Patronages
According to Catholic tradition, as recorded in the sources cited for each patronage:
France
These writings arrived at Paris on the eve of the Feast of S. Denis of France, and were carried in state to the abbey erected over the remains of the patron of France.
Recorded as patron of France in:
- Catholic Encyclopedia, 1913, Patron Saints
- Husenbeth, Emblems of Saints, 1882, PATRONS OF COUNTRIES AND CITIES.
- Baring-Gould, The Lives of the Saints, 1897, S. DIONYSIUS THE AREOPAGITE, B.M.
Feast day
- October 9 · General Roman Calendar
From Catholic Encyclopedia, 1913, “St. Denis”
Born in Italy, nothing is definitely known of the time or place, or of his early life.
His feast is kept on 9 October.
He is usually represented with his head in his hands because, according to the legend, after his execution the corpse rose again and carried the head for some distance.
That, however, while still very young he was distinguished for his virtuous life, knowledge of sacred things, and firm faith, is proved by the fact that Pope Fabian (236-250) sent him with some other missionary bishops to Gaul on a difficult mission.
The Church of Gaul had suffered terribly under the persecution of the Emperor Decius and the new messengers of Faith were to endeavour to restore it to its former flourishing condition.
Works of art
