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"The Emperor Marcus Aurelius had persecuted the Christians from principle, being a bigoted Pagan: but his son Commodus, who succeeded him in the empire, after some time, shewed himself favourable to them. During this calm, the number of the faithful exceedingly increased, and many persons of the first rank enlisted under the banner of the cross. Of this number was Apollonius, a Roman senator. He was very well versed both in philosophy and the Holy Scriptures. In the midst of the peace, which the Church enjoyed, he was publicly accused of Christianity by one of his own slaves, named Severus. St. Apollonius was ordered to renounce his religion, as he valued his life and fortune; for though Commodus had forbidden any one to accuse the Christians, he had not repealed the former laws against them. The saint courageously rejected such terms, and obtained leave to give an account of his faith in full senate. This he did in an excellent discourse, which has not come down to our times. But it not being in the power of his brethren to overrule the law, he was beheaded; and thus sealed the truth with his blood.

Observe how far a soul goes, which is carried on by the force of truth, without any regard to present convenience, interest, honour, or life? If God ruled in your heart, and you did but look on your salvation as the great business of your life, these selfish considerations would not so often stand in the way of your best proposals. You have thoughts of being good, but have not courage to be so. In some cases, the apprehension of what the world will say; in others, the displeasure of friends; in others, the loss of some preferment or interest; in others, the fear of reproach, or retrenching of state, is a bar to the most essential duties: and the interest of the next world gives place to this. See if this be not your guilt; if not in great things, at least in your ordinary conduct and conversation. Accustom yourself to greater simplicity of mind; and let not little politics carry you on, when plain dealing would be much more to your purpose. Beg this holy apologist and martyr to intercede for you." The Catholic Year by Fr. John Gother