Question 1

Who is Saint Lawrence?

Accepted Answer

St. Lawrence was one of the seven deacons of the Roman Church responsible for the temporal administration of the diocese. He, along with Pope Sixtus II whom he served, was a victim of the persecution of Valerian in 258. The Church celebrates his feast day on August 10, the day of his martyrdom.

Question 2

Who was Pope Sixtus II?

Accepted Answer

Pope St. Sixtus II was elected in secret as the 23rd Successor of St. Peter on August 30, 257. According to his biographer, he was a “good and peaceful priest.” He was also skillful in avoiding the first of Valerian’s brutal persecutions―which occurred in his first months as pope. However, less than a year after his election, he and six of his deacons were arrested and beheaded on August 6th, 258. The seventh, Lawrence, would be captured and martyred a few days later, on the 10th. As a Greek, he was not accorded the swift death by beheading given to a Roman citizen.

Question 3

Who was the Roman emperor during the time of St. Lawrence?

Accepted Answer

Pope St. Sixtus II was elected in secret as the 23rd Successor of St. Peter on August 30, 257. According to his biographer, he was a “good and peaceful priest.” He was also skillful in avoiding the first of Valerian’s brutal persecutions―which occurred in his first months as pope. However, less than a year after his election, he and six of his deacons were arrested and beheaded on August 6th, 258. The seventh, Lawrence, would be captured and martyred a few days later, on the 10th. As a Greek, he was not accorded the swift death by beheading given to a Roman citizen.  Read More The Roman emperor during the time of St. Lawrence was Valerian, whose rule was from 253 to 260 AD.  In 257 he undertook a persecution of Christians, ordering that the clergy offer sacrifices to the Roman gods. Then in 258 he ordered the arrest and execution of the clergy. Among his victims were St. Lawrence and Pope St. Sixtus II. Only two years later, Valerian himself would be taken prisoner by the Persians during a war and is said to have died a slave. This fact is made note of in Evelyn Waugh’s novel Helena, in which it is said of Valerian, “They have him on show in Persia, stuffed."

Question 4

Was St. Lawrence a Deacon of Rome?

Accepted Answer

Pope St. Sixtus II was elected in secret as the 23rd Successor of St. Peter on August 30, 257. According to his biographer, he was a “good and peaceful priest.” He was also skillful in avoiding the first of Valerian’s brutal persecutions―which occurred in his first months as pope. However, less than a year after his election, he and six of his deacons were arrested and beheaded on August 6th, 258. The seventh, Lawrence, would be captured and martyred a few days later, on the 10th. As a Greek, he was not accorded the swift death by beheading given to a Roman citizen.  Read More The Roman emperor during the time of St. Lawrence was Valerian, whose rule was from 253 to 260 AD.  In 257 he undertook a persecution of Christians, ordering that the clergy offer sacrifices to the Roman gods. Then in 258 he ordered the arrest and execution of the clergy. Among his victims were St. Lawrence and Pope St. Sixtus II. Only two years later, Valerian himself would be taken prisoner by the Persians during a war and is said to have died a slave. This fact is made note of in Evelyn Waugh’s novel Helena, in which it is said of Valerian, “They have him on show in Persia, stuffed." St. Lawrence was among the seven deacons who assisted Pope Sixtus II in his administration of the Roman Church (cf. Acts 6:1-6). The Pope recognized Lawrence’s innocence, and in spite of his young age (early 30s) chose him as one of his seven deacons. He even made him his principal assistant, the archdeacon of Rome.

Question 5

How did St. Lawrence die as a martyr?

Accepted Answer

Pope St. Sixtus II was elected in secret as the 23rd Successor of St. Peter on August 30, 257. According to his biographer, he was a “good and peaceful priest.” He was also skillful in avoiding the first of Valerian’s brutal persecutions―which occurred in his first months as pope. However, less than a year after his election, he and six of his deacons were arrested and beheaded on August 6th, 258. The seventh, Lawrence, would be captured and martyred a few days later, on the 10th. As a Greek, he was not accorded the swift death by beheading given to a Roman citizen.  Read More The Roman emperor during the time of St. Lawrence was Valerian, whose rule was from 253 to 260 AD.  In 257 he undertook a persecution of Christians, ordering that the clergy offer sacrifices to the Roman gods. Then in 258 he ordered the arrest and execution of the clergy. Among his victims were St. Lawrence and Pope St. Sixtus II. Only two years later, Valerian himself would be taken prisoner by the Persians during a war and is said to have died a slave. This fact is made note of in Evelyn Waugh’s novel Helena, in which it is said of Valerian, “They have him on show in Persia, stuffed." St. Lawrence was among the seven deacons who assisted Pope Sixtus II in his administration of the Roman Church (cf. Acts 6:1-6). The Pope recognized Lawrence’s innocence, and in spite of his young age (early 30s) chose him as one of his seven deacons. He even made him his principal assistant, the archdeacon of Rome.  When the Roman authorities captured and killed Pope Sixtus II and the other six deacons, St. Lawrence was left to administer what remained. He was taken prisoner and told to collect the “treasures of the Church.” Instead of gold and silver, he presented the poor people to whom he had distributed the chalices, patens, and other altar vessels. Angered, it is said that the Roman prefect tortured Lawrence by chaining him to a gridiron and roasting him upon it. After the martyr had suffered the pain for a long time, the tradition states he made his famous remark, “It is well done. Turn me over!”

Question 6

Where is St. Lawrence buried?

