At a time when paganism was widespread everywhere, there lived in Rome an honorable and virtuous man, a member of the senate. Saint Asterius followed with great zeal the principles of a Christian life. On one occasion, he witnessed a pagan ceremony during which a demon was seizing the sacrifices that were offered. He prayed to Christ and drove the demon away.
At the same time, in Caesarea of Palestine, there lived a distinguished soldier named Marinus. As a Christian, he refused to offer sacrifices to the pagan gods. He was therefore asked to appear in court, where he was given three hours to reconsider and change his faith. The local bishop stood by his side, advising and encouraging him to make the right decision. He reminded him that he was being called to choose between serving an earthly king and embracing a martyr’s death for the King of all. Saint Marinus chose death, courageously confessing his faith.
Saint Asterius was also present at his martyrdom, for by divine providence he happened to be in the city at that time. After Marinus had fallen asleep in the Lord, Asterius removed his own garment, spread it upon the ground, and wrapped the martyr’s body in it. He then carried it on his shoulders and buried it with honor.
For this act, he too was granted the crown of martyrdom. The pagans arrested him and beheaded him for his faith in Christ.
The Church commemorates the two saints on March 3.
