Dear Friends,
Let us pray:Grant, Almighty God, that in all times of trial and persecution, we might remain steadfast in faith and endurance, according to the example of your servant Fabian, who was faithful even unto death. We ask this for the sake of him who laid down his life for us all, Jesus Christ our Savior; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
St Fabian was Bishop of Rome for 14 years. He sent seven bishops to Gaul as evangelists (including St Denis of Paris). He organized the city of Rome into seven parishes overseen by an archdeacon and appointed scribes to record the lives of the martyrs for posterity, an early example of deaneries. When the Emperor Decius began a persecution of Christians, probably the first one to be waged simultaneously in all parts of the Empire, Fabian was one of the first to be put to death, setting a courageous example for others. His tombstone, with the inscription dimly visible (Fabiani Episcopi Romani et Martyris.), can still be seen in Rome. (James Kiefer, hagiographer)
Epiphany Blessings,
Father Eric