St. Laureatus of Rome

Saint Laureatus of Rome, also known as Laureatus of Castelpoto, was a Catholic saint who was martyred during the persecutions of Valerian in the mid-3rd century. Little is known about Saint Laureatus' early life, but he is believed to have been born in Rome, Italy. He lived during a time when Christians faced intense persecution, especially under the reign of Emperor Valerian. Saint Laureatus showed unwavering faith and dedication to his beliefs, refusing to renounce Christianity despite the threats and dangers he faced. As a result, he became a target of the Roman authorities and was eventually captured and executed for his refusal to renounce his faith. It is believed that he was put to death around the year 258 in Rome. After his execution, Saint Laureatus' body was buried in the Santa Ciriaca catacombs in Rome, where his remains lay undisturbed for many years. Over time, his cult grew, and his relics became objects of veneration for the faithful. In the late 17th century, a portion of Saint Laureatus' relics were transferred to the Church of the Holy Cross in Biberbach, Bavaria, which is located in modern-day Germany. These relics were enshrined in a jeweled urn, but unfortunately, they have since been lost to history. Additionally, some of his relics were also enshrined in Venice, Italy, but they too have been lost over time. Another relic, a piece of his head, was enshrined in Monselice, Padua, Italy, but it has also been lost. Despite the loss of these relics, Saint Laureatus' memory and his association with miracles persisted. Legend has it that a procession of his relics took place in the town of Castelpoto, Italy, and that it miraculously ended a devastating cholera epidemic. As a result, Saint Laureatus became known as the patron saint against cholera. He is still venerated in Castelpoto and is considered a beloved protector against this deadly disease. Saint Laureatus was recognized for his martyrdom and virtuous life by the faithful, but his canonization occurred before the formal establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. Therefore, he is considered a pre-congregation saint, meaning he was widely venerated as a saint prior to the formal canonization process. Overall, Saint Laureatus of Rome left a lasting legacy of courage and faith, standing firm in his beliefs even in the face of persecution. His story continues to inspire and remind us of the sacrifices made by early Christians for their faith, and he remains a powerful intercessor for those seeking protection against cholera and other ailments.

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