Accepted Answer

Pope St. Sixtus II was elected in secret as the 23rd Successor of St. Peter on August 30, 257. According to his biographer, he was a “good and peaceful priest.” He was also skillful in avoiding the first of Valerian’s brutal persecutions―which occurred in his first months as pope. However, less than a year after his election, he and six of his deacons were arrested and beheaded on August 6th, 258. The seventh, Lawrence, would be captured and martyred a few days later, on the 10th. As a Greek, he was not accorded the swift death by beheading given to a Roman citizen.  Read More The Roman emperor during the time of St. Lawrence was Valerian, whose rule was from 253 to 260 AD.  In 257 he undertook a persecution of Christians, ordering that the clergy offer sacrifices to the Roman gods. Then in 258 he ordered the arrest and execution of the clergy. Among his victims were St. Lawrence and Pope St. Sixtus II. Only two years later, Valerian himself would be taken prisoner by the Persians during a war and is said to have died a slave. This fact is made note of in Evelyn Waugh’s novel Helena, in which it is said of Valerian, “They have him on show in Persia, stuffed." St. Lawrence was among the seven deacons who assisted Pope Sixtus II in his administration of the Roman Church (cf. Acts 6:1-6). The Pope recognized Lawrence’s innocence, and in spite of his young age (early 30s) chose him as one of his seven deacons. He even made him his principal assistant, the archdeacon of Rome.  When the Roman authorities captured and killed Pope Sixtus II and the other six deacons, St. Lawrence was left to administer what remained. He was taken prisoner and told to collect the “treasures of the Church.” Instead of gold and silver, he presented the poor people to whom he had distributed the chalices, patens, and other altar vessels. Angered, it is said that the Roman prefect tortured Lawrence by chaining him to a gridiron and roasting him upon it. After the martyr had suffered the pain for a long time, the tradition states he made his famous remark, “It is well done. Turn me over!”  While the ancient accounts do not agree on the exact manner and details of St. Lawrence’s death, St. Lawrence has been recognized as one of the great martyrs of the Roman Church since shortly after his death. After the edict of Milan in 313 legalizing Christianity, the emperor Constantine had a chapel built on the site of his martyrdom and burial, located “outside the walls” of Rome of that time. Pope Damascus (366-384) built a basilica on the site, which was added to and decorated by several popes over the centuries. Today the Minor Basilica of St. Lawrence Outside the Walls is a beautiful ancient church containing the remains of the Saint, relics of St. Stephen the Protomartyr, the tombs of several popes, as well as the gridiron said to be instrument of his martyrdom.  For greater detail on his life and martyrdom: Read More

Question 7

Are there deacons of Rome today?

Accepted Answer

Pope St. Sixtus II was elected in secret as the 23rd Successor of St. Peter on August 30, 257. According to his biographer, he was a “good and peaceful priest.” He was also skillful in avoiding the first of Valerian’s brutal persecutions―which occurred in his first months as pope. However, less than a year after his election, he and six of his deacons were arrested and beheaded on August 6th, 258. The seventh, Lawrence, would be captured and martyred a few days later, on the 10th. As a Greek, he was not accorded the swift death by beheading given to a Roman citizen.  Read More The Roman emperor during the time of St. Lawrence was Valerian, whose rule was from 253 to 260 AD.  In 257 he undertook a persecution of Christians, ordering that the clergy offer sacrifices to the Roman gods. Then in 258 he ordered the arrest and execution of the clergy. Among his victims were St. Lawrence and Pope St. Sixtus II. Only two years later, Valerian himself would be taken prisoner by the Persians during a war and is said to have died a slave. This fact is made note of in Evelyn Waugh’s novel Helena, in which it is said of Valerian, “They have him on show in Persia, stuffed." St. Lawrence was among the seven deacons who assisted Pope Sixtus II in his administration of the Roman Church (cf. Acts 6:1-6). The Pope recognized Lawrence’s innocence, and in spite of his young age (early 30s) chose him as one of his seven deacons. He even made him his principal assistant, the archdeacon of Rome.  When the Roman authorities captured and killed Pope Sixtus II and the other six deacons, St. Lawrence was left to administer what remained. He was taken prisoner and told to collect the “treasures of the Church.” Instead of gold and silver, he presented the poor people to whom he had distributed the chalices, patens, and other altar vessels. Angered, it is said that the Roman prefect tortured Lawrence by chaining him to a gridiron and roasting him upon it. After the martyr had suffered the pain for a long time, the tradition states he made his famous remark, “It is well done. Turn me over!”  While the ancient accounts do not agree on the exact manner and details of St. Lawrence’s death, St. Lawrence has been recognized as one of the great martyrs of the Roman Church since shortly after his death. After the edict of Milan in 313 legalizing Christianity, the emperor Constantine had a chapel built on the site of his martyrdom and burial, located “outside the walls” of Rome of that time. Pope Damascus (366-384) built a basilica on the site, which was added to and decorated by several popes over the centuries. Today the Minor Basilica of St. Lawrence Outside the Walls is a beautiful ancient church containing the remains of the Saint, relics of St. Stephen the Protomartyr, the tombs of several popes, as well as the gridiron said to be instrument of his martyrdom.  For greater detail on his life and martyrdom: Read More Since Vatican II and the restoration of the permanent diaconate, it has been possible for any diocesan bishop to have deacons who are permanent, rather than just deacons on their way to the priesthood. As of 2021, the Roman See had 137 permanent deacons in her service, and 17 transitional deacons who were ordained to the priesthood for the diocese of Rome that year. (2021 Pontificio Annuario)  For centuries, however, the office of the Roman deacon held by St. Lawrence has continued in another way, as well. Each of the Cardinal electors of the Pope is assigned a Roman “titular office” based on the early divisions of Rome into suburban dioceses, parishes and administrative regions. Thus a man who is made a Cardinal receives such an honorary title, whether of Cardinal Bishop, Cardinal Priest or Cardinal Deacon. In doing so he is expected to perform an office of service for the Church, which both anciently and today, includes serving, advising and electing the Bishop of Rome, who is also the Pope.

