Bishop
Saint Marcellinus became Pope of Rome during the period of the persecutions against Christians. At that time, many of the faithful were condemned to death for their devotion to Christ. He himself was arrested and, filled with fear for the threats and tortures, offered sacrifice to the idols. This act deeply wounded his conscience and led him to profound repentance.
When he was later summoned to participate in the Council, he openly confessed his sin and condemned himself with severity, feeling unworthy to continue his sacred duty. Upon returning to Rome, he denounced Emperor Diocletian and got subjected to tortures until death.
He was beheaded together with three other Christians. His body remained unburied at the roadside for thirty-six days. Then the Apostle Peter appeared to the new pope and commanded him to bury the saint’s body.
The venerable martyr Pope Marcellinus became a powerful example of repentance for all the faithful who, out of fear, had fallen into sin.
On the day of his commemoration, the Church also honors Saint Theodotus, who was beheaded in the year 303.
