St. Longinus the Centurion

Saint Longinus, also known as Longino, was a well-known figure in Christian history and is revered as a martyr and a convert. Born in Cappadocia, he eventually became a centurion in the Roman army. It was during his service that he played a significant role in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. According to historical accounts, Saint Longinus was present at the crucifixion of Jesus on Calvary Hill. As a centurion, he was responsible for maintaining order and ensuring the execution was carried out correctly. It was during this time that he famously pierced the side of Jesus with a lance, inflicting the final wound. This act is seen by many as an act of faith and recognition of Jesus' divinity. Following the events at Calvary, Saint Longinus underwent a profound conversion. Witnessing the events surrounding Jesus' crucifixion, along with the countless miracles that followed, led Longinus to embrace Christianity. He became a devout follower of Jesus, forsaking his former life as a soldier and dedicating himself to spreading the teachings of Christ. However, Saint Longinus' newfound faith and conversion came at a cost. His commitment to Christianity and his refusal to renounce his beliefs led to his martyrdom. Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor who had ordered the crucifixion of Jesus, issued an order to have Longinus executed. He was martyred in Cappadocia in the 1st century, bearing witness to his faith in the face of persecution. Saint Longinus' relics were later preserved and became objects of veneration. The church of Saint Augustine in Rome, Italy, houses some of these relics, while others are found under the altar of the church of San Niccolo in Baschi, Italy. Devotees from various Christian denominations visit these sites to pay their respects and seek intercession from Saint Longinus. Saint Longinus is widely regarded as the patron saint of soldiers, and his feast day is celebrated on 16 October. In the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Catholic Church, his feast day is observed on 15 October, while the Armenian Apostolic Church recognizes it on 22 October and the Coptic Orthodox Church on 14 November. Additionally, Saint Longinus is associated with the town of Baschi in Italy, where he enjoys local veneration. Through his courageous act at the crucifixion and his profound conversion, Saint Longinus serves as an example of faith, repentance, and the transformative power of encountering Jesus Christ. His story continues to inspire believers and serves as a reminder of the sacrifice and commitment required to live a life dedicated to Christ. A statue of St. Longinus graces St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. (see below)

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