Cosmas and Damien

Once in awhile the celebrant at Mass will use the first Eucharistic Prayer, which, at one time, was the ONLY one.  Those of us who date back to that time will recall that among the numerous saints invoked, Cosmas and Damien were among them.  Even when heard today, their names stand out, for although Damien is common enough, I don't think we know many people named Cosmas, as intriguing a name as it may be.  And we have to admit that we know little about them.
Here are a few items of interest that might help supplement our knowledge and offer us some inspiration for the day.
They were twins, born in Arabia and educated in Syria as physicians.  They are noted for their pro bono medical service;  yes, they did not charge their patients.  Their charity, compassion and competence won the admiration, not only of the people they treated, but also of the entire community, and brought many to the faith, which they translated to service, a service they gladly offered freely.  They were martyred in the year 283 and were noted for many cures after their deaths, sometimes even appearing to the sick as they cured them. Today they are recognized as the patron saints of physicians (along with St. Luke), and of pharmacists.
Our Marist schools stress service as a requirement, with the hope that these service hours will jump start a life of service.  We might learn from Cosmas and Damien and from our students how to share whatever gifts or resources we have with those in need.