Algerius of Naples (Anabaptist Martyr - student from Padua, Rome - Died 1557)

Algerius of Naples (Anabaptist Martyr - student from Padua, Rome - Died 1557)

ALGERIUS OF NAPLES BEFORE THE INQUISITION

A trial by inquisition could be initiated through denunciation by anyone, even by corrupt persons, and a confession was then sought by merciless torture. If a person would not recant, he was the committed to the authorities to be executed at the stake. If condemned persons showed themselves penitent, the authorities might proceed more leniently. This meant that if they were men they would be beheaded and if women, buried alive! The Inquisition was especially active in Venice. There are records of thirty-five court trials of Anabaptists in this city during the sixteenth century. It was to Venice that Algerius was taken. In Venice, Algerius was tried before the entire Senate. But Algerius firmly confessed his commitment to Christ as his only Lord. He declined their offers with a courtesy that expressed his culture and his spirit. - Myron S, Augsburger (Mennonite Spokesman and Writer)

ALGERIUS OF NAPLES BURNED AT THE STAKE

At the stake he was stripped to his waist and boiling oil was poured over his head and bare body. Rubbing his hand over his face in pain, he came away with the skin and hair. The crowd was hushed by this awesome agony. They watched in silence as the fire was lit and flared up intensely with the burning oil. In a few minutes the lad's life was gone, and he was burned until his body disintegrated in ashes - Algerius of Naples (Anabaptist Martyr - student from Padua, Rome - Died 1557)