Sts. Claudius, Nicostatus, Castorius, Victorinus, and Symphorian
July 7
The Four Crowned Martyrs or Four Holy Crowned Ones (Latin, Sancti Quatuor Coronati) were nine individuals who are venerated as martyrs and saints of Early Christianity. The nine saints are divided into two groups:
1. Severus (or Secundius), Severian(us), Carpophorus (Carpoforus), Victorinus (Victorius, Vittorinus)
2. Claudius, Castorius, Symphorian (Simpronian), Nicostratus, and Simplicius
According to the Golden Legend, the names of the members of the first group were not known at the time of their death "but were learned through the Lord’s revelation after many years had passed." They were called the "Four Crowned Martyrs" because their names were unknown ("crown" referring to the crown of martyrdom).
Numbered among this group of Roman martyrs is Claudius, a notary, Nicostratus, an assistant prefect, and Castorius, Victorinus, and Symphorian, all converted to the faith through the efforts of St. Sebastian, and baptized by the blessed priest Polycarp. While they were engaged in searching for the bodies of the holy martyrs, the judge Fabian had them arrested, and for ten days he tried to shake their constancy by threats and flatteries. Being utterly unable to succeed, he ordered them to be tortured, then thrown into the sea. They are remembered on July 7.
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