Sts. Cosmas and Damian, twin brothers, born in Arabia, distinguished themselves as physicians. They gave their lives for the Faith at Cyrus in Syria where they were buried. Besides using their skill for the healing of diseases they sought to spread the Faith in Christ. After many tortures they beheaded about the year 285 in the persecution under Diocletian. The fame of their miracles spread over the whole world; many churches were erected in their honor at Rome and elsewhere. Their names are mentioned in the Canon of the Mass and in the Litany of the Saints. They are patron saints of doctors and the sick.

(Adapted from The New Roman Missal, Rev. F. X. Lasance)