Episode 1318: St Alban

Saint Alban is venerated as the first-recorded British Christian martyr, he is considered to be the British protomartyr. Along with fellow Saints Julius and Aaron, Alban is one of three named martyrs recorded at an early date from Roman Britain. He is traditionally believed to have been beheaded in Verulamium (modern St Albans) sometime during the 3rd or 4th century, and his cult has been celebrated there since ancient times.Show more

The earliest surviving account of Alban's life is found in the Historia Ecclesiastica Gentis Anglorum ("Ecclesiastical History of the English People") by the Venerable Bede, written in the 8th century. Bede's account tells the story of Alban, a pagan living in Verulamium, who sheltered a Christian priest who was fleeing from Roman persecution. The priest converted Alban to Christianity, and Alban eventually gave himself up to the authorities in the priest's place. He was then beheaded, becoming the first British martyr.

Bede's account is not the only one of Alban's life. St. Alban, also known as Saint Alban of Verulamium, is an important figure in Catholic history. He lived during the 3rd or 4th century in Roman Britain.

According to the traditional accounts, St. Alban was a pagan living in the Roman city of Verulamium (present-day St. Albans, Hertfordshire, England). He is said to have converted to Christianity after sheltering a Christian priest who was fleeing from persecution. Inspired by the priest's faith and teachings, St. Alban embraced Christianity and became a devout believer.

When Roman soldiers came to arrest the priest, St. Alban exchanged clothes with him and presented himself before the authorities instead. He was subsequently taken before the Roman magistrate and was asked to renounce his Christian faith. However, St. Alban refused to comply and declared his allegiance to Christianity, proclaiming that he worshiped the true and living God.

St. Alban was sentenced to death for his refusal to renounce his faith. Tradition holds that he was taken to the outskirts of Verulamium, where he was martyred. The exact details of his martyrdom vary in different accounts, but the most common version states that he was beheaded.

St. Alban's martyrdom played a significant role in the spread of Christianity in Britain. His courage and sacrifice became an inspiration for many others to embrace Christianity, even in the face of persecution. St. Alban is considered a patron saint of converts, refugees, and torture victims.

According to Bede, St. Alban lived during the reign of Emperor Diocletian, who ordered the persecution of Christians. The site where St. Alban was believed to have been martyred eventually became a place of pilgrimage, and a monastery and abbey were established there.

mpressed by Alban's steadfastness, the magistrate ordered him to renounce Christianity and offer sacrifices to the Roman gods. Alban, however, remained firm in his faith and refused to comply.

As a result, Alban was subjected to various forms of torture, including scourging. Despite the pain inflicted upon him, Alban did not renounce his faith. His unyielding devotion to Christ inspired those witnessing the events.

Finally, Alban was taken outside the city walls and beheaded. Bede does not provide specific details of the conversations between Alban and his executioners during this final phase.

Today, St. Albans Cathedral stands on the site, marking the location of St. Alban's martyrdom.

Alban's story is a powerful one of faith, courage, and sacrifice. He is an inspiration to Christians all over the world, and his feast day is a time to remember his witness to the truth of the Gospel.