Rome Folder, Central Italy, its Roman Roads and Tiber rivers.kmz

Rome Folder, Central Italy, its Roman Roads and Tiber rivers

Rome (Aniene River, Tiber River 5)
Rome; BENEDICT, FOUNDER OF WESTERN MONASTICISM (11 JULY 540); Myrrhbearer and Equal of the Apostles Mary Magdalene, Commemorated on July 22; Martyr Parasceva of Rome, Commemorated on July 26; Virginmartyr Seraphima (Serapia) of Antioch, Commemorated on July 29; St Germanus the Bishop of Auxerre, Commemorated on July 31; Hieromartyr Stephen the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on August 2 ; Hieromartyr Antherus (Antheros) Pope of Rome, Commemorated on August 5; Martyr Pontius, Commemorated on August 5 ; LAURENCE, DEACON AND MARTYR (10 AUGUST 258); Martyr and Archdeacon Laurence of Rome, Commemorated on August 10; Martyr Concordia of Rome, Commemorated on August 13; Translation of the relics of St Maximus the Confessor, Commemorated on August 13; Martyr Hippolytus of Rome, Commemorated on August 13; St Macarius the Roman, Commemorated on August 15; Martyr Hermes of Rome, Commemorated on August 18; Hieromartyr Irenaeus the Bishop of Lyons, Commemorated on August 23; St Liberius the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on August 27 ; Apostle Onesiphorus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 7 ; Hieromartyr Autonomus the Bishop in Italy, Commemorated September 12 ; NINIAN OF GALLOWAY, BISHOP, MISSIONARY TO SCOTLAND (16 SEP 430); CYPRIAN OF CARTHAGE, BISHOP AND MARTYR (15 SEP 258) ; Martyr Sophia and her three daughters at Rome, Commemorated on September 17; JEROME, SCHOLAR, TRANSLATOR, AND THEOLOGIAN (30 SEP 420); Martyr Nazarius of Milan, Commemorated on October 14; St Abercius the Bishop and Wonderworker of Hieropolis, Equal of the Apostles, Commemorated on October 22; Martyr Anastasia the Roman, Commemorated on October 29 ; Martyr Anastasia of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 30 ; St Eustolia of Constantinople, Commemorated on November 9 ; Apostle Erastus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10 ; Apostle Rodion of the Seventy, Commemorated November 10 ; Martyr Elpidius who suffered under Julian the Apostate, Commemorated on November 15 ; CECILIA OF ROME, MARTYR AT ROME, c. 280, Commemorated November 22; Martyr Cecilia at Rome, Commemorated on November 22 ; CLEMENT OF ROME, BISHOP (23 NOV 100) ; St Gregory the Bishop of Agrigentum, Commemorated November 23 ; Commemoration of the Weeping Icon of the Mother of God "œof the Sign"Â at Novgorod, Commemorated on November 27 ; St Ambrose the Bishop of Milan, Commemorated on December 7 ; Apostle Onesiphorus of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8 ; Martyr Anthusa at Rome, Commemorated on December 8 ; Martyr Justus at Rome ; Martyr Diomedes who suffered with Hyacinthus ; LUCY, VIRGIN AND MARTYR, abt. 304, Commemorated December 13 ; Martyr Marinus and his wife and children and those with them at Rome ; Martyr Lucy at Rome, Commemorated December 13 ; Martyr Parasceva of Rome ; Blessed Yaropolk the Prince of Vladimir-Volhynia, in Holy Baptism Peter; Virginmartyr Seraphima (Serapia) of Antioch; Hieromartyr Stephen the Pope of Rome; Hieromartyr Antherus (Antheros) Pope of Rome; Martyr Pontius; LAURENCE; Martyr and Archdeacon Laurence of Rome; Martyr Hippolytus of Rome; Martyr Concordia of Rome; St Macarius the Roman; Martyr Hermes of Rome; St Liberius the Pope of Rome; Hieromartyr Cyril the Bishop of Gortyna; Apostle Onesiphorus of the Seventy; Martyr Sophia and her three daughters at Rome, Commemorated on September 17 ; Greatmartyr Eustathius (Eustace) Placidas with his wife and children of Rome, Commemorated September 20 ; Repose of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian, Commemorated on September 26 ; Martyr Epicharis of Rome, Commemorated September 27 ; Martyr Nazarius of Milan; Martyr Anastasia the Roman; Apostle Linus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5 ; Apostle Erastus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; LEO THE GREAT BISHOP OF ROME, DOCTOR (10 NOV 461) ; Martyr Elpidius who suffered under Julian the Apostate; CECILIA OF ROME, MARTYR AT ROME, c. 280, Commemorated November 22; Martyr Cecilia at Rome, Commemorated on November 22; CLEMENT OF ROME, BISHOP (23 NOV 100); Hieromartyr Clement the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on November 25; St Ambrose the Bishop of Milan; Martyr Anthusa at Rome, Commemorated December 8 ; St Spyridon the Wonderworker and Bishop of Tremithus, Commemorated December 12 ; Martyr Synetus of Rome, Commemorated December 12 ; LUCY, VIRGIN AND MARTYR, abt. 304, Commemorated December 13 ; Hieromartyr Eleutherius the Bishop of Illyria, and His Mother, Commemorated December 15; Martyr Marinus of Rome, Commemorated December 16 ; Venerable Daniel the Confessor (in Schema Stephen) of Spain, and Egypt, Commemorated on December 17 ; Martyr Sebastian at Rome, and his companions, Commemorated on December 18 ; Martyr Boniface at Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on December 19; Righteous Aglaida (Aglae) of Rome, Commemorated on December 19; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch; Greatmartyr Anastasia the "œDeliverer from Potions", Commemorated on December 22; Martyr Chrysogonus the Teacher of the Greatmartyr Anastasia; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24 ; Martyr Evanthia of Illyria, Commemorated on December 15; Martyr Boniface at Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on December 19 ; Righteous Aglaida (Aglae) of Rome, Commemorated on December 19 ; St Gregory the Archbishop of Omirits, Commemorated December 19 ; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated December 20 ; Greatmartyr Anastasia the "œDeliverer from Potions"Â, Commemorated on December 22 ; Martyr Chrysogonus the Teacher of the Greatmartyr Anastasia, Commemorated December 22 ; St Nahum of Ochrid, the Disciple of St Cyril and Methodius, Equal of the Apostles, Commemorated December 23 ; Martyr Zoticus the Keeper of Orphans, Commemorated December 30 ; Venerable Melania the Younger of Rome, Commemorated on December 31 ; St Sylvester the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on January 2 ; Apostle Mark the Evangelist of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Titus of the Seventy and Bishop of Crete, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Linus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; St Marcian the Presbyter in Constantinople, Commemorated January 10 ; Martyr Tatiana of Rome, and those who suffered with Her, Commemorated January 12 ; St Nino (Nina), Equal of the Apostles and Enlightener of Georgia, Commemorated January 14; Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated January 15; Veneration of the Precious Chains of the Holy and All-Glorious Apostle Peter, Commemorated on January 16 ; St Mark the Archbishop of Ephesus, Commemorated on January 19 ; Venerable Macarius the Roman of Novgorod, Commemorated on January 19 ; FABIAN, BISHOP AND MARTYR (20 JANUARY 250) ; St Maximus the Confessor, Commemorated January 21 ; LYDIA, DORCAS AND PHOEBE, CO-WORKERS WITH THE APOSTLES, 27 JAN. NT ; Virginmartyr Agnes of Rome, Commemorated January 21 ; Hieromartyr Clement the Bishop of Ancyra, Commemorated on January 23 ; Martyr Xenia of Rome, and her two female slaves, Commemorated January 24 ; AGNES OF ROME, MARTYR (21 JAN 304) ; Martyr Felicitas of Rome, and Seven Sons, Commemorated January 25 ; St Isaac the Syrian the Bishop of Nineveh, Commemorated on January 28 ; Translation of the relics of the Hieromartyr Ignatius, the Godbearer and Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated January 29 ; Hieromartyr Hippolytus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated January 30 ; Martyr Tryphon of Campsada Near Apamea in Syria, Commemorated on February 1 ; Virginmartyr Dorothy at Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated Febuary 6 ; CORNELIUS THE CENTURION, Commemorated February 7; Hieromartyr Marcellus the Bishop of Sicily, Commemorated on February 9; CYRIL AND METHODIUS, MISSIONARIES TO THE SLAVS (14 FEB 869) ; Repose of St Cyril, Equal of the Apostles and Teacher of the Slavs, Commemorated on February 14; Virginmartyr Dorothy at Caesarea, in Cappadocia; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on February 15; Greatmartyr Theodore the Tyro ("œthe Recruit"Â), Commemorated on February 17; St Auxibius Bishop of Soli, Cyprus, Commemorated on February 17 ; St Leo the Great the Pope of Rome, Commemorated February 18; Martyr Maximus of Adrianopolis, Commemorated February 19; St Agathon the Pope of Rome, Commemorated February 20 ; JOHN HENRY NEWMAN, PRIEST AND THEOLOGIAN, 1890, Commemorated February 21 ; EMILY MALBONE MORGAN, PROPHETIC WITNESS, 1937, Comemorated February 26 ; Venerable John Cassian the Roman, Commemorated on February 28; Hieromartyr Nestor the Bishop of Magydos in Pamphylia, Commemorated on February 28 ; Martyr Eudokia of Heliopolis, Commemorated on March 1; Martyr Nestor, Commemorated on March 1 ; Martyr Troadius of Neocaesarea, Commemorated on March 2 ; Monkmartyr Conon and his son of Iconium, Commemorated on March 6; Uncovering of the Precious Cross and the Precious Nails by the Empress St Helen in Jerusalem, Commemorated on March 6; Venerable Arcadius of Cyprus, Commemorated on March 6; St Emilian of Rome, Commemorated on March 7; St Caesarius, brother of St Gregory the Theologian, Commemorated on March 9; Martyr Quadratus and the rest of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 10; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12; GREGORY THE GREAT, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (12 MAR 604); Icon "œNot Made by Hands"Â from Lydda, Commemorated on March 12; Martyr Alexander of Macedonia, Commemorated on March 13 ; Venerable Benedict of Nursia, Commemorated on March 14 ; Hieromartyr Alexander of Side, in Pamphylia, Commemorated on March 15; Martyr Nicander of Egypt, Commemorated on March 15 ; Hieromartyr Alexander the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 16; PATRICK OF IRELAND, (17 MAR c461); St Patrick the Bishop of Armagh and Enlightener of Ireland, Commemorated on March 17 ; Venerable Alexis the Man of God, Commemorated on March 17; Venerable Aninas of the Euphrates, Commemorated on March 18; Martyr Chrysanthus and those with him at Rome, Commemorated on March 19; Martyr Pancharius at Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 19; Martyr Kyriake of Rome, Commemorated on March 20; Martyr Photina (Svetlana), the Samaritan Woman, and Her Sons, Commemorated on March 20; Martyr Drosis the Daughter of the Emperor Trajan, Commemorated on March 22; Martyr Philetus the Senator, his wife and sons in Illyria, Commemorated on March 23; The Annunciation of our Most Holy Lady, the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary, Commemorated on March 25; Martyr Bathusius in the Crimea, Commemorated on March 26; Hieromartyr Mark the Bishop of Arethusa, who suffered under Julian the Apostate, Commemorated on March 29; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 30; St Zosimus the Bishop of Syracuse, Commemorated on March 30; Martyr Amphianus (Apphianus) of Lycia, Commemorated on April 2 ; Venerable Joseph the Hymnographer, Commemorated on April 4; St Methodius, Equal of the Apostles and Archbishop of Moravia, Enlightener of the Slavs, Commemorated on April 6; Hieromartyr Zeno the Bishop of Verona, Commemorated on April 12 ; Equal of the Apostles and Teacher of the Slavs, Methodius, Commemorated on May 11; Venerable Serapion of Egypt, Commemorated on April 7; Martyr Calliopius at Pompeiopolis in Cilicia, Commemorated on April 7; St Celestine the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on April 8; Martyr Pausilippus of Heraclea in Thrace, Commemorated on April 8; Martyr Processus of Rome, Commemorated on April 11; St Martin the Confessor the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on April 14; Apostle Pudens of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15 ; Martyr Basilissa of Rome the Disciple of Apostles Peter and Paul, Commemorated on April 15 ; St Agapitus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on April 17; Martyr Anthony at Rome, Commemorated on April 19; Hieromartyr Januarius the Bishop of Benevento, and his companions, at Pozzuoli, Commemorated on April 21; St Maximian the Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on April 21; Martyr Sava Stratelates "œthe General"Â of Rome, Commemorated on April 24; MARK THE EVANGELIST, (25 APR NT); Apostle and Evangelist Mark, Commemorated on April 25; CATHERINE OF SIENA, REFORMER AND SPIRITUAL TEACHER (29 APR 1380); St Monica, Commemorated on May 4 ; Venerable Arsenius the Great, Commemorated on May 8; GREGORY OF NAZIANZUS, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (9 MAY 389); Martyr Pancratius, Commemorated on May 12; Martyr Alexander of Rome, Commemorated on May 13 ; Venerable Macarius the Archimandrite of Obruch (Kanev), Commemorated on May 13; Venerable Serapion of Egypt, Commemorated on May 14 ; Blessed Child Musa of Rome, Commemorated on May 16 ; Glorification of the Venerable Zebulon, the father of St Nino Enlightener of Georgia, Commemorated on May 20 ; Martyr Justin the Philosopher and those with him at Rome, Commemorated on June 1; JUSTIN MARTYR, PHILOSOPHER, APOLOGIST, AND MARTYR (1 JUNE 167); Martyr Chariton with his wife and those with him at Rome, Commemorated on June 1; St Metrophanes the first Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on June 4; JOHN XXIII (Angelo Guiseppe Roncalli), BISHOP OF ROME, 1963; Martyr Concordius of Spoleto, Commemorated on June 4; Hieromartyr Marcellinus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; Hieromartyr Sisinius the Deacon of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; Martyr Priscilla of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; St Bassian the Bishop of Lodi in Lombardy, Commemorated on June 10; Apostle Bartholomew of the Twelve, Commemorated on June 11; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated on June 11 ; Venerable Peter of Mt. Athos, Commemorated on June 12 ; St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15; PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES AND MARTYRS (29 JUN 64); Martyr Agrippina of Rome, Commemorated on June 23; Icon of the Mother of God of Lydda or "œthe Roman"Â, Commemorated on June 26; St Sampson the Hospitable of Constantinople, Commemorated on June 27; The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leader of the Apostles, Peter, Commemorated on June 29; The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leader of the Apostles, Paul, Commemorated on June 29; PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES AND MARTYRS (29 JUN 64); Holy Wonderworking Unmercenary Physicians Cosmas and Damian at Rome, Commemorated on July 1; Martyr Hyacinthus of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on July 3; Martyr Marinus and his wife and children and those with them at Rome, Commemorated on July 6 ;

Italy
Italy; Myrrhbearer and Equal of the Apostles Mary Magdalene, Commemorated on July 22; Hieromartyr Autonomus the Bishop in Italy, Commemorated September 12 ; Martyr Sophia and her three daughters at Rome, Commemorated on September 17; ROBERT GROSSETESTE, BISHOP OF LINCOLN (9 OCT 1253) ; Hieromartyr Gregory (Peradze) of Georgia; Venerable Melania the Younger of Rome, Commemorated on December 31 ; ELIZABETH SETON, FOUNDER OF THE AMERICAN SISTERS OF CHARITY, 1821, Commemorated January 4 ; Venerable Timothy of Symbola in Bithynia, Commemorated February 21 ; EMILY MALBONE MORGAN, PROPHETIC WITNESS, 1937, Comemorated February 26 ; Hieromartyr Erasmus the Bishop of Formia in Campania, Commemorated on May 4; St Emilian of Rome, Commemorated on March 7; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 30; Martyr Philadelphus and 18 others in Sicily, Commemorated on May 10; Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Rome, 509 BC - 27 BC, Roman Republic
Rome, 509 BC - 27 BC, Roman Republic ;

Rome, 27 BC - 476 AD, Roman Empire (BC 27 - 476AD)
Roman Empire; MATTHEW; LUKE THE EVANGELIST, (18 OCTOBER) ; Greatmartyr Mercurius of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated November 24 ; Venerable Pansophius of Alexandria, the Martyr, Commemorated on January 15; FABIAN, BISHOP AND MARTYR (20 JANUARY 250) ; Holy, Righteous Simeon the God-Receiver, Commemorated on February 3; Translation of the relics of the Martyr Epimachus of Pelusium, Commemorated on March 11; ATHANASIUS, BISHOP OF ALEXANDRIA, THEOLOGIAN, DOCTOR (2 MAY 373); Equal of the Apostles and Emperor Constantine with his Mother Helen, Commemorated on May 21; St Julius the Presbyter of Novara, Commemorated on June 21

Rome, 285-476, Western Roman Empire
Rome, 285-476, Western Roman Empire;

Rome, 291-568, Goths, Ostrogoths in Italy (absorbed by Lombards)
Ostrogoths; BENEDICT, FOUNDER OF WESTERN MONASTICISM (11 JULY 540); Totila the Goth; Battle of Taginae; Greatmartyr Nicetas the Goth, Commemorated on September 15 ;

Rome, 410, Sack of Rome by Alric the Visgoth
Rome, 410, Sack of Rome by Alric the Visgoth; AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (28 AUGUST 430);

Rome, 452, Meeting with Atilla The Hun and Pope Leo the Great (Po River 3.5)
Mincio, 452, Meeting with Atilla The Hun and Pope Leo the Great; LEO THE GREAT, BISHOP OF ROME, DOCTOR (10 NOV 461);

Rome, 455, Vandal Sack of Rome
North Africa, 455, Vandal Sack of Rome; St. Paulinus the Merciful the Bishop of Nola, Commemorated on January 23;

Rome, 476, Fall of the Western Roman Empire
Fall of the Western Roman Empire, 476; Rome, Gothic king, 475-526, Theodoric the Great ; St Eutychius of Nursia, Commemorated on August 23;

Rome, 476-800, Dark Ages, Fall of Western Empire to Holy Roman Empire
Rome, 476-800, Dark Ages, Fall of Western Empire to Holy Roman Empire; COLUMBA, ABBOT OF IONA AND MISSIONARY (9 JUNE 597);

Rome, 493-553, Ostrogothic Kingdom
Rome, 493-553, Ostrogothic Kingdom; Rome, Gothic king, 475-526, Theodoric the Great ;

Rome, 568-774, Lombard Kingdom, 571 in Rome to Frankish Invasion 774
Rome, Lombard Kingdom, 568-774, 571 in Rome to Frankish Invasion 774 ;

Rome, 800-1806, Holy Roman Empire, Revived in 2009, Centered in Belgium
Rome, 800-1806, Holy Roman Empire, Revived in 2009, Centered in Belgium; Charlemagne, a Frank, first Holy Roman Emperor (800-814); Charlemagne Building; European Union Constitution, Nov 3, 2009;

Rome, 1303, Philip the Fair, King of France, captured Rome and the Pope
Rome, 1303, Philip the Fair, King of France, captured Rome and the Pope France, 1285-1314, King, Philip the Fair; CATHERINE OF SIENA, REFORMER AND SPIRITUAL TEACHER (29 APR 1380);

Rome, 1804-1815, Napolionic Era, Italy a Client State of First French Empire
France, 1804-1815, Napolionic Era, First French Empire; Translation of a Particle of the Life Giving Cross from Malta to Gatchina, Commemorated on October 12; Translation of the relic of the Right Hand of John the Baptist, Commemorated on October 12; St Peter of Cetinje, Commemorated on October 18;

Rome, 1815-1861, Kingdom of Sardinia (Savoy and Nice)
Rome, 1815-1861, Kingdom of Sardinia (Savoy and Nice); Rome, 1815-1861, Kingdom of Sardinia (Savoy and Nice); Rome, 1815-1861, Kingdom of Sardinia (Savoy and Nice); GREGORIO AGLIPAY, PRIEST AND FOUNDER OF THE PHILIPINE INDEPENDENT CHURCH, 5 Sept. 1940;

Rome, 1861-1946, Kingdom of Italy
Rome, 1861-1946, Kingdom of Italy; GREGORIO AGLIPAY, PRIEST AND FOUNDER OF THE PHILIPINE INDEPENDENT CHURCH, 5 Sept. 1940;

Rome, Land of the Latins (Central Italy)
the original latin tribe of central Italy; The meaning of the term latins was later expanded to include all the Roman Catholics like Spain, Portugal, France, Poland, Lithuania, and South America. Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Latium (Latin) Region (Rome, Italy)
Latium Region; St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15;

Rome, Central Italy, Roman History Folder

Rome, 509-27BC, Folder, Roman Republic and Roman Empire

Rome, 509 BC - 27 BC, Roman Republic
Roman Republic, BC 509- BC 27;

Rome, 166 BC, 7 Holy Maccabee Martyrs, Antiocus IV at Antioch, Eleazar, the 7 & their mother s faithful, inspired Judas M
Jerusalem, 166 BC, 7 Holy Maccabee Martyrs, at Antioch, Antiocus IV Epiphanes desecrated Temple, Eleazar, the 7 & their mother stayed faithful, tongue cut out, hands feet off, caldron, frying pan, these inspired Judas Maccabeus lead revolt and purify temple; Temple in Jerusalem; ,, Commemorated on August 1; seven holy Maccabee martyrs Abim, Antonius, Gurias, Eleazar, Eusebonus, Alimus and Marcellus, their mother Solomonia and their teacher Eleazar in the year 166 before Christ under the impious Syrian king Antiochus IV Epiphanes. foolish ruler loved pagan and Hellenistic customs, and held Jewish customs in contempt. He did everything possible to turn people from the Law of Moses and from their covenant with God. desecrated the Temple of the Lord, placed a statue of the pagan god Zeus there, and forced the Jews to worship it. people abandoned the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, but there were also those who continued to believe that the Savior would come. ninety-year-old elder, the scribe and teacher Eleazar, was brought to trial for his faithfulness to the Mosaic Law. He suffered tortures and died at Jerusalem. disciples of Saint Eleazar, the seven Maccabee brothers and their mother Solomonia, also displayed great courage. were brought to trial in Antioch by King Antiochus Epiphanes. They fearlessly acknowledged themselves as followers of the True God, and refused to eat pig’s flesh, which was forbidden by the Law. eldest brother acted as spokesmen for the rest, saying that they preferred to die rather than break the Law. He was subjected to fierce tortures in sight of his brothers and their mother. tongue was cut out, he was scalped, and his hands and feet were cut off. a cauldron and a large frying pan were heated, and the first brother was thrown into the frying pan, and he died. next five brothers were tortured one after the other. seventh and youngest brother was the last one left alive. Antiochus suggested to Saint Solomonia to persuade the boy to obey him, so that her last son at least would be spared. the brave mother told him to imitate the courage of his brothers. child upbraided the king and was tortured even more cruelly than his brothers had been. all her seven children had died, Saint Solomonia, stood over their bodies, raised up her hands in prayer to God and died. martyric death of the Maccabee brothers inspired Judas Maccabeus, and he led a revolt against Antiochus Epiphanes. God’s help, he gained the victory, and then purified the Temple at Jerusalem. He also threw down the altars which the pagans had set up in the streets. All these events are related in the Second Book of Maccabees (Ch. 8-10). Fathers of the Church preached sermons on the seven Maccabees, including Saint Cyprian of Carthage, Saint Ambrose of Milan, Saint Gregory Nazianzus and Saint John Chrysostom.

