The proclamation follows Pope Leo XIV’s designation of Devasahayam as the “Patron of the Laity” on September 20.
ewsroom (23/09/2025, Gaudium Press ) Saint Lazarus Devasahayam, India’s first canonized Catholic layman, will be officially declared the patron saint of the country’s lay faithful at a national event in Varanasi on October 15, the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) announced. The proclamation follows Pope Leo XIV’s designation of Devasahayam as the “Patron of the Laity” on September 20, formalized through the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments.
The decision stems from a July 16 petition by the CCBI, representing India’s Latin-rite bishops, to honor the 18th-century convert who was martyred for his refusal to renounce his Christian faith. The CCBI’s Laity Commission will lead the October ceremony, attended by diocesan representatives from across India, marking a significant moment for the country’s 20 million Catholics.
“Saint Devasahayam’s life will inspire laypeople to deepen their faith and serve both the Church and society,” said Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, CCBI president, in a September 20 circular. The saint’s story resonates deeply in India, where Christian leaders report a surge in anti-Christian violence, particularly in northern states, since the pro-Hindu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) rose to power in 2014. Hindu nationalist groups, aligned with the BJP, have increasingly targeted Christians, accusing them of forced conversions in their push for a Hindu-majority nation.
Born on April 23, 1712, in a village in present-day Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, Devasahayam converted to Christianity in 1745 while serving in the court of Travancore’s King Marthanda Varma. Influenced by a Dutch naval commander, he was baptized but faced severe persecution for his faith. Accused of treason, he endured torture and was executed by gunfire in 1752, seven years after his conversion. Pope Francis canonized him in 2022, recognizing his martyrdom.
Elias Vas, president of the All India Catholic Union, hailed Devasahayam as a model of resilience. “He stood firm in his faith despite inhuman persecution,” Vas said. “His example offers hope to India’s laity during these challenging times.”
A.C. Michael, convenor of the United Christian Forum, told UCA News on September 22 that data from his organization indicates an average of two Christians are attacked daily in India for practicing their faith. “Devasahayam’s conversion from Hinduism makes him a powerful symbol for Indian Christians facing harassment over conversion allegations,” Michael said.
Father Z. Devasagaya Raj, former secretary of the CCBI’s office for Dalits and backward classes, called the timing of the patronage declaration “most appropriate.” Speaking to UCA News on September 22, he emphasized the vital role of laypeople as “foot soldiers of faith,” noting that Devasahayam’s recognition highlights their contributions to the Church.
The October 15 event in Varanasi, a city sacred to Hindus, underscores the Church’s commitment to fostering unity and resilience among India’s Catholic laity amid growing challenges.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from UCA News
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