St. Eustachius

Eustachius was martyred in 188 during the persecution under the Emperor Hadrian. Legend tells that Placidus, Roman general was converted to Christianity while out hunting near Rome; he saw a stag with a crucifix over its head and heard a voice predicting he would suffer for the faith. Placidus hastened to receive baptism, taking the name Eustachius; his wife Tatiana was baptized with the name Theophista and his sons Agapius and Theophistus were baptized as well. Misfortune separated the devoted family for a time, but they were eventually reunited. The four suffered martyrdom when they refused to sacrifice to the pagan gods. His feast is September 20.