St. Onesimus
1st-century convert and disciple of St. Paul, runaway slave of Philemon converted by Paul in Roman imprisonment; subject of Paul's Letter to Philemon urging his master to receive him "no longer as a slave but as a beloved brother" (Phlm 16). Tradition (Ignatius of Antioch's Letter to the Ephesians 1.3) identifies him with the later Bishop of Ephesus, said to have been martyred at Rome c. 95.
Life & Times
Born: 1st century · Died: c. 95, traditional · From: Colossae / Rome, tradition.
Patronage
St. Onesimus is invoked as the patron of servants, formerly enslaved people, reconciliation. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
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About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Onesimus, 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.