St. Vitus
Sicilian boy-martyr (d. c. 303, traditional), of Lucania, taken to Rome under Diocletian and beheaded with his nurse Crescentia and her husband Modestus. One of the Fourteen Holy Helpers; "St. Vitus's Dance" (Sydenham's chorea) was attributed to a curse linked to his cult in late-medieval German folklore. Pre-Congregation; biography largely legendary.
Life & Times
Born: c. 290, traditional · Died: c. 303, traditional · From: Sicily / Lucania, Italy, tradition.
Patronage
St. Vitus is invoked as the patron of dancers, actors, epileptics, young people, protection from lightning. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
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Devotional items honoring St. Vitus, from our Sancta Lumina collection and beyond.
About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Vitus, 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.