On February 23, 303, Roman Emperor Diocletian issued an edict that began severe persecution of Christians, demanding the destruction of their churches and scriptures, revoking their legal rights, and confiscating their property. By 304, clergy were arrested and coerced to sacrifice to Roman gods under threat of severe punishment. This persecution lasted until 311 when Galerius proclaimed an edict of toleration. Many Christians, including Saints Marcellinus and Peter, faced martyrdom during this time.
The story of Marcellinus and Peter's martyrdom is primarily known through Pope Saint Damasus I, who heard it from one of their executioners and later converted to Christianity. After refusing to sacrifice to the Roman gods following a sham trial, they were imprisoned and preached to fellow inmates. To silence them, they were taken to a forest, forced to dig their graves, and then beheaded.
Their remains were discovered by two holy women, Lucilla and Firmina, who buried them in the Catacombs of Marcellinus and Peter, a secret Christian worship site. In 313, Emperor Constantine the Great legalized Christianity and built the Basilica of Saints Marcellinus and Peter above their catacombs.
In the ninth century, Pope Gregory IV sent their relics to monk Eginhard, leading to the construction of a monastery in Seligenstadt, known for reported miracles. The veneration of Saints Marcellinus and Peter has lasted, serving as a powerful witness to selfless love. In honoring them, let's reflect on our call to live sacrificially and pray for the courage to share our faith in Christ.
Sts. Marcellinus and Peter, you gave your lives for the Gospel and inspired many. Pray for us to have the courage to witness to Christ by living selflessly for others, that God's grace and mercy may be poured out on them through our witness.
Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,
Most High Servant,
Jesus, Mary, Joseph Ministry of Love (Blessed and Saints and the Nine Choirs of Angels)
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