Marcellinus and Peter
Roman priest and deacon martyred together in 304 for refusing to abandon their Christian faith.
Patronage
General intercession
Virtues & Traits
Biography
Marcellinus and Peter were early Roman martyrs who died during the persecution under the Roman Emperor Diocletian in 304. Marcellinus was a priest and Peter a deacon, both serving the Christian community in Rome with distinction. They were arrested for their faith and imprisoned together, where they remained steadfast despite attempts to force them to renounce Christianity and offer pagan sacrifices. According to tradition, they converted their jailer, Artemius, and his family to Christianity through their faithful witness and prayers during captivity. Condemned to death, they were led to execution at the cemetery of Damasus on the Via Cornelia. Ancient accounts describe their martyrdom as courageous and serene, their bonds of brotherly affection strengthening their resolve. Though historical details remain sparse, their cult developed early in the Roman Church, and Pope Damasus I (366-384) honored their memory with an inscription at their burial site. Their feast day reflects the veneration they received as exemplars of Christian fidelity.
Prayer
Prayer to Saints Marcellinus and Peter
O glorious Saints Marcellinus and Peter, martyrs of Christ and confessors of the faith, we humbly beseech you to intercede for us before the throne of Almighty God. By the grace of your steadfast courage and unwavering devotion, obtain for us the strength to persevere in virtue and the courage to profess our faith boldly. Guide us in our struggles and protect us from all evil. Through your powerful intercession, may we grow ever closer to Christ and attain the glory of eternal life. Amen.
Generated by Find My Saint for personal reflection. Not an official Church prayer.