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Portrait of St. Longinus
A portrait of St. Longinus

St. Longinus

1st century, traditional – 1st century, traditional
Feast
March 15 · I c.
Patron of
Soldiers · Converts · Eye disease, traditional
Order
Soldier / Convert / Martyr

Roman centurion (1st century, traditional), traditional name of the soldier who pierced the side of Christ on the cross (Jn 19:34); converted by the prodigies that followed and, according to Cappadocian tradition, returned home to Cappadocia, preached Christ, and was martyred. Pre-Congregation; biography traditional.

Life & Times

Born: 1st century, traditional · Died: 1st century, traditional · From: Jerusalem / Cappadocia, tradition.

Patronage

St. Longinus is invoked as the patron of soldiers, converts, eye disease, traditional. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.

“Truly this man was the Son of God!”
— Gospel of Mark 15:39 — the centurion's confession at the Crucifixion (traditionally identified as Longinus)

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Devotional items honoring St. Longinus, from our Sancta Lumina collection and beyond.

About Catholic Saints

Catholic saints, including St. Longinus, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.