Today, both the East and the West remember the deeds of St Laurence (Lawrence) of Rome (c 225 – 258). St Laurence, deacon, is remembered not only for his famous martyrdom under Valerian, but also for the works of charity he deed for the poor of Rome. Even under threat of martyrdom, the leaders of the Church took all of their work, including the social teachings of Christ, seriously. St Laurence is a reminder to us all that our duty to follow the way of charity, agape, does not end with the threat of persecution. We are called to follow the way of Christ throughout all our life, even if things get tough, even if it leads to our death.
What can we do today to follow his example?
Troparion of St Laurence
Aflame with the Spirit like a living coal,
Thou didst burn up the thorns of error,
O blessed trophy-bearer Laurence, archdeacon of Christ.
Like rational incense thou didst become a whole burnt offering
To Him Who magnified thee.
Wherefore shelter from all assaults of the enemy those who glorify thee.
Kontakion of St Laurence
With divine fire thou didst kindle thy heart, O Laurence
And reduce the fire of the passions to ashes.
O staff of athletes, Godbearing Martyr,
Thou didst cry with faith while contesting:
No one will separate me from the love of Christ.
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