Athleta Christi

Athleta Christi(Latin:"Champion of Christ") was a class ofEarly Christiansoldiermartyrsormilitary saints,of whom the most familiar example is probablySaint Sebastian.It also could be used to refer to Christians with exemplary martial prowess, especially when fighting against non-Christians or heretics.

Usage

Since the 15th century, the title has been a political one, granted byPopesto men who have led military campaigns defendingChristianity.The militantCatholic hymnAthleta Christi nobilis( "Noble Champion of the Lord" ), a hymn forMatinson 18 May, the feast of SaintVenantius,was written in the 17th century by an unknown author. The medieval precursors of the hymn are numerous and includehymns,responsoriesandantiphonsdedicated to many saints and martyrs, even non-militant ones such asCosmas and Damian.

Those who have held the title include:

• Louis I of Hungary,called upon byPope Innocent VI.
• Simon de Montfort,called so byPeter of Vaux de Cernay.
• John Hunyadiof Hungary, called byPope Pius II.
• George Kastrioti SkanderbegofAlbania,called by PopesCallixtus III,Pius II,Paul II,andNicholas V.
• Stephen the GreatofMoldavia,called byPope Sixtus IV.
• Vlad the ImpalerofWallachia,called byPope Sixtus IV.

See also

• Miles Christianus

External links

• New Catholic Dictionary:Athleta Christi nobilis
• La Trobe University Library: Medieval Music Database:cf incipitsO athleta Christi
• La Trobe University Library: Medieval Music Database:cf incipitsAthleta Christi