Nazarius and Celsus

Abbazia San Nazzaro (NO) Affresco Chiesa Nazario

Nazarius and Celsus are early Christian saints and martyrs whose lives and legacies have been commemorated in the history of Christianity. Their story is intertwined with the broader narrative of Christian martyrdom during the periods of persecution under the Roman Empire.

Life and Martyrdom

Nazarius's life is said to have begun in Rome, where he was born to a Christian mother named Perpetua. His father, however, was a pagan. According to tradition, Nazarius was baptized by none other than Saint Peter himself. Inspired by his faith, Nazarius dedicated his life to preaching the Christian gospel. During his travels, he arrived in Milan, where he met and converted Celsus, a young boy whom he adopted as his son. Together, they continued the mission of spreading Christianity.

Their evangelistic journey led them through various regions, including Gaul, where they were arrested for their faith. They were imprisoned, tortured, and eventually beheaded under the orders of the Roman authorities, making the ultimate sacrifice for their belief in Jesus Christ. The exact date of their martyrdom is uncertain, but it is believed to have occurred during the 1st or 2nd century AD.

Veneration

The veneration of Saints Nazarius and Celsus is widespread in the Christian tradition. Their relics are said to have been discovered by Saint Ambrose in Milan in the 4th century. Ambrose had the relics transferred to the Basilica of the Apostles in Milan, where a shrine was established in their honor. This act by Ambrose significantly boosted the cult of Nazarius and Celsus, making Milan a center of their veneration.

Their feast day is celebrated on July 28th in the Roman Catholic Church and on other dates in various Christian denominations. The story of Nazarius and Celsus serves as a powerful testament to the faith and endurance of early Christian martyrs.

Legacy

The legacy of Nazarius and Celsus extends beyond their martyrdom. They are remembered as exemplars of faith, courage, and the power of spiritual fatherhood and mentorship. Their story underscores the importance of evangelism and the sacrifices made by early Christians in the spread of Christianity across the Roman Empire.