In the year 272 in Caesarea in Palestine, St. Marinus was to succeed to the place of a centurion when another came and said that he could not have the post on account of his being a Christian. Achaeus, the governor of Palestine, receiving Marinus’ affirmative answer gave him three hours to consider whether or not he would recall it. Theotecnus, the bishop of that city came to him and led him to the church. Here, pointing to the sword which he wore and then to a book of the gospels asked him which of the two he would choose. Marinus stretched out his right hand and laid hold of the sacred book. “Adhere steadfastly then to God,” said the bishop, “And he will strengthen you and you shall obtain what you have chosen. Depart in peace.” Being summoned again before the judge, he professed his faith with greater resolution and was immediately led away and beheaded. St. Asterius, a well known, Roman senator, was present at the martyrdom. Despite his rich dress, he took away the dead body on his shoulders and gave it a decent burial.