The Show Must Go On: Saint Genesius

That's Show Business!

They say that the most effective lies that liars use have an element of truth about them. People are more likely to believe something if it’s at least partially true than they will a total fib. Truth is also one of the most important elements of comedy. Comedians begin from a true or relatable experience and build an entirely new imaginary world from it. For one Roman comedian, a gifted improviser with big dreams, it was an accidental encounter with the Truth that changed his heart forever. That’s how Roman funnyman Genesius - became a Saint.

Make Your Own Luck

Crassus and Genesius were Rome’s favorite comedy duo. While their hometown crowds loved them, they just couldn’t get the big break that they were looking for. An opportunity arose when it was announced that Emperor Diocletian would be visiting Rome for the first time. If they could perform in front of him, their careers would be assured. But to get onstage, they had to sweet-talk Plautian, a local government official, into booking them to entertain the emperor. Plautian and Diocletian both hated Christians, so Crassus and Genesius came up with a clever plan. They planned to infiltrate a Christian community, learn their secret mysteries, and use them to create a show mocking Christianity. 

Everything went south, however, once Crassus and Genesius entered the Christian house. They were recognized by Rufus, a young fan of their act, and Genesius wa struck by the beauty of Rufus’s older sister Alba. After staying undercover for a few weeks in order to research, Genesius and Crassus disappeared from the Christian community on the eve of their baptism. At a festival a few weeks later, Alba and Rufus realized that they recognized the performers: Crassus and Genesius, performing their play that mocked baptism. Alba and Rufus were both heartbroken. Alba confronted Genesius while he was in the middle of convincing Plautian to hire their troupe. Genesius didn’t let himself be affected in the moment, but Alba’s accusations struck him to the core. 

Facing the Music

Soon, Alba and Rufus were arrested for being Christian. They believed that it is Genesius who tipped off the authorities. Genesius was surprised - until he learned that Crassus actually did reveal the Christians’ location to Lord Plautian in exchange for the opportunity to perform for Diocletian. It’s too late, however - the show must go on. Genesius goes out onstage, to be mockingly baptized again. But this time, under the water, something extraordinary happens. You'll just have to listen to believe it!

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This week on The Saints: Adventures of Faith and Courage, hear the hilarious adventure of Rome’s favorite funnyman, Genesius! Listen as he journeys from a quick-talking and fearful comedian, fighting to become famous, into a servant of God, realizing that maybe the funniest material there is - is the Truth. Listen this Monday at thesaintspodcast.com!

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