Saint Lawrence, the school patron saint, was an Archdeacon during the time of Pope Sixtus. After the martyrdom of Pope Sixtus, the Roman Emperor Valerian ordered Lawrence to hand over the treasures of the church to the emperor. But Lawrence sold them all for the benefit of the poor and presented the poor as the true treasures of the church. This infuriated the emperor and he ordered Deacon Lawrence to be arrested and killed by being slowly roasted on a gridiron. But Lawrence's face appeared beautiful with extraordinary light. Great was the tranquility and peace of mind which he enjoyed amidst his tortures. He only prayed for Rome and breathed his last. Several senators, who were present at his death, were so powerfully moved by his tender and heroic fortitude and piety. The Church honours St. Lawrence as a martyr and he is declared the patron saint of the poor.