Saint Lawrence of Rome 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 and for his dedication to serving the poor. Lawrence was arrested during the persecution of Christians under the Roman Emperor Valerian and was famously executed by being roasted alive on a gridiron. His feast day is celebrated on August 10, and he is recognized as one of the seven deacons of Rome. Saint Lawrence is often depicted in art holding a gridiron, symbolizing his martyrdom, and he is the patron saint of cooks, comedians, and the poor.