October 2023 Persecution Magazine

Crowns of Courage
HIGHLIGHTING THOSE WHO HAVE SACRIFICED EVERYTHING FOR CHRIST
Faith Under Fire
THE LIFE AND MARTYRDOM OF SAINT LAWRENCE
Saint Lawrence was a Christian martyr whose unwavering faith and incredible courage left
an indelible mark on Christian history.
Saint Lawrence was born in Huesca, Spain, in the third century AD, when the Roman
Empire was vehemently persecuting Christians. He grew up in a devout Christian family and felt
a strong calling to serve the Church. Lawrence eventually journeyed to Rome and became one
of the seven deacons of the city’s Christian community.
In 258 AD, the Roman Emperor Valerian issued a decree ordering the persecution of Christians,
and the Church faced increased scrutiny and danger. The Roman authorities targeted Christian
leaders, and Lawrence, one of the deacons, was among those they sought to apprehend.
One day, the Roman Prefect demanded that Lawrence hand over the Church’s treasures,
believing that the Christians had accumulated great wealth. Lawrence asked for a few days to
gather these treasures. Instead of collecting riches, Lawrence worked diligently to distribute
the Church’s resources to the poor, widows, and orphans of Rome.
When the appointed day arrived, Lawrence and a group of impoverished Christians presented
themselves before the Prefect. He boldly declared that these were the treasures of the Church.
Enraged by this act of defiance, the Prefect ordered Lawrence to be tortured mercilessly.
Lawrence endured unimaginable pain with incredible fortitude while refusing to renounce his
faith. Legend says that during his torment, he cheerfully exclaimed, “Turn me over; I am well
done on this side!” This display of unwavering faith and his willingness to endure suffering for
the sake of Christ moved those who witnessed it.
Ultimately, Lawrence was sentenced to a gruesome death by roasting on a gridiron. As he
lay dying over the hot coals, he is said to have prayed for the conversion of Rome, sealing his
martyrdom with a profound act of love for both God and his fellow believers.
Saint Lawrence’s martyrdom inspired many during his time and continues to inspire Christians
today. He is venerated as the patron saint of cooks and comedians, but his legacy lies in his
unwavering faith, remarkable courage, and selfless devotion to Christ and the Church. His story
is a timeless reminder that faith can give individuals the strength to endure and persevere even
in the face of extreme adversity.
26
Persecution | OCTOBER 2023