Marinus of Caesarea

Marinus of Caesarea (Greek: Μαρῖνος)^[1] was a Roman soldier and a Christian martyr.

Marinus was a Roman soldier stationed in Caesarea in Palestine. He was from a rich and noble family in this city, and being capable and conscientious, he had made a successful career in the Roman army.^[2] A soldier in a Roman legion, Marinus was promoted to the position of centurion.^[3] Before he was able to assume the post, a rival claimed that before a centurion could accept the post, he was to offer a sacrifice to the emperor, according to ancient law. Marinus, who until that point was a secret Christian, professed his true faith, and explained that it prevented him from offering this sacrifice. Marinus was then given three hours to change his decision.^[4]

He went to a local church to speak with the bishop, who went by the name of Theotecnus. Bishop Theotecnus led Marinus to the altar. He pointed to Marinus' sword and a Gospel book, and then asked which Marinus preferred. Without hesitation, Marinus chose the Gospel book with his right hand. The bishop told him: “Hold fast to God. By the strength he has given you, you can achieve the fruit of yours. Now go in peace”.^[2]

Marinus returned to the legion and refused to make the ritual sacrifice. He was then beheaded.^[5]

The remains of Marinus were buried by a Roman senator, St Asterius of Caesarea, who was himself martyred. However, the evidence for this is not very reliable.^[2] Both saints have their feast day commemorated on March 3 in Catholicism.^[6]