Saint Longinus the Centurion
Date of celebration: 16/10
Saint Longinus was a Centurion under the orders of Pontius Pilate, during the reign of Tiberius Caesar (14 – 37 AD). He served with his soldiers during the saving Passion of the Lord, being present at the crucifixion, the burial and the sealing of the tomb.
But when he perceived the earthquake, he saw the stones being torn and the tombs being opened, he believed that the crucified man was the real Son of God. He resigned his position and together with two other soldiers left for his homeland, in order to preach the Resurrection of the Lord.
Pilate reported his desertion to Tiberius, who sent a detachment of soldiers to kill him. When they found it and informed him of the emperor’s decision, he hosted them in his house, prepared the tomb for him and his two faithful soldiers, and beheaded himself the next day.