Rome, 106 BC - 43 BC, Cicero, famous retorecian and politician, latin writer, championed return to republican govt
Rome, 106 BC - 43 BC, Cicero, famous retorecian and politician; Tullius Cicero[a] (3 January 106 - 7 December 43 BC) was a Roman statesman, lawyer, scholar, philosopher and Academic Skeptic,[3] who tried to uphold optimate principles during the political crises that led to the establishment of the Roman Empire.[4] His extensive writings include treatises on rhetoric, philosophy and politics, and he is considered one of Rome's greatest orators and prose stylists.[5][6] He came from a wealthy municipal family of the Roman equestrian order, and served as consul in 63 BC. influence on the Latin language was immense. He wrote more than three-quarters of surviving Latin literature from the period of his adult life, and it has been said that subsequent prose was either a reaction against or a return to his style, not only in Latin but in European languages up to the 19th century.[7][8][9] Cicero introduced into Latin the arguments of the chief schools of Hellenistic philosophy and created a Latin philosophical vocabulary with neologisms such as evidentia,[10] humanitas, qualitas, quantitas, and essentia,[11] distinguishing himself as a translator and philosopher. he was an accomplished orator and successful lawyer, Cicero believed his political career was his most important achievement. It was during his consulship that the second Catilinarian conspiracy attempted to overthrow the government through an attack on the city by outside forces, and Cicero suppressed the revolt by summarily and controversially executing five conspirators. During the chaotic middle period of the 1st century BC, marked by civil wars and the dictatorship of Julius Caesar, Cicero championed a return to the traditional republican government. Following Caesar's death, Cicero became an enemy of Mark Antony in the ensuing power struggle, attacking him in a series of speeches. He was proscribed as an enemy of the state by the Second Triumvirate and consequently executed by soldiers operating on their behalf in 43 BC after having been intercepted during an attempted flight from the Italian peninsula. His severed hands and head were then, as a final revenge of Mark Antony, displayed on the Rostra. rediscovery of Cicero's letters is often credited for initiating the 14th-century Renaissance in public affairs, humanism, and classical Roman culture.[12] According to Polish historian Tadeusz Zieliński, "the Renaissance was above all things a revival of Cicero, and only after him and through him of the rest of Classical antiquity."[13] The peak of Cicero's authority and prestige came during the 18th-century Enlightenment,[14] and his impact on leading Enlightenment thinkers and political theorists such as John Locke, David Hume, Montesquieu and Edmund Burke was substantial.[15] His works rank among the most influential in European culture, and today still constitute one of the most important bodies of primary material for the writing and revision of Roman history, especially the last days of the Roman Republic.[16]

Rome, 83 BC - 1 BC, Joachin and Anna, Grandparents of God, Galilee
Jerusalem, 60 BC - 12 BC, Joachin and Anna, Grandparents of God; Holy and Righteous Ancestors of God, Joachim and Anna, Commemorated on September 9; Joachim, the son of Barpathir, was of the tribe of Judah, and was a descendant of King David, to whom God had revealed that the Savior of the world would be born from his seed. Saint Anna was the daughter of Matthan the priest, who was of the tribe of Levi. Saint Anna’s family came from Bethlehem. couple lived at Nazareth in Galilee. They were childless into their old age and all their life they grieved over this. They had to endure derision and scorn, since at that time childlessness was considered a disgrace. They never grumbled, but fervently prayed to God, humbly trusting in Him. during a great feast, the gifts which Joachim took to Jerusalem as an offering to God were not accepted by the priest Reuben, who considered that a childless man was not worthy to offer sacrifice to God. This pained the old man very much, and he, regarding himself the most sinful of people, decided not to return home, but to settle in solitude in a desolate place. Saint Anna learned what humiliation her husband had endured, she sorrowfully entreated God with prayer and fasting to grant her a child. In his desolate solitude the righteous Joachim also asked God for this. The prayer of the saintly couple was heard. An angel told them that a daughter would be born to them, Who would be blessed above all other women. He also told them that She would remain a virgin, would be dedicated to the Lord and live in the Temple, and would give birth to the Savior. Obeying the instructions of the heavenly messenger, Saints Joachim and Anna met at the Golden Gate in Jerusalem. Then, as God promised, a daughter was born to them and they named her Mary. Joachim died a few years later at the age of 80, after his daughter went to live in the Temple. Saint Anna died at the age of 70, two years after her husband. Saints Joachim and Anna are often invoked by couples trying to have children. Jerusalem Saint, 18 BC-62AD, Mary, Mother of God; The Nativity of our Most Holy Lady the Mother of God and Ever-Virgin Mary, Commemorated on September 8; The Dormition of our Most Holy Lady the Mother of God and Ever-Virgin Mary, Commemorated on August 15;

Rome, 49 BC-44 BC, Julius Caesar, Roman Republic Dictator
Roman Republic Dictator, BC 49-44 BC, Julius Caesar; JOSEPH, GUARDIAN OF OUR LORD (19 MAR NT);

Rome, 44 BC-31 BC, Mark Anthony (triumvir), Roman Republic Dictator
Roman Republic Dictator, BC 44-31 BC, Mark Anthony; Second Triumvirate ; JOSEPH, GUARDIAN OF OUR LORD (19 MAR NT);

Rome, 44 BC-33 BC, Marcus Aemilius Lepidus (triumvir), Roman Republic Dictator
Roman Republic Dictator, BC 44-33 BC, Marcus Aemilius Lepidus (triumvir); Second Triumvirate ; JOSEPH, GUARDIAN OF OUR LORD (19 MAR NT);

Rome, 44 BC-27 BC, Gaius Octavius (Augustus) (triumvirate), Roman Republic Dictator
Roman Republic Dictator, BC 44-27 BC, Gaius Octavius (Augustus) (triumvirate); Second Triumvirate ; JOSEPH, GUARDIAN OF OUR LORD (19 MAR NT);

Rome, 37 BC - 4 BCE, King, Herod the Great, Galilee
Galilee, 37 BCE - 4 BCE, King, Herod the Great;

Rome, 27 BC-476AD, Italy, Roman Empire
Italy, 27BC-476AD, Roman Empire; Hieromartyr Autonomus the Bishop in Italy, Commemorated September 12 ; Hieromartyr Erasmus the Bishop of Formia in Campania, Commemorated on May 4;

Rome, 27 BC - 476AD, Great Rome, Imperial Rome, Lands of the Roman Empire
Great Rome, 27BC - 476AD, Imperial Rome, Lands of the Roman Empire; Repose of St Alexander Nevsky;

Rome, 27 BC-14 AD, Agustus (Octavian), first Roman Emperor, effective leader, began relative peace, Pax Romana for 2 centuries, Julius Caesar's adopted son
Rome, 27 BC-14 AD, Agustus (Octavian), first Roman Emperor, effective leader, began relative peace, Pax Romana for 2 centuries, Julius Caesar's adopted son; Augustus[1][2] (23 September 63 BC – 19 August AD 14), also known as Octavian, was the first Roman emperor, reigning from 27 BC until his death in AD 14.[a] status as the founder of the Roman Principate (the first phase of the Roman Empire) has consolidated a legacy as one of the most effective leaders in human The reign of Augustus initiated an era of relative peace known as the Pax Romana. The Roman world was largely free from large-scale conflict for more than two centuries, despite continuous wars of imperial expansion on the Empire's frontiers and the year-long civil war known as the "Year of the Four Emperors" over the imperial succession. named Gaius Octavius, he was born into an old and wealthy equestrian branch of the plebeian gens Octavia. His maternal great-uncle Julius Caesar was assassinated in 44 BC and Octavius was named in Caesar's will as his adopted son and heir; as a result, he inherited Caesar's name, estate, and the loyalty of his legions. He, Mark Antony and Marcus Lepidus formed the Second Triumvirate to defeat the assassins of Caesar. Following their victory at the Battle of Philippi (42 BC), the Triumvirate divided the Roman Republic among themselves and ruled as de facto dictators. The Triumvirate was eventually torn apart by the competing ambitions of its members; Lepidus was exiled in 36 BC and Antony was defeated by Octavian at the Battle of Actium in 31 BC. the demise of the Second Triumvirate, Augustus restored the outward façade of the free Republic, with governmental power vested in the Roman Senate, the executive magistrates and the legislative assemblies, yet maintained autocratic authority by having the Senate grant him lifetime tenure as supreme military command, tribune and censor. A similar ambiguity is seen in his chosen names, the implied rejection of monarchical titles whereby he called himself Princeps Civitatis (First Citizen) juxtaposed with his adoption of the ancient title Augustus. dramatically enlarged the Empire, annexing Egypt, Dalmatia, Pannonia, Noricum and Raetia, expanding possessions in Africa, and completing the conquest of Hispania, but suffered a major setback in Germania. Beyond the frontiers, he secured the Empire with a buffer region of client states and made peace with the Parthian Empire through diplomacy. He reformed the Roman system of taxation, developed networks of roads with an official courier system, established a standing army, established the Praetorian Guard, official police and fire-fighting services for Rome, and rebuilt much of the city during his reign. Augustus died in AD 14 at the age of 75, probably from natural causes. Persistent rumors, substantiated somewhat by deaths in the imperial family, have claimed his wife Livia poisoned him. He was succeeded as emperor by his adopted son Tiberius, Livia's son and also former husband of Augustus' only biological daughter Julia. Forefeast of the Entry into the Temple of the Most Holy Theotokos, Commemorated on November 20; The Entry of the Most Holy Mother of God into the Temple, Commemorated on November 21; The Conception by Righteous Anna of the Most Holy Mother of God, Commemorated on December 9 ; Commemoration of the Shepherds in Bethlehem who were watching their flocks, and went to see the Lord, Commemorated on December 25; The Nativity of our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ, Commemorated on December 25; Icon of the Mother of God of œVilnaÂ, Commemorated on December 26; Joseph of Holy Righteous Joseph the Betrothed, along with David the King, and James the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on December 27; James of Holy Righteous Joseph the Betrothed, along with David the King, and James the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on December 27; THE HOLY INNOCENTS, (28 DEC NT) ; Forefeast of the Theophany of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Commemorated on January 2 ; THE FEAST OF THE HOLY EPIPHANY, (6 January); Forefeast of the Meeting of our Lord in the Temple, Commemorated on February 1; FEAST OF THE PRESENTATION OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, FEAST OF THE PURIFICATION OF THE VIRGIN, CANDLEMAS DAY (FEB 2); The Meeting of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the Temple, Commemorated on February 2 ; Holy, Righteous Anna the Prophetess, Commemorated on February 3; Holy, Righteous Simeon the God-Receiver, Commemorated on February 3; JOSEPH, GUARDIAN OF OUR LORD (19 MAR NT); The Annunciation of our Most Holy Lady, the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary, Commemorated on March 25; THE ANNUNCIATION, OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY (25 MAR NT); THE VISITATION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, (31 MAY);

Rome, 27 BC-34 AD, heir, Herod II, Galilee
Jerusalem heir, 27BC-34AD, Herod II ; The Dormition of our Most Holy Lady the Mother of God and Ever-Virgin Mary, Commemorated on August 15; Conception of the Honorable Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John, Commemorated on September 23 ;

Rome, 12 BC, Theotokos Temple entry, age 3, virgin excort, 15 Steps, ran up s, High Priest led into Holy of Holies
Jerusalem, 12 BC, Theotokos entry to the Temple - Jerusalem, dedicated, age 3, virgin excort, High Priest, 15 Steps, psalms of ascent, strengthened by power of God, ran up steps, High Priest then led her into Holy of Holies, astonishment, remained in virgin quarters; Temple in Jerusalem; Forefeast of the Entry into the Temple of the Most Holy Theotokos, Commemorated on November 20 ; The Entry of the Most Holy Mother of God into the Temple, Commemorated on November 21; to Holy Tradition, the Entry of the Most Holy Theotokos into the Temple took place in the following manner. The parents of the Virgin Mary, Saints Joachim and Anna, praying for an end to their childlessness, vowed that if a child were born to them, they would dedicate it to the service of God. the Most Holy Virgin reached the age of three, the holy parents decided to fulfill their vow. gathered together their relatives and acquaintances, and dressed the All-Pure Virgin in Her finest clothes. Singing sacred songs and with lighted candles in their hands, virgins escorted Her to the Temple (Ps. 44/45:14-15). the High Priest and several priests met the handmaiden of God. In the Temple, fifteen high steps led to the sanctuary, which only the priests and High Priest could enter. (Because they recited a Psalm on each step, Psalms 119/120-133/134 are called “Psalms of Ascent.”) child Mary, so it seemed, could not make it up this stairway. But just as they placed Her on the first step, strengthened by the power of God, She quickly went up the remaining steps and ascended to the highest one. the High Priest, through inspiration from above, led the Most Holy Virgin into the Holy of Holies, where only the High Priest entered once a year to offer a purifying sacrifice of blood. Therefore, all those present in the Temple were astonished at this most unusual occurrence. entrusting their child to the Heavenly Father, Joachim and Anna returned home. All-Holy Virgin remained in the quarters for virgins near the Temple. to the testimony of Holy Scripture (Exodus 38; 1 Kings 1: 28; Luke 2: 37), and also the historian Josephus Flavius, there were many living quarters around the Temple, in which those who were dedicated to the service of God dwelt. earthly life of the Most Holy Theotokos from Her infancy until She was taken up to Heaven is shrouded in deep mystery. life at the Jerusalem Temple was also a secret. “If anyone were to ask me,” said Saint Jerome, “how the Most Holy Virgin spent the time of Her youth, I would answer that that is known to God Himself and the Archangel Gabriel, Her constant guardian.” there are accounts in Church Tradition, that during the All-Pure Virgin’s stay at the Temple, She grew up in a community of pious virgins, diligently read the Holy Scripture, occupied Herself with handicrafts, prayed constantly, and grew in love for God. From ancient times, the Church has celebrated the Feast of the Entry of the Most Holy Theotokos into the Temple. Indications that the Feast was observed in the first centuries of Christianity are found in the traditions of Palestinian Christians, which say that the holy Empress Helen (May 21) built a church in honor of the Entry of the Most Holy Theotokos into the Temple. Gregory of Nyssa, in the fourth century, also mentions this Feast. In the eighth century Saints Germanus and Tarasius, Patriarchs of Constantinople, delivered sermons on the Feast of the Entry. Feast of the Entry of the Most Holy Theotokos into the Temple foretells God’s blessing for the human race, the preaching of salvation, the promise of the coming of Christ.

Rome, 4 BC -6 AD, Direct Roman Rule
Galilee, 37 BCE - 18 AD, King, Herod Archelas; 9 years of direct Roman Rule during Jesus' early years 4BC-6AD Archelaus (Ancient Greek: á¼©Ïá¿´Î´Î·Ï‚ á¼ˆÏÏ‡ÎÎ»Î±Î¿Ï‚, HÄ“rÅidÄ“s Archelaos; 23 BC – c. AD 18) was ethnarch[1][2] of Samaria, Judea, and Idumea, including the cities Caesarea and Jaffa, for a period of nine years[3] (c. 4 BC to AD 6). was removed by Roman Emperor Augustus when Judaea province was formed under direct Roman rule, at the time of the Census of Quirinius. He was the son of Herod the Great and Malthace the Samaritan, and was the brother of Herod Antipas, and the half-brother of Herod II. (a name meaning "leading the people") came to power after the death of his father Herod the Great in 4 BC, and ruled over one-half of the territorial dominion of his father.

Rome, 4 BC-6 AD, Ethnarch, Herod Archelaus, (Samaria, Judea, Edom) Killed the Innocents
Jerusalem Ethnarch, 4BC-6AD, Herod Archelaus, (Samaria, Judea, Edom); Archelaus (Ancient Greek: ; 23 BC -AD 18) was ethnarch[1][2] of Samaria, Judea, and Idumea (biblical Edom), including the cities Caesarea and Jaffa, for a period of nine years[3] (c. 4 BC to AD 6). Archelaus was removed by Roman Emperor Augustus when Judaea province was formed under direct Roman rule, at the time of the Census of Quirinius. He was the son of Herod the Great and Malthace the Samaritan, and was the brother of Herod Antipas, and the half-brother of Herod II. Archelaus (a name meaning "leading the people") came to power after the death of his father Herod the Great in 4 BC, and ruled over one-half of the territorial dominion of his father. A map depicting the domain of Herod Archelaus as was given to him by Augustus after the death of King Herod the Great. Josephus writes that Herod the Great (father of Archelaus) was in Jericho at the time of his death.[4] Just prior to his final trip to Jericho, he was deeply involved in a religious conflagration. Herod had placed a golden eagle over the Temple entrance which was perceived as blasphemous.[5] The eagle was chopped down with axes. Two teachers and approximately 40 other youths were arrested for this act and immolated. Herod defended his works and offered an attack on his predecessors, the dynastic Hasmoneans. Herod killed all male lineal successors of the Hasmoneans. The Pharisees had long attacked the Hasmoneans as well, as having parentage from Greeks while under bondage. This racial slur was repeated by the Pharisees through the rule of Alexander Jannaeus and Queen Salome.[6] With this explicit background given, Josephus began an exposition of the days of Archelaus' reign before Passover of 4 BC. Archelaus dressed in white and ascended a golden throne and appeared to be kind to the populace in Jerusalem in order to appease their desires for lower taxes and an end to the (political) imprisonment of Herod's enemies. The demeanor of the questioning appeared to turn at some point, and the crowd began to call for the punishment of those of Herod's people who ordered the death of the two teachers and the 40 youths. They also demanded the replacement of the High Priest, from the appointed High Priest of Herod's to a High Priest, "of greater piety and purity".[7] Josephus does not tell who would be "of greater piety and purity". To this request, however, Archelaus acceded, although he was becoming angry at the presumptions of the crowds. Archelaus asked for moderation and told the crowds that all would be well if they would put aside their animosities and wait until he was confirmed as King by Caesar Augustus. Archelaus then left to feast with his friends. It was evening and as the darkness settled, a mourning and wailing begin over the city. Archelaus began to worry as people begin streaming into the Temple area and those who wailed for loss of the teachers continued their very loud mourning. The people were escalating in their threatening behavior. Henry St. John Thackeray's translation of Josephus here states it thus: "The promoters of the mourning for the doctors stood in the body of the temple, procuring recruits for their faction".[8] Josephus does not tell us who these "promoters of the mourning", who recruit from within a body inside the Temple, could be. Archelaus then sent a general, some other people and finally a "tribune in Command of a Cohort" to reason with these "Seditionists", to stop their "innovations" and wait until Archelaus could return from Rome and Caesar. Those who came from Archelaus were stoned, with many killed. After the stoning, those who stoned the soldiers returned to their sacrifices, as if nothing had happened. Josephus does not tell who performed the sacrifices in the Temple. It was after midnight, and Archelaus suddenly ordered the entire army into the city to the Temple. Josephus records the death toll at 3000. Archelaus sent heralds around the city announcing the cancellation of Passover. Archelaus quickly sailed to Caesar and faced a group of enemies – his own family. Antipas, the younger brother of Archelaus who was deposed from Herod's will days earlier, argued that Archelaus merely feigned grief for his father, crying during the day and involved with great "merriment" during the nights. The threats carried out by Archelaus ending in the death of 3000 in the Temple were not just threats to the worshipers in Jerusalem at Passover, but also amounted to a threat to Caesar himself, since Archelaus acted in every manner a King, before such title had been given by Caesar. At this point, Nicolaus of Damascus argued to Caesar that Archelaus acted appropriately and that Herod's will, supposedly written a few weeks prior (yielding the kingship to Archelaus and against Antipater), should be seen as valid. The change of this will in favor of Archelaus is given as Herod's true choice and, it is argued, occurred with Herod being in his right mind since he left the final decision to Caesar. The change of the will appears as one of Herod's last acts and it is attested from Jericho by one "Ptolemy", keeper of Herod's Seal. Nicholaus of Damascus had been Herod's confidant for years. He was loyal to Rome. Ptolemy was Nicholaus of Damascus' brother. Archelaus, at the conclusion of the arguments, fell at Caesar's feet. Caesar raised him up and stated that Archelaus "was worthy to succeed his father".[9] Caesar gave Archelaus the title of Ethnarch and divided the kingdom. Rome would consolidate its power later. Thus, Archelaus received the Tetrarchy of Judea through the last will of his father, though a previous will had bequeathed it to his brother Antipas. He was proclaimed king by the army, but declined to assume the title until he had submitted his claims to Caesar Augustus in Rome. In Rome he was opposed by Antipas and by many of the Jews, who feared his cruelty, based on the murder of 3000; but in 4 BC Augustus allotted to him the greater part of the kingdom (Samaria, Judea, and Idumea) with the title of ethnarch (a ruler of an ethnic group).[10][11] The first wife of Archelaus is given by Josephus simply as Mariamne,[12] perhaps Mariamne III, daughter of Aristobulus IV, whom he divorced to marry Glaphyra. She was the widow of Archelaus' brother Alexander, though her second husband, Juba, king of Mauretania, was alive. This violation of the Mosaic law, along with Archelaus' continued cruelty, roused the ire of the Jews, who complained to Augustus. Archelaus fell into disrepute and was deposed in his 10th year of reign as ethnarch, being banished to Vienna (today Vienne) in Gaul.[13][10] Samaria, Judea proper, and Idumea became the Roman province of Iudaea.[14] Biblical references[edit] Herod Archelaus from Guillaume Rouillé's Promptuarii Iconum Insigniorum (16th century depiction) Archelaus is mentioned in the Gospel of Matthew (chapter 2 verse 13–23). An angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and told him to get up and take Mary and Jesus and flee to Egypt to avoid the Massacre of the Innocents. When Herod the Great died, Joseph was told by an angel in a dream to return to the land of Israel (presumably to Bethlehem). However, upon hearing that Archelaus had succeeded his father as ruler of Judaea he "was afraid to go there" (Matthew 2:22), and was again warned in a dream by God "and turned aside to the region of" Galilee. This is Matthew's explanation of why Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea but grew up in Nazareth. The beginning and conclusion of Jesus' parable of the minas in the Gospel of Luke, chapter 19, may refer to Archelaus' journey to Rome. Some interpreters conclude from this that Jesus' parables and preaching made use of events familiar to the people as examples for bringing his spiritual lessons to life. Others read the allusion as arising from later adaptations of Jesus' parables in the oral tradition, before the parables were recorded in the gospels. A nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and then return ... But his citizens hated him and sent a delegation after him, saying, "We do not want this man to reign over us." ... "But as for these enemies of mine," [said the nobleman,] "who did not want me to reign over them, bring them here and slaughter them before me." (Luke 19:12, 19:14, 19:27) Conception of the Honorable Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John, Commemorated on September 23 ;

Rome, 1 BC, Dormition of Anna, Her incorrupt relics in many places like Deutera, mother of MOG, Priest's d, d 79 before A
Jerusalem, 1 BC, Dormition of Anna, Deutera Rome (Second Rome, Constantinople) St Anne, mother of Theotokos, Priest's daughter, died at 79 before Annunciation, incorrupt r at Athos, Stavronikita, Anna's Skete, Koutloumousiou; Anna's monastery Lygaria, Lamia, Sourota, Crusaders saints relics, Church St Paul outside Rome; Deutera Rome (Second Rome, Constantinople); Dormition of the Righteous Anna, the Mother of the Most Holy Theotokos, Commemorated on July 25 ; Anna was the daughter of the priest Matthan and his wife Mary. She was of the tribe of Levi and the lineage of Aaron. According to Tradition, she died peacefully in Jerusalem at age 79, before the Annunciation to the Most Holy Theotokos. the reign of Saint Justinian the Emperor (527-565), a church was built in her honor at Deutera. Emperor Justinian II (685-695; 705-711) restored her church, since Saint Anna had appeared to his pregnant wife. It was at this time that her body and maphorion (veil) were transferred to Constantinople. of Saint Anna’s holy relics may be found on Mount Athos: Stavronikita Monastery (part of her left hand), Saint Anna’s Skete (part of her incorrupt left foot), Koutloumousiou Monastery (part of her incorrupt right foot). Fragments of her relics may also be found in her Monastery at Lygaria, Lamia, and in the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian at Sourota. Part of the saint’s incorrupt flesh is in the collection of Saints’ relics of the International Catholic Crusaders. The church of Saint Paul Outside the Walls in Rome has one of the saint’s wrists. Anna is also commemorated on September 9.

