The Patron of Firefighters
History of Rosangela - Minas Gerais, Brasil
Saint Florian 's Day, celebrated on May 4 , honors a 3rd-century Christian Roman official born in Germany. He governed the Roman province of Norica, today Austria, and stood out for training soldiers to fight fires, being recognized as the patron saint of firefighters. According to legend, during a serious fire, he said a prayer and used a bucket of water to extinguish the flames, impressing many and converting some to Christianity. However, his faith brought him into conflict with Roman authorities during the persecution of Christians under Emperor Diocletian. Florian refused to renounce his faith and was martyred, tied to a millstone and thrown into the River Enns, where he drowned. His celebration is marked by special ceremonies and tributes to firefighters around the world... Did you know?