Saint Longinus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Saint Longinus |
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| Born | 1st century Cappadocia |
| Died | 1st century Cappadocia |
| Venerated in | Roman Catholic Church Eastern Orthodox Church Armenian Apostolic Church Eastern Catholic Churches |
| Major shrine | Inside the Basilica di San Pietro, in the Vatican. |
| Feast | October 16: Eastern Orthodox Church, Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Catholic Churches; October 22: Armenian Apostolic Church. |
| Attributes | Military attire |
Longinus is the name given to a Roman soldier in old Christian stories. He is known for piercing Jesus' side with a spear while Jesus was on the Cross. The stories also say this soldier was a centurion, a Roman army officer. He was at the Crucifixion and said, "Truly this man was the Son of God."
Over time, more stories about Longinus appeared. People said he became a Christian after the Crucifixion. Today, he is honored as a saint in many Christian groups.
Contents
Who Was Saint Longinus?
The Soldier's Story
Longinus is not named in the Bible. His name comes from later Christian traditions. He was a Roman soldier, possibly a centurion. A centurion was a commander of about 80 soldiers.
His most famous act was piercing Jesus' side. This happened after Jesus had died on the Cross. This event is mentioned in the Gospel of John.
The Legend Grows
After the Crucifixion, the legend says Longinus converted to Christianity. Some stories say he was nearly blind. When Jesus' blood and water touched his eyes, his sight was restored. This miracle led him to believe in Jesus.
He then left the Roman army. He traveled to Cappadocia, his home region. There, he preached about Christianity.
Longinus as a Saint
Longinus is honored as a saint in several Christian churches. These include the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church. His feast day is celebrated on different dates. For example, it is October 16 for some churches and October 22 for others.
His story shows a powerful change of heart. He went from a Roman soldier following orders to a devoted Christian. He is seen as a symbol of faith and conversion.
Images for kids
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Longinus the Centurion. Russian icon by Fyodor Zubov, 1680.
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Longinus depicted in the Nea Moni Church, Chios, Greece
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Christ on the Cross, the three Marys, John the Evangelist, and Saint Longinus
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Saint Longinus in Bom Jesus do Monte
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Fresco in Basilica of St Peter and St Paul in Vyšehrad (Prague).
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First Class Bone Relic of St. Longinus
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See also
In Spanish: Longinos (centurión) para niños
