E05328: Two Latin sermons are composed, probably near Vercelli, northern Italy in the late 4th century, in honour of *Eusebius (bishop of Vercelli, ob. 371, S01219) on the occasion of his feast day; spuriously attributed to Maximus of Turin.

Maximus of Turin (dubium), Sermons 7-8

Summary:

Sermon 7
This sermon was preached on the feast day (natalis) of Eusebius, who excelled as a teacher. The virtues of Exuperantius, Eusebius’ companion as martyr, are referred to in general terms. In Eusebius’ lifetime, Arian heretics were active in Italy. The authority of the martyr Dionysius (most likely the bishop of Milan, ob. 355) was appropriated by this group – who attached his signature to one of their documents, until Eusebius tricked them into removing it. He was then exiled, tortured and ultimately killed. His head was crushed and his body battered, but his faith remained strong. His feast day is fittingly celebrated on the same day as the feast of the *Maccabean Martyrs (pre-Christian Jewish martyrs of Antioch, S00303).

Sermon 8
This sermon is entitled ‘On the deposition or feast day of the same Saint Eusebius’ (De depositione vel natale eiusdem sancti Eusebi). The preacher opens the sermon by stating that he is preaching to celebrate Eusebius’ deposition (depositio). He then tells his congregation what he means by depositio. It is what happens when a saint lays down their earthly body to go to heaven. Before his day of deposition, Eusebius had a vision of himself flying from one mountain to another on the kalends of August.

Summary: Frances Trzeciak.