Saint Lazarus of Bethany

Biography

Saint Lazarus of Bethany, also known as Lazarus of the Four Days, Lazarus the Resurrected, or Lazare, was the brother of Saint Martha and Saint Mary of Bethany. He is famously known as the man whom Jesus raised from the dead after having been dead and in his tomb for four days. Not much is mentioned about Lazarus in the Bible after his resurrection, but tradition holds that he became a missionary to Gaul, the region that later became France. According to this tradition, Lazarus arrived in Gaul and became the first bishop of Marseilles, a city located in present-day France. During the reign of the Roman Emperor Domitian, Lazarus faced persecution for his faith. Despite the dangers, he continued his missionary work, preaching the Gospel and converting many to Christianity. Eventually, Saint Lazarus faced martyrdom and was beheaded in the 1st century in a cave near Marseilles, France. After his death, some of Saint Lazarus' relics remained in Marseilles, while others were later enshrined in the Cathedral of Saint Lazare in Autun, France. This cathedral became a significant pilgrimage site for Christians seeking to honor and venerate Saint Lazarus. The exact representation of Saint Lazarus is not widely known or depicted, as there is no specific imagery associated with him. However, he is often portrayed as a man emerging from a tomb, symbolizing his miraculous resurrection by Jesus. Saint Lazarus of Bethany is commemorated by the Catholic Church on July 29th. Previously, his feast day was celebrated on December 17th. Although Saint Lazarus' canonization predates the formal process established by the Catholic Church, he is recognized as a saint, albeit in the pre-congregation period. Saint Lazarus is honored as the patron saint of several causes and places. He is traditionally regarded as the patron of gravediggers, recognizing his connection to the experience of death and resurrection. Additionally, he is also honored as the patron of Autun, France, both the city and its diocese, as well as the Archdiocese of Marseille, France. The life of Saint Lazarus of Bethany and his miraculous resurrection continue to inspire and encourage believers in their faith, reminding them of the power and mercy of Jesus Christ.