“God blesses those who endure temptation and persecution." ~ James 1:12
Genesius, a gifted actor, comedian, and writer, was also
the troupe's leader. Yet acting in early Roman society wasn’t a respectable career;
its status was similar to that of a slave or pagan laborer. The group
rarely performed the original Greek and Roman dramas.
Ancient Roman comedy
was boisterous, crude, and offensive. But the cunning performer had a plan that
might land him a position at the Imperial Palace.
Emperor Diocletian planned to visit Rome in the summer of 303 to celebrate his
twenty years as Rome’s sovereign leader. Various cultural events were being
organized for his visit. Given the Emperor’s hatred of Christians, a satire
mocking Christianity performed during the jubilee might amuse the emperor and
win Genesius notoriety and favor with other nobles.
For research, he presented
himself as a catechumen (person seeking faith instruction before baptism and admission
to the Catholic Church). Genesius sought material to use for his play but had
no plans of converting to Christianity.
During his months of
training, Genesius chose to make Baptism the subject of his irreverent play. He
planned to mock the claim that baptism washed away sin and invited those
baptized into a new life in Christ! When he’d done enough study, he left the membership
training.
The farcical play began after Emperor Diocletian took his
seat in the Imperial Box. Genesius cast himself in the role of a bedridden man
screaming to be baptized. As the play grew more extreme, an actor priest entered
the stage to “baptize” the ailing catechumen.
Then something miraculous happened. Inspired by the Holy
Spirit, Genesius arose from his bed and began to profess his faith in Christ:
Jesus Christ is the only true God, the Light, the Truth,
and the Mercy of all who receive His gift of baptism.”
Genesius was arrested immediately and urged to recant his claims.
Despite being beaten, racked, slashed, and burned, he remained faithful. After immense
suffering, he was condemned to death and publicly beheaded.
Legend claims that his final words were, “Our Lord Jesus
Christ is God. We shall have life in His name.” Through his martyrdom, he’s
considered to have been “baptized by blood.”
A similar transformation takes place in every
Christian. Jesus teaches that we must die to live. St. Genesius’ conversion
shows that it’s never too late to turn to God and embrace Christianity. His
courage is an inspiration to boldly witness our faith. His actions remind us
that joy and laughter can be powerful evangelization tools.
Saint Genesius, Patron Saint of theatrical performers, we ask for your
intercession as we seek to use our talents to bring joy and motivation to
others. Grant us the courage to remain true to our faith, even in the face of
persecution. Amen