Question 8

How did Saint Lawrence's death affect the Church of his day?

Accepted Answer

Pope St. Sixtus II was elected in secret as the 23rd Successor of St. Peter on August 30, 257. According to his biographer, he was a “good and peaceful priest.” He was also skillful in avoiding the first of Valerian’s brutal persecutions―which occurred in his first months as pope. However, less than a year after his election, he and six of his deacons were arrested and beheaded on August 6th, 258. The seventh, Lawrence, would be captured and martyred a few days later, on the 10th. As a Greek, he was not accorded the swift death by beheading given to a Roman citizen.  Read More The Roman emperor during the time of St. Lawrence was Valerian, whose rule was from 253 to 260 AD.  In 257 he undertook a persecution of Christians, ordering that the clergy offer sacrifices to the Roman gods. Then in 258 he ordered the arrest and execution of the clergy. Among his victims were St. Lawrence and Pope St. Sixtus II. Only two years later, Valerian himself would be taken prisoner by the Persians during a war and is said to have died a slave. This fact is made note of in Evelyn Waugh’s novel Helena, in which it is said of Valerian, “They have him on show in Persia, stuffed." St. Lawrence was among the seven deacons who assisted Pope Sixtus II in his administration of the Roman Church (cf. Acts 6:1-6). The Pope recognized Lawrence’s innocence, and in spite of his young age (early 30s) chose him as one of his seven deacons. He even made him his principal assistant, the archdeacon of Rome.  When the Roman authorities captured and killed Pope Sixtus II and the other six deacons, St. Lawrence was left to administer what remained. He was taken prisoner and told to collect the “treasures of the Church.” Instead of gold and silver, he presented the poor people to whom he had distributed the chalices, patens, and other altar vessels. Angered, it is said that the Roman prefect tortured Lawrence by chaining him to a gridiron and roasting him upon it. After the martyr had suffered the pain for a long time, the tradition states he made his famous remark, “It is well done. Turn me over!”  While the ancient accounts do not agree on the exact manner and details of St. Lawrence’s death, St. Lawrence has been recognized as one of the great martyrs of the Roman Church since shortly after his death. After the edict of Milan in 313 legalizing Christianity, the emperor Constantine had a chapel built on the site of his martyrdom and burial, located “outside the walls” of Rome of that time. Pope Damascus (366-384) built a basilica on the site, which was added to and decorated by several popes over the centuries. Today the Minor Basilica of St. Lawrence Outside the Walls is a beautiful ancient church containing the remains of the Saint, relics of St. Stephen the Protomartyr, the tombs of several popes, as well as the gridiron said to be instrument of his martyrdom.  For greater detail on his life and martyrdom: Read More Since Vatican II and the restoration of the permanent diaconate, it has been possible for any diocesan bishop to have deacons who are permanent, rather than just deacons on their way to the priesthood. As of 2021, the Roman See had 137 permanent deacons in her service, and 17 transitional deacons who were ordained to the priesthood for the diocese of Rome that year. (2021 Pontificio Annuario)  For centuries, however, the office of the Roman deacon held by St. Lawrence has continued in another way, as well. Each of the Cardinal electors of the Pope is assigned a Roman “titular office” based on the early divisions of Rome into suburban dioceses, parishes and administrative regions. Thus a man who is made a Cardinal receives such an honorary title, whether of Cardinal Bishop, Cardinal Priest or Cardinal Deacon. In doing so he is expected to perform an office of service for the Church, which both anciently and today, includes serving, advising and electing the Bishop of Rome, who is also the Pope. As a result of the persecution of Valerian, many conversions took place. The courage and dignity of Saint Lawrence in facing death did much to gain respect for Christianity in Rome and around the region. The love and service of the poor, exemplified by St. Lawrence, who called them the “true treasures” of the Church, was a particular characteristic for which Christians became known and admired.

Question 9

What is St. Lawrence the patron saint of?

