Laurentius of Rome, also known as Saint Lawrence, was a Christian martyr who lived in the 3rd century. He is best known for his role as a deacon in the early Christian Church during the papacy of Pope Sixtus II. Lawrence was responsible for distributing alms to the poor and caring for the church's treasures. He was arrested during the persecution of Christians under the Roman Emperor Valerian. According to tradition, Lawrence was executed by being roasted alive on a gridiron, which has made him a symbol of courage and faith. His feast day is celebrated on August 10.