Saint of the Day: Saints Cosmos and Damian | September 26

By SIDTP SoCom

Published on September 26, 2024

Saints Cosmas and Damian were twin brothers born in the 3rd century in Asia Minor, which is part of modern-day Turkey. They are venerated as martyrs and saints in the Christian tradition, known for their dedication to medicine and their unwavering faith.

Cosmas and Damian were skilled physicians who practiced medicine without charging their patients, embodying their Christian belief in charity and compassion. They were deeply committed to their faith and used their medical skills to help those in need, healing the sick and comforting the suffering.

During a period of intense persecution of Christians under the Roman Emperor Diocletian, the brothers were arrested for their faith. They were accused of being Christians and refusing to offer sacrifices to the Roman gods. Despite various forms of torture and the threat of death, they remained steadfast in their faith. According to tradition, they performed miraculous healings even while imprisoned.

Ultimately, Saints Cosmas and Damian were martyred for their refusal to renounce Christianity. Their dedication to both their faith and their medical practice made them revered figures in the early Christian Church.

They are often depicted in Christian art as doctors with medical instruments and are regarded as the patron saints of physicians, surgeons, and pharmacists. Their feast day is celebrated on September 26th.

 

Sources:
1. Voragine, Jacobus de. The Golden Legend: Readings on the Saints. Princeton University Press, 1993.
2. Farmer, David Hugh, ed. The Oxford Dictionary of Saints. Oxford University Press, 2003.