Saint Sebastian (c. 256-288) was a Roman officer and Christian martyr under the Emperor Diocletian. A secret Christian, he supported prisoners persecuted for their faith. Discovered, he was sentenced to death and riddled with arrows by archers, but he miraculously survived. Cared for by Saint Irene, he returned to defy the emperor, who had him beaten to death. He is venerated as the patron saint of soldiers, archers, and victims of epidemics. His cult has spread widely in Europe, particularly in Lorraine, where several churches are dedicated to him. He is often depicted tied to a post, pierced with arrows.
