Saint Florian was a Roman army officer in Noricum (present-day Austria) who served during the persecutions of Emperor Diocletian. When he refused to renounce his Christian faith and would not sacrifice to the Roman gods, he was condemned and drowned in the Enns River with a millstone tied to his neck, around the year 304.
Florian did not hide his faith when standing firm cost him everything; he even offered himself up rather than let other Christians suffer alone. He is honored as the patron of firefighters, a reminder that true courage is love that runs toward danger for the sake of others.
Saint Florian, faithful soldier of Christ, help us to stand firm in faith and to protect those in harm's way; keep watch over all who guard and rescue others, and bring us safely home to God. Amen.Enter today’s Mass → All saints →