Accepted Answer

Pope St. Sixtus II was elected in secret as the 23rd Successor of St. Peter on August 30, 257. According to his biographer, he was a “good and peaceful priest.” He was also skillful in avoiding the first of Valerian’s brutal persecutions―which occurred in his first months as pope. However, less than a year after his election, he and six of his deacons were arrested and beheaded on August 6th, 258. The seventh, Lawrence, would be captured and martyred a few days later, on the 10th. As a Greek, he was not accorded the swift death by beheading given to a Roman citizen.  Read More The Roman emperor during the time of St. Lawrence was Valerian, whose rule was from 253 to 260 AD.  In 257 he undertook a persecution of Christians, ordering that the clergy offer sacrifices to the Roman gods. Then in 258 he ordered the arrest and execution of the clergy. Among his victims were St. Lawrence and Pope St. Sixtus II. Only two years later, Valerian himself would be taken prisoner by the Persians during a war and is said to have died a slave. This fact is made note of in Evelyn Waugh’s novel Helena, in which it is said of Valerian, “They have him on show in Persia, stuffed." St. Lawrence was among the seven deacons who assisted Pope Sixtus II in his administration of the Roman Church (cf. Acts 6:1-6). The Pope recognized Lawrence’s innocence, and in spite of his young age (early 30s) chose him as one of his seven deacons. He even made him his principal assistant, the archdeacon of Rome.  When the Roman authorities captured and killed Pope Sixtus II and the other six deacons, St. Lawrence was left to administer what remained. He was taken prisoner and told to collect the “treasures of the Church.” Instead of gold and silver, he presented the poor people to whom he had distributed the chalices, patens, and other altar vessels. Angered, it is said that the Roman prefect tortured Lawrence by chaining him to a gridiron and roasting him upon it. After the martyr had suffered the pain for a long time, the tradition states he made his famous remark, “It is well done. Turn me over!”  While the ancient accounts do not agree on the exact manner and details of St. Lawrence’s death, St. Lawrence has been recognized as one of the great martyrs of the Roman Church since shortly after his death. After the edict of Milan in 313 legalizing Christianity, the emperor Constantine had a chapel built on the site of his martyrdom and burial, located “outside the walls” of Rome of that time. Pope Damascus (366-384) built a basilica on the site, which was added to and decorated by several popes over the centuries. Today the Minor Basilica of St. Lawrence Outside the Walls is a beautiful ancient church containing the remains of the Saint, relics of St. Stephen the Protomartyr, the tombs of several popes, as well as the gridiron said to be instrument of his martyrdom.  For greater detail on his life and martyrdom: Read More Since Vatican II and the restoration of the permanent diaconate, it has been possible for any diocesan bishop to have deacons who are permanent, rather than just deacons on their way to the priesthood. As of 2021, the Roman See had 137 permanent deacons in her service, and 17 transitional deacons who were ordained to the priesthood for the diocese of Rome that year. (2021 Pontificio Annuario)  For centuries, however, the office of the Roman deacon held by St. Lawrence has continued in another way, as well. Each of the Cardinal electors of the Pope is assigned a Roman “titular office” based on the early divisions of Rome into suburban dioceses, parishes and administrative regions. Thus a man who is made a Cardinal receives such an honorary title, whether of Cardinal Bishop, Cardinal Priest or Cardinal Deacon. In doing so he is expected to perform an office of service for the Church, which both anciently and today, includes serving, advising and electing the Bishop of Rome, who is also the Pope. As a result of the persecution of Valerian, many conversions took place. The courage and dignity of Saint Lawrence in facing death did much to gain respect for Christianity in Rome and around the region. The love and service of the poor, exemplified by St. Lawrence, who called them the “true treasures” of the Church, was a particular characteristic for which Christians became known and admired.  St. Lawrence is the patron saint of comedians, comedy writers, chefs, sous-chefs, short-order cooks, and restaurateurs.  He is also the patron saint of manufacturers, sommeliers, chocolatiers, clowns, fire prevention, glaziers, stained glass artists, libraries, poor, tanners, and the French.

Question 10

Why is St. Lawrence considered as the patron saint of cooks?

Accepted Answer

Pope St. Sixtus II was elected in secret as the 23rd Successor of St. Peter on August 30, 257. According to his biographer, he was a “good and peaceful priest.” He was also skillful in avoiding the first of Valerian’s brutal persecutions―which occurred in his first months as pope. However, less than a year after his election, he and six of his deacons were arrested and beheaded on August 6th, 258. The seventh, Lawrence, would be captured and martyred a few days later, on the 10th. As a Greek, he was not accorded the swift death by beheading given to a Roman citizen.  Read More The Roman emperor during the time of St. Lawrence was Valerian, whose rule was from 253 to 260 AD.  In 257 he undertook a persecution of Christians, ordering that the clergy offer sacrifices to the Roman gods. Then in 258 he ordered the arrest and execution of the clergy. Among his victims were St. Lawrence and Pope St. Sixtus II. Only two years later, Valerian himself would be taken prisoner by the Persians during a war and is said to have died a slave. This fact is made note of in Evelyn Waugh’s novel Helena, in which it is said of Valerian, “They have him on show in Persia, stuffed." St. Lawrence was among the seven deacons who assisted Pope Sixtus II in his administration of the Roman Church (cf. Acts 6:1-6). The Pope recognized Lawrence’s innocence, and in spite of his young age (early 30s) chose him as one of his seven deacons. He even made him his principal assistant, the archdeacon of Rome.  When the Roman authorities captured and killed Pope Sixtus II and the other six deacons, St. Lawrence was left to administer what remained. He was taken prisoner and told to collect the “treasures of the Church.” Instead of gold and silver, he presented the poor people to whom he had distributed the chalices, patens, and other altar vessels. Angered, it is said that the Roman prefect tortured Lawrence by chaining him to a gridiron and roasting him upon it. After the martyr had suffered the pain for a long time, the tradition states he made his famous remark, “It is well done. Turn me over!”  While the ancient accounts do not agree on the exact manner and details of St. Lawrence’s death, St. Lawrence has been recognized as one of the great martyrs of the Roman Church since shortly after his death. After the edict of Milan in 313 legalizing Christianity, the emperor Constantine had a chapel built on the site of his martyrdom and burial, located “outside the walls” of Rome of that time. Pope Damascus (366-384) built a basilica on the site, which was added to and decorated by several popes over the centuries. Today the Minor Basilica of St. Lawrence Outside the Walls is a beautiful ancient church containing the remains of the Saint, relics of St. Stephen the Protomartyr, the tombs of several popes, as well as the gridiron said to be instrument of his martyrdom.  For greater detail on his life and martyrdom: Read More Since Vatican II and the restoration of the permanent diaconate, it has been possible for any diocesan bishop to have deacons who are permanent, rather than just deacons on their way to the priesthood. As of 2021, the Roman See had 137 permanent deacons in her service, and 17 transitional deacons who were ordained to the priesthood for the diocese of Rome that year. (2021 Pontificio Annuario)  For centuries, however, the office of the Roman deacon held by St. Lawrence has continued in another way, as well. Each of the Cardinal electors of the Pope is assigned a Roman “titular office” based on the early divisions of Rome into suburban dioceses, parishes and administrative regions. Thus a man who is made a Cardinal receives such an honorary title, whether of Cardinal Bishop, Cardinal Priest or Cardinal Deacon. In doing so he is expected to perform an office of service for the Church, which both anciently and today, includes serving, advising and electing the Bishop of Rome, who is also the Pope. As a result of the persecution of Valerian, many conversions took place. The courage and dignity of Saint Lawrence in facing death did much to gain respect for Christianity in Rome and around the region. The love and service of the poor, exemplified by St. Lawrence, who called them the “true treasures” of the Church, was a particular characteristic for which Christians became known and admired.  St. Lawrence is the patron saint of comedians, comedy writers, chefs, sous-chefs, short-order cooks, and restaurateurs.  He is also the patron saint of manufacturers, sommeliers, chocolatiers, clowns, fire prevention, glaziers, stained glass artists, libraries, poor, tanners, and the French. St. Lawrence is recognized to be the patron saint of cooks, chefs, and restaurateurs. According to the story, his executioners built a slow fire beneath a large gridiron, then had Lawrence stripped naked and bound to the grill. Just before he died, it is said that St. Lawrence called his executioners and said, “Turn me over. I'm done on this side.”

