While the Church celebrates the Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time today, on the Roman Calendar August 10th marks the glorious feast in honor of St. Lawrence (c. 225-258), deacon of the Church in Rome. Deacon Lawrence, or Laurentius meaning laurelled, was one of the seven Roman deacons martyred during the persecution of the emperor Valerian.
It is said that while he was being tortured on a gridiron, he cried out: “I am already roasted on one side, and so if you want me well cooked, then it is time to turn me on the other side!” When tough times come around in our lives, in Lawrence we have a model and intercessor to turn towards, not only for some comic relief but also for courage and faithfulness. Lawrence of Rome, pray for us!
Today I have in mind and prayer the deacons of my parish, my deacon friends, transitional deacons preparing for the priesthood, and all those deacons who have gone before us.