Rome, 1 BC, ANNUNCIATION, Nazareth, good tidings, salvation's beginning, mystery revealed, son of God became son of man, more
Galilee, 1 BC, ANNUNCIATION, Nazareth, Galilee, good tidings, salvation beginning, mystery revealed, son of God became son of man, the message & the response, Genesis promise, God sent back to earth, Angel Gabriel announcement, Holy Ghost upon thee, Son of God, Elizabeth old age 6mos pregnant, OK, our salvation of her free will and God's, A icons, Mar 25 9 mos b birth, beginning new year middle of month, selection by God not search for God, great things impossible to describe; Nazareth; The Annunciation of our Most Holy Lady, the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary, Commemorated on March 25; Feast of the Annunciation is one of the earliest Christian feasts, and was already being celebrated in the fourth century. There is a painting of the Annunciation in the catacomb of Priscilla in Rome dating from the second century. The Council of Toledo in 656 mentions the Feast, and the Council in Trullo in 692 says that the Annunciation was celebrated during Great Lent. Greek and Slavonic names for the Feast may be translated as “good tidings.” This, of course, refers to the Incarnation of the Son of God and the salvation He brings. background of the Annunciation is found in the Gospel of Saint Luke (1:26-38). The troparion describes this as the “beginning of our salvation, and the revelation of the eternal mystery,” for on this day the Son of God became the Son of Man. are two main components to the Annunciation: the message itself, and the response of the Virgin. The message fulfills God’s promise to send a Redeemer (Genesis 3:15): “I will put enmity between you and the woman, between your seed and her seed; he shall crush your head, and you shall lie in wait for his heel.” The Fathers of the Church understand “her seed” to refer to Christ. The prophets hinted at His coming, which they saw dimly, but the Archangel Gabriel now proclaims that the promise is about to be fulfilled. see this echoed in the Liturgy of Saint Basil, as well: “When man disobeyed Thee, the only true God who had created him, and was deceived by the guile of the serpent, becoming subject to death by his own transgressions, Thou, O God, in Thy righteous judgment, didst send him forth from Paradise into this world, returning him to the earth from which he was taken, yet providing for him the salvation of regeneration in Thy Christ Himself.” Archangel Gabriel was sent by God to Nazareth in Galilee. There he spoke to the undefiled Virgin who was betrothed to Saint Joseph: “Hail, thou who art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Most High: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.” contrast to Eve, who was readily deceived by the serpent, the Virgin did not immediately accept the Angel’s message. In her humility, she did not think she was deserving of such words, but was actually troubled by them. The fact that she asked for an explanation reveals her sobriety and prudence. She did not disbelieve the words of the angel, but could not understand how they would be fulfilled, for they spoke of something which was beyond nature. said Mary unto the angel, “How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?” (Luke 1:34). “And the angel answered and said unto her, ‘The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Most High shall overshadow thee: therefore also that which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. For with God nothing shall be impossible.’ And Mary said, ‘Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.’ And the angel departed from her.” (Luke 1: 35-38) his Sermon 23 on the day of the Annunciation, Saint Philaret of Moscow boldly stated that “the word of the creature brought the Creator down into the world.” He explains that salvation is not merely an act of God’s will, but also involves the Virgin’s free will. She could have refused, but she accepted God’s will and chose to cooperate without complaint or further questions. icon of the Feast shows the Archangel with a staff in his left hand, indicating his role as a messenger. Sometimes one wing is upraised, as if to show his swift descent from heaven. His right hand is stretched toward the holy Virgin as he delivers his message. Virgin is depicted either standing or sitting, usually holding yarn in her left hand. Sometimes she is shown holding a scroll. Her right hand may be raised to indicate her surprise at the message she is hearing. Her head is bowed, showing her consent and obedience. The descent of the Holy Spirit upon her is depicted by a ray of light issuing from a small sphere at the top of the icon, which symbolizes heaven. In a famous icon from Sinai, a white dove is shown in the ray of light. are several famous icons of the Annunciation. One is in the Moscow Kremlin in the church of the Annunciation. This icon appeared in connection with the rescue of a prisoner by the Mother of God during the reign of Ivan the Terrible. Another is to be found in the Dormition Cathedral in Moscow (July 8). It was originally located in Ustiug, and was the icon before which Saint Procopius the fool (July 8) prayed to save the city from destruction in 1290. One of the most highly revered icons in Greece is the Tinos icon of the Annunciation (January 30). Annunciation falls during Lent, but it is always celebrated with great joy. The Liturgy of Saint Basil or Saint John Chrysostom is served, even on the weekdays of Lent. It is one of the two days of Great Lent on which the fast is relaxed and fish is permitted (Palm Sunday is the other). THE ANNUNCIATION, OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY (25 MAR NT) ; the first chapter of Luke we read how the angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she had been chosen to be the mother of the Christ, and how Mary answered, "Here I am, the handmaid of the Lord. Let it be to me as you have said." is reasonable to suppose that Our Lord was conceived immediately after this. Accordingly, since we celebrate His birth on 25 December, we celebrate the Annunciation nine months earlier, on 25 March. The Annunciation, by Fra Angelico The Annunciation, by Fra Angelico many centuries most European countries took 25 March, not 1 January, as the day when the number of the year changed, so that 24 March 1201 was followed by 25 March 1202. If you had asked a Christian of that time why the calendar year changed so awkwardly partway through a month, he would have answered: "Today we begin a new year of the Christian era, the era which began X years ago today when God was made man, when He took upon Himself a fleshly body and human nature in the womb of the Virgin." following paragraph is from Chapter 14 of the book MIRACLES, by C S Lewis. of those features of the Christian story which is repulsive to the modern mind. To be quite frank, we do not at all like the idea of a "chosen people". Democrats by birth and education, we should prefer to think that all nations and individuals start level in the search for God, or even that all religions are equally true. It must be admitted at once that Christianity makes no concessions to this point of view. It does not tell of a human search for God at all, but of something done by God for, to, and about Man. And the way in which it is done is selective, undemocratic, to the highest degree. After the knowledge of God had been universally lost or obscured, one man from the whole earth (Abraham) is picked out. He is separated (miserably enough, we may suppose) from his natural surroundings, sent into a strange country, and made the ancestor of a nation who are to carry the knowledge of the true God. Within this nation there is further selection: some die in the desert, some remain behind in Babylon. There is further selection still. The process grows narrower and narrower, sharpens at last into one small bright point like the head of a spear. It is a Jewish girl at her prayers. All humanity (so far as concerns its redemption) has narrowed to that. following quotation is from Martin Luther's sermon "On the MAGNIFICAT" (the Song of Mary, Luke 1:46-55). He that is mighty hath done great things for me, and Holy is His Name." (Luke 1:49) "great things" are nothing less than that she became the Mother of God, in which work so many and such great good things are bestowed upon her as pass man's understanding. For on this there follows all honor, all blessedness, and her unique place in the whole of mankind, among whom she has no equal, namely, that she had a child by the Father in Heaven, and such a child. She herself is unable to find a name for this work, it is too exceedingly great; all she can do is break out in the fervent cry: "They are great things," impossible to describe or define. Hence men have crowded all her glory into a single word, calling her the Mother of God. No one can say anything greater of her or to her, though he had as many tongues as there are leaves on the trees, or grass in the fields, or stars in the sky, or sand by the sea. It needs to be pondered in the heart, what it means to be the Mother of God. Luther's Works, Vol. 21, p. 326, ed. Jaroslav Pelikan, Concordia Publishing House, 1956. by James Kiefer

Rome, 1 BC, Angel Gabriel, Annunciation, Jesus' birth
The Annunciation of our Most Holy Lady, the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary, Commemorated on March 25; Feast of the Annunciation is one of the earliest Christian feasts, and was already being celebrated in the fourth century. There is a painting of the Annunciation in the catacomb of Priscilla in Rome dating from the second century. The Council of Toledo in 656 mentions the Feast, and the Council in Trullo in 692 says that the Annunciation was celebrated during Great Lent. Greek and Slavonic names for the Feast may be translated as “good tidings.â€ This, of course, refers to the Incarnation of the Son of God and the salvation He brings. The background of the Annunciation is found in the Gospel of Saint Luke (1:26-38). The troparion describes this as the “beginning of our salvation, and the revelation of the eternal mystery,â€ for on this day the Son of God became the Son of Man. are two main components to the Annunciation: the message itself, and the response of the Virgin. The message fulfills God’s promise to send a Redeemer (Genesis 3:15): “I will put enmity between you and the woman, between your seed and her seed; he shall crush your head, and you shall lie in wait for his heel.â€ The Fathers of the Church understand “her seedâ€ to refer to Christ. The prophets hinted at His coming, which they saw dimly, but the Archangel Gabriel now proclaims that the promise is about to be fulfilled. see this echoed in the Liturgy of Saint Basil, as well: “When man disobeyed Thee, the only true God who had created him, and was deceived by the guile of the serpent, becoming subject to death by his own transgressions, Thou, O God, in Thy righteous judgment, didst send him forth from Paradise into this world, returning him to the earth from which he was taken, yet providing for him the salvation of regeneration in Thy Christ Himself.â€ Archangel Gabriel was sent by God to Nazareth in Galilee. There he spoke to the undefiled Virgin who was betrothed to Saint Joseph: “Hail, thou who art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Most High: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.â€ contrast to Eve, who was readily deceived by the serpent, the Virgin did not immediately accept the Angel’s message. In her humility, she did not think she was deserving of such words, but was actually troubled by them. The fact that she asked for an explanation reveals her sobriety and prudence. She did not disbelieve the words of the angel, but could not understand how they would be fulfilled, for they spoke of something which was beyond nature. said Mary unto the angel, “How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?â€ (Luke 1:34). “And the angel answered and said unto her, ‘The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Most High shall overshadow thee: therefore also that which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. For with God nothing shall be impossible.’ And Mary said, ‘Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.’ And the angel departed from her.â€ (Luke 1: 35-38) his Sermon 23 on the day of the Annunciation, Saint Philaret of Moscow boldly stated that “the word of the creature brought the Creator down into the world.â€ He explains that salvation is not merely an act of God’s will, but also involves the Virgin’s free will. She could have refused, but she accepted God’s will and chose to cooperate without complaint or further questions. icon of the Feast shows the Archangel with a staff in his left hand, indicating his role as a messenger. Sometimes one wing is upraised, as if to show his swift descent from heaven. His right hand is stretched toward the holy Virgin as he delivers his message. Virgin is depicted either standing or sitting, usually holding yarn in her left hand. Sometimes she is shown holding a scroll. Her right hand may be raised to indicate her surprise at the message she is hearing. Her head is bowed, showing her consent and obedience. The descent of the Holy Spirit upon her is depicted by a ray of light issuing from a small sphere at the top of the icon, which symbolizes heaven. In a famous icon from Sinai, a white dove is shown in the ray of light. are several famous icons of the Annunciation. One is in the Moscow Kremlin in the church of the Annunciation. This icon appeared in connection with the rescue of a prisoner by the Mother of God during the reign of Ivan the Terrible. Another is to be found in the Dormition Cathedral in Moscow (July 8). It was originally located in Ustiug, and was the icon before which Saint Procopius the fool (July 8) prayed to save the city from destruction in 1290. One of the most highly revered icons in Greece is the Tinos icon of the Annunciation (January 30). Annunciation falls during Lent, but it is always celebrated with great joy. The Liturgy of Saint Basil or Saint John Chrysostom is served, even on the weekdays of Lent. It is one of the two days of Great Lent on which the fast is relaxed and fish is permitted (Palm Sunday is the other). Galilee, 1 BCE, Angel Gabriel, Annunciation, Jesus' birth; Annunciation (from Latin annuntiatio), also referred to as the Annunciation to the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Annunciation of Our Lady,[1] or the Annunciation of the Lord, is the Christian celebration of the announcement by the Archangel Gabriel to the Blessed Virgin Mary that she would conceive and become the mother of Jesus, the Christian Messiah and Son of God, marking His Incarnation.[2] Gabriel told Mary to name her son Jesus, meaning "YHWH is salvation".[3] to Luke 1:26, the Annunciation occurred "in the sixth month" of Elizabeth's pregnancy with John the Baptist.[4] Many Christians observe this event with the Feast of the Annunciation on 25 March,[2] an approximation of the northern vernal equinox nine full months before Christmas, the ceremonial birthday of Jesus. The Annunciation is a key topic in Christian art in general, as well as in Marian art in the Catholic Church, having been especially prominent during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. A work of art depicting the Annunciation is sometimes itself called an Annunciation.

Rome, 000, 1st Century, Folder, Roman Empire, Jesus

Rome, 1-31, Saint, John the Baptist, John the Forerunner, he baptized Christ
Jerusalem Saint, 1 BC-29 AD, John the Baptist, John the Forerunner; Synaxis of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John, Commemorated January 7 ; the Orthodox Church it is customary, on the day following the Great Feasts of the Lord and the Mother of God, to remember those saints who participated directly in the sacred event. So, on the day following the Theophany of the Lord, the Church honors the one who participated directly in the Baptism of Christ, placing his own hand upon the head of the Savior. John, the holy Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord, whom the Lord called the greatest of the prophets, concludes the history of the Old Testament and opens the era of the New Testament. The holy Prophet John bore witness to the Only-Begotten Son of God, incarnate in the flesh. Saint John was accounted worthy to baptize Him in the waters of the Jordan, and he was a witness of the Theophany of the Most Holy Trinity on the day of the Savior’s Baptism. holy Prophet John, the son of the Priest Zachariah and Righteous Elizabeth, was related to the Lord on His mother’s side. The holy Forerunner, John, was born six months before Christ. The Archangel Gabriel announced his birth in the Temple at Jerusalem, revealing to Zachariah that a son was to be born to him. the prayers offered beforehand, the child was filled with the Holy Spirit. Saint John prepared himself in the wilds of the desert for his great service by a strict life, by fasting, prayer and sympathy for the fate of God’s people. the age of thirty, he came forth preaching repentance. He appeared on the banks of the Jordan, to prepare the people by his preaching to accept the Savior of the world. In church hymnology, Saint John is called a “bright morning star,” whose gleaming outshone the brilliance of all the other stars, announcing the coming dawn of the day of grace, illumined with the light of the spiritual Sun, our Lord Jesus Christ. baptized the sinless Lamb of God, Saint John soon died a martyr’s death, beheaded by the sword on orders of King Herod at the request of his daughter Salome. (On Saint John the Baptist, see Mt.3:1-16, 11:1-19, 14:1-12; Mark 1:2-8, 6:14-29; Luke 1:5-25, 39-80, 3:1-20, 7:18-35, 9:7-9; John 1:19-34, 3:22-26). Transfer of the Right Hand of the holy Forerunner from Antioch to Constantinople (956) and the Miracle of Saint John the Forerunner against the Hagarenes (Moslems) at Chios: body of Saint John the Baptist was buried in the Samaritan city of Sebaste. The holy Evangelist Luke, who went preaching Christ in various cities and towns, came to Sebaste, where they gave him the right hand of the holy Prophet John, the very hand with which he had baptized the Savior. The Evangelist Luke took it with him to his native city of Antioch. the Moslems seized Antioch centuries later, a deacon named Job brought the holy hand of the Forerunner from Antioch to Chalcedon. From there, on the eve of the Theophany of the Lord, it was transferred to Constantinople (956) and kept thereafter. the year 1200, the Russian pilgrim Dobrynya, who later became Saint Anthony, Archbishop of Novgorod (February 10), saw the right hand of the Forerunner in the imperial palace. From the Lives of the Saints we learn that in the year 1263, during the capture of Constantinople by the Crusaders, the emperor Baldwin gave one bone from the wrist of Saint John the Baptist to Ottonus de Cichon, who then gave it to a Cistercian abbey in France. right hand continued to be kept in Constantinople. And at the end of the fourteenth to the beginning of the fifteenth centuries, the holy relic was seen at Constantinople in the Peribleptos monastery by the Russian pilgrims Stephen of Novgorod, the deacon Ignatius, the cantor Alexander and the deacon Zosimus. When Constantinople fell to the Turks in 1453, sacred objects were gathered up at the the conqueror’s orders and kept under lock in the imperial treasury. the Lives of the Saints is clear testimony that in the year 1484 the right hand of the holy Forerunner was given away by the son of the Moslem sultan Bayazet to the knights of Rhodes to gain their good will, since a dangerous rival for Bayazet, his own brother, had allied himself with them. A contemporary participant, the vice-chancellor of Rhodes, Wilhelm Gaorsan Gallo, also speaks of this event. The knights of Rhodes, having established their base on the island of Malta (in the Mediterranean Sea), then transferred the sacred relic they had received to Malta. the Russian Tsar Paul I (1796-1801) became Grand Master of the Maltese Order in honor of the holy Prophet John, the right hand of the Baptist, part of the Life-Creating Cross and the Philermos Icon (October 12) of the Mother of God (from Mt Philermos on the island of Rhodes) were transferred in 1799 from the island of Malta to Russia [because of the Napoleonic threat], to the chapel at Gatchina (October 12). In the same year these sacred items were transferred into the church dedicated to the Icon of the Savior Not Made by Hands at the Winter Palace. A special service was composed for this Feast. the Synaxis of the honorable, glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John, the Russian Orthodox Church celebrates his memory on the following days: September 23, his Conception; June 24, his Nativity; August 29, his Beheading; February 24, the First and Second Finding of his Head; May 25, the Third Finding of his Head; October 12, the Transfer of his Right Hand from Malta to Gatchina (1799).

