Severinus of Gaul

Holy Martyr Severinus of Gaul was sent to preach in southern Gaul and suffered for Christ in the time of Emperor Claudius (41-54), together with Frontasius, Severian and Silanus.

Bishop Fronto of Perigueux sent the four to proclaim the Word of God in southern Gaul, today France. The pagan governor Squiridon seized them and forced them to renounce Christ; they declared they had only one wish, to live or die for Christ. The governor ordered them led outside the city, nailed to posts and nails driven into their heads like a crown of thorns, and then beheaded. Tradition says that by the power of God they came to life, took their heads in their arms and reached the church of the Mother of God where the bishop was praying; laying their heads at his feet, they gave up their souls to God.

The saint is commemorated on 17 June, in the new style.