Saint Expeditus
The statue in the image is of Saint Expeditus (also spelled Expedite or Expedito), a Christian martyr and popular folk saint often invoked for urgent causes and quick solutions. Saint Expeditus is traditionally depicted as a Roman soldier, as seen in the statue. The symbolism in the statue conveys his story. He holds a palm frond in his left hand, the traditional symbol of martyrdom. He raises a cross with the word “Hodie” (“today” in Latin) inscribed on it. This represents his immediate conversion to Christianity. His right foot is crushing a raven that is speaking the word “Cras” (“tomorrow” in Latin), symbolizing his rejection of procrastination and delay. He is the patron saint of urgent causes, those who need quick solutions, and is also popular among sailors, students, and examinees. His cult is particularly strong in New Orleans, the French island of Réunion, and in Chile and Brazil, where he is venerated under his Spanish name, San Expedito. (Kremer, 2025) Photo from Rome, Italy, 2025.