Saint of the Day: June 30, 2024
The First Martyrs of the See of Rome, also known as the “Protomartyrs of Rome,” were early Christians who suffered persecution and death under Emperor Nero. These men and women were falsely accused by Nero of burning Rome, a crime he himself orchestrated to divert attention from his own misdeeds and to justify his brutal crackdown on Christians.
The Persecution under Nero
In 64 AD, a great fire ravaged Rome, destroying much of the city. Seeking to shift the blame away from himself, Nero targeted the Christian community. According to historical accounts, the emperor’s cruelty knew no bounds. The methods of execution were particularly horrific:
- Burned as Living Torches: Some Christians were coated in flammable materials and set alight to serve as torches for Nero’s evening banquets.
- Crucifixion: Others were crucified, suffering a slow and agonizing death.
- Fed to Wild Animals: Many were thrown to wild beasts in the arenas, torn apart for the entertainment of the Roman populace.
Martyrs Before Peter and Paul
These martyrs gave their lives before the deaths of Saints Peter and Paul, who were also victims of Nero’s persecution. They are honored as “disciples of the Apostles” and were sent to their Lord before the deaths of these prominent leaders of the early Church.
Legacy and Veneration
The courage and faith of these early martyrs had a profound impact on the early Christian community and the spread of Christianity. Their unwavering witness to their faith, even in the face of horrific death, inspired countless others and helped to solidify the foundation of the Church in Rome.
The First Martyrs of the See of Rome are commemorated on June 30th. Their feast day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the early Christians and the enduring strength of faith in the face of persecution.