Saint Candidus and the Theban Legion
The history of early Christian martyrdom is often marked by stories of unwavering faith in the face of imperial power. Among these accounts is that of Saint Candidus, a high-ranking officer of the Theban Legion whose commitment to his beliefs led to a legendary sacrifice.
The Origins of the Theban Legion
The first historical mention of Candidus appears in the writings of Eucherius, the Bishop of Lyon, around 434 AD. He is identified as a member of the Theban Legion, a military unit known for its Christian composition. By the 13th century, the Golden Legend—a widely read collection of hagiographies—further detailed the leadership of this holy legion.
According to these records, the legion was led by the noble Maurice. Serving directly under him were several captains who bore the banners of the unit: Saint Candidus, Saint Innocent, Saint Exsuperius, Saint Victor, and Saint Constantine.
The Conflict with Emperor Maximian
Candidus served as a senator militum, a term referring to a staff officer. His faith was put to the ultimate test when Emperor Maximian issued a direct order for the legion to harass local Christians in the Emperor's name.
Candidus stood in opposition to this command. He articulated a clear distinction between military duty and spiritual allegiance, stating that while they were soldiers of the empire, they were first and foremost servants of the true God. He asserted that they could not renounce their Creator and Master, regardless of whether the Emperor rejected Him.
Martyrdom at Agaunum
Because of their refusal to persecute fellow Christians, Candidus, Saint Maurice, the other staff officers, and 6,600 soldiers were martyred. This event took place in the town of Agaunum, which is known today as Saint Maurice-en-Valais in Switzerland.
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Key Facts
- Role: Staff officer (senator militum) of the Theban Legion.
- Leadership: Served under the command of Saint Maurice.
- Conflict: Refused Emperor Maximian's order to persecute Christians.
- Casualties: 6,600 soldiers and their officers were martyred.
- Location: Agaunum (modern-day Saint Maurice-en-Valais, Switzerland).
- Feast Day: September 22.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Primary Source | Eucherius, Bishop of Lyon (434 AD) |
| Secondary Source | The Golden Legend (13th Century) |
| Opposing Ruler | Emperor Maximian |
| Total Martyred | 6,600 soldiers plus officers |
| Commemoration Date | September 22 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Saint Candidus?
Saint Candidus was a staff officer (senator militum) and captain in the Theban Legion who served under Saint Maurice.
Why was Saint Candidus martyred?
He and his fellow soldiers were martyred because they refused to obey Emperor Maximian's order to harass and persecute local Christians.
Where did the martyrdom of the Theban Legion occur?
The martyrdom took place in Agaunum, which is currently the town of Saint Maurice-en-Valais in Switzerland.
When is the feast day of Saint Candidus?
The feast day for Saint Candidus is observed on September 22.
How many soldiers were martyred alongside Candidus?
It is recorded that 6,600 soldiers, along with Saint Maurice and the other staff officers, were martyred.