Donatus the Deacon

Holy Martyr Donatus the Deacon died a martyr's death in the time of Emperor Diocletian (284-305). The persecution was raised against Christians because the pagan Roman state saw in Christianity a danger: religion was closely tied to political and social life, and citizens had to honour the gods and offer them sacrifices, which Christians did not do.

Between 303 and 304 Diocletian issued four edicts ordering the destruction of churches, the ban on Christian assemblies and the killing of priests and of believers who would not sacrifice to the gods. Donatus was one of those who then received the crown of martyrdom. The place and details of his suffering are not preserved in the sources consulted. He is commemorated on 21 August (new style), the same day as Romulus the Presbyter, Silvanus the Deacon and Venustus.