| Saints Epipodius and Alexander | |
|---|---|
| Martyrs | |
| Born | Epipodius, Lyon Alexander, Greece |
| Died | 178 |
| Venerated in | Roman Catholicism |
| Major shrine | Cathedral St-Jean in Lyon |
| Feast | April 22 |
| Patronage | Epipodius is the patron saint of bachelors, victims of betrayal and of torture |
 Saints Portal |
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Saint Epipodius ((French) Épipode) and his companion Alexander (d. 178 AD) are venerated as Christian saints. Their feast day is April 22. Epipodius was a native of Lyon; Alexander was said to be of Greek origin. They were both martyred during the reign of Marcus Aurelius. Epipodius and Alexander are said to have been close friends since childhood. Epipodius is said to have been a confirmed celibate bachelor, though he never joined a religious order. He devoted his time to Christian works and was betrayed to imperial authorities by a servant. He was subsequently imprisoned, tortured, and killed.
Veneration
In the 6th century, their relics were placed together with those of St. Irenaeus under the altar of the Cathedral St-Jean in Lyon. Miracles were reported at this tomb. Epipodius is venerated as the patron saint of bachelors, victims of betrayal and of torture.