Question 11

What lessons can we learn from St. Lawrence?

Accepted Answer

Pope St. Sixtus II was elected in secret as the 23rd Successor of St. Peter on August 30, 257. According to his biographer, he was a “good and peaceful priest.” He was also skillful in avoiding the first of Valerian’s brutal persecutions―which occurred in his first months as pope. However, less than a year after his election, he and six of his deacons were arrested and beheaded on August 6th, 258. The seventh, Lawrence, would be captured and martyred a few days later, on the 10th. As a Greek, he was not accorded the swift death by beheading given to a Roman citizen.  Read More The Roman emperor during the time of St. Lawrence was Valerian, whose rule was from 253 to 260 AD.  In 257 he undertook a persecution of Christians, ordering that the clergy offer sacrifices to the Roman gods. Then in 258 he ordered the arrest and execution of the clergy. Among his victims were St. Lawrence and Pope St. Sixtus II. Only two years later, Valerian himself would be taken prisoner by the Persians during a war and is said to have died a slave. This fact is made note of in Evelyn Waugh’s novel Helena, in which it is said of Valerian, “They have him on show in Persia, stuffed." St. Lawrence was among the seven deacons who assisted Pope Sixtus II in his administration of the Roman Church (cf. Acts 6:1-6). The Pope recognized Lawrence’s innocence, and in spite of his young age (early 30s) chose him as one of his seven deacons. He even made him his principal assistant, the archdeacon of Rome.  When the Roman authorities captured and killed Pope Sixtus II and the other six deacons, St. Lawrence was left to administer what remained. He was taken prisoner and told to collect the “treasures of the Church.” Instead of gold and silver, he presented the poor people to whom he had distributed the chalices, patens, and other altar vessels. Angered, it is said that the Roman prefect tortured Lawrence by chaining him to a gridiron and roasting him upon it. After the martyr had suffered the pain for a long time, the tradition states he made his famous remark, “It is well done. Turn me over!”  While the ancient accounts do not agree on the exact manner and details of St. Lawrence’s death, St. Lawrence has been recognized as one of the great martyrs of the Roman Church since shortly after his death. After the edict of Milan in 313 legalizing Christianity, the emperor Constantine had a chapel built on the site of his martyrdom and burial, located “outside the walls” of Rome of that time. Pope Damascus (366-384) built a basilica on the site, which was added to and decorated by several popes over the centuries. Today the Minor Basilica of St. Lawrence Outside the Walls is a beautiful ancient church containing the remains of the Saint, relics of St. Stephen the Protomartyr, the tombs of several popes, as well as the gridiron said to be instrument of his martyrdom.  For greater detail on his life and martyrdom: Read More Since Vatican II and the restoration of the permanent diaconate, it has been possible for any diocesan bishop to have deacons who are permanent, rather than just deacons on their way to the priesthood. As of 2021, the Roman See had 137 permanent deacons in her service, and 17 transitional deacons who were ordained to the priesthood for the diocese of Rome that year. (2021 Pontificio Annuario)  For centuries, however, the office of the Roman deacon held by St. Lawrence has continued in another way, as well. Each of the Cardinal electors of the Pope is assigned a Roman “titular office” based on the early divisions of Rome into suburban dioceses, parishes and administrative regions. Thus a man who is made a Cardinal receives such an honorary title, whether of Cardinal Bishop, Cardinal Priest or Cardinal Deacon. In doing so he is expected to perform an office of service for the Church, which both anciently and today, includes serving, advising and electing the Bishop of Rome, who is also the Pope. As a result of the persecution of Valerian, many conversions took place. The courage and dignity of Saint Lawrence in facing death did much to gain respect for Christianity in Rome and around the region. The love and service of the poor, exemplified by St. Lawrence, who called them the “true treasures” of the Church, was a particular characteristic for which Christians became known and admired.  St. Lawrence is the patron saint of comedians, comedy writers, chefs, sous-chefs, short-order cooks, and restaurateurs.  He is also the patron saint of manufacturers, sommeliers, chocolatiers, clowns, fire prevention, glaziers, stained glass artists, libraries, poor, tanners, and the French. St. Lawrence is recognized to be the patron saint of cooks, chefs, and restaurateurs. According to the story, his executioners built a slow fire beneath a large gridiron, then had Lawrence stripped naked and bound to the grill. Just before he died, it is said that St. Lawrence called his executioners and said, “Turn me over. I'm done on this side.” Saint Lawrence teaches us that we should not fear religious oppression. With great confidence and fortitude through prayer, we can overcome the challenges that stand before us. And even in the midst of persecution, we can maintain joy in Christ.

