Gervasius

This name derives from Latin “Gervasius,” which in turn derives from the Germanic “Gervas,” composed of two elements: “*gaizaz” (a spear, pike, javelin) and an uncertain second element “-vas” maybe from the Brythonic word “*gwass” from the Proto-Celtic “*wastos,” meaning “vassal” (manservant). The second element may derive from the Brythonic name of the river “Isurā” (French: Isère), meaning “the impetuous one, the swift one.” This explanation connects the river name with an Indo-European root “is-, “meaning “strong.” Saints Gervasius and Protasius are venerated as Christian martyrs, probably of the 2nd Century. They are the patron saints of Milan and haymakers and are invoked for the discovery of thieves. Their feast day in the Latin Rite of the Catholic Church is on June 19, the day marking the translation of their relics.