Patron Saint of archivists, armories, book lovers, brewers, butchers, cooks,  comedians, deacons, glaziers, laundry workers, librarians, firefighters, poor  people, restaurateurs, schoolchildren, seminarians, tanners, vine growers,  winemakers, and Rome Invoked against fire and lumbago (lower back pain)

Saint Lawrence, a revered early Christian martyr, was born around the year 225 in Huesca, Spain. As one of the seven deacons of Rome, he was entrusted with the care of the Church's material resources and the welfare of its poor. His dedication to his duties and his unwavering faith made him a pivotal figure in the early Church.

In 258, during the persecution of Christians under Emperor Valerian, Lawrence was arrested and condemned to death. According to tradition, he was executed by being grilled alive on a gridiron. His courageous demeanor and unwavering faith during his martyrdom became legendary; he is said to have cheerfully remarked to his executioners, “Turn me over; I’m done on this side.”

Saint Lawrence's feast day is celebrated on August 10. He is venerated as a patron saint of cooks and firefighters, symbolizing his enduring legacy of faith and resilience. His story continues to inspire Christians around the world, embodying the virtues of charity, courage, and steadfast devotion to Christ.

Prayer: Saint Lawrence, you gave your whole life to Christ and followed  Him courageously to your death. You faithfully executed your duties to the  poor, seeing them as the Church’s true treasures. Please pray that I will  have the courage to say “Yes” to Christ, no matter what He asks of me.  Saint Lawrence of Rome, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.