Today is the Feast of St. Laurence, deacon and martyr.
St Laurence was chief of the seven deacons of the Roman Church. Christianity was outlawed in the third century when Laurence lived. Emperor Valerian had him executed by roasting under a slow fire. The pain he endured would have been excruciating, but Laurence had the peace of Christ in him. He knew that no matter what happens, the Lord reigns! He is said to have made a sport of his pains, saying to the people who were torturing him to death “I am done enough, eat if you will."
(Fra Angelico's Martyrdom of St. Lawrence)
But the burning Tears of St. Laurence (better known as the Persed meteor shower), which make an appearance near his feast day every year, don't peak for another few days. The Perseids is one of the best meteor showers to observe, producing up to 60 meteors per hour at their peak. This year's peak occurs on the morning of August 12, but you may be able to see some meteors any time from July 23 - August 22.
Hopefully we'll have some clear nights for viewing this week.
2 comments:
i never knew this!!! how interesting! and you tell it so well.
hugs,
Oh and they were brilliant last evening.
I'm thinking of a second viewing tonight (if G-d intends to give me 2 cloudless evenings in a row.....). And now I know more on St. Laurence and the tie to the Perseid!
<-- feeling smart now! ;-)
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