Saint Sebastian

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Nothing is known about St. Sebastian's early life beyond his possible origins in southern France and his education in Milan. He enlisted in the Roman Army in 283 AD, reportedly to provide support to fellow Christians facing persecution by the Romans. St. Sebastian quickly distinguished himself through outstanding service, earning a promotion to serve as a member of the elite Praetorian Guard tasked with protecting Emperor Diocletian. While serving in the Praetorian Guard, Marcus and Marcellian, twin brothers and prominent Christian deacons, were imprisoned for refusing to make public sacrifices to Roman gods. During their imprisonment, St. Sebastian successfully persuaded their parents to convert to Christianity, as well as several other influential individuals, including the local prefect. This bold move ultimately led to his own discovery, with Emperor Diocletian ordering his arrest in 286 AD. The notorious emperor, infamous for his brutal suppression of Christians, publicly scolded St. Sebastian and condemned him to be tied to a stake on a training field and used as target practice by Roman soldiers.