Faith and Empire

Faith & Empire: Pagan Sacrifice, Christian Persecution & the Hope of Eternal Life

Rylands Papyri 10 & 12 | AD 250 & 6th Century AD

Two remarkable ancient manuscripts. Two compelling accounts of faith and religious life under Roman rule. One extraordinary historical display. 

This handcrafted 16" × 20" shadow box display brings together museum-style replicas of two fascinating Greek papyri from the John Rylands Library collection, offering a powerful glimpse into the religious pressures of the Roman Empire and the Christian hope that endured beyond them.

#1 Rylands Papyrus 12 — The Certificate of Pagan Sacrifice (AD 250)

During the reign of Emperor Decius, inhabitants of the Roman Empire were required to demonstrate religious loyalty through sacrifices to the Roman gods.

This remarkable papyrus preserves an official certificate documenting that a woman named Aurelia Demos had performed the required pagan sacrifices before appointed witnesses.

Such certificates provide extraordinary historical evidence of the religious demands that confronted early Christians, many of whom faced imprisonment, punishment, or death for refusing to participate.

Although Aurelia Demos's own religious identity is unknown, her surviving certificate offers a tangible connection to one of the most significant periods of Christian persecution in the third century.

#2 Rylands Papyrus 10 — Faithful Endurance & the Hope of Heaven (6th Century AD)

This ancient Greek papyrus preserves part of a Christian hagiographical narrative describing a man condemned to starvation who finds comfort in God's promises.

In the midst of suffering, the account records his appeal to the Apostle Paul's words:

“Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” — 1 Corinthians 2:9 (KJV)

This remarkable manuscript offers a window into the Christian tradition of remembering faithful endurance, suffering, and the hope of eternal life.

Although these papyri concern different individuals and were written centuries apart, together they illuminate two important aspects of early Christian history: the religious demands imposed by Roman authority and the enduring Christian hope in God's eternal promises.

Displayed side by side, they offer a unique opportunity to reflect on the cost of religious conviction and the faith that sustained generations of believers.

About Your Display:
Display size: 11"x14" shadow box (shadow box frame with glass front, designed to be hung on a wall or stand upright on a shelf or desk. The framing allows for clear viewing while protecting the papyrus surface)
Includes Two Replicas: Manuscripts: Replicas of Rylands Greek Papyri 10 & 12. Printed on genuine Egyptian papyrus and individually hand-cut.
Accompanied by information cards identifying the manuscripts and historical importance.

Customers have used these replicas for:
Sermon props
Bible studies
Classroom lessons
Seminary education
Personal collections
Church displays
Museum exhibits
Office or bookshelf displays

Modern Replica Only: This item is a modern replica, created for artistic and educational purposes. It is not an ancient artifact. 

Image Source: A. S. Hunt, Catalogue of the Greek Papyri in the John Rylands Library, Manchester, Vol. I (1911).