Liturgy of the Hours
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![Nero's Torches (Christian Candlesticks) by Henryk Siemiradzki [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/1b/Siemiradski_Fackeln.jpg/1024px-Siemiradski_Fackeln.jpg)
Prayer Hours
▶About Today
June 30
The First Martyrs of Holy Roman Church
Optional Memorial
Today is the optional memorial of The First Martyrs of Holy Roman Church. These reverent martyrs were put to death under Emperor Nero’s reign in 64 A.D. Nero, suspected of burning Rome, blamed the disaster on Christians and had many sentenced to death. The conviction of these very early Christians swayed many followers to Jesus’ message and these saints collectively became known as the “disciples of the Apostles.” This feast intentionally falls directly after the solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, as they are the patron saints of Rome. [1]
Written by Sarah Ciotti
[1] “The First Holy Martyrs of the Roman Catholic Church,” Catholic News Agency (2012).
Note: Optional Memorials and Commemorations are optional celebrations and, at present, we do not include content specific to these special days. This “About Today” is provided so that you can celebrate these Saints as you worship Christ.