Saint Callistratus and his companions commemorated by the Church

The Church commemorates Saint Callistratus and his companions on September 27. Born in Carthage and raised in the Christian faith, Callistratus became a Roman soldier during the era of Emperor Diocletian.

After being identified as a Christian by his fellow soldiers, Callistratus was ordered by the commander Persentinus to offer sacrifices to pagan gods. Upon his refusal, he was beaten and thrown into the sea. According to tradition, he survived the ordeal when two dolphins carried him to shore.

Witnessing his endurance and the subsequent miracle, 49 other soldiers converted to Christianity. Following further torture and imprisonment, where Callistratus provided spiritual guidance to his companions, all 50 soldiers were executed in prison. A church was later constructed over their remains.