Sebastian was the son of a wealthy Roman family. He was educated in Milan and became an officer of the imperial Roman army, and Captain of the Guard. He was a favorite of Emperor Diocletian. During Diocletian’s persecution of the Christians, Sebastian visited them in prison, bringing both supplies and comfort. He is reported to have healed the wife of a fellow soldier by making the sign of the cross over her. During his time in the army he converted many soldiers and a governor.
Charged as a Christian in 288 in Rome, Sebastian was tied to a tree, shot with arrows, and left for dead. However, he survived, recovered, and returned to preach to Diocletian, where the emperor then had him beaten to death.
Daily Reading
Daily Readings for Tuesday, February 17, 2026
Psalm 78:17-20, 52-55; 1 Kings 19:9-18; Romans 11:1-6;
Daily Meditation
Leaven of the Pharisees
Click here for daily readings Today’s Gospel is quite comforting to me as someone who struggles to live the spiritual life. I think all of us, since we are human,…