A Roman centurion, he threw down his military belt at the emperor's birthday celebration, refusing to take part in pagan sacrifice and declaring his loyalty to Christ alone. He was tried at Tangier and beheaded.
Life
Saint Marcellus was a centurion in the Roman army in the late third century, and the account of his martyrdom survives in a relatively early document. Around 298, in the region of Tangier in today's Morocco, the emperor's birthday was celebrated and the soldiers were expected to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods.
Marcellus, a Christian, threw down his soldier's belt and declared that because he served Jesus Christ, the eternal King, he could not take part in pagan rites. He was tried and beheaded. The Church remembers him on October 30.
Spirituality
The spirituality of Marcellus is the courage to follow conscience. He chose fidelity to Christ over rank and a secure life. His witness reminds Christians that their highest loyalty belongs to God.
Reflection
Marcellus alone kept his conscience where everyone else went along. Have I ever hidden my faith to go along with the crowd?