SAINT MAURICE AND COMPANIONS



Saint Maurice
Saint Maurice

By Edward Matulanya

Historical Background.

Around AD 287, during the reign of Emperor Maximian, a Roman legion recruited in Thebes, Egypt, and commanded by Saint Maurice, was stationed in Gaul (modern Switzerland). The legion traditionally estimated at about 6,000 men was entirely Christian (Butler, 1995; Holweck, 1924).

Martyrdom of Saint Maurice

When ordered to offer sacrifice to Roman gods and to take part in the persecution of local Christians, Maurice and his soldiers refused. Maximian responded with repeated “decimations,” executing every tenth man to compel obedience. The entire legion ultimately suffered martyrdom near Agaunum (now Saint-Maurice, Switzerland) (Butler, 1995).

Legacy and Veneration of Saint Maurice

Their steadfastness became a powerful example of fidelity to conscience and Christ over imperial command. A shrine was established at Agaunum in the early sixth century, developing into the present Abbaye de Saint-Maurice, one of the oldest continuously inhabited monasteries in the world. The Roman Martyrology commemorates them on 22 September, and they are patrons of soldiers, armies, and the Pontifical Swiss Guard (Holweck, 1924; “Saint Maurice,” 2023).

Iconography of Saint Maurice

Maurice is frequently depicted as a Roman officer in full armor and, reflecting his Egyptian origins, is often portrayed as a Black African saint, making him one of the most venerated early African saints in Europe (Freeman, 2001).

References

Butler, A. (1995). Butler’s lives of the saints (Rev. ed., Vol. 3). Collegeville, MN: Liturgical Press.

Freeman, P. (2001). African saints, African stories: 40 holy men and women. Cincinnati, OH: St. Anthony Messenger Press.

Holweck, F. G. (1924). A biographical dictionary of the saints. St. Louis, MO: B. Herder Book Co.

Saint Maurice. (2023). In Catholic Encyclopedia. New Advent. https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/10068b.htm

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