Rome, 1-33, Lord Jesus Christ
Jerusalem, 1AD-33 AD, Lord Jesus Christ; Venerable Simeon Stylites the Younger of Wonderful Mountain, Commemorated on May 24;

Rome, 1 AD, Three Shepherds, Bethlehem, Judea, Angel Gabriel, great joy to all people, they first to offer worship
Rome, 1 AD, Three Shepherds, Bethlehem, Judea, Angel Gabriel, great joy to all people, they first to offer worship; Bethlehem; Commemoration of the Shepherds in Bethlehem who were watching their flocks, and went to see the Lord. Commemorated December 25; the stillness of midnight (Wisdom of Solomon 18:14-15), the proclamation of the birth of the Savior of the world was heard by three shepherds watching their flocks by night. angel of the Lord (Saint Cyprian says this was Gabriel) came before them and said: “Fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, Who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11). humble shepherds were the first to offer worship to Him Who condescended to assume the form of a humble servant for the salvation of mankind. The Nativity of our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ, Commemorated on December 25; Lord Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world, was born of the Most Holy Virgin Mary in the city of Bethlehem during the reign of the emperor Augustus (Octavian). Caesar Augustus decreed that a universal census be made throughout his Empire, which then also included Palestinian Israel. The Jews were accustomed to be counted in the city from where their family came. The Most Holy Virgin and the Righteous Joseph, since they were descended from the house and lineage of King David, had to go to Bethlehem to be counted and taxed. Bethlehem they found no room at any of the city’s inns. Thus, the God-Man, the Savior of the world, was born in a cave that was used as a stable. “I behold a strange and most glorious mystery,” the Church sings with awe, “Heaven, a Cave; the Virgin the Throne of the Cherubim; the Manger a room, in which Christ, the God Whom nothing can contain is laid.” (Irmos of the 9th Ode of the Nativity Canon). given birth to the divine Infant without travail, the Most Holy Virgin “wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger” (Luke 2:7). In the stillness of midnight (Wisdom of Solomon 18:14-15), the proclamation of the birth of the Savior of the world was heard by three shepherds watching their flocks by night. angel of the Lord (Saint Cyprian says this was Gabriel) came before them and said: “Fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, Who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11). The humble shepherds were the first to offer worship to Him Who condescended to assume the form of a humble servant for the salvation of mankind. Besides the glad tidings to the Bethlehem shepherds, the Nativity of Christ was revealed to the Magi by a wondrous star. Saint John Chrysostom and Saint Theophylactus, commenting on Saint Matthew’s Gospel, say that this was no ordinary star. Rather, it was “a divine and angelic power that appeared in the form of a star.” Saint Demetrius of Rostov says it was a “manifestation of divine energy” (Narrative of the Adoration of the Magi). Entering the house where the Infant lay, the Magi “fell down, and worshipped Him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented Him gifts: gold, and frankincense, and myrrh” (Mt. 2:11). present Feast, commemorating the Nativity in the flesh of our Lord Jesus Christ, was established by the Church. Its origin goes back to the time of the Apostles. In the Apostolic Constitutions (Section 3, 13) it says, “Brethren, observe the feastdays; and first of all the Birth of Christ, which you are to celebrate on the twenty-fifth day of the ninth month.” In another place it also says, “Celebrate the day of the Nativity of Christ, on which unseen grace is given man by the birth of the Word of God from the Virgin Mary for the salvation of the world.” the second century Saint Clement of Alexandria also indicates that the day of the Nativity of Christ is December 25. In the third century Saint Hippolytus of Rome mentions the Feast of the Nativity of Christ, and appoints the Gospel readings for this day from the opening chapters of Saint Matthew. 302, during the persecution of Christians by Maximian, 20,000 Christians of Nicomedia (December 28) were burned in church on the very Feast of the Nativity of Christ. In that same century, after the persecution when the Church had received freedom of religion and had become the official religion in the Roman Empire, we find the Feast of the Nativity of Christ observed throughout the entire Church. There is evidence of this in the works of Saint Ephraim the Syrian, Saint Basil the Great, Saint Gregory the Theologian, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Ambrose of Milan, Saint John Chrysostom and other Fathers of the Church of the fourth century. John Chrysostom, in a sermon which he gave in the year 385, points out that the Feast of the Nativity of Christ is ancient, and indeed very ancient. In this same century, at the Cave of Bethlehem, made famous by the Birth of Jesus Christ, the empress Saint Helen built a church, which her mighty son Constantine adorned after her death. In the Codex of the emperor Theodosius from 438, and of the emperor Justinian in 535, the universal celebration of the day of the Nativity of Christ was decreed by law. Thus, Nikēphóros Callistus, a writer of the fourteenth century, says in his History that in the sixth century, the emperor Justinian established the celebration of the Nativity of Christ throughout all the world. Anatolius of Constantinople in the fifth century, Sophronius and Andrew of Jerusalem in the seventh, Saints John of Damascus, Cosmas of Maium and Patriarch Germanus of Constantinople in the eighth, the Nun Cassiane in the ninth, and others whose names are unknown, wrote many sacred hymns for the Feast of the Nativity of Christ, which are still sung by the Church on this radiant festival. the first three centuries, in the Churches of Jerusalem, Antioch, Alexandria and Cyprus, the Nativity of Christ was combined together with the Feast of His Baptism on January 6, and called “Theophany” (“Manifestation of God”). This was because of a belief that Christ was baptized on anniversary of His birth, which may be inferred from Saint John Chrysostom’s sermon on the Nativity of Christ: “it is not the day on which Christ was born which is called Theophany, but rather that day on which He was baptized.” support of such a view, it is possible to cite the words of the Evangelist Luke who says that “Jesus began to be about thirty years of age” (Luke 3:23) when He was baptized. The joint celebration of the Nativity of Christ and His Theophany continued to the end of the fourth century in certain Eastern Churches, and until the fifth or sixth century in others. present order of services preserves the memory of the ancient joint celebration of the Feasts of the Nativity of Christ and Theophany. On the eve of both Feasts, there is a similar tradition that one should fast until the stars appear. The order of divine services on the eve of both feastdays and the feastdays themselves is the same. Nativity of Christ has long been counted as one of the Twelve Great Feasts. It is one of the greatest, most joyful and wondrous events in the history of the world. “The angel said to the shepherds, ‘Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, Who is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: you shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.’ Then suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly hosts, glorifying God and saying: ‘Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.’ Those who heard these things were astonished at what the shepherds told them concerning the Child. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen” (Luke 2:10-20). the Nativity of Christ, a most profound and extraordinary event, was accompanied by the wondrous tidings proclaimed to the shepherds and to the Magi. This is a cause of universal rejoicing for all mankind, “for the Savior is Born!” with the witness of the Gospel, the Fathers of the Church, in their God-inspired writings, describe the Feast of the Nativity of Christ as most profound, and joyous, serving as the basis and foundation for all the other Feasts. is Born! Glorify Him! also: Discourse on the Nativity of Christ by Saint Gregory Thaumatourgos, Bishop of Neocaesarea.

Rome, 1 AD, The Nativity, Judea, Agustus' census, born today, Lords' Nativity revealed to Magi by wonderous star
Jerusalem, 1 AD, The Nativity, Bethlehem, Judea, Agustus' census, King David's house in Bethlehem, cave used as a stable, birth without travail, swaddling clothes, Manger, midnight, Gabriel announced to shepherds, great joy, all people, born today, Savior, the Lord, Nativity revealed to Magi by wonderous star; Bethlehem; The Nativity of our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ, Commemorated on December 25; Lord Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world, was born of the Most Holy Virgin Mary in the city of Bethlehem during the reign of the emperor Augustus (Octavian). Caesar Augustus decreed that a universal census be made throughout his Empire, which then also included Palestinian Israel. Jews were accustomed to be counted in the city from where their family came. The Most Holy Virgin and the Righteous Joseph, since they were descended from the house and lineage of King David, had to go to Bethlehem to be counted and taxed. Bethlehem they found no room at any of the city’s inns. Thus, the God-Man, the Savior of the world, was born in a cave that was used as a stable. “I behold a strange and most glorious mystery,” the Church sings with awe, “Heaven, a Cave; the Virgin the Throne of the Cherubim; the Manger a room, in which Christ, the God Whom nothing can contain is laid.” (Irmos of the 9th Ode of the Nativity Canon). given birth to the divine Infant without travail, the Most Holy Virgin “wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger” (Luke 2:7). the stillness of midnight (Wisdom of Solomon 18:14-15), the proclamation of the birth of the Savior of the world was heard by three shepherds watching their flocks by night. angel of the Lord (Saint Cyprian says this was Gabriel) came before them and said: “Fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, Who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11). humble shepherds were the first to offer worship to Him Who condescended to assume the form of a humble servant for the salvation of mankind. Besides the glad tidings to the Bethlehem shepherds, Nativity of Christ was revealed to the Magi by a wondrous star. Saint John Chrysostom and Saint Theophylactus, commenting on Saint Matthew’s Gospel, say that this was no ordinary star. Rather, it was “a divine and angelic power that appeared in the form of a star.” Saint Demetrius of Rostov says it was a “manifestation of divine energy” (Narrative of the Adoration of the Magi). Entering the house where the Infant lay, the Magi “fell down, and worshipped Him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented Him gifts: gold, and frankincense, and myrrh” (Mt. 2:11). present Feast, commemorating the Nativity in the flesh of our Lord Jesus Christ, was established by the Church. Its origin goes back to the time of the Apostles. In the Apostolic Constitutions (Section 3, 13) it says, “Brethren, observe the feastdays; and first of all the Birth of Christ, which you are to celebrate on the twenty-fifth day of the ninth month.” In another place it also says, “Celebrate the day of the Nativity of Christ, on which unseen grace is given man by the birth of the Word of God from the Virgin Mary for the salvation of the world.” the second century Saint Clement of Alexandria also indicates that the day of the Nativity of Christ is December 25. In the third century Saint Hippolytus of Rome mentions the Feast of the Nativity of Christ, and appoints the Gospel readings for this day from the opening chapters of Saint Matthew. 302, during the persecution of Christians by Maximian, 20,000 Christians of Nicomedia (December 28) were burned in church on the very Feast of the Nativity of Christ. In that same century, after the persecution when the Church had received freedom of religion and had become the official religion in the Roman Empire, we find the Feast of the Nativity of Christ observed throughout the entire Church. There is evidence of this in the works of Saint Ephraim the Syrian, Saint Basil the Great, Saint Gregory the Theologian, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Ambrose of Milan, Saint John Chrysostom and other Fathers of the Church of the fourth century. John Chrysostom, in a sermon which he gave in the year 385, points out that the Feast of the Nativity of Christ is ancient, and indeed very ancient. In this same century, at the Cave of Bethlehem, made famous by the Birth of Jesus Christ, the empress Saint Helen built a church, which her mighty son Constantine adorned after her death. In the Codex of the emperor Theodosius from 438, and of the emperor Justinian in 535, the universal celebration of the day of the Nativity of Christ was decreed by law. Thus, Nikēphóros Callistus, a writer of the fourteenth century, says in his History that in the sixth century, the emperor Justinian established the celebration of the Nativity of Christ throughout all the world. Anatolius of Constantinople in the fifth century, Sophronius and Andrew of Jerusalem in the seventh, Saints John of Damascus, Cosmas of Maium and Patriarch Germanus of Constantinople in the eighth, the Nun Cassiane in the ninth, and others whose names are unknown, wrote many sacred hymns for the Feast of the Nativity of Christ, which are still sung by the Church on this radiant festival. the first three centuries, in the Churches of Jerusalem, Antioch, Alexandria and Cyprus, the Nativity of Christ was combined together with the Feast of His Baptism on January 6, and called “Theophany” (“Manifestation of God”). This was because of a belief that Christ was baptized on anniversary of His birth, which may be inferred from Saint John Chrysostom’s sermon on the Nativity of Christ: “it is not the day on which Christ was born which is called Theophany, but rather that day on which He was baptized.” support of such a view, it is possible to cite the words of the Evangelist Luke who says that “Jesus began to be about thirty years of age” (Luke 3:23) when He was baptized. The joint celebration of the Nativity of Christ and His Theophany continued to the end of the fourth century in certain Eastern Churches, and until the fifth or sixth century in others. present order of services preserves the memory of the ancient joint celebration of the Feasts of the Nativity of Christ and Theophany. On the eve of both Feasts, there is a similar tradition that one should fast until the stars appear. The order of divine services on the eve of both feastdays and the feastdays themselves is the same. Nativity of Christ has long been counted as one of the Twelve Great Feasts. It is one of the greatest, most joyful and wondrous events in the history of the world. “The angel said to the shepherds, ‘Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, Who is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: you shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.’ Then suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly hosts, glorifying God and saying: ‘Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.’ Those who heard these things were astonished at what the shepherds told them concerning the Child. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen” (Luke 2:10-20). the Nativity of Christ, a most profound and extraordinary event, was accompanied by the wondrous tidings proclaimed to the shepherds and to the Magi. This is a cause of universal rejoicing for all mankind, “for the Savior is Born!” with the witness of the Gospel, the Fathers of the Church, in their God-inspired writings, describe the Feast of the Nativity of Christ as most profound, and joyous, serving as the basis and foundation for all the other Feasts. is Born! Glorify Him! also: Discourse on the Nativity of Christ by Saint Gregory Thaumatourgos, Bishop of Neocaesarea. Commemoration of the Shepherds in Bethlehem who were watching their flocks, and went to see the Lord. Commemorated December 25; the stillness of midnight (Wisdom of Solomon 18:14-15), the proclamation of the birth of the Savior of the world was heard by three shepherds watching their flocks by night. angel of the Lord (Saint Cyprian says this was Gabriel) came before them and said: “Fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, Who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11). humble shepherds were the first to offer worship to Him Who condescended to assume the form of a humble servant for the salvation of mankind.

Rome, 1 AD, The Magi, from Persia to Jerusalem and Bethlehem, because Savior, Lord, Nativity revealed by wonderous star
Jerusalem, 1 AD, The Nativity, Bethlehem, Judea, Agustus' census, King David's house in Bethlehem, cave used as a stable, birth without travail, swaddling clothes, Manger, midnight, Gabriel announced to shepherds, great joy, all people, born today, Savior, the Lord, Nativity revealed to Magi by wonderous star; Bethlehem; The Adoration of the Magi: Melchior, Caspar, and Balthasar, Commemorated on December 25; Nativity of Christ was revealed to the Magi by a wondrous star. Saint John Chrysostom and Saint Theophylactus, commenting on Saint Matthew’s Gospel, say that this was no ordinary star. Rather, it was “a divine and angelic power that appeared in the form of a star.” Saint Demetrius of Rostov says it was a “manifestation of divine energy” (Narrative of the Adoration of the Magi). Entering the house where the Infant lay, the Magi “fell down, and worshipped Him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented Him gifts: gold, and frankincense, and myrrh” (Mt. 2:11). names of the three Wise Men (Magi) do not appear in the Gospels. The tradition that there were three visitors from the east is very ancient, but their names are only mentioned in the Middle Ages. reputed to be the relics of the three kings have been in the cathedral at Cologne, Germany since 1164. The Nativity of our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ, Commemorated on December 25; Lord Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world, was born of the Most Holy Virgin Mary in the city of Bethlehem during the reign of the emperor Augustus (Octavian). Caesar Augustus decreed that a universal census be made throughout his Empire, which then also included Palestinian Israel. Jews were accustomed to be counted in the city from where their family came. The Most Holy Virgin and the Righteous Joseph, since they were descended from the house and lineage of King David, had to go to Bethlehem to be counted and taxed. Bethlehem they found no room at any of the city’s inns. Thus, the God-Man, the Savior of the world, was born in a cave that was used as a stable. “I behold a strange and most glorious mystery,” the Church sings with awe, “Heaven, a Cave; the Virgin the Throne of the Cherubim; the Manger a room, in which Christ, the God Whom nothing can contain is laid.” (Irmos of the 9th Ode of the Nativity Canon). given birth to the divine Infant without travail, the Most Holy Virgin “wrapped Him in swaddling clothes, and laid Him in a manger” (Luke 2:7). the stillness of midnight (Wisdom of Solomon 18:14-15), the proclamation of the birth of the Savior of the world was heard by three shepherds watching their flocks by night. angel of the Lord (Saint Cyprian says this was Gabriel) came before them and said: “Fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, Who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11). humble shepherds were the first to offer worship to Him Who condescended to assume the form of a humble servant for the salvation of mankind. Besides the glad tidings to the Bethlehem shepherds, Nativity of Christ was revealed to the Magi by a wondrous star. Saint John Chrysostom and Saint Theophylactus, commenting on Saint Matthew’s Gospel, say that this was no ordinary star. Rather, it was “a divine and angelic power that appeared in the form of a star.” Saint Demetrius of Rostov says it was a “manifestation of divine energy” (Narrative of the Adoration of the Magi). Entering the house where the Infant lay, the Magi “fell down, and worshipped Him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented Him gifts: gold, and frankincense, and myrrh” (Mt. 2:11). present Feast, commemorating the Nativity in the flesh of our Lord Jesus Christ, was established by the Church. Its origin goes back to the time of the Apostles. In the Apostolic Constitutions (Section 3, 13) it says, “Brethren, observe the feastdays; and first of all the Birth of Christ, which you are to celebrate on the twenty-fifth day of the ninth month.” In another place it also says, “Celebrate the day of the Nativity of Christ, on which unseen grace is given man by the birth of the Word of God from the Virgin Mary for the salvation of the world.” the second century Saint Clement of Alexandria also indicates that the day of the Nativity of Christ is December 25. In the third century Saint Hippolytus of Rome mentions the Feast of the Nativity of Christ, and appoints the Gospel readings for this day from the opening chapters of Saint Matthew. 302, during the persecution of Christians by Maximian, 20,000 Christians of Nicomedia (December 28) were burned in church on the very Feast of the Nativity of Christ. In that same century, after the persecution when the Church had received freedom of religion and had become the official religion in the Roman Empire, we find the Feast of the Nativity of Christ observed throughout the entire Church. There is evidence of this in the works of Saint Ephraim the Syrian, Saint Basil the Great, Saint Gregory the Theologian, Saint Gregory of Nyssa, Saint Ambrose of Milan, Saint John Chrysostom and other Fathers of the Church of the fourth century. John Chrysostom, in a sermon which he gave in the year 385, points out that the Feast of the Nativity of Christ is ancient, and indeed very ancient. In this same century, at the Cave of Bethlehem, made famous by the Birth of Jesus Christ, the empress Saint Helen built a church, which her mighty son Constantine adorned after her death. In the Codex of the emperor Theodosius from 438, and of the emperor Justinian in 535, the universal celebration of the day of the Nativity of Christ was decreed by law. Thus, Nikēphóros Callistus, a writer of the fourteenth century, says in his History that in the sixth century, the emperor Justinian established the celebration of the Nativity of Christ throughout all the world. Anatolius of Constantinople in the fifth century, Sophronius and Andrew of Jerusalem in the seventh, Saints John of Damascus, Cosmas of Maium and Patriarch Germanus of Constantinople in the eighth, the Nun Cassiane in the ninth, and others whose names are unknown, wrote many sacred hymns for the Feast of the Nativity of Christ, which are still sung by the Church on this radiant festival. the first three centuries, in the Churches of Jerusalem, Antioch, Alexandria and Cyprus, the Nativity of Christ was combined together with the Feast of His Baptism on January 6, and called “Theophany” (“Manifestation of God”). This was because of a belief that Christ was baptized on anniversary of His birth, which may be inferred from Saint John Chrysostom’s sermon on the Nativity of Christ: “it is not the day on which Christ was born which is called Theophany, but rather that day on which He was baptized.” support of such a view, it is possible to cite the words of the Evangelist Luke who says that “Jesus began to be about thirty years of age” (Luke 3:23) when He was baptized. The joint celebration of the Nativity of Christ and His Theophany continued to the end of the fourth century in certain Eastern Churches, and until the fifth or sixth century in others. present order of services preserves the memory of the ancient joint celebration of the Feasts of the Nativity of Christ and Theophany. On the eve of both Feasts, there is a similar tradition that one should fast until the stars appear. The order of divine services on the eve of both feastdays and the feastdays themselves is the same. Nativity of Christ has long been counted as one of the Twelve Great Feasts. It is one of the greatest, most joyful and wondrous events in the history of the world. “The angel said to the shepherds, ‘Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, Who is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you: you shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.’ Then suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly hosts, glorifying God and saying: ‘Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.’ Those who heard these things were astonished at what the shepherds told them concerning the Child. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen” (Luke 2:10-20). the Nativity of Christ, a most profound and extraordinary event, was accompanied by the wondrous tidings proclaimed to the shepherds and to the Magi. This is a cause of universal rejoicing for all mankind, “for the Savior is Born!” with the witness of the Gospel, the Fathers of the Church, in their God-inspired writings, describe the Feast of the Nativity of Christ as most profound, and joyous, serving as the basis and foundation for all the other Feasts. is Born! Glorify Him! also: Discourse on the Nativity of Christ by Saint Gregory Thaumatourgos, Bishop of Neocaesarea. Commemoration of the Shepherds in Bethlehem who were watching their flocks, and went to see the Lord. Commemorated December 25; the stillness of midnight (Wisdom of Solomon 18:14-15), the proclamation of the birth of the Savior of the world was heard by three shepherds watching their flocks by night. angel of the Lord (Saint Cyprian says this was Gabriel) came before them and said: “Fear not: for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, Who is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:10-11). humble shepherds were the first to offer worship to Him Who condescended to assume the form of a humble servant for the salvation of mankind.

Rome, 1 AD (360BC-1AD), Simeon the God Receiver, Septuagint translator 360 BC, promised to see the Messiah before death
Jerusalem, 1 AD (360BC-1AD), Simeon the God Receiver, Sanhedrin wise man, Septuagint translator 360 BC, promised he would see the Messiah before death, a virgin will conceive; Jerusalem, 360BC-1AD, Saint Simeon the God Receiver ; Jerusalem, 360BC-1AD, Saint Simeon the God Receiver; Jerusalem King, 358 BC- 338 BC, Artaxerxes III; The Meeting of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the Temple, Commemorated on February 2; Holy, Righteous Simeon the God-Receiver, Commemorated on February 3; Simeon the God-Receiver was, according to the testimony of the holy Evangelist Luke, a just and devout man waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him (Luke 2:25). promised him that he would not die until the promised Messiah, Christ the Lord, came into the world. historians tell us that the Egyptian pharaoh Ptolemy II Philadelphus (285-247 B.C.) wished to include texts of Holy Scripture in the famous Library at Alexandria. He invited scholars from Jerusalem, and the Sanhedrin sent their wise men. The Righteous Simeon was one of the seventy scholars who came to Alexandria to translate the Holy Scriptures into Greek. The completed work was called “The Septuagint,” and is the version of the Old Testament used by the Orthodox Church. Simeon was translating a book of the Prophet Isaiah, and read the words: “Behold, a virgin shall conceive in the womb, and shall bring forth a Son” (Is 7:14). He thought that “virgin” was inaccurate, and he wanted to correct the text to read “woman.” At that moment an angel appeared to him and held back his hand saying, “You shall see these words fulfilled. You shall not die until you behold Christ the Lord born of a pure and spotless Virgin.” this day, Saint Simeon lived in expectation of the Promised Messiah. One day, the righteous Elder received a revelation from the Holy Spirit, and came to the Temple. It was on the very day (the fortieth after the Birth of Christ) when the All-Pure Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph had come to the Temple in order to perform the ritual prescribed by Jewish Law. Saint Simeon beheld their arrival, the Holy Spirit revealed to him that the divine Child held by the All-Pure Virgin Mary was the Promised Messiah, the Savior of the world. The Elder took the Child in his arms and said, “Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy word, for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people, a light to enlighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel” (Luke 2:29-32). is a Christian epigram (Number 46) in “The Greek Anthology” which is addressed to Saint Simeon. It tells the righteous Elder to receive the Child Who was born before Adam, and Who will deliver Simeon from this life and bring him to eternal life. A similar idea is expressed in the Aposticha (Slavic use) for the Forefeast of the Nativity of the Lord (December 24). There the Mother of God refers to her Son as “older than ancient Adam.” blessed the All-Pure Virgin and Saint Joseph, and turning to the Mother of God he said, “Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel, and for a sign which shall be spoken against. Yea, a sword shall pierce through your own soul also, that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed” (Luke 2:34-35). holy Evangelist continues: “And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel of the tribe of Aser. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband for seven years from her virginity; and she was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not leave the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming at that very hour, also gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption at Jerusalem” (Luke 2:36-38). holy righteous Simeon the God-Receiver died at a great age (Tradition says he was 360). His holy relics were transferred to Constantinople in the sixth century. His grave was seen by the Russian pilgrim Saint Anthony, the future Archbishop of Novgorod (October 8) in 1200. Holy, Righteous Anna the Prophetess, Commemorated on February 3;

Rome, 1 AD, Anna the Prophetess, Jerusalem Temple, widow 84 yrs in the Temple, at the presentation she prophesied of Jesus
Jerusalem, 1 AD, Anna the Prophetess, Jerusalem Temple, widow 84 yrs in the Temple, coming at the presentation gave thanks and prophesied of Jesus to those who looked for redemption; Temple in Jerusalem; Holy, Righteous Anna the Prophetess, Commemorated Febraury 3 ; to Saint Luke’s Gospel, “And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel of the tribe of Aser. was of a great age, and had lived with a husband for seven years from her virginity; and she was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not leave the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And coming at that very hour, also gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption at Jerusalem” (Luke 2:36-38).

