Genesius

Genesius was, according to tradition, an actor in Rome who performed in plays that mocked Christians. In one play parodying baptism he was changed on the stage itself, confessed that he turned to Christ, and refused to renounce the faith even when the emperor Diocletian ordered him to. He was put to death for Christ. His date is uncertain, around 286 or 303.

He is regarded as the patron of actors. Our sources mention another Genesius, a notary of Arles in France, also a martyr around 303, who refused to record a decree against Christians; the two lives should not be confused. He is a saint of the undivided Church, venerated in the West.

His commemoration falls on 25 August (new calendar); the Churches on the Old Calendar keep the same day of the Menaion on 7 September of the civil calendar.