
January 22 + Saint Vincent of Saragossa
Vincent, the first martyr of Spain, was ordained a deacon in the 3rd century by his friend Saint Valerius of Saragossa. The Roman emperors had published their edicts against the clergy in 303, and the following year against the laity. Vincent and Valerius were apprehended and imprisoned during a persecution by Dacian the governor of Spain.
Valerius was banished but Vincent was subjected to fierce tortures. Saint Austin assures us, that he suffered torments far beyond what any man could possibly have endured, unless supported by a supernatural strength, and that he preserved such a peace and tranquillity in his words, countenance and gestures in the midst of the tortures.
According to details of his death, Vincent was stretched on a rack by his hands and feet, drawn by cords and pulleys, until his joints were almost torn asunder, his flesh was torn with iron hooks, he was bound upon a red-hot gridiron and roasted. Through all of these torments, he suffered with joy in his countenance, and seemed every moment to acquire new strength and resolution. He lay unmoved, his eyes turned towards heaven, his mind calm, and his heart fixed on God in continual prayer.
At last, he was thrown into a dungeon and his wounded body laid on the floor strewed with broken pottery, which opened afresh his ghastly wounds, and cut what little flesh he still had. His legs were set in wooden stocks, stretched very wide, and strict orders were given that he should be left without provisions.
But God sent his angels to comfort him, with whom he sung the praises of his protector. The jailer observed the prison filled with light and the saint walking and praising God. He was converted to the Christian faith and afterwards baptized.
The faithful were then permitted to see him, and coming in troops, wiped and kissed his wounds. After this, a soft bed was prepared for him, on which he laid and quickly expired.
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