Rome, 2, THE HOLY INNOCENTS, Bethlehem, when Magi did not return, Herod ordered all male children 2 and younger killed
Jerusalem, 002, THE HOLY INNOCENTS, Bethlehem, Judea, when Magi did not return to him, Herod ordered all Bethlehem male children 2 and younger killed; Bethlehem; 14,000 Infants (the Holy Innocents) slain by Herod at Bethlehem, Commemorated on December 29 ; Holy Infants were killed by King Herod in Bethlehem. the time came for the Incarnation of the Son of God and His Birth of the Most Holy Virgin Mary, Magi in the East beheld a new star in the heavens, foretelling the Nativity of the King of the Jews. They journeyed immediately to Jerusalem to worship the Child, and the star showed them the way. worshipped the divine Infant, they did not return to Jerusalem to Herod, as he had ordered them, but being warned by God in a dream, they went back to their country by another way. finally realized that his scheme to find the Child would not be successful, and he ordered that all the male children two years old and younger at Bethlehem and its surroundings be killed. He thought that the divine Infant, Whom he considered a rival, would be among the dead children. murdered infants thus became the first martyrs for Christ. The rage of Herod fell also on Simeon the God-Receiver (February 3), who declared before everyone in the Temple that the Messiah had been born. When the holy Elder died, Herod would not give permission for him to be properly buried. On the orders of King Herod, the holy prophet and priest Zachariah was also killed. He was murdered in Jerusalem between the Temple and the altar (Mt. 23:35) because he would not tell the whereabouts of his son John, the future Baptist of the Lord Jesus Christ. wrath of God soon fell upon Herod himself: a horrid condition struck him down and he died, eaten by worms while still alive. Before his death, the impious king murdered the chief priests and scribes of the Jews, and also his brother, and his sister and her husband, and also his own wife Mariam, and three of his sons, and seventy men of wisdom who were members of the Sanhedrin. He initiated this bloodbath so that the day of his death would not be one of rejoicing, but one of mourning. Christian Church very rightly proclaimed these murdered children as Saints, because they died at an innocent age, and were, in some way, the first martyrs of Christianity. They may not have been baptized in water, but they were baptized in the blessed blood of their martyrdom. but not least, the relics (or perhaps some) of the Holy Infants are found in Constantinople, in the Church of Saint James the Brother of the Lord, which was built by Emperor Justin. Most of their Holy Relics are at the Patriarchate of Jerusalem. Portions of their Holy Relics are also to be found in the Pantokrator Monastery on Mount Athos. THE HOLY INNOCENTS, (28 DEC NT) ; read in Matthew 2 that when Jesus was born in Bethlehem, King Herod, fearing for his throne, ordered that all the male infants of Bethlehem be killed. These children are regarded as martyrs for the Gospel -- "martyrs in fact though not in will." Augustine called them "buds, killed by the frost of persecution the moment they showed themselves." a discussion of the historical background of the episode, consult the Web page (NOTE: Ignore what the file says about the Assumption of Moses.) by James Kiefer Slaughter of the Innocents, by Fra Angelico

Rome, 10-66, Evodius, Syrian Saint, Bishop, writer, mary birth at 15, died under Nero in 66
Syrian Saint, 10-66, Evodius; Evodius or Euodias (died circa 69) was an Early Christian bishop of Antioch, succeeding Saint Peter. He is regarded as one of the first identifiable Christians, and venerated as a saint. is known of the life of Evodius. the time, Antioch was an opulent and cosmopolitan city where both Hellenized Jews and pagans were influenced by monotheism. According to the Book of Acts, one of the first evangelised communities were these Jews and pagans of Antioch. It was there that the term "Christian" was coined for these Gentiles, mainly Syrian and Greek converts.[citation needed] Peter became the bishop of Antioch and led the church there. Evodius is said to have been one of the pagans converted to Christianity due to the apostolic work of Saint Peter.[citation needed] eventually succeeded Peter as bishop of Antioch when Peter left for Rome.[1] Evodius was bishop of Antioch until 66 AD, and was succeeded by Saint Ignatius of Antioch. Catholic tradition says it is likely that Saint Evodius died of natural causes, however, the Eastern Orthodox tradition holds that he was martyred under Emperor Nero in 66 AD.[2] As one of the first pagans to come to the new church, he is venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church as well as in the Eastern Orthodox Church and in Oriental Orthodoxy including the Assyrian Church of the East. His feast day is 6 May in the Catholic Church and 7 September in the Eastern Orthodox Church. Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated on August 21; Apostle Evodius (Euodias) of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 7; Holy Apostle Evodius of the Seventy was, after the holy Apostle Peter, the first bishop in Syrian Antioch. His successor, the Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer (December 20), disciple of the holy Apostle John the Theologian, mentions him in his Letter to the Antiochians: “Remember your blessed father Evodus, who was made your first pastor by the Apostles.” Evodius served as bishop for 27 years and died as a martyr under the emperor Nero (54-68). Saint Evodus wrote several compositions. In one of them he writes that the Most Holy Virgin Mary gave birth to the Savior of the world at the age of fifteen. writings of the saint have not survived. A book entitled THE STAR is mentioned by the fourteenth century church historian Nikēphóros Callistus. Saint Evodus received the crown of martyrdom in the year 66. Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4;

Rome, 14-37, Emperor, Tiberius, red egg of resurrection from M Magdelen
Roman Emperor, 14-37, Tiberius; Luke 3:1-14, The Proclamation of John the Baptist; Hieromartyr Pancratius the Bishop of Taormina in Sicily, Commemorated on July 9 ; St Julian the Bishop of Cenomanis (Le Mans) in Gaul, Commemorated July 13 ; Myrrhbearer and Equal of the Apostles Mary Magdalene, Commemorated on July 22; Apostle Andronicus of the Seventy, Commemorated July 30 ; Hieromartyr Eutyches the Disciple of St John the Theologian, Commemorated on August 24; Apostle Titus of the Seventy and Bishop of Crete, Commemorated August 25 ; Return of the Relics of the Apostle Bartholomew from Anastasiopolis to Lipari, Commemorated August 25 : By the power of God the chests did not sink into the depths of the sea, but miraculously floated upon the waves and reached Italy. The chest with the relics of the Apostle Bartholomew came to land at the island of Lipari, and the remaining chests continued their journey and came to land at various places in Italy. The chest with the relics of the Martyr Papian halted at Sicily, the Martyr Lucian at Messina, the Martyr Gregory at Calabria, and the Martyr Acacius at Askalon. ; Apostle Evodius (Euodias) of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 7; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 21; St Xanthippe Disciple of the Apostles, who died in Spain, Commemorated on September 23 ; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 27; Hieromartyr Dionysius the Areopagite the Bishop of Athens, Commemorated on October 3; Hieromartyr Hierotheus the Bishop of Athens, Commemorated October 4 ; Holy, Glorious Apostle Thomas, Commemorated on October 6 ; Apostle James the Son of Alphaeus, Commemorated on October 9; Apostle Philip of the Seventy, One of the Seven Deacons, Commemorated on October 11; Martyr Longinus the Centurion, who stood at the Cross of the Lord, Commemorated on October 16; Apostle and Evangelist Luke, Commemorated on October 18; LUKE THE EVANGELIST, (18 OCTOBER) ; Apostle James, the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on October 23; JAMES OF JERUSALEM, BISHOP AND MARTYR (23 OCT NT); Apostle Artemas of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30 ; Apostle Justus of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30; Apostle Mark of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30; Apostle Tertius of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30; Apostle Amplias of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Apelles of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Aristobulus of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Narcissus of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Stachys of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Urban of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Gaius of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Hermes of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Linus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Patrobus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Philologus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Erastus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Apostle Quartus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Apostle Rodion of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Apostle Sosipater of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Apostle Tertius of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Holy, All-Praised Apostle Philip, Commemorated on November 14; Apostle and Evangelist Matthew, Commemorated on November 16; Apostle Philemon of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 22; Apostle Archippus the Martyr of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 22 ; Hieromartyr Clement the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on November 25; ANDREW THE APOSTLE, (30 NOV NT) ; Apostle Andrew, the Holy and All-Praised First-Called, Commemorated on November 30; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Cephas of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Onesiphorus of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Sosthenes of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Tychicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20; THOMAS THE APOSTLE, (21 DEC NT) ; Commemoration of the Shepherds in Bethlehem who were watching their flocks, and went to see the Lord, Commemorated on December 25; Icon of the Mother of God of œVilna, Commemorated on December 26; STEPHEN, DEACON AND PROTOMARTYR (26 DEC NT); Joseph of Holy Righteous Joseph the Betrothed, along with David the King, and James the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on December 27; Icon of the Mother of God œthe Merciful, Commemorated on December 27; JOHN, APOSTLE AND EVANGELIST (27 DEC NT); Protomartyr and Archdeacon Stephen, Commemorated on December 27; James of Holy Righteous Joseph the Betrothed, along with David the King, and James the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on December 27; Apostle Nicanor the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 28; THE HOLY INNOCENTS, (28 DEC NT) ; Apostle Timon the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 30 ; The Circumcision of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Commemorated on January 1; THE HOLY NAME OF JESUS, OR, THE CIRCUMCISION OF CHRIST, (1 JAN); Apostle and Evangelist Luke of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Euodius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle James, of the Seventy, the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Justus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Mark the Evangelist of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Simeon, of the Seventy, the son of Cleophas, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Cleophas of the Seventy, the Brother of Joseph the Betrothed, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Philip the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Prochorus the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Nicanor the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Timon the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Parmenas the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Timothy of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Titus of the Seventy and Bishop of Crete, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Philemon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Archippus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Silas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Silvanus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Crescens of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Crispus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Epenetus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Andronicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Stachys of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Amplias of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Urban of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Narcissus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Apelles of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Aristobulus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Agabus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Rufus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Asyncritus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Phlegon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Hermes of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Patrobus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Hermas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Linus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Gaius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Lucius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Jason of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Sosipater of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Olympas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Tertius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Erastus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quartus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Onesiphorus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Clement of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Sosthenes of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Tychicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Carpus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Mark of the Seventy, called John, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Zenas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Pudens of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Trophimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Mark of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Artemas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Aquila of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Fortunatus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Feast of the Theophany of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Commemorated on January 6; THE FEAST OF THE HOLY EPIPHANY, (6 January) ; Synaxis of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John, Commemorated on January 7; St Mariamne the sister of the Apostle Philip, Commemorated on February 17; Venerable Conan, Abbot of the Pethukla Monastery, Commemorated on February 19; MATTHIAS THE APOSTLE, (24 FEB NT); JOSEPH, GUARDIAN OF OUR LORD (19 MAR NT); Martyr Kyriake of Rome, Commemorated on March 20; Martyr Photina (Svetlana), the Samaritan Woman, and Her Sons, Commemorated on March 20; The Annunciation of our Most Holy Lady, the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary, Commemorated on March 25; THE ANNUNCIATION, OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY (25 MAR NT); Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 30; Apostle Sosthenes of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 30; Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, and those with Him, Commemorated on April 8; Hieromartyr Antipas the Bishop of Pergamum and Disciple of St John the Theologian, Commemorated on April 11; Apostle Zacchaeus, Commemorated on April 20; Apostle and Evangelist Mark, Commemorated on April 25 ; MARK THE EVANGELIST, (25 APR NT) ; Apostle James the Brother of St John the Theologian, Commemorated on April 30; James of PHILIP AND JAMES, APOSTLES (1 MAY NT) ; Philip of PHILIP AND JAMES, APOSTLES (1 MAY NT); Apostle Simon Zealotes, Commemorated on May 10; St Eutychius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on May 28; Apostle Hermas of the Seventy, Commemorated on May 31 ; Righteous Martha the sister of Lazarus, Commemorated on June 4; Nativity of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist, Commemorated on June 24 ; THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST, (24 JUNE NT); PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES AND MARTYRS (29 JUN 64); The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leader of the Apostles, Paul, Commemorated on June 29; The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leader of the Apostles, Peter, Commemorated on June 29; The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leaders of the Apostles, Peter and Paul, Commemorated on June 29 ;

Rome, 20-100, JOHN, t theologian, Jesus' nephew, son of Jesus's step sister, Jesus' friend, MOG care 34yrs, much more
Galilee, 20-100, JOHN, the theologian, Jesus' nephew, son of Jesus's step sister, virgin, friend of Christ, Jairus' daughter restored to life, Transfiguration, last supper, Gethsemane, Court, Golgotha, behold thy son, took care of MOG 34 yrs, then Ephesus w Prochorus, shopwreck and 14 days in sea, conversions in E, to Rome Nero trial, sentenced to death, preserved by poison drink, caldron of boiling oil, sent back to Patmos near E, many years, Revelation; Galilee, 20-100, JOHN, the theologian, Jesus' nephew, son of Jesus's step sister, virgin, friend of Christ, Jairus' daughter restored to life, Transfiguration, last supper, Gethsemane, Court, Golgotha, behold thy son, took care of MOG 34 yrs, then Ephesus w Prochorus, shopwreck and 14 days in sea, conversions in E, to Rome Nero trial, sentenced to death, preserved by poison drink, caldron of boiling oil, sent back to Patmos near E, many years, Revelation; the Evangelist is the name traditionally given to the author of the Gospel of John. Christians have traditionally identified him with John the Apostle, John of Patmos, or John the Presbyter,[2] although this has been disputed by most modern scholars.[3] Mount Tabor; Repose of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian, Commemorated on September 26; Holy, Glorious All-laudable Apostle and Evangelist, Virgin, and Beloved Friend of Christ, John the Theologian was the son of Zebedee and Salome, a daughter of Saint Joseph the Betrothed. was called by our Lord Jesus Christ to be one of His Apostles at the same time as his elder brother James. This took place at Lake Gennesareth (i.e. the Sea of Galilee). Leaving behind their father, both brothers followed the Lord. Apostle John was especially loved by the Savior for his sacrificial love and his virginal purity. After his calling, the Apostle John did not part from the Lord, and he was one of the three apostles who were particularly close to Him. Saint John the Theologian was present when the Lord restored the daughter of Jairus to life, and he was a witness to the Transfiguration of the Lord on Mount Tabor. the Last Supper, he reclined next to the Lord, and laid his head upon His breast. He also asked the name of the Savior’s betrayer. The Apostle John followed after the Lord when they led Him bound from the Garden of Gethsemane to the court of the iniquitous High Priests Annas and Caiphas. He was there in the courtyard of the High Priest during the interrogations of his Teacher and he resolutely followed after him on the way to Golgotha, grieving with all his heart. the foot of the Cross he stood with the Mother of God and heard the words of the Crucified Lord addressed to Her from the Cross: “Woman, behold Thy son.” Then the Lord said to him, “Behold thy Mother” (John 19:26-27). From that moment the Apostle John, like a loving son, concerned himself over the Most Holy Virgin Mary, and he served Her until Her Dormition. the Dormition of the Mother of God the Apostle John went to Ephesus and other cities of Asia Minor to preach the Gospel, taking with him his own disciple Prochorus. boarded a ship, which floundered during a terrible tempest. All the travellers were cast up upon dry ground, and only the Apostle John remained in the depths of the sea. Prochorus wept bitterly, bereft of his spiritual father and guide, and he went on towards Ephesus alone. the fourteenth day of his journey he stood at the shore of the sea and saw that the waves had cast a man ashore. Going up to him, he recognized the Apostle John, whom the Lord had preserved alive for fourteen days in the sea. and disciple went to Ephesus, where the Apostle John preached incessantly to the pagans about Christ. His preaching was accompanied by such numerous and great miracles, that the number of believers increased with each day. this time there had begun a persecution of Christians under the emperor Nero (56-68). They took the Apostle John for trial at Rome. Saint John was sentenced to death for his confession of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, but the Lord preserved His chosen one. The apostle drank a cup of deadly poison, but he remained alive. Later, he emerged unharmed from a cauldron of boiling oil into which he had been thrown on orders from the torturer. this, they sent the Apostle John off to imprisonment to the island of Patmos, where he spent many years. Proceeding along on his way to the place of exile, Saint John worked many miracles. On the island of Patmos, his preaching and miracles attracted to him all the inhabitants of the island, and he enlightened them with the light of the Gospel. He cast out many devils from the pagan temples, and he healed a great multitude of the sick. with demonic powers showed great hostility to the preaching of the holy apostle. He especially frightened the chief sorcerer of them all, named Kinops, who boasted that they would destroy the apostle. But the great John, by the grace of God acting through him, destroyed all the demonic artifices to which Kinops resorted, and the haughty sorcerer perished in the depths of the sea. Apostle John withdrew with his disciple Prochorus to a desolate height, where he imposed upon himself a three-day fast. As Saint John prayed the earth quaked and thunder rumbled. Prochorus fell to the ground in fright. The Apostle John lifted him up and told him to write down what he was about to say. “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end, saith the Lord, Who is and Who was and Who is to come, the Almighty” (Rev 1:8), proclaimed the Spirit of God through the Apostle John. Thus in about the year 67 the Book of Revelation was written, known also as the “Apocalypse,” of the holy Apostle John the Theologian. In this Book were predictions of the tribulations of the Church and of the end of the world. his prolonged exile, the Apostle John received his freedom and returned to Ephesus, where he continued with his activity, instructing Christians to guard against false teachers and their erroneous teachings. In the year 95, the Apostle John wrote his Gospel at Ephesus. He called for all Christians to love the Lord and one another, and by this to fulfill the commands of Christ. The Church calls Saint John the “Apostle of Love”, since he constantly taught that without love man cannot come near to God. his three Epistles, Saint John speaks of the significance of love for God and for neighbor. Already in his old age, he learned of a youth who had strayed from the true path to follow the leader of a band of robbers, so Saint John went out into the wilderness to seek him. Seeing the holy Elder, the guilty one tried to hide himself, but the Apostle John ran after him and besought him to stop. He promised to take the sins of the youth upon himself, if only he would repent and not bring ruin upon his soul. Shaken by the intense love of the holy Elder, the youth actually did repent and turn his life around. John reposed when he was more than a hundred years old. He far outlived the other eyewitnesses of the Lord, and for a long time he remained the only remaining eyewitness of the earthly life of the Savior. it was time for the departure of the Apostle John, he went out beyond the city limits of Ephesus with the families of his disciples. He bade them prepare for him a cross-shaped grave, in which he lay, telling his disciples that they should cover him over with the soil. The disciples tearfully kissed their beloved teacher, but not wanting to be disobedient, they fulfilled his bidding. They covered the face of the saint with a cloth and filled in the grave. Learning of this, other disciples of Saint John came to the place of his burial. When they opened the grave, they found it empty. year from the grave of the holy Apostle John on May 8 came forth a fine dust, which believers gathered up and were healed of sicknesses by it. Therefore, the Church also celebrates the memory of the holy Apostle John the Theologian on May 8. Lord bestowed on His beloved disciple John and John’s brother James the name “Sons of Thunder” an awesome messenger accompanied by the cleansing power of heavenly fire. And precisely by this the Savior pointed out the flaming, fiery, sacrificial character of Christian love, the preacher of which was the Apostle John the Theologian. The eagle, symbol of the lofty heights of his theological thought, is the iconographic symbol of the Evangelist John the Theologian. The appellation “Theologian” is bestown by Holy Church only to Saint John among the immediate disciples and Apostles of Christ, as being the seer of the mysterious Judgments of God. JOHN, APOSTLE AND EVANGELIST (27 DEC NT) ;