Question 12

For what saying is St. Lawrence best known?

Accepted Answer

Pope St. Sixtus II was elected in secret as the 23rd Successor of St. Peter on August 30, 257. According to his biographer, he was a “good and peaceful priest.” He was also skillful in avoiding the first of Valerian’s brutal persecutions―which occurred in his first months as pope. However, less than a year after his election, he and six of his deacons were arrested and beheaded on August 6th, 258. The seventh, Lawrence, would be captured and martyred a few days later, on the 10th. As a Greek, he was not accorded the swift death by beheading given to a Roman citizen.  Read More The Roman emperor during the time of St. Lawrence was Valerian, whose rule was from 253 to 260 AD.  In 257 he undertook a persecution of Christians, ordering that the clergy offer sacrifices to the Roman gods. Then in 258 he ordered the arrest and execution of the clergy. Among his victims were St. Lawrence and Pope St. Sixtus II. Only two years later, Valerian himself would be taken prisoner by the Persians during a war and is said to have died a slave. This fact is made note of in Evelyn Waugh’s novel Helena, in which it is said of Valerian, “They have him on show in Persia, stuffed." St. Lawrence was among the seven deacons who assisted Pope Sixtus II in his administration of the Roman Church (cf. Acts 6:1-6). The Pope recognized Lawrence’s innocence, and in spite of his young age (early 30s) chose him as one of his seven deacons. He even made him his principal assistant, the archdeacon of Rome.  When the Roman authorities captured and killed Pope Sixtus II and the other six deacons, St. Lawrence was left to administer what remained. He was taken prisoner and told to collect the “treasures of the Church.” Instead of gold and silver, he presented the poor people to whom he had distributed the chalices, patens, and other altar vessels. Angered, it is said that the Roman prefect tortured Lawrence by chaining him to a gridiron and roasting him upon it. After the martyr had suffered the pain for a long time, the tradition states he made his famous remark, “It is well done. Turn me over!”  While the ancient accounts do not agree on the exact manner and details of St. Lawrence’s death, St. Lawrence has been recognized as one of the great martyrs of the Roman Church since shortly after his death. After the edict of Milan in 313 legalizing Christianity, the emperor Constantine had a chapel built on the site of his martyrdom and burial, located “outside the walls” of Rome of that time. Pope Damascus (366-384) built a basilica on the site, which was added to and decorated by several popes over the centuries. Today the Minor Basilica of St. Lawrence Outside the Walls is a beautiful ancient church containing the remains of the Saint, relics of St. Stephen the Protomartyr, the tombs of several popes, as well as the gridiron said to be instrument of his martyrdom.  For greater detail on his life and martyrdom: Read More Since Vatican II and the restoration of the permanent diaconate, it has been possible for any diocesan bishop to have deacons who are permanent, rather than just deacons on their way to the priesthood. As of 2021, the Roman See had 137 permanent deacons in her service, and 17 transitional deacons who were ordained to the priesthood for the diocese of Rome that year. (2021 Pontificio Annuario)  For centuries, however, the office of the Roman deacon held by St. Lawrence has continued in another way, as well. Each of the Cardinal electors of the Pope is assigned a Roman “titular office” based on the early divisions of Rome into suburban dioceses, parishes and administrative regions. Thus a man who is made a Cardinal receives such an honorary title, whether of Cardinal Bishop, Cardinal Priest or Cardinal Deacon. In doing so he is expected to perform an office of service for the Church, which both anciently and today, includes serving, advising and electing the Bishop of Rome, who is also the Pope. As a result of the persecution of Valerian, many conversions took place. The courage and dignity of Saint Lawrence in facing death did much to gain respect for Christianity in Rome and around the region. The love and service of the poor, exemplified by St. Lawrence, who called them the “true treasures” of the Church, was a particular characteristic for which Christians became known and admired.  St. Lawrence is the patron saint of comedians, comedy writers, chefs, sous-chefs, short-order cooks, and restaurateurs.  He is also the patron saint of manufacturers, sommeliers, chocolatiers, clowns, fire prevention, glaziers, stained glass artists, libraries, poor, tanners, and the French. St. Lawrence is recognized to be the patron saint of cooks, chefs, and restaurateurs. According to the story, his executioners built a slow fire beneath a large gridiron, then had Lawrence stripped naked and bound to the grill. Just before he died, it is said that St. Lawrence called his executioners and said, “Turn me over. I'm done on this side.” Saint Lawrence teaches us that we should not fear religious oppression. With great confidence and fortitude through prayer, we can overcome the challenges that stand before us. And even in the midst of persecution, we can maintain joy in Christ. "Turn me over! I am finished on this side.” This is attributed to him as he was being roasted on a gridiron during his martyrdom by Roman authorities. This is an example, of which there are many in Church history, of Christians showing joy, and in his case good humor, in the midst of crucifixion, burning, or other slow brutal deaths, at the hands of Christ’s enemies.

