Icon of St. Laurence the Deacon
Oil on wood panel
5.25" x 6" x .75"

“Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will preserve it for eternal life.” (John 12:25)

Pope Sixtus II died in Rome in 258 when Emperor Valerian initiated persecution against the Christians. Before his execution Pope instructed his deacon Laurence to collect all church treasures, sell them and distribute among the needy and the poor. As soon as Laurence did as he was directed, Roman prefect ordered to surrender the church’s treasure, giving Laurence three days to do so. At appointed time Laurence assembled a large group of widows, orphans, blind, lame and leprous, presenting them, saying, “Behold, these are the treasures of the Church.” The Prefect was so angry that he ordered Laurence to be killed a slow torturous death. St. Laurence was bound to a gridiron and roasted over coals. He met his death with most equanimity, reportedly exclaiming “I am already roasted on one side and, if thou wouldst have me well cooked, it is time to turn me on the other.” Saint Laurence died on August 10th, 258. His resting place has not moved since his burial and only fifty years after Saint’s repose Emperor Constantine built a basilica over St. Laurence’s tomb.

In keeping with iconography of sainted deacons, Laurence shakes a censer with his right hand, and supports Church with his left. Over his shoulders is a red mantle of martyrdom. (1, 2, 3)