Vitus was a child — some accounts say as young as seven — when he refused to deny Christ. His own father tried to break him. His Roman governor tried to break him. Neither could. He was thrown into boiling oil, threatened with lions, and ultimately gave his life rather than renounce his faith. He is venerated as one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers and is the patron saint of dancers, actors, comedians, and those who suffer from epilepsy and certain nervous disorders. He is almost always depicted holding a rooster, a symbol that has followed his iconography for centuries.
This feast is small and easily overlooked — but it's a beautiful one for children. Vitus was a child. His courage didn't wait for adulthood.
Enjoy Feast Day Food
Every food idea for this feast is rooted in the themes of the day — movement, youth, and the symbols that follow St. Vitus through history:
- Jello — It wiggles. It jiggles. It is, arguably, the perfect food for the patron saint of dancers. Let kids help make it the night before so it's ready to wobble at lunch.
- Chicken or eggs — St. Vitus is almost always shown holding a rooster. Honor the tradition with a simple chicken dinner, egg salad, or a fried egg on toast.
- Cupcakes with sprinkles — For the performers, the comedians, the kids who make everyone laugh. Vitus would approve.
Make the Ballerina & Court Jester Paper Dolls
Use the Ballerina & Court Jester Paper Dolls from the June Printable Pack to celebrate the artists and performers St. Vitus watches over from heaven. As kids cut and assemble, remind them that even the youngest among us can be bold witnesses for Christ. Vitus wasn't waiting until he was older. Neither do they have to.
Have a Dance Party
Turn on music and dance — in the living room, in the backyard, wherever there's enough space. If you want to lean into the feast, look up traditional folk dances from St. Vitus's region of southern Italy and try one together. Then read a joke book or take turns telling your best (cleanest) jokes in honor of the comedians and performers he protects.
Pray
Pray the Litany of the Fourteen Holy Helpers together, or offer a simple prayer asking St. Vitus for his intercession. He is traditionally invoked for protection against lightning, storms, snake bites, and — yes — mad dog attacks. He is also a powerful intercessor for those suffering from nervous disorders and epilepsy. If you know someone who struggles with any of these, bring them to St. Vitus today.
St. Vitus, pray for us.
