Phocas of Sinope, also known as Phocas the Gardener, was a martyr living in the early 4th century. According to Catholic tradition, he resided in Sinope on the Black Sea, where he worked as a gardener and used his harvest to support the impoverished and persecuted Christians. His historical identity is sometimes considered a combination of different figures, including a bishop and a gardener. He is commemorated as a saint in both the Eastern Orthodox and Catholic traditions.
Life and martyrdom
During the persecutions under Diocletian, Phocas hosted the very soldiers sent to execute him. He provided them with hospitality and even offered to help them locate their target. While the soldiers slept, he prepared his own grave and arranged for his belongings to be given to the needy. Upon revealing his identity the next morning, he refused to let the soldiers lie to their commander, choosing instead to face decapitation.
Veneration and customs
Because his name may relate to the Greek word for seal, he is often associated with sailors. A maritime tradition involved setting aside a portion of every meal for him, known as the portion of St. Phocas. A voyager would purchase this portion, and the funds were held by the captain until the ship reached port, at which point the money was distributed to the poor to give thanks for a safe journey.