Gervasius of Milan

Holy Martyr Gervasius of Milan was a twin brother of Saint Protasius and suffered for Christ in the time of Emperor Nero (54-68), together with Saints Nazarius and Celsus.

Nazarius, the son of the Christian Perpetua and the Jew Africanus, was born in Rome and baptised by Bishop Linus. From his youth he resolved to devote his life to preaching Christ and helping persecuted Christians. Going to Milan, he visited the Christians in the city's prison and came to know the twins Protasius and Gervasius. They had been born in Milan to the wealthy Roman citizens Vitalis and Valeria. Left orphans, since their parents had been put to death for the Christian faith, the brothers gave their property to the poor, freed their slaves and struggled in fasting and prayer. For confessing Christ, the pagans threw them into prison. Nazarius loved them and eased their sufferings as he could, and for this he was beaten and driven out of Milan. He went to Gaul, where he preached with success and turned many pagans.

In the city of Cemele he baptised the son of a Christian woman, Celsus, whom he raised and made a faithful disciple and companion in missionary work. For preaching, the pagans gave them to wild beasts, but the beasts did not touch the saints. They then tried to drown them in the sea, but the martyrs walked on the water as on dry land. The soldiers carrying out the sentence were so amazed that they themselves accepted Christianity and let the martyrs go.

Nazarius and Celsus returned to Milan and visited Gervasius and Protasius in prison. Word of this was brought to Nero, who ordered Nazarius and Celsus to be beheaded. Soon afterwards the brothers Gervasius and Protasius were also put to death.

Many years later Saint Ambrose, Bishop of Milan, learned by a revelation from above where the martyrs' relics lay and brought them to light. The relics, which shone forth with many healings, were carried with honour to the cathedral of Milan. The saints are commemorated on 27 October (new style).