Episode 1316: St Terence

Saint Terence (fl. 1st century AD) was a Christian martyr who was killed during the persecutions of Emperor Trajan Decius. He was an officer in the Roman army, and he witnessed the death sentencing of Saints Peter and Paul. Terence was converted to Christianity, and he was martyred himself, possibly along with his son.

Little is known about Terence's early life. He was born in a pagan family in North Africa, and he was educated in Rome. He joined the Roman army, and he rose to the rank of centurion. In 64 AD, (31 years after Christ) he witnessed the execution of Saints Peter and Paul. This event had a profound impact on Terence, and he converted to Christianity.

He is the patron saint of actors, martyrs, and those who are persecuted for their faith.
There are a few different accounts of Terence's conversion. One account says that he was so moved by the sight of Peter and Paul being executed that he immediately renounced his pagan beliefs and became a Christian. Another account says that he was initially hesitant to convert, but he was eventually persuaded by the arguments of a Christian named Carpus.
Whatever the circumstances of his conversion, Terence became a devoted Christian. He traveled throughout the Roman Empire, preaching the gospel and ministering to the poor and sick

Terence's conversion is a powerful example of the power of the gospel to transform lives. He was a pagan who was so impressed by the courage and faith of Saints Peter and Paul that he was willing to give up everything he knew and loved to follow Christ. His story is a reminder that the gospel is still transforming lives today.