Daniel of Padua was a second-century deacon from Italy who served under Saint Prosdocimus, the first bishop of Padua. Of Jewish descent, he supported Prosdocimus in his mission to evangelize the northeastern region of Nova. His life ended in martyrdom when he was dragged by a horse and crushed. He is recognized as a saint in the Catholic, Anglican, and Orthodox traditions.
Life and death
As a faithful assistant to his bishop, Daniel played a crucial role in the early Christian mission. Following his death, his remains were moved to the Basilica Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta in 1064. In religious art, he is often shown carrying a towel and a laver, symbolizing his service to the bishop and the ritual washing traditions of his heritage.
Veneration and patronage
The saint is invoked by women with husbands serving in war, as well as individuals facing imprisonment or confinement. Similar to Anthony of Padua, he is also called upon to assist in finding lost items. Dedicated spaces to him include a chapel in the Abbey Church of Santa Giustina, where an altarpiece depicts his martyrdom.