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.