoulders not only the whole world but Him who made it. I am Christ your king, whom you serve by this work.” The child then vanished.

Emperor Decius eventually captured Christopher, and after refusing to worship pagan gods and resisting all temptations, he was beheaded.

Christopher means “Christ-bearer,” he is one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers, the patron saint of travelers, children, storms, epilepsy, and a holy death. His feast day is July 25th.

St. Christopher – Pray for us!

Download the free Saint of the Month poster designed by Emily Prause using the button below. You can pin it to your classroom wall or place it on your refrigerator to help your children learn more about Saint Bernadette.

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