Lawrence was a deacon in Rome in the early days of the Church, at a time when Christians were harshly persecuted. We know little about him except for a legend that tells us about the remarkable deed he performed a few days before he was martyred
The story that has come down to us through the ages is that a Roman official came to Lawrence and demanded that Lawrence give him the treasure—or riches—of the Church. The official said that the emperor needed the money he would receive if crucifixes and sacred vessels, like chalices, were melted down and the gold sold.
Surprisingly, Lawrence agreed. He asked the official for three days to prepare the “treasures.” During those three days, Lawrence sold everything he could and gave the money to the poor, the sick, orphans, widows, and anyone in need. He asked all of those people to go with him to the official. The legend says that Lawrence lined all the people up and announced to the official, “These are the treasures of the Church!”
The Roman official was furious. Lawrence was immediately arrested and brutally executed. As he was led to his death, Lawrence said these words: “I rejoice greatly because I have been considered worthy to be a sacrificial victim for Christ” (Evening Prayer, The Liturgy of the Hours).
Deacons are called to help the bishops and priests. From the beginnings of the Church, one of their most important responsibilities has been to minister to those in need. St. Lawrence fulfilled this responsibility heroically. He is one of our most beloved saints. The Church named in his honor in Rome is a visited by thousands of pilgrims each year.
We can honor St. Lawrence’s memory by planning a project with our family or class that will help the poor and needy people in our world today. We can also thank God for the deacons who serve our parishes out of their love for Jesus.
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