The biography of Januarius is so interlaced with oral traditions and golden legends that it is hazardous to sift facts from fiction. The common belief is that Januarius was the Bishop of Benevento, Italy, and led the flock of Christ with commitment and exemplary life. On hearing that some Deacons had been imprisoned for their faith under Emperor Diocletian, the Prelate hastened to comfort them in their prison. One of the jailers denounced him before the Governor. After a mock trial, Januarius and six of his companions were thrown into the amphitheater of the town of Pozzuoli to be torn to pieces by wild animals. When the hungry and ferocious beasts refused to touch them, these heroic disciples of Christ were put to the sword at Puzzoli, near Naples in 305. As the traditions narrate, Eusabia, a pious lady, collected a fewdrops of blood in a vase from the site of martyrdom and handed it over to the Bishop of Naples. The miraculous liquefaction of his blood, preserved in a sealed glass and kept in the Cathedral of Naples, has endeared Januarius to the local citizens who claim him as their patron. The dried “dark mass,” which is purported to be the original blood of the saint, liquefies and often boils and bubbles on September 19 annually while the faithful pray and sing in the Cathedral Church. Science stands askance before this incredible phenomenon.
Reflection: There are many phenomena that elude natural or scientific explanations. God, who created the universe and invested it with guiding principles and laws, can suspend or revoke these laws at his discretion just as secular authorities do for their States and for the individual citizens. The temporary suspension of these natural laws by the Almighty is called miracles.
We seek from the saints example in their way of life, fellowship in their communion, and help through their intercession. (Lumen Gentium.)