Rome, 30-, Apostles Folder

Rome, 30, Theophany, Baptismal Site Bethany (Beyond the Jordan)
Baptismal Site Bethany (Beyond the Jordan); (Arabic: meaning "baptism" or "immersion") is the traditional site of the Baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist and venerated as such since at least the Byzantine period.[1] place has also been referred to as Bethany (Beyond the Jordan) and Bethabara. The name is currently used primarily for the eastern side of the site, officially known as Baptism Site "Bethany Beyond the Jordan", an archaeological World Heritage site in Jordan, on the east bank of the Jordan River. western side of the ancient site is currently known as Qasr el-Yahud. This article deals primarily with the eastern section, located in Jordan. includes two principal archaeological areas: the remnants of a monastery on a mound known as Jabal Mar-Elias (Elijah's Hill) and an area close to the river with remains of churches, baptism ponds and pilgrim and hermit dwellings.[3] The two areas are connected by a stream called Wadi Kharrar.[4][5] strategic location between Jerusalem and the King's Highway is already evident from the Book of Joshua report about the Israelites crossing the Jordan there. Mar-Elias is traditionally identified as the site of the ascension of the prophet Elijah to heaven.[6] complete area was abandoned after the 1967 Six-Day War, when both banks of the Jordan became part of the frontline. The area was heavily mined then.[7] the signing of the Israel–Jordan peace treaty in 1994, de-mining of area soon took place after an initiative of Jordanian royalty, namely Prince Ghazi.[8] site has then seen several archaeological digs, four papal visits and state visits, and attracts tourists and pilgrimage activity.[9] In 2015, the site was designated as a World Heritage site by UNESCO, excluding the western side of the river. Approximately 81,000 people visited the site in 2016, mostly European, American, and Arab tourists.[10] Thousands flock to the site on January 6 to mark Epiphany.[9] Forefeast of the Theophany of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Commemorated January 3 ; first day of the Forefeast of Theophany falls on January 2. Like the hymns for the Nativity, many of the Church’s hymns of this period are slightly modified versions of the hymns of Holy Week. One of the hymns at Matins today says that the coming Feast of Theophany will be “even more radiant” than the Feast of the Nativity. Forefeast of the Theophany of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ Troparion — Tone 4 Prepare, O Zebulon, / and adorn yourself, O Naphtali; / river Jordan, cease flowing / and receive with joy the Master coming to be baptized. / Adam, rejoice with our First Mother / and do not hide yourself as you did of old in Paradise; / for having seen you naked, / He has appeared to clothe you with the first garment. / Christ has appeared to renew all creation. Kontakion — Tone 4 Today the Lord enters the Jordan and cries out to John: / “Do not be afraid to baptize me. / For I have come to save Adam, the first-formed man.” Feast of the Theophany of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Commemorated on January 6 ; is the Feast which reveals the Most Holy Trinity to the world through the Baptism of the Lord (Mt.3:13-17; Mark 1:9-11; Luke 3:21-22). the Father spoke from Heaven about the Son, the Son was baptized by Saint John the Forerunner, and the Holy Spirit descended upon the Son in the form of a dove. ancient times this Feast was called the Day of Illumination and the Feast of Lights, since God is Light and has appeared to illumine “those who sat in darkness,” and “in the region of the shadow of death” (Mt.4:16), and to save the fallen race of mankind by grace. the ancient Church it was the custom to baptize catechumens at the Vespers of Theophany, so that Baptism also is revealed as the spiritual illumination of mankind. origin of the Feast of Theophany goes back to Apostolic times, and it is mentioned in The Apostolic Constitutions (Book V:13). From the second century we have the testimony of Saint Clement of Alexandria concerning the celebration of the Baptism of the Lord, and the night vigil before this Feast. is a third century dialogue about the services for Theophany between the holy martyr Hippolytus and Saint Gregory the Wonderworker. In the following centuries, from the fourth to ninth century, all the great Fathers of the Church: Gregory the Theologian, John Chrysostom, Ambrose of Milan, John of Damascus, commented on the Feast of Theophany. monks Joseph the Studite, Theophanes and Byzantios composed much liturgical music for this Feast, which is sung at Orthodox services even today. Saint John of Damascus said that the Lord was baptized, not because He Himself had need for cleansing, but “to bury human sin by water,” to fulfill the Law, to reveal the mystery of the Holy Trinity, and finally, to sanctify “the nature of water” and to offer us the form and example of Baptism. the Feast of the Baptism of Christ, the Holy Church proclaims our faith in the most sublime mystery, incomprehensible to human intellect, of one God in three Persons. It teaches us to confess and glorify the Holy Trinity, one in Essence and Undivided. It exposes and overthrows the errors of ancient teachings which attempted to explain the Creator of the world by reason, and in human terms. Church shows the necessity of Baptism for believers in Christ, and it inspires us with a sense of deep gratitude for the illumination and purification of our sinful nature. The Church teaches that our salvation and cleansing from sin is possible only by the power of the grace of the Holy Spirit, therefore it is necessary to preserve worthily these gifts of the grace of holy Baptism, keeping clean this priceless garb, for “As many as have been baptized into Christ, have put on Christ” (Gal 3:27). the day of Theophany, all foods are permitted, even if the Feast falls on a Wednesday or Friday. Synaxis of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John, Commemorated January 7 ; the Orthodox Church it is customary, on the day following the Great Feasts of the Lord and the Mother of God, to remember those saints who participated directly in the sacred event. So, on the day following the Theophany of the Lord, the Church honors the one who participated directly in the Baptism of Christ, placing his own hand upon the head of the Savior. John, the holy Forerunner and Baptist of the Lord, whom the Lord called the greatest of the prophets, concludes the history of the Old Testament and opens the era of the New Testament. The holy Prophet John bore witness to the Only-Begotten Son of God, incarnate in the flesh. Saint John was accounted worthy to baptize Him in the waters of the Jordan, and he was a witness of the Theophany of the Most Holy Trinity on the day of the Savior’s Baptism. holy Prophet John, the son of the Priest Zachariah and Righteous Elizabeth, was related to the Lord on His mother’s side. The holy Forerunner, John, was born six months before Christ. The Archangel Gabriel announced his birth in the Temple at Jerusalem, revealing to Zachariah that a son was to be born to him. the prayers offered beforehand, the child was filled with the Holy Spirit. Saint John prepared himself in the wilds of the desert for his great service by a strict life, by fasting, prayer and sympathy for the fate of God’s people. the age of thirty, he came forth preaching repentance. He appeared on the banks of the Jordan, to prepare the people by his preaching to accept the Savior of the world. In church hymnology, Saint John is called a “bright morning star,” whose gleaming outshone the brilliance of all the other stars, announcing the coming dawn of the day of grace, illumined with the light of the spiritual Sun, our Lord Jesus Christ. baptized the sinless Lamb of God, Saint John soon died a martyr’s death, beheaded by the sword on orders of King Herod at the request of his daughter Salome. (On Saint John the Baptist, see Mt.3:1-16, 11:1-19, 14:1-12; Mark 1:2-8, 6:14-29; Luke 1:5-25, 39-80, 3:1-20, 7:18-35, 9:7-9; John 1:19-34, 3:22-26). Transfer of the Right Hand of the holy Forerunner from Antioch to Constantinople (956) and the Miracle of Saint John the Forerunner against the Hagarenes (Moslems) at Chios: body of Saint John the Baptist was buried in the Samaritan city of Sebaste. The holy Evangelist Luke, who went preaching Christ in various cities and towns, came to Sebaste, where they gave him the right hand of the holy Prophet John, the very hand with which he had baptized the Savior. The Evangelist Luke took it with him to his native city of Antioch. the Moslems seized Antioch centuries later, a deacon named Job brought the holy hand of the Forerunner from Antioch to Chalcedon. From there, on the eve of the Theophany of the Lord, it was transferred to Constantinople (956) and kept thereafter. the year 1200, the Russian pilgrim Dobrynya, who later became Saint Anthony, Archbishop of Novgorod (February 10), saw the right hand of the Forerunner in the imperial palace. From the Lives of the Saints we learn that in the year 1263, during the capture of Constantinople by the Crusaders, the emperor Baldwin gave one bone from the wrist of Saint John the Baptist to Ottonus de Cichon, who then gave it to a Cistercian abbey in France. right hand continued to be kept in Constantinople. And at the end of the fourteenth to the beginning of the fifteenth centuries, the holy relic was seen at Constantinople in the Peribleptos monastery by the Russian pilgrims Stephen of Novgorod, the deacon Ignatius, the cantor Alexander and the deacon Zosimus. When Constantinople fell to the Turks in 1453, sacred objects were gathered up at the the conqueror’s orders and kept under lock in the imperial treasury. the Lives of the Saints is clear testimony that in the year 1484 the right hand of the holy Forerunner was given away by the son of the Moslem sultan Bayazet to the knights of Rhodes to gain their good will, since a dangerous rival for Bayazet, his own brother, had allied himself with them. A contemporary participant, the vice-chancellor of Rhodes, Wilhelm Gaorsan Gallo, also speaks of this event. The knights of Rhodes, having established their base on the island of Malta (in the Mediterranean Sea), then transferred the sacred relic they had received to Malta. the Russian Tsar Paul I (1796-1801) became Grand Master of the Maltese Order in honor of the holy Prophet John, the right hand of the Baptist, part of the Life-Creating Cross and the Philermos Icon (October 12) of the Mother of God (from Mt Philermos on the island of Rhodes) were transferred in 1799 from the island of Malta to Russia [because of the Napoleonic threat], to the chapel at Gatchina (October 12). In the same year these sacred items were transferred into the church dedicated to the Icon of the Savior Not Made by Hands at the Winter Palace. A special service was composed for this Feast. the Synaxis of the honorable, glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John, the Russian Orthodox Church celebrates his memory on the following days: September 23, his Conception; June 24, his Nativity; August 29, his Beheading; February 24, the First and Second Finding of his Head; May 25, the Third Finding of his Head; October 12, the Transfer of his Right Hand from Malta to Gatchina (1799). Afterfeast of the Theophany of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Commemorated January 10 ; sixth day of the Afterfeast of Theophany falls on January 12. Divine grace shines forth so that we might be freed from the power of the devil, and cleansed of our sins in Baptism. “He who once assumed the appearance of a malignant serpent and implanted death in the creation, is now cast into darkness by Christ’s coming in the flesh....” (Ode 3, second Canon at Matins). “Through the Spirit and by the grace that comes through water, He grants a new birth to all who acknowledge His divinity, delivering them from their faults” (Ode 6, first Canon at Matins). Afterfeast of the Theophany of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Commemorated on January 13 ;

Rome, 30-34, STEVEN, people chose 7 spirit filled deacons incl S, Sanhedrin speach, stoned, forgive them
Jerusalem, 30-34, STEVEN, apostles can't both preach and administer, people chose 7 deacons incl S, spirit filled, sound judgement, hands laid, S eloquent fiery speaker, against temple service or defeated Jewish teachers of the Law in debate, fiery speach before Sanhedrin , stoned to d, forgive them, Paul there; Jerusalem; STEPHEN, DEACON AND PROTOMARTYR (26 DEC NT) ; that we know about Stephen the Protomartyr (that is, the first martyr of the Christian Church) is found in chapters 6 and 7 of the Book of Acts. early Christian congregations, like the Jewish synagogues, had a program of assistance for needy widows, and some of the Greek-speaking Jews in the Jerusalem congregation complained that their widows were being neglected. apostles replied: "We cannot both preach and administer financial matters. Choose seven men from among yourselves, respected, Spirit-filled, and of sound judgement, and let them be in charge of the accounts, and we will devote ourselves to prayer and the ministry of the word." The people accordingly chose seven men, including Stephen, and the apostles laid their hands on them. are traditionally considered to be the first deacons, although the Scriptures do not use the word to describe them. Scriptures do refer to officials called deacons in the local congregations, without being very specific about their duties; and a century or more later, we find the organized charities of each local congregation in the hands of its deacons.) was an eloquent and fiery speaker, and a provocative one. readers have speculated that some of his fellow Christians wanted to put him in charge of alms in the hope that he would administer more and talk less.) blunt declarations that the Temple service was no longer the means by which penitent sinners should seek reconciliation with God enraged the Temple leaders, who caused him to be stoned to death. he died, he said, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." One of those who saw the stoning and approved of it was Saul (or Paul) of Tarsus, who took an active part in the general persecution of Christians that followed the death of Stephen, but who was later led to become a Christian himself. remember Stephen on December 26, the day after Christmas. Hence the song Good King Wenceslas looked out On the feast of Stephen, an action of the king on the day after Christmas Day. The tune used with this song is older than the words and was previously used with a hymn often sung on the feasts of Stephen and other martyrs. It begins: Christian friends, your voices raise. Wake the day with gladness. God himself to joy and praise turns our human sadness: Joy that martyrs won their crown, opened heaven's bright portal, when they laid the mortal down for the life immortal. by James Kiefer Protomartyr and Archdeacon Stephen, Commemorated on December 27; Holy Protomartyr and Archdeacon Stephen was the eldest of the seven deacons, appointed by the Apostles themselves, and therefore he is called “archdeacon.” was the first Christian martyr, and he suffered for Christ when he was about thirty. In the words of Asterias, he was “the starting point of the martyrs, the instructor of suffering for Christ, the foundation of righteous confession, since Stephen was the first to shed his blood for the Gospel.” with the Holy Spirit, Saint Stephen preached Christianity and defeated Jewish teachers of the Law in debate. The Jews maligned Saint Stephen, saying that he had uttered blasphemy against God and against Moses. Saint Stephen came before the Sanhedrin and the High Priest to answer these charges. He gave a fiery speech, in which he recounted the history of the Jewish nation, and denounced the Jews for persecuting the prophets, and also for executing the promised Messiah, Jesus Christ (Acts ch. 7). his speech, Saint Stephen suddenly saw the heavens opened and Jesus Christ standing at the right hand of God. The Jews shouted and covered their ears, and rushed at him. They dragged him out of the city and stoned him, but the holy martyr prayed for his murderers. Far off on the heights stood the Mother of God with the holy Apostle John the Theologian, and She prayed fervently for the martyr. Before his death Saint Stephen said, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. O Lord, lay not this sin to their charge.” Then he joyfully gave up his pure soul to Christ. body of the holy Protomartyr Stephen, left to be eaten by beasts, was secretly taken up by the Jewish teacher Gamaliel and his son Habib, who buried Stephen on his estate. They both believed in Christ, and later received holy Baptism. Saint Stephen is also commemorated on August 2 (Translation of his relics) and on September 15 (Uncovering of his relics in the year 415).

Rome, 30-34, Nicanor, people chose 7 spirit filled deacons incl N, who died by stoning with Stephen
Jerusalem, 30-34, Nicanor, people chose 7 spirit filled deacons incl N, who died by stoning with Stephen; Jerusalem; Apostle Nicanor the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 28; Nicanor, Apostle of the Seventy was among the first deacons in the Church of Christ. the Acts of the Holy Apostles (6: 1-6) it is said that the twelve Apostles chose seven men: Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas and Nicholas, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, and established them to serve as deacons. Holy Church celebrates their memory together on July 28, although they died at various times and in various places. Nicanor suffered on that day when the holy Protomartyr Stephen and many other Christians were killed by stoning.

Rome, 30-60, Apostle Andrew and Saint Inna, first called, Peter's b, Scythia, Black Sea and Kiev
Rome, 30-60, 1st Century, Apostle Andrew and Saint Inna; Mongol, Scythia, 1st Century, Apostle Andrew and Saint Inna; Martyr Inna the Disciple of Apostle Andrew in Scythia, Commemorated on June 20;

Rome, 30-60, 1st Century, Apostle Andrew and Saints Inna, Pinna and Rimma
Martyrs Inna, Pinna, and Rimma, disciples of the Apostle Andrew, in Scythia, Commemorated on January 20; Holy Martyrs Inna, Pinna and Rimma were Slavs from northern Scythia (modern Bulgaria), and they were disciples of the holy Apostle Andrew the First-Called. They preached the Gospel of Christ and they baptized many barbarians who converted to the true Faith. They were seized by the local chieftain, but they would not deny Christ, nor would they offer sacrifice to idols. was wintertime, and the rivers were so frozen that not only people, but also horses with carts could travel on the ice. The chieftain had the saints tied to logs on the ice, and gradually lowered them into the freezing water. When the ice reached their necks, they surrendered their blessed souls to the Lord. Martyr Inna the Disciple of Apostle Andrew in Scythia, Commemorated on June 20; transfer of the relics of Saints Inna, Pinna, and Rimma to Alushta took place during the first-second centuries. These holy martyrs are also commemorated on January 20.

Rome, 30-60 approx., Apostle Artemas of the Seventy, bishop of Lystra, Lykaonia, died in peace
Apostle Artemas of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30; Lykaonia, 50-60 approx., Apostle Paul; Iconium; THECLA, 1ST CENTURY, Commemorated September 24; Protomartyr and Equal of the Apostles Thekla, Commemorated on September 24 ;

Rome, 30-63, Apostle James, Lord's brother, Nazarene, f bishop, Council p, conversions, off roof, stoning, litergy, book
Jerusalem, 30-63, Apostle James, brother of the Lord ; Apostle James, the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on October 23; Apostle James, the Brother of God (Adelphotheos) was the son of Righteous Joseph the Betrothed of the Most Holy Theotokos (December 26). his early years James was a Nazarene, a man especially dedicated to God. The Nazarenes vowed to preserve their virginity, to abstain from wine, to refrain from eating meat, and not to cut their hair. The vow of the Nazarenes symbolized a life of holiness and purity, commanded formerly by the Lord for all Israel. the Savior began to teach the nation about the Kingdom of God, Saint James believed in Christ and became His apostle. He was chosen as the first Bishop of Jerusalem. James presided over the Council of Jerusalem and his word was decisive (Acts 15). his thirty years as bishop, Saint James converted many of the Jews to Christianity. Annoyed by this, the Pharisees and the Scribes plotted together to kill Saint James. They led the saint up on the pinnacle of the Jerusalem Temple and asked what he thought of Jesus. The holy Apostle began to bear witness that Christ is the Messiah, which was not the response the Pharisees were expecting. Greatly angered, the Jewish teachers threw him off the roof. saint did not die immediately, but gathering his final strength, he prayed to the Lord for his enemies while they were stoning him. Saint James’ martyrdom occurred about 63 A.D. holy Apostle James composed a Divine Liturgy, which formed the basis of the Liturgies of Saints Basil the Great and John Chrysostom. The Church has preserved an Epistle of Saint James, one of the books of the New Testament. 1853, Patriarch Hierotheus of Alexandria sent to Moscow a portion of the relics of Saint James. The Church distinguishes between the holy Apostle James the Brother of God, and Saint James the son of Zebedee (April 30) and Saint James the son of Alphaeus (October 9).

Rome, 30-63, Apostle James, Lord's step-brother, approx 25 yrs older than MOG, probably at Jesus' birth because Joseph was 80
Jerusalem, 30-63, Apostle James, brother of the Lord ; Apostle James, the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on October 23; Apostle James, the Brother of God (Adelphotheos) was the son of Righteous Joseph the Betrothed of the Most Holy Theotokos (December 26). his early years James was a Nazarene, a man especially dedicated to God. The Nazarenes vowed to preserve their virginity, to abstain from wine, to refrain from eating meat, and not to cut their hair. The vow of the Nazarenes symbolized a life of holiness and purity, commanded formerly by the Lord for all Israel. the Savior began to teach the nation about the Kingdom of God, Saint James believed in Christ and became His apostle. He was chosen as the first Bishop of Jerusalem. James presided over the Council of Jerusalem and his word was decisive (Acts 15). his thirty years as bishop, Saint James converted many of the Jews to Christianity. Annoyed by this, the Pharisees and the Scribes plotted together to kill Saint James. They led the saint up on the pinnacle of the Jerusalem Temple and asked what he thought of Jesus. The holy Apostle began to bear witness that Christ is the Messiah, which was not the response the Pharisees were expecting. Greatly angered, the Jewish teachers threw him off the roof. saint did not die immediately, but gathering his final strength, he prayed to the Lord for his enemies while they were stoning him. Saint James’ martyrdom occurred about 63 A.D. holy Apostle James composed a Divine Liturgy, which formed the basis of the Liturgies of Saints Basil the Great and John Chrysostom. The Church has preserved an Epistle of Saint James, one of the books of the New Testament. 1853, Patriarch Hierotheus of Alexandria sent to Moscow a portion of the relics of Saint James. The Church distinguishes between the holy Apostle James the Brother of God, and Saint James the son of Zebedee (April 30) and Saint James the son of Alphaeus (October 9).

