Saint Tarcisius
Patron of Altar Boys & Girls, Invoked for Courage & Heroism, Invoked Against Bullying
Feast Day: August 15th
Tarcisius was born in the 3rd Century, and while very young, he often volunteered to help the Church. The Deacons would typically bring the Holy Eucharist to local prisoners but one day there were no Deacons available for the job. So, Tarcisius was asked to bring the Blessed Sacrament to the prison and he gladly volunteered. While on his way, he encountered a throng of young rogues, children who bullied him and tried to take the Eucharist. Tarcisius was heroic and refused to let the other boys steal the Blessed Sacrament. He was then beaten and died weeks later from his injuries. Pope Damasus compared Tarcisius to the Martyr Saint Stephen, who was stoned to death. Tarcisius was a loyal and devoted Christian who gave his life to protect the Holy Eucharist. It is said the Eucharist miraculously disappeared during his ordeal. If you go to Paris, visit the Musee d’ Orsay, to see a spectacular sculpture of Saint Tarcisius, created by the artist Alexandre Faluire, honoring the bravery of young Tarcisius. ©2012