Lawrence

About Lawrence

Lawrence (or Laurence) was one of seven deacons of Rome under Pope Sixtus II during the persecution of Emperor Valerian. Born in Huesca, Spain, he came to Rome where his administrative abilities and charitable disposition led to his appointment as chief deacon, making him responsible for the Church's material goods and the care of the poor.

In August 258 AD, Emperor Valerian issued an edict that all bishops, priests, and deacons be put to death immediately. Pope Sixtus II was arrested while celebrating Mass in the catacombs and was executed. According to tradition, as Sixtus was led to martyrdom, Lawrence followed weeping, asking, "Father, where are you going without your deacon?" Sixtus prophesied that Lawrence would follow him in three days.

Knowing he would soon be arrested, Lawrence distributed the Church's treasury to the poor, widows, orphans, and the sick. When the Roman prefect demanded that Lawrence hand over the Church's riches, Lawrence asked for three days to gather them. He then presented the prefect with the poor, the sick, the suffering, and the marginalized, declaring, "These are the true treasures of the Church."

Enraged, the prefect ordered Lawrence executed by being roasted alive on a gridiron over hot coals. According to tradition, Lawrence maintained his good humor and faith throughout his torment, even joking to his executioners: "Turn me over, I'm done on this side!" This courage and even cheerfulness in the face of death made him one of the most celebrated martyrs.

Lawrence's martyrdom deeply impressed the Roman people. Many conversions followed, and he became one of the most venerated saints in Christian history. His feast day was one of the most important in the Roman calendar. He is often depicted holding a gridiron, his instrument of martyrdom, and has inspired countless churches, institutions, and charitable works dedicated to serving the poor—the "treasures" he so valued.