St. Eusebius of Vercelli
Aug 02
Patron Saint of Vercelli
Eusebius was born on the island of Sardinia where his father died a martyr.
His mother took him and his sister to live in Rome where Eusebius eventually joined the clergy and was ordained a lector.
He was sent to Vercelli and served the Church so well there that he was chosen as its bishop. He is the first bishop of Vercelli whose name was recorded.
In 354 he was sent by Pope Liberius to persuade the Emperor Constantius to call a council to settle Catholic-Arian disputes. When it was called at Milan, Eusebius went reluctantly, sensing that the Arians would have their way.
He refused to go along with the condemnation of Saint Athanasius, who’s refusal to tolerate Arian heresy was the cause of many trials and persecutions. Eusebius insisted on Athanasius’ innocence and reminded the emperor that secular force should not be used to influence Church decisions.