FIRST CHRISTIANS. IV.

An engraving depicting a group of early Christians gathered for religious worship within a grand classical hall featuring massive columns and arched entryways. In the center, a man stands with arms outstretched, leading the assembly. Others are seated on the floor or kneeling in prayer; some appear to be reading or listening intently. The setting is identified by the caption as the quarters of Castulo in the Emperor's Palace.

Religious worship in the chambers of Castulus in the Emperor's Palace.

The pious Castulus original: "Caſtulo"; a Roman military officer and chamberlain to Emperor Diocletian who secretly converted to Christianity fears no danger to his life
From the Emperor's hatred, now that he has given his home
For religious worship original: "Godsdienſtoeff'ning" to the Christian flock, original: "Chriſtelyke ſchaar'"
Who are innocently driven away by tyranny. original: "tiranny"
Here one sees the devotion and the faith in every face.
The soul illuminated by God never recoils from pain or scorn.

Castulus (a high-ranking Roman officer who utilized his position in the palace of Diocletian to hide Christians and hold services; he was eventually discovered and martyred), Emperor (refers to Diocletian, whose reign was marked by the "Great Persecution" of Christians), Religious worship (refers to the clandestine liturgical gatherings held in private homes or cellars to avoid arrest).