Question 13

What are the “tears of St. Lawrence?”

Accepted Answer

Pope St. Sixtus II was elected in secret as the 23rd Successor of St. Peter on August 30, 257. According to his biographer, he was a “good and peaceful priest.” He was also skillful in avoiding the first of Valerian’s brutal persecutions―which occurred in his first months as pope. However, less than a year after his election, he and six of his deacons were arrested and beheaded on August 6th, 258. The seventh, Lawrence, would be captured and martyred a few days later, on the 10th. As a Greek, he was not accorded the swift death by beheading given to a Roman citizen.  Read More The Roman emperor during the time of St. Lawrence was Valerian, whose rule was from 253 to 260 AD.  In 257 he undertook a persecution of Christians, ordering that the clergy offer sacrifices to the Roman gods. Then in 258 he ordered the arrest and execution of the clergy. Among his victims were St. Lawrence and Pope St. Sixtus II. Only two years later, Valerian himself would be taken prisoner by the Persians during a war and is said to have died a slave. This fact is made note of in Evelyn Waugh’s novel Helena, in which it is said of Valerian, “They have him on show in Persia, stuffed." St. Lawrence was among the seven deacons who assisted Pope Sixtus II in his administration of the Roman Church (cf. Acts 6:1-6). The Pope recognized Lawrence’s innocence, and in spite of his young age (early 30s) chose him as one of his seven deacons. He even made him his principal assistant, the archdeacon of Rome.  When the Roman authorities captured and killed Pope Sixtus II and the other six deacons, St. Lawrence was left to administer what remained. He was taken prisoner and told to collect the “treasures of the Church.” Instead of gold and silver, he presented the poor people to whom he had distributed the chalices, patens, and other altar vessels. Angered, it is said that the Roman prefect tortured Lawrence by chaining him to a gridiron and roasting him upon it. After the martyr had suffered the pain for a long time, the tradition states he made his famous remark, “It is well done. Turn me over!”  While the ancient accounts do not agree on the exact manner and details of St. Lawrence’s death, St. Lawrence has been recognized as one of the great martyrs of the Roman Church since shortly after his death. After the edict of Milan in 313 legalizing Christianity, the emperor Constantine had a chapel built on the site of his martyrdom and burial, located “outside the walls” of Rome of that time. Pope Damascus (366-384) built a basilica on the site, which was added to and decorated by several popes over the centuries. Today the Minor Basilica of St. Lawrence Outside the Walls is a beautiful ancient church containing the remains of the Saint, relics of St. Stephen the Protomartyr, the tombs of several popes, as well as the gridiron said to be instrument of his martyrdom.  For greater detail on his life and martyrdom: Read More Since Vatican II and the restoration of the permanent diaconate, it has been possible for any diocesan bishop to have deacons who are permanent, rather than just deacons on their way to the priesthood. As of 2021, the Roman See had 137 permanent deacons in her service, and 17 transitional deacons who were ordained to the priesthood for the diocese of Rome that year. (2021 Pontificio Annuario)  For centuries, however, the office of the Roman deacon held by St. Lawrence has continued in another way, as well. Each of the Cardinal electors of the Pope is assigned a Roman “titular office” based on the early divisions of Rome into suburban dioceses, parishes and administrative regions. Thus a man who is made a Cardinal receives such an honorary title, whether of Cardinal Bishop, Cardinal Priest or Cardinal Deacon. In doing so he is expected to perform an office of service for the Church, which both anciently and today, includes serving, advising and electing the Bishop of Rome, who is also the Pope. As a result of the persecution of Valerian, many conversions took place. The courage and dignity of Saint Lawrence in facing death did much to gain respect for Christianity in Rome and around the region. The love and service of the poor, exemplified by St. Lawrence, who called them the “true treasures” of the Church, was a particular characteristic for which Christians became known and admired.  St. Lawrence is the patron saint of comedians, comedy writers, chefs, sous-chefs, short-order cooks, and restaurateurs.  He is also the patron saint of manufacturers, sommeliers, chocolatiers, clowns, fire prevention, glaziers, stained glass artists, libraries, poor, tanners, and the French. St. Lawrence is recognized to be the patron saint of cooks, chefs, and restaurateurs. According to the story, his executioners built a slow fire beneath a large gridiron, then had Lawrence stripped naked and bound to the grill. Just before he died, it is said that St. Lawrence called his executioners and said, “Turn me over. I'm done on this side.” Saint Lawrence teaches us that we should not fear religious oppression. With great confidence and fortitude through prayer, we can overcome the challenges that stand before us. And even in the midst of persecution, we can maintain joy in Christ. "Turn me over! I am finished on this side.” This is attributed to him as he was being roasted on a gridiron during his martyrdom by Roman authorities. This is an example, of which there are many in Church history, of Christians showing joy, and in his case good humor, in the midst of crucifixion, burning, or other slow brutal deaths, at the hands of Christ’s enemies.   The Perseid meteor shower, also called the "tears of St. Lawrence," is a meteor shower which has been observed by human beings for at least 2000 years. It’s called the “tears of St. Lawrence” as it occurs each August around his feast day.  Read More

