(Latin: Christ bearer)
Martyr (3century), died Lydia, Asia Minor. He is one of the most popular saints of the East and West, and is invoked as one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers. The legends concerning him are confused and often contradictory; however, it is generally conceded that he was engaged in carrying people across a raging stream. One day he carried the Christ Child across, and his burden became heavier at each step until it was almost unbearable, for Christ bore in his hands the weight of the world; to prove His identity Christ caused Christopher's staff to grow into a fruit-bearing tree. This miracle converted many, and excited the rage of the king, who caused Christopher to be imprisoned, subjected to torments, and beheaded. Patron of travelers; invoked against storms and sudden death. Emblems: a tree, the Child Jesus on his shoulders, giant, torrent. Feast, Roman Calendar, July 25,.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
Read More