Rome, 30-62, Apostle Barnabus, first to preach in Rome
Rome, 30-62, Apostle Barnabus, first to preach in Rome; born Joseph, was according to tradition an early Christian, one of the prominent Christian disciples in Jerusalem. According to Acts 4:36, Barnabas was a Cypriot Jew. Named an apostle in Acts 14:14, he and Paul the Apostle undertook missionary journeys together and defended Gentile converts against the Judaizers. They traveled together making more converts (c. 45-47), and participated in the Council of Jerusalem (c. 50). Barnabas and Paul successfully evangelized among the "God-fearing" Gentiles who attended synagogues in various Hellenized cities of Anatolia. story appears in the Acts of the Apostles, and Paul mentions him in some of his epistles. Tertullian named him as the author of the Epistle to the Hebrews, but this and other attributions are conjecture. Clement of Alexandria and some scholars have ascribed the Epistle of Barnabas to him, but his authorship is disputed. the date, place, and circumstances of his death are historically unverifiable, Christian tradition holds that Barnabas was martyred at Salamis, Cyprus. He is traditionally identified as the founder of the Cypriot Orthodox Church. The feast day of Barnabas is celebrated on June 11. is usually identified as the cousin of Mark the Evangelist on the basis of the term "anepsios" used in Colossians 4, which carries the connotation of "cousin." Orthodox tradition holds that Aristobulus of Britannia, one of the Seventy Disciples, was the brother of Barnabas.[1] 11:24 describes Barnabas as "a good man, and full of the Holy Spirit and of faith". Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated on June 11; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy was born on the island of Cyprus into the family of the tribe of Levi, and he was named Joseph. He received his education at Jerusalem, being raised with his friend and fellow student Saul (the future Apostle Paul) under the renowned teacher of the Law, Gamaliel. Joseph was pious, he frequented the Temple, he strictly observed the fasts and avoided youthful distractions. During this time period our Lord Jesus Christ began His public ministry. Seeing the Lord and hearing His Divine Words, Joseph believed in Him as the Messiah. Filled with ardent love for the Savior, he followed Him. The Lord chose him to be one of His Seventy Apostles. The other Apostles called him Barnabas, which means “son of consolation.â€ After the Ascension of the Lord to Heaven, Barnabas sold land belonging to him near Jerusalem and he brought the money to the feet of the Apostles, leaving nothing for himself (Acts 4:36-37). Saul arrived in Jerusalem after his conversion and sought to join the followers of Christ, everyone there was afraid of him since he had persecuted the Church only a short while before. Barnabas, however, came with him to the Apostles and reported how the Lord had appeared to Saul on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:26-28). Barnabas went to Antioch to encourage the believers, “Having come and having seen the grace of God, he rejoiced and he urged all to cleave to the Lord with sincerity of heartâ€ (Acts 11:23). Then he went to Tarsus, and brought the Apostle Paul to Antioch, where for about a year they taught the people. It was here that the disciples first began to be called Christians (Acts 11:26). With the onset of famine, and taking along generous alms, Paul and Barnabas returned to Jerusalem. When King Herod killed Saint James the son of Zebedee, and had the Apostle Peter put under guard in prison to please the Jews, Saints Barnabas and Paul and Peter were led out of the prison by an angel of the Lord. hid out at the house of Barnabas’ aunt Maria. Later, when the persecution had quieted down, they returned to Antioch, taking with them Maria’s son John, surnamed Mark. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the prophets and teachers there imposed hands upon Barnabas and Paul, and sent them off to do the work to which the Lord had called them (Acts 13:2-3). Arriving in Seleucia, they sailed off to Cyprus and in the city of Salamis they preached the Word of God in the Jewish synagogues. Paphos they came across a sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus, who was close with the proconsul Sergius. Wishing to hear the Word of God, the proconsul invited the saints to come to him. The sorcerer attempted to sway the proconsul from the Faith, but the Apostle Paul denounced the sorcerer, who through his words suddenly fell blind. The proconsul believed in Christ (Acts 13:6-12). Paphos Barnabas and Paul set sail for Pergamum of Pamphylia, and then they preached to the Jews and the Gentiles at Pisidian Antioch and throughout all that region. The Jews rioted and expelled Paul and Barnabas. The saints arrived in Iconium, but learning that the Jews wanted to stone them, they withdrew to Lystra and Derben. There the Apostle Paul healed a man, crippled in the legs from birth. The people assumed them to be the gods Zeus and Hermes and wanted to offer them sacrifice. The saints just barely persuaded them not to do this (Acts 14:8-18). the question arose whether those converted from the Gentiles should accept circumcision, Barnabas and Paul went to Jerusalem. There they were warmly received by the Apostles and elders. The preachers related “what God had wrought with them and how He had opened the door of faith to the Gentilesâ€ (Acts 14:27). long deliberations the Apostles collectively resolved not to impose any sort of burden upon Gentile Christians except what was necessary: to refrain from the pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood (Acts 15:19-20). Letters were sent with Barnabas and Paul, and they again preached at Antioch, and after a certain while they decided to visit the other cities where they had visited earlier. Saint Barnabas wanted to take Mark along with him, but Saint Paul did not want to, since earlier he had left them. A quarrel arose, and they separated. Paul took Silas with him and went to Syria and Cilicia, while Barnabas took Mark with him to Cyprus (Acts 15:36-41). multiplied the number of believers, Saint Barnabas traveled to Rome, where he was perhaps the first to preach Christ. Barnabas founded the episcopal see at Mediolanum (now Milan), and upon his return to Cyprus he continued to preach about Christ the Savior. Then the enraged Jews incited the pagans against Barnabas, and they led him out beyond the city and stoned him, and then built a fire to burn the body. Later on, having come upon this spot, Mark took up the unharmed body of Saint Barnabas and buried it in a cave, placing upon the saint’s bosom, in accord with his final wishes, the Gospel of Matthew which he had copied in his own hand. Barnabas died in about the year 62, at age seventy-six. In time, the burial spot was forgotten, but numerous signs took place at this spot. In the year 448, during the time of the emperor Zeno, Saint Barnabas appeared three times in a dream to Archbishop Anthimus of Cyprus and indicated the place where his relics were buried. Starting to dig at the indicated spot, Christians found the incorrupt body of the saint, and upon his chest was the Holy Gospel. was during this time that the Church of Cyprus began to be regarded as Apostolic in origin, and received the right of choosing its head. Thus Saint Barnabas defended Cyprus against the pretensions of the opponent of the Fourth Ecumenical Council, the heretic surnamed Knapheios, who had usurped the patriarchal throne at Antioch and tried to gain dominion over the Church of Cyprus. Rome, 30-67, Apostle Paul Rome, 30-68, Apostle Peter ;

Rome, 30-68, Apostle Paul, formerly the enemy of the church, road to Damascus, Apostle leader, citizen, m Rome in 68
Rome, 30-68, Apostle Paul; hymns for their Feast speak of Saints Peter and Paul as the leaders (koryphaioi), and chiefs of the Apostles. They are, without a doubt, the foremost in the ranks of the Apostles. koryphaioi were leaders of the chorus in ancient Greek tragedy. They set the pattern for the singing, and also for the dance movements and gestures of the chorus. Before Sophocles, there were twelve members of the chorus, and Saints Peter and Paul were the leaders of the twelve Apostles. Paul was of the tribe of Benjamin, and lived in Tarsus in Cilicia. He once described himself as a Hebrew, an Israelite of the seed of Abraham (2 Cor. 11:22). He was also a Pharisee and a tent-maker (Acts 18:3) who had studied the Law with Gamaliel at Jerusalem. first, he was called Saul, and had persecuted the Church. He was present at the stoning of Saint Stephen (Acts 7: 58). Then, on the road to Damascus, he was converted when Christ appeared to him. Blinded by the vision, he was healed when Ananias laid his hands on him. After his cure, he was baptized (Acts 9:18). Paul preached the Gospel in Greece, Asia Minor, and in Rome, and wrote fourteen Epistles. Tradition says that he was martyred in Rome about the year 68. The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leaders of the Apostles, Peter and Paul, Commemorated on June 29 ; the Holy Church piously remembers the sufferings of the Holy Glorious and All-Praised Apostles Peter and Paul. Peter, the fervent follower of Jesus Christ, for the profound confession of His Divinity: “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living God,” was deemed worthy by the Savior to hear in answer, “Blessed art thou, Simon ... I tell thee, that thou art Peter [Petrus], and on this stone [petra] I build My Church” (Mt.16:16-18). On “this stone” [petra], is on that which thou sayest: “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living God” it is on this thy confession I build My Church. Wherefore the “thou art Peter”: it is from the “stone” [petra] that Peter [Petrus] is, and not from Peter [Petrus] that the “stone” [petra] is, just as the Christian is from Christ, and not Christ from the Christian. Do you want to know, from what sort of “rock” [petra] the Apostle Peter [Petrus] was named? Hear the Apostle Paul: “Brethren, I do not want ye to be ignorant,” says the Apostle of Christ, “how all our fathers were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; and all were baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; and did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ” (1 Cor.10: 1-4).... Lord Jesus Christ, in the final days of His earthly life, in the days of His mission to the race of man, chose from among the disciples His twelve Apostles to preach the Word of God. Among them, the Apostle Peter for his fiery ardor was vouchsafed to occupy the first place (Mt.10:2) and to be as it were the representative person for all the Church. Therefore it is said to him, preferentially, after the confession: “I will give unto thee the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth, shall be bound in the heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth: shall be loosed in heaven” (Mt.16: 19). Therefore it was not one man, but rather the One Universal Church, that received these “keys” and the right “to bind and loosen.” And that it was actually the Church that received this right, and not exclusively a single person, turn your attention to another place of the Scriptures, where the same Lord says to all His Apostles, “Receive ye the Holy Spirit” and further after this, “Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them: and whose soever sins ye retain, are retained” (John 20: 22-23); or: “whatsoever ye bind upon the earth, shall be bound in Heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth, shall be loosened in heaven” (Mt.18:18). Thus, it is the Church that binds, the Church that loosens; the Church, built upon the foundational cornerstone, Jesus Christ Himself (Eph 2:20), doth bind and loosen. Let both the binding and the loosening be feared: the loosening, in order not to fall under this again; the binding, in order not to remain forever in this condition. Therefore “Iniquities ensnare a man, and everyone is bound in the chains of his own sins,” says Wisdom (Prov 5:22); and except for Holy Church nowhere is it possible to receive the loosening. His Resurrection the Lord entrusted the Apostle Peter to shepherd His spiritual flock not because, that among the disciples only Peter alone was pre-deserved to shepherd the flock of Christ, but Christ addresses Himself chiefly to Peter because, that Peter was first among the Apostles and as such the representative of the Church; besides which, having turned in this instance to Peter alone, as to the top Apostle, Christ by this confirms the unity of the Church. “Simon of John” -- says the Lord to Peter -- “lovest thou Me?” -- and the Apostle answered: “Yea, Lord, Thou knowest that I love Thee”; and a second time it was thus asked, and a second time he thus answered; being asked a third time, seeing that as it were not believed, he was saddened. But how is it possible for him not to believe That One, Who knew his heart? And wherefore then Peter answered: “Lord, Thou knowest all; Thou knowest that I love Thee.” “And sayeth Jesus to him” all three times “Feed My sheep” (John 20:15-17). this, the triple appealing of the Savior to Peter and the triple confession of Peter before the Lord had a particular beneficial purpose for the Apostle. That one, to whom was given “the keys of the kingdom” and the right “to bind and to loose,” bound himself thrice by fear and cowardice (Mt.26:69-75), and the Lord thrice loosens him by His appeal and in turn by his confession of strong love. And to shepherd literally the flock of Christ was acquired by all the Apostles and their successors. “Take heed, therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock,” the Apostle Paul urges church presbyters, “over which the Holy Spirit hath made you overseers, to feed the Church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood” (Acts 20:28); and the Apostle Peter to the elders: “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof not by constraint, but willingly: not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind: neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock. And when is appeared the Prince of pastors, ye will receive unfading crowns of glory” (1 Pet. 5:2-4). is remarkable that Christ, having said to Peter: “Feed My sheep,” did not say: “Feed thy sheep,” but rather to feed, good servant, the sheep of the Lord. “Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?” (1 Cor.1:13). “Feed My sheep”. Wherefore “wolfish robbers, wolfish oppressors, deceitful teachers and mercenaries, not being concerned about the flock” (Mt.7:15; Acts 20:29; 2 Pet 2:1; John 10:12), having plundered a strange flock and making of the spoils as though it be of their own particular gain, they think that they feed their flock. Such are not good pastors, as pastors of the Lord. “The good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep” (John 10:11), entrusted to Him by the chief Shepherd Himself (1 Pet 5:4). And the Apostle Peter, true to his calling, gave his soul for the very flock of Christ, having sealed his apostleship by a martyr’s death, is now glorified throughout all the world. Apostle Paul, formerly Saul, was changed from a robbing wolf into a meek lamb. Formerly he was an enemy of the Church, then is manifest as an Apostle. Formerly he stalked it, then preached it. Having received from the high priests the authority at large to throw all Christians in chains for execution, he was already on the way, he breathed out “threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord” (Acts 9:1), he thirsted for blood, but “He that dwells in the Heavens shall laugh him to scorn” (Ps 2:4). When he, “having persecuted and vexed” in such manner “the Church of God” (1Cor.15:9; Acts 8:5), he came near Damascus, and the Lord from Heaven called to him: “Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me?” and I am here, and I am there, I am everywhere: here is My head; there is My body. There becomes nothing of a surprise in this; we ourselves are members of the Body of Christ. “Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me; it is hard for thee to kick against the goad” (Acts 9:4-5). Saul, however, “trembling and frightened”, cried out: “Who art Thou, Lord?” The Lord answered him, “I am Jesus Whom thou persecutest.” Saul suddenly undergoes a change: “What wantest Thou me to do?” -- he cries out. And suddenly for him there is the Voice: “Arise, and go to the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do” (Acts 9:6). Here the Lord sends Ananias: “Arise and go into the street” to a man, “by the name of Saul,” and baptize him, “for this one is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel” (Acts 9: 11, 15, 18). This vessel must be filled with My Grace. “Ananias, however, answered: Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he hath done to Thy saints in Jerusalem: and here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Thy Name” (Acts 9:13-14). But the Lord urgently commands Ananias: “Search for and fetch him, for this vessel is chosen by Me: for I shall show him what great things he must suffer for My name’s sake” (Acts 9:11, 15-16). actually the Lord did show the Apostle Paul what things he had to suffer for His Name. He instructed him the deeds; He did not stop at the chains, the fetters, the prisons and shipwrecks; He Himself felt for him in his sufferings, He Himself guided him towards this day. On a single day the memory of the sufferings of both these Apostles is celebrated, though they suffered on separate days, but by the spirit and the closeness of their suffering they constitute one. Peter went first, and Paul followed soon after him. Formerly called Saul, and then Paul, having transformed his pride into humility. His very name (Paulus), meaning “small, little, less,” demonstrates this. What is the Apostle Paul after this? Ask him, and he himself gives answer to this: “I am,” says he, “the least of the Apostles... but I have labored more abundantly than all of them: yet not I, but the grace of God, which was with me” (1 Cor.15:9-10). so, brethren, celebrating now the memory of the holy Apostles Peter and Paul, remembering their venerable sufferings, we esteem their true faith and holy life, we esteem the innocence of their sufferings and pure confession. Loving in them the sublime quality and imitating them by great exploits, “in which to be likened to them” (2 Thess 3: 5-9), and we shall attain to that eternal bliss which is prepared for all the saints. The path of our life before was more grievous, thornier, harder, but “we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses” (Heb 12: 1), having passed by along it, made now for us easier, and lighter, and more readily passable. First there passed along it “the author and finisher of our faith,” our Lord Jesus Christ Himself (Heb 12: 2); His daring Apostles followed after Him; then the martyrs, children, women, virgins and a great multitude of witnesses. Who acted in them and helped them on this path? He Who said, “Without Me ye can do nothing” (John 15: 5). Rome, 30-68, Apostle Peter ; Roman Pope, 66-99, Clement I ; CLEMENT OF ROME, BISHOP (23 NOV 100); Hieromartyr Clement the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on November 25;

Rome, 30-68, Apostle Peter, Apostle leader, fiery ardor, fisherman, crucified in Rome under Nero
Rome, 30-68, Apostle Peter ; Peter[5] (died between AD 64 and 68[1]), also known as Simon Peter, Simeon, Simon (/ˈsaɪmən/ (About this soundlisten)), Cephas (/ˈsiːfəs/[6]), or Peter the Apostle, was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ, and one of the first leaders of the early Church. to Christian tradition, Peter was crucified in Rome under Emperor Nero. He is traditionally counted as the first bishop of Rome‍—‌or pope‍—‌and also by Eastern Christian tradition as the first patriarch of Antioch. The ancient Christian churches all venerate Peter as a major saint and as the founder of the Church of Antioch and the Diocese of Rome,[1] but differ in their attitudes regarding the authority of his successors. According to Catholic teaching, Jesus promised Peter a special position in the Church.[7] the New Testament, Peter appears repeatedly and prominently in all four gospels as well as the Acts of the Apostles. He is the brother of Saint Andrew, and both brothers were fishermen. The Gospel of Mark in particular was traditionally thought to show the influence of Peter's preaching and eyewitness memories. He is also mentioned, under either the name Peter or Cephas, in Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians and the Epistle to the Galatians. The New Testament also includes two general epistles, First Peter and Second Peter, that are traditionally attributed to him, but modern scholarship generally rejects the Petrine authorship of both.[8] of the New Testament, several apocryphal books were later attributed to him, in particular the Acts of Peter, Gospel of Peter, Preaching of Peter, Apocalypse of Peter, and Judgment of Peter, although scholars believe these works to be pseudoepigrapha.[9][10][11] Roman Pope, 66-99, Clement I ; CLEMENT OF ROME, BISHOP (23 NOV 100); Hieromartyr Clement the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on November 25; The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leaders of the Apostles, Peter and Paul, Commemorated on June 29 ; the Holy Church piously remembers the sufferings of the Holy Glorious and All-Praised Apostles Peter and Paul. Peter, the fervent follower of Jesus Christ, for the profound confession of His Divinity: “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living God,” was deemed worthy by the Savior to hear in answer, “Blessed art thou, Simon ... I tell thee, that thou art Peter [Petrus], and on this stone [petra] I build My Church” (Mt.16:16-18). On “this stone” [petra], is on that which thou sayest: “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living God” it is on this thy confession I build My Church. Wherefore the “thou art Peter”: it is from the “stone” [petra] that Peter [Petrus] is, and not from Peter [Petrus] that the “stone” [petra] is, just as the Christian is from Christ, and not Christ from the Christian. Do you want to know, from what sort of “rock” [petra] the Apostle Peter [Petrus] was named? Hear the Apostle Paul: “Brethren, I do not want ye to be ignorant,” says the Apostle of Christ, “how all our fathers were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; and all were baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; and did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ” (1 Cor.10: 1-4).... Lord Jesus Christ, in the final days of His earthly life, in the days of His mission to the race of man, chose from among the disciples His twelve Apostles to preach the Word of God. Among them, the Apostle Peter for his fiery ardor was vouchsafed to occupy the first place (Mt.10:2) and to be as it were the representative person for all the Church. Therefore it is said to him, preferentially, after the confession: “I will give unto thee the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth, shall be bound in the heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth: shall be loosed in heaven” (Mt.16: 19). Therefore it was not one man, but rather the One Universal Church, that received these “keys” and the right “to bind and loosen.” And that it was actually the Church that received this right, and not exclusively a single person, turn your attention to another place of the Scriptures, where the same Lord says to all His Apostles, “Receive ye the Holy Spirit” and further after this, “Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them: and whose soever sins ye retain, are retained” (John 20: 22-23); or: “whatsoever ye bind upon the earth, shall be bound in Heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth, shall be loosened in heaven” (Mt.18:18). Thus, it is the Church that binds, the Church that loosens; the Church, built upon the foundational cornerstone, Jesus Christ Himself (Eph 2:20), doth bind and loosen. Let both the binding and the loosening be feared: the loosening, in order not to fall under this again; the binding, in order not to remain forever in this condition. Therefore “Iniquities ensnare a man, and everyone is bound in the chains of his own sins,” says Wisdom (Prov 5:22); and except for Holy Church nowhere is it possible to receive the loosening. His Resurrection the Lord entrusted the Apostle Peter to shepherd His spiritual flock not because, that among the disciples only Peter alone was pre-deserved to shepherd the flock of Christ, but Christ addresses Himself chiefly to Peter because, that Peter was first among the Apostles and as such the representative of the Church; besides which, having turned in this instance to Peter alone, as to the top Apostle, Christ by this confirms the unity of the Church. “Simon of John” -- says the Lord to Peter -- “lovest thou Me?” -- and the Apostle answered: “Yea, Lord, Thou knowest that I love Thee”; and a second time it was thus asked, and a second time he thus answered; being asked a third time, seeing that as it were not believed, he was saddened. But how is it possible for him not to believe That One, Who knew his heart? And wherefore then Peter answered: “Lord, Thou knowest all; Thou knowest that I love Thee.” “And sayeth Jesus to him” all three times “Feed My sheep” (John 20:15-17). this, the triple appealing of the Savior to Peter and the triple confession of Peter before the Lord had a particular beneficial purpose for the Apostle. That one, to whom was given “the keys of the kingdom” and the right “to bind and to loose,” bound himself thrice by fear and cowardice (Mt.26:69-75), and the Lord thrice loosens him by His appeal and in turn by his confession of strong love. And to shepherd literally the flock of Christ was acquired by all the Apostles and their successors. “Take heed, therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock,” the Apostle Paul urges church presbyters, “over which the Holy Spirit hath made you overseers, to feed the Church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood” (Acts 20:28); and the Apostle Peter to the elders: “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof not by constraint, but willingly: not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind: neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock. And when is appeared the Prince of pastors, ye will receive unfading crowns of glory” (1 Pet. 5:2-4). is remarkable that Christ, having said to Peter: “Feed My sheep,” did not say: “Feed thy sheep,” but rather to feed, good servant, the sheep of the Lord. “Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?” (1 Cor.1:13). “Feed My sheep”. Wherefore “wolfish robbers, wolfish oppressors, deceitful teachers and mercenaries, not being concerned about the flock” (Mt.7:15; Acts 20:29; 2 Pet 2:1; John 10:12), having plundered a strange flock and making of the spoils as though it be of their own particular gain, they think that they feed their flock. Such are not good pastors, as pastors of the Lord. “The good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep” (John 10:11), entrusted to Him by the chief Shepherd Himself (1 Pet 5:4). And the Apostle Peter, true to his calling, gave his soul for the very flock of Christ, having sealed his apostleship by a martyr’s death, is now glorified throughout all the world. Apostle Paul, formerly Saul, was changed from a robbing wolf into a meek lamb. Formerly he was an enemy of the Church, then is manifest as an Apostle. Formerly he stalked it, then preached it. Having received from the high priests the authority at large to throw all Christians in chains for execution, he was already on the way, he breathed out “threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord” (Acts 9:1), he thirsted for blood, but “He that dwells in the Heavens shall laugh him to scorn” (Ps 2:4). When he, “having persecuted and vexed” in such manner “the Church of God” (1Cor.15:9; Acts 8:5), he came near Damascus, and the Lord from Heaven called to him: “Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me?” and I am here, and I am there, I am everywhere: here is My head; there is My body. There becomes nothing of a surprise in this; we ourselves are members of the Body of Christ. “Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me; it is hard for thee to kick against the goad” (Acts 9:4-5). Saul, however, “trembling and frightened”, cried out: “Who art Thou, Lord?” The Lord answered him, “I am Jesus Whom thou persecutest.” Saul suddenly undergoes a change: “What wantest Thou me to do?” -- he cries out. And suddenly for him there is the Voice: “Arise, and go to the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do” (Acts 9:6). Here the Lord sends Ananias: “Arise and go into the street” to a man, “by the name of Saul,” and baptize him, “for this one is a chosen vessel unto Me, to bear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel” (Acts 9: 11, 15, 18). This vessel must be filled with My Grace. “Ananias, however, answered: Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he hath done to Thy saints in Jerusalem: and here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on Thy Name” (Acts 9:13-14). But the Lord urgently commands Ananias: “Search for and fetch him, for this vessel is chosen by Me: for I shall show him what great things he must suffer for My name’s sake” (Acts 9:11, 15-16). actually the Lord did show the Apostle Paul what things he had to suffer for His Name. He instructed him the deeds; He did not stop at the chains, the fetters, the prisons and shipwrecks; He Himself felt for him in his sufferings, He Himself guided him towards this day. On a single day the memory of the sufferings of both these Apostles is celebrated, though they suffered on separate days, but by the spirit and the closeness of their suffering they constitute one. Peter went first, and Paul followed soon after him. Formerly called Saul, and then Paul, having transformed his pride into humility. His very name (Paulus), meaning “small, little, less,” demonstrates this. What is the Apostle Paul after this? Ask him, and he himself gives answer to this: “I am,” says he, “the least of the Apostles... but I have labored more abundantly than all of them: yet not I, but the grace of God, which was with me” (1 Cor.15:9-10). so, brethren, celebrating now the memory of the holy Apostles Peter and Paul, remembering their venerable sufferings, we esteem their true faith and holy life, we esteem the innocence of their sufferings and pure confession. Loving in them the sublime quality and imitating them by great exploits, “in which to be likened to them” (2 Thess 3: 5-9), and we shall attain to that eternal bliss which is prepared for all the saints. The path of our life before was more grievous, thornier, harder, but “we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses” (Heb 12: 1), having passed by along it, made now for us easier, and lighter, and more readily passable. First there passed along it “the author and finisher of our faith,” our Lord Jesus Christ Himself (Heb 12: 2); His daring Apostles followed after Him; then the martyrs, children, women, virgins and a great multitude of witnesses. Who acted in them and helped them on this path? He Who said, “Without Me ye can do nothing” (John 15: 5).

