Martyr · 258
Laurence the Holy Martyr & Archdeacon of Rome
New Calendar August 10 Old Calendar August 23
Why they are a saint
The Martyrs Archdeacon Laurence, Pope Sixtus, Deacons Felicissimus and Agapitus, and the soldier Romanus were citizens of Rome, and suffered in the year 258 during the reign of Emperor Valerian (253-260). The Orthodox Church commemorates Laurence the Holy Martyr & Archdeacon of Rome on August 10.
Life
Saint Laurence was archdeacon of the Church of Rome under Pope Sixtus, in the persecution of Valerian (258). When Sixtus was imprisoned, Laurence begged to share his martyrdom; Sixtus foretold that he would follow three days later and entrusted him with the Church's treasures and sacred vessels to distribute to the poor, which Laurence did, going on foot to the hidden clergy and needy Christians.
After Sixtus and his deacons were put to death, Laurence was scourged and stretched on a red-hot iron gridiron over burning coals; he told the ruler to turn him over, for one side was already roasted. Christians buried him with honour in a cave. Much of his relics rest in the church of Saint Laurence 'outside the walls' in Rome.
Sources: OCA Lives of the Saints. Retold in our own words.
Traditional patronage
The cited source names no specific patronage.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Laurence the Holy Martyr & Archdeacon of Rome as a patron when they bear the name Laurence at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on August 10. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Laurence the Holy Martyr & Archdeacon of Rome, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.