The First Martyrs of the Church of Rome were Christians martyred in the city of Rome during Nero’s persecution. The event is recorded by both Tacitus and Pope Clement I, among others. In July of 64CE, Rome was devastated by fire. Largely made up of wooden tenements, a fire was a frequent occurrence in the city. Rumour blamed the tragedy on the unpopular emperor Nero, who wanted to enlarge his palace. He accused the Christians. According to the historian Tacitus, many Christians were put to death “not so much of the crime of firing the city, as of hatred against mankind”. This feast commemorates those unknown and unnamed men and women who were cruelly tortured and executed. For every person the Romans killed, at least two would be converted. This is why Christianity was able to rise so steadily during the first four centuries of the common era.

We pray in solidarity for all those who have gone before us as witnesses of Jesus Christ. May they rest in peace. Amen.

If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. – 1 Peter 4:14-16