Question 14

Links

Accepted Answer

Pope St. Sixtus II was elected in secret as the 23rd Successor of St. Peter on August 30, 257. According to his biographer, he was a “good and peaceful priest.” He was also skillful in avoiding the first of Valerian’s brutal persecutions―which occurred in his first months as pope. However, less than a year after his election, he and six of his deacons were arrested and beheaded on August 6th, 258. The seventh, Lawrence, would be captured and martyred a few days later, on the 10th. As a Greek, he was not accorded the swift death by beheading given to a Roman citizen.  Read More The Roman emperor during the time of St. Lawrence was Valerian, whose rule was from 253 to 260 AD.  In 257 he undertook a persecution of Christians, ordering that the clergy offer sacrifices to the Roman gods. Then in 258 he ordered the arrest and execution of the clergy. Among his victims were St. Lawrence and Pope St. Sixtus II. Only two years later, Valerian himself would be taken prisoner by the Persians during a war and is said to have died a slave. This fact is made note of in Evelyn Waugh’s novel Helena, in which it is said of Valerian, “They have him on show in Persia, stuffed." St. Lawrence was among the seven deacons who assisted Pope Sixtus II in his administration of the Roman Church (cf. Acts 6:1-6). The Pope recognized Lawrence’s innocence, and in spite of his young age (early 30s) chose him as one of his seven deacons. He even made him his principal assistant, the archdeacon of Rome.  When the Roman authorities captured and killed Pope Sixtus II and the other six deacons, St. Lawrence was left to administer what remained. He was taken prisoner and told to collect the “treasures of the Church.” Instead of gold and silver, he presented the poor people to whom he had distributed the chalices, patens, and other altar vessels. Angered, it is said that the Roman prefect tortured Lawrence by chaining him to a gridiron and roasting him upon it. After the martyr had suffered the pain for a long time, the tradition states he made his famous remark, “It is well done. Turn me over!”  While the ancient accounts do not agree on the exact manner and details of St. Lawrence’s death, St. Lawrence has been recognized as one of the great martyrs of the Roman Church since shortly after his death. After the edict of Milan in 313 legalizing Christianity, the emperor Constantine had a chapel built on the site of his martyrdom and burial, located “outside the walls” of Rome of that time. Pope Damascus (366-384) built a basilica on the site, which was added to and decorated by several popes over the centuries. Today the Minor Basilica of St. Lawrence Outside the Walls is a beautiful ancient church containing the remains of the Saint, relics of St. Stephen the Protomartyr, the tombs of several popes, as well as the gridiron said to be instrument of his martyrdom.  For greater detail on his life and martyrdom: Read More Since Vatican II and the restoration of the permanent diaconate, it has been possible for any diocesan bishop to have deacons who are permanent, rather than just deacons on their way to the priesthood. As of 2021, the Roman See had 137 permanent deacons in her service, and 17 transitional deacons who were ordained to the priesthood for the diocese of Rome that year. (2021 Pontificio Annuario)  For centuries, however, the office of the Roman deacon held by St. Lawrence has continued in another way, as well. Each of the Cardinal electors of the Pope is assigned a Roman “titular office” based on the early divisions of Rome into suburban dioceses, parishes and administrative regions. Thus a man who is made a Cardinal receives such an honorary title, whether of Cardinal Bishop, Cardinal Priest or Cardinal Deacon. In doing so he is expected to perform an office of service for the Church, which both anciently and today, includes serving, advising and electing the Bishop of Rome, who is also the Pope. As a result of the persecution of Valerian, many conversions took place. The courage and dignity of Saint Lawrence in facing death did much to gain respect for Christianity in Rome and around the region. The love and service of the poor, exemplified by St. Lawrence, who called them the “true treasures” of the Church, was a particular characteristic for which Christians became known and admired.  St. Lawrence is the patron saint of comedians, comedy writers, chefs, sous-chefs, short-order cooks, and restaurateurs.  He is also the patron saint of manufacturers, sommeliers, chocolatiers, clowns, fire prevention, glaziers, stained glass artists, libraries, poor, tanners, and the French. St. Lawrence is recognized to be the patron saint of cooks, chefs, and restaurateurs. According to the story, his executioners built a slow fire beneath a large gridiron, then had Lawrence stripped naked and bound to the grill. Just before he died, it is said that St. Lawrence called his executioners and said, “Turn me over. I'm done on this side.” Saint Lawrence teaches us that we should not fear religious oppression. With great confidence and fortitude through prayer, we can overcome the challenges that stand before us. And even in the midst of persecution, we can maintain joy in Christ. "Turn me over! I am finished on this side.” This is attributed to him as he was being roasted on a gridiron during his martyrdom by Roman authorities. This is an example, of which there are many in Church history, of Christians showing joy, and in his case good humor, in the midst of crucifixion, burning, or other slow brutal deaths, at the hands of Christ’s enemies.   The Perseid meteor shower, also called the "tears of St. Lawrence," is a meteor shower which has been observed by human beings for at least 2000 years. It’s called the “tears of St. Lawrence” as it occurs each August around his feast day.  Read More

Question 15

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Accepted Answer

Who is Saint Lawrence?

UNITE YOUR SUFFERING TO CHRIST

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