Saint Laurence (258)

Saint Laurence was an archdeacon to Pope Saint Sixtus II. He was martyred three days after Saint Sixtus because he would not tell the pagans where the treasures were concealed for the Holy Father’s support of the parishes, the priests and the poor of Rome. Saint Laurence was martyred. He is buried in Rome in a church named for him. It is one of the seven great churches of Rome. Saint Stephen, the protomartyr, is buried beside Saint Laurence there. When Saint Stephen’s body was brought to the tomb of Saint Laurence, Saint Laurence’s lifeless body moved aside and extended a hand to welcome the body of Saint Stephen. Saint Laurence was a Spaniard by birth and is very greatly honored in Spain. His name is mentioned in the Roman Canon of the Mass. It is also recited in the Litany of the Saints.

Saint Lawrence distrutes money to the poor, by Fra Angelico

Saint Lawrence distrutes money to the poor, by Fra Angelico