St. Expeditus

St. Expeditus, also known as Expedite, was a Roman centurion martyred for his faith during the Diocletianic Persecution around April 303. Stationed in Melitene, in what is now Turkey, he is believed to have been a member of the Legio XII Fulminata. According to tradition, Expeditus converted to Christianity in Armenia and faced persecution for his newfound faith. The Church honors him as the patron saint of urgent causes, procrastinators, merchants, sailors, and students during exams, with his feast day celebrated on April 19.

Legend tells of the moment he resolved to convert when the devil, appearing as a crow, tried to delay him by croaking "Cras" (Latin for "tomorrow"). Expeditus crushed the bird underfoot, declaring, "Hodie!" (Latin for "Today!"), symbolizing his immediate commitment to Christ. He is often depicted in Roman military attire, holding a cross inscribed with "Hodie" and standing on a crow marked "Cras."

While there are questions about the historical authenticity of St. Expeditus, his veneration began in the Middle Ages and grew significantly across Europe, Latin America, and Réunion Island. Devotees seek his intercession for urgent needs, and he is honored with shrines and altars in various parts of the world. Though his name was removed from the official list of martyrs by Pope Pius X in 1905, his popularity among the faithful endures. St. Expeditus continues to inspire Catholics to act decisively in faith and to trust in God’s providence without delay.