Saint Proculus of Pozzuoli

Biography

Saint Sosius of Misenum, also known as Sosius of Miseno, Sosius of Puzzuoli, and various other names, was a deacon of the church of Miseno, Italy. He lived during the time of the persecutions under the Roman Emperor Diocletian, which sought to eliminate Christianity. Born in 275 in Miseno, Italy, Sosius dedicated his life to serving God and the Church as a deacon. His devotion and piety earned him great respect and admiration from the local community. However, during the reign of Emperor Diocletian, Christians faced intense persecution, and Sosius was not exempt from this. As the persecutions intensified, Sosius remained faithful and steadfast in his beliefs, refusing to renounce his Christian faith. His unwavering dedication to his beliefs ultimately led to his imprisonment. Despite the hardships he endured, Sosius remained resolute and committed to his faith. He became an inspiration to his fellow Christians, encouraging them to remain strong in the face of persecution and to remain faithful to God. Unfortunately, Sosius' devotion to Christianity ultimately led to his martyrdom. On September 19, 305, he was beheaded in Pozzuoli, Campagna, Italy. His body was interred in his hometown of Miseno, Italy. Tragically, Miseno was later destroyed by invading Saracens. However, the survivors were transferred to Frattamaggiore, Italy, and they chose Sosius as their patron saint. In recognition of his status, his relics were later recovered from Miseno and taken to the Santi Severino e Sossio abbey in Naples, Italy. The abbey, unfortunately, was suppressed during the Napoleonic era, and the relics were transferred to the basilica of San Sosius in Frattamaggiore. There, the memory and veneration of Saint Sosius continue to this day. Saint Sosius of Misenum is revered as a courageous martyr who stood firm in his faith amidst persecution. His feast day is celebrated on several dates, including September 23 (based on the date of his funeral and the translation of his relics), September 19 (the date of his death), September 17 (on some calendars), and April 21 (on some calendars). Saint Sosius is honored as the patron saint of Frattamaggiore, Italy, and San Sossio Baronia, Italy. His life serves as a reminder to Christians of the importance of remaining steadfast in their faith, even in the face of adversity.