Rome, 30-68, Apostle Philemon and wife Apphia, Colossae, Phyrgia, Church in their home, slave Onesimus, friend Archippus, stoned to death
Phyrgia, 30-68, Apostle Philemon and wife Apphia, Colossae, Phyrgia, Church in their home, slave Onesimus, friend Archippus, stoned to death; Colossae or Chonae means plunging. ; Apostles of the Seventy Philemon and Archippus, Martyr Apphia, wife of Philemon and Equal-to-the-Apostles, and Onesimus, disciple of Saint Paul Commemorated on November 22 Holy Apostles of the Seventy Philemon and his wife Apphia lived in the city of Colossa in Phrygia. After they were baptized by the holy Apostle Paul, they converted their house into a house of prayer, where all those who believed in Christ gathered and attended services. They devoted themselves to serving the sick and downcast. Philemon became bishop of the city of Gaza, and he preached the Word of God throughout Phrygia. The holy Apostle Paul continued to be his guide, and addressed to him his Epistle filled with love, and in which he sends blessings “to Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellow laborer, and to our beloved Apphia, and to Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church in thy house” (Phil 1:1-3). Onesimus (February 15), also mentioned in the Epistle, was Saint Philemon’s former slave. Philemon and Apphia, and also Saint Archippus (who also lived at Colossa), all received the crown of martyrdom during the persecution of Nero (54-68). During a pagan festival an enraged crowd rushed into the Christian church when services were going on. All fled in terror, and only Saints Philemon, Archippus and Apphia remained. They seized them and led them off to the city prefect. The crowd beat and stabbed Saint Archippus with knives, and he died on the way to the court. Saints Philemon and Apphia were stoned to death by order of the prefect. memory of the holy Apostles Archippus, Philemon, and Apphia is celebrated also on February 19. Apostles of the Seventy Archippus and Philemon, and Martyr Apphia, Commemorated on February 19; Archippus, Philemon and Apphia, Apostles of the Seventy were students and companions of the holy Apostle Paul. In the Epistle to Philemon, the Apostle Paul names Saint Archippus as his companion, and mentions him again in the Epistle to the Colossians (Col. 4:17). Archippus was bishop of the city of Colossae in Phrygia. Saint Philemon was an eminent citizen of this city, and the Christians gathered in his home to celebrate church services. He was also made a bishop by Saint Paul and he went about the cities of Phrygia, preaching the Gospel. on, he became archpastor of the city of Gaza. Apphia, his wife, took the sick and vagrants into her home, zealously attending to them. She was her husband’s co-worker in proclaiming the Word of God. the persecution against Christians under the emperor Nero (54-68), the holy Apostles Archippus and Philemon and Apphia were brought to trial by the ruler Artocles for confessing faith in Christ. Archippus was brutally slashed with knives. torture, they buried Saints Philemon and Apphia up to the waist in the ground, and stoned them until they died. Archippus is also commemorated on November 22. -----------------------------------------------------

Rome, 30-68, Apostle Archippus, Colossae, Phyrgia, friends Philemon and wife Apphia and their slave Onesimus, tortured, slashed with knives
Phyrgia, 30-68, Apostle Archippus, Colossae, Phyrgia, friends Philemon and wife Apphia and their slave Onesimus, tortured, slashed with knives; Colossae or Chonae means plunging. ; Apostles of the Seventy Philemon and Archippus, Martyr Apphia, wife of Philemon and Equal-to-the-Apostles, and Onesimus, disciple of Saint Paul Commemorated on November 22 Holy Apostles of the Seventy Philemon and his wife Apphia lived in the city of Colossa in Phrygia. After they were baptized by the holy Apostle Paul, they converted their house into a house of prayer, where all those who believed in Christ gathered and attended services. They devoted themselves to serving the sick and downcast. Philemon became bishop of the city of Gaza, and he preached the Word of God throughout Phrygia. The holy Apostle Paul continued to be his guide, and addressed to him his Epistle filled with love, and in which he sends blessings “to Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellow laborer, and to our beloved Apphia, and to Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church in thy house” (Phil 1:1-3). Onesimus (February 15), also mentioned in the Epistle, was Saint Philemon’s former slave. Philemon and Apphia, and also Saint Archippus (who also lived at Colossa), all received the crown of martyrdom during the persecution of Nero (54-68). During a pagan festival an enraged crowd rushed into the Christian church when services were going on. All fled in terror, and only Saints Philemon, Archippus and Apphia remained. They seized them and led them off to the city prefect. The crowd beat and stabbed Saint Archippus with knives, and he died on the way to the court. Saints Philemon and Apphia were stoned to death by order of the prefect. memory of the holy Apostles Archippus, Philemon, and Apphia is celebrated also on February 19. Apostles of the Seventy Archippus and Philemon, and Martyr Apphia, Commemorated on February 19; Archippus, Philemon and Apphia, Apostles of the Seventy were students and companions of the holy Apostle Paul. In the Epistle to Philemon, the Apostle Paul names Saint Archippus as his companion, and mentions him again in the Epistle to the Colossians (Col. 4:17). Archippus was bishop of the city of Colossae in Phrygia. Saint Philemon was an eminent citizen of this city, and the Christians gathered in his home to celebrate church services. He was also made a bishop by Saint Paul and he went about the cities of Phrygia, preaching the Gospel. on, he became archpastor of the city of Gaza. Apphia, his wife, took the sick and vagrants into her home, zealously attending to them. She was her husband’s co-worker in proclaiming the Word of God. the persecution against Christians under the emperor Nero (54-68), the holy Apostles Archippus and Philemon and Apphia were brought to trial by the ruler Artocles for confessing faith in Christ. Archippus was brutally slashed with knives. torture, they buried Saints Philemon and Apphia up to the waist in the ground, and stoned them until they died. Archippus is also commemorated on November 22. -----------------------------------------------------

Rome, 30-68, Philemon, Apphia and Archippus, Colossae, Phyrgia, P Bishop of P, Gaza Archpastor, Wife Apphia, Archippus C b
Phrygia, 30-68, Philemon, Apphia and Archippus of the Seventy, Colossae, Phyrgia (Chonae, plunging, Great Road, Lycus River 1), Prominent Phrygia citizen, church in his home, evangelist preacher, Bishop of P, Archpastor of Gaza, Wife Apphia coworker, Archippus bishop of Colossae, P; Colossae or Chonae means plunging. ; Martyr Archippus of the Seventy Apostles, Commemorated February 19; See below Apostle Philemon the Martyr of the Seventy, Commemorated February 19 ; Archippus, Philemon and Apphia, Apostles of the Seventy were students and companions of the holy Apostle Paul. In the Epistle to Philemon, the Apostle Paul names Saint Archippus as his companion, and mentions him again in the Epistle to the Colossians (Col. 4:17). Archippus was bishop of the city of Colossae in Phrygia. Saint Philemon was an eminent citizen of this city, and the Christians gathered in his home to celebrate church services. was also made a bishop by Saint Paul and he went about the cities of Phrygia, preaching the Gospel. Later on, he became archpastor of the city of Gaza. Saint Apphia, his wife, took the sick and vagrants into her home, zealously attending to them. She was her husband’s co-worker in proclaiming the Word of God. the persecution against Christians under the emperor Nero (54-68), the holy Apostles Archippus and Philemon and Apphia were brought to trial by the ruler Artocles for confessing faith in Christ. Saint Archippus was brutally slashed with knives. After torture, they buried Saints Philemon and Apphia up to the waist in the ground, and stoned them until they died. Archippus is also commemorated on November 22.

Rome, 30-68, Rodion or Herodion, Apostle of the Seventy, Bishop of Patra, K in Rome with Peter
Greece, 30-68, Rodion or Herodion, Apostle of the Seventy, Bishop of Patra, K in Rome with Peter of Patras (also Herodian or Rodion) was a relative of Saint Paul whom Paul greets in Romans 16:11. to tradition, he was numbered among the Seventy Disciples and became bishop of Patras, where he suffered greatly. beating, stoning, and stabbing him, they left him for dead, but St. Herodion arose and continued to serve the Apostles. was beheaded with Olympas in Rome while they were serving Saint Peter on the same day that St. Peter was crucified. His feast days are celebrated on January 4 among the Seventy, April 8, and November 10. Patras; Apostle Rodion of the Seventy, Commemorated November 10; Olympas was mentioned by the holy Apostle Paul (Rom 16:15). He was also a companion of the Apostle Peter. Saint Rodion (Herodion), was a kinsman of the Apostle Paul (Romans 16:11), and left the bishop’s throne at Patras to go to Rome with the Apostle Peter. Saints Rodion and Olympas were beheaded on the very day and hour when Saint Peter was crucified. The holy Apostles Erastus, Sosipater (April 28), Olympas (January 4), Rodion (April 8), Quartus and Tertius (October 30) were disciples of Saint Paul. They all lived during the first century. Apostle to the Gentiles speaks of them in the Epistle to the Romans, “And Erastus, the city treasurer, greets you, and Quartus, a brother” (Rom 16: 23). Sosipater, a native of Achaia, was Bishop of Iconium, where he also died. Saint Paul mentions him in Romans 16:21. Olympas was mentioned by the holy Apostle Paul (Rom 16:15). He was also a companion of the Apostle Peter. Saint Rodion (Herodion), was a kinsman of the Apostle Paul (Romans 16:11), and left the bishop’s throne at Patras to go to Rome with the Apostle Peter. Saints Rodion and Olympas were beheaded on the very day and hour when Saint Peter was crucified. Quartus endured much suffering for his piety and converted many pagans to Christ, dying peacefully as a bishop in the city of Beirut. Tertius is mentioned in the Epistle to the Romans, “I, Tertius, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord” (Rom 16:22). Saint Tertius, to whom Saint Paul dictated the Epistle to the Romans, was the second Bishop of Iconium, where also he died.

Rome, 30-68, Apostle Mark of the Seventy, Apollonia, John Mark, the Evangelist, Barnabas' cousin
Albania, 30-68, Apostle Mark of the Seventy, Apollonia (Illyria) (Aous River) Ancient Macedonia; Mark is named in the Acts of the Apostles as an assistant accompanying Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journeys. Traditionally he is regarded as identical with Mark the Evangelist, the traditional writer of the Gospel of Mark. account 6th-century Syriac inscription at the Monastery of St. Mark on Zion, beginning, "This is the house of Mary, mother of John Mark." Lion of St Mark outside Bishop's Palace -- Galveston, Texas times the Acts of the Apostles mentions a certain "John, who was also called Mark" or simply "John": And when [Peter] had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.Acts 12:12 And Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem, when they had fulfilled their ministry, and took with them John, whose surname was Mark.Acts 12:25 And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had John to their minister.[Acts 13:5] Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.[Acts 13:13] And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whise surname was Mark. But Paul thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work. And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabus took Mark, and sailed unto Cypress; And Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the Grace of God. [Acts 15:37–40] these passages it may be gathered that John's mother Mary had a large house in Jerusalem to which Peter fled after escaping prison; that John assisted Paul and Barnabas on their first missionary journey to Cyprus and as far as Perga in Pamphylia, but then returned to Jerusalem; and that later controversy over receiving John Mark back led to Paul and Barnabas parting ways, with Barnabas taking Mark back to Cyprus and both thereafter disappearing from the narrative of Acts. The reasons for John Mark's departure to Jerusalem and the subsequent disagreement between Paul and Barnabas have been subject to much speculation. Matthew Henry, for example, suggested that John Mark had departed "without [Barnabas and Paul's] knowledge, or without their consent".[2] However, there is simply too little data to regard any explanation with confidence.[3] scholars have argued that John Mark's negative portrayal in Acts is a polemic against the presumptive author of the Gospel of Mark, Luke's primary source for his own Gospel. Adela Collins suggests, "Since the author of Acts also wrote the Gospel according to Luke, it could be that this critical portrait was intended to undercut the authority of the second Gospel."[4] Michael Kok notes that "Mark's Gospel was a bit of an embarrassment to the refined literary and theological tastes of an educated Christian like Luke."[5] was common for Jews of the period to bear both a Semitic name such as John (Hebrew: Yochanon) and a Greco-Roman name such as Mark.[6] But since John was one of the most common names among Palestinian Jews,[7] and Mark was the most common in the Roman world,[8] caution is warranted in identifying John Mark with any other John or Mark. sources in fact consistently distinguish John Mark from the other Marks of the New Testament and style him Bishop of Byblos.[1][9][10][11] Nor was John Mark identified in antiquity with any other John, apart from rare and explicit speculation.[10][12][13] sources, on the other hand, increasingly regarded all New Testament references to Mark as Mark the Evangelist, and many modern scholars have agreed in seeing a single Mark.[14] The very fact that various writings could refer simply to Mark without further qualification has been seen as pointing to a single Mark.[15] there is Mark the cousin of Barnabas, mentioned by Paul as a "fellow worker" in the closings of three Pauline epistles.[16] In antiquity he was regarded as a distinct Mark, Bishop of Apollonia.[11] If, on the other hand, these two Marks are to be identified, the fact that these epistles were written after the departure of John Mark with Barnabas in Acts must suppose some later reconciliation. But a majority of scholars, noting the close association of both Marks with Paul and Barnabas, indeed regard them as likely the same person. Biblical scholars Samuel Rolles Driver and Charles Augustus Briggs identified Mark, the cousin of Barnabas, with John Mark,[17] as do John R. Donahue and Daniel J. Harrington.[18] the Evangelist, however, is known only from the patristic tradition, which associates him only with Peter and makes no mention of Paul.[19] Jerome alone suggests that the Mark of whom Paul speaks may be the Evangelist.[20][21] But modern scholars have noted that as Peter fled to the house of John Mark's mother, the two men may have had a longstanding association.[22] minority of modern scholars have argued, on the other hand, for identifying John the Evangelist or John the Elder with John Mark.[23] sources Acts of Barnabas, apparently an apocryphal work of the 5th century,[24] purport to be written by John Mark and to detail the missionary journey and martyrdom of Barnabas in Cyprus, thus picking up where the account of Acts leaves off.[25] Encomium of the Apostle St. Barnabas, written by Alexander the Monk in the 6th century, also gives an extensive account of the activity of Barnabas and John Mark in Cyprus. After the death of Barnabas, John Mark leaves for Ephesus, and the account then continues by identifying him with Mark the Evangelist.[10] Apollonia (Illyria) (Aous River) Ancient Macedonia; Apostle Mark of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30; Mark, also called John, (Acts 12:12), was a nephew of Saint Barnabas, and was Bishop of Apollonia (Col. 4:10). It was in the house of his mother Maria that the persecuted disciples found shelter after the Ascension of the Lord. Mark the Evangelist; the Evangelist is the traditionally ascribed author of the Gospel of Mark. Mark is said to have founded the Church of Alexandria, one of the most important episcopal sees of early Christianity. His feast day is celebrated on April 25, and his symbol is the winged lion.[3] identity[edit] See also: Four Evangelists Mark the Evangelist's symbol is the winged lion, the Lion of Saint Mark. Inscription: PAX TIBI MARCE EVANGELISTA MEVS ("peace be upon you, Mark, my evangelist"). The same lion is also symbol of Venice (on illustration) to William Lane (1974), an "unbroken tradition" identifies Mark the Evangelist with John Mark,[4] and John Mark as the cousin of Barnabas.[5] Hippolytus of Rome in On the Seventy Apostles distinguishes Mark the Evangelist (2 Tim 4:11), John Mark (Acts 12:12, 25; 13:5, 13; 15:37), and Mark the cousin of Barnabas (Col 4:10; Phlm 1:24).[6] to Hippolytus, they all belonged to the "Seventy Disciples" who were sent out by Jesus to disseminate the gospel (Luke 10:1ff.) in Judea. to Eusebius of Caesarea (Eccl. Hist. 2.9.1–4), Herod Agrippa I, in his first year of reign over the whole of Judea (AD 41), killed James, son of Zebedee and arrested Peter, planning to kill him after the Passover. Peter was saved miraculously by angels, and escaped out of the realm of Herod (Acts 12:1–19). went to Antioch, then through Asia Minor (visiting the churches in Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, as mentioned in 1 Peter 1:1), and arrived in Rome in the second year of Emperor Claudius (AD 42; Eusebius, Eccl, Hist. 2.14.6). on the way, Peter encountered Mark and took him as travel companion and interpreter. Mark the Evangelist wrote down the sermons of Peter, thus composing the Gospel according to Mark (Eccl. Hist. 15–16), before he left for Alexandria in the third year of Claudius (AD 43).[7] to the Acts 15:39, Mark went to Cyprus with Barnabas after the Council of Jerusalem. to tradition, in AD 49, about 19 years after the Ascension of Jesus, Mark travelled to Alexandria and founded the Church of Alexandria – today, the Coptic Orthodox Church, the Greek Orthodox Church of Alexandria, and the Coptic Catholic Church trace their origins to this original community.[8] Aspects of the Coptic liturgy can be traced back to Mark himself.[9] He became the first bishop of Alexandria and he is honored as the founder of Christianity in Africa.[10] to Eusebius (Eccl. Hist. 2.24.1), Mark was succeeded by Anianus as the bishop of Alexandria in the eighth year of Nero (62/63), probably, but not definitely, due to his coming death. Later Coptic tradition says that he was martyred in 68.[1][11][12][13][14] modern Bible scholars argue the Gospel of Mark was written by an anonymous author, rather than direct witnesses to the reported events.[15][16][17][18][19] Biblical and traditional information[edit] St Mark in the Nuremberg Chronicle for Mark the Evangelist's authorship of the Gospel that bears his name originates with Papias.[20][21] Scholars of the Trinity Evangelical Divinity School are "almost certain" that Papias is referencing John Mark.[22] Modern mainstream Bible scholars discard Papias's information as unreliable.[23] Eusebius had a "low esteem of Papias' intellect".[24] Mark the Evangelist with John Mark also led to identifying him as the man who carried water to the house where the Last Supper took place (Mark 14:13),[25] or as the young man who ran away naked when Jesus was arrested (Mark 14:51–52).[26] Coptic Church accords with identifying Mark the Evangelist with John Mark, as well as that he was one of the Seventy Disciples sent out by Christ (Luke 10:1), as Hippolytus confirmed.[27] tradition also holds that Mark the Evangelist hosted the disciples in his house after Jesus's death, that the resurrected Jesus Christ came to Mark's house (John 20), and that the Holy Spirit descended on the disciples at Pentecost in the same house.[27] Mark is also believed to have been among the servants at the Marriage at Cana who poured out the water that Jesus turned to wine (John 2:1–11).[27] to the Coptic tradition, Mark was born in Cyrene, a city in the Pentapolis of North Africa (now Libya). tradition adds that Mark returned to Pentapolis later in life, after being sent by Paul to Colossae (Colossians 4:10; Philemon 24. however, think these actually refer to Mark the Cousin of Barnabas), and serving with him in Rome (2 Tim 4:11); from Pentapolis he made his way to Alexandria.[28][29] Mark returned to Alexandria, the pagans of the city resented his efforts to turn the Alexandrians away from the worship of their traditional gods.[citation needed] In AD 68, they placed a rope around his neck and dragged him through the streets until he was dead.[30] Festa del bocoło (rosebud festival) in St Mark's Square, Venice (Italy) Feast of St Mark is observed on April 25 by the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches. For those Churches still using the Julian Calendar, April 25 according to it aligns with May 8 on the Gregorian Calendar until the year 2099. The Coptic Orthodox Church observes the Feast of St Mark on Parmouti 30 according to the Coptic Calendar which always aligns with April 25 on the Julian Calendar or May 8 on the Gregorian Calendar. John Mark is distinguished from Mark the Evangelist, John Mark is celebrated on September 27 (as in the Roman Martyrology) and Mark the Evangelist on April 25. is remembered in the Church of England and in much of the Anglican Communion, with a Festival on 25 April.[31] of Saint Mark[edit] mosaic of St Marks body welcomed into Venice, at St Mark's Basilica, Venice. Saint Mark, 1411–1413, by Donatello (Orsanmichele, Florence). 828, relics believed to be the body of Saint Mark were taken from Alexandria (at the time controlled by the Abbasid Caliphate) by two Venetian merchants with the help of two Greek monks and taken to Venice.[32] mosaic in St Mark's Basilica depicts sailors covering the relics with a layer of pork and cabbage leaves. Since Muslims are not permitted to eat pork, this was done to prevent the guards from inspecting the ship's cargo too closely.[33] Nicol explained this act as "motivated as much by politics as by piety", and "a calculated stab at the pretensions of the Patriarchate of Aquileia." Instead of being used to adorn the church of Grado, which claimed to possess the throne of Saint Mark, it was kept secretly by Doge Giustiniano Participazio in his modest palace. Possession of Saint Mark's remains was, in Nicol's words, "the symbol not of the Patriarchate of Grado, nor of the bishopric of Olivolo, but of the city of Venice." In his will, Doge Giustiniano asked his widow to build a basilica dedicated to Saint Mark, which was erected between the palace and the chapel of Saint Theodore Stratelates, who until then had been patron saint of Venice.[34] 1063, during the construction of St Mark's Basilica in Venice, Saint Mark's relics could not be found. However, according to tradition, in 1094, the saint himself revealed the location of his remains by extending an arm from a pillar.[35] The newfound remains were placed in a sarcophagus in the basilica.[36] believe that the head of Saint Mark remains in a church named after him in Alexandria, and parts of his relics are in Saint Mark's Coptic Orthodox Cathedral, Cairo. The rest of his relics are in Venice.[1] Every year, on the 30th day of the month of Paopi, the Coptic Orthodox Church celebrates the commemoration of the consecration of the church of Saint Mark, and the appearance of the head of the saint in the city of Alexandria. This takes place inside St Mark's Coptic Orthodox Cathedral in Alexandria.[37] June 1968, Pope Cyril VI of Alexandria sent an official delegation to Rome to receive a relic of Saint Mark from Pope Paul VI. The delegation consisted of ten metropolitans and bishops, seven of whom were Coptic and three Ethiopian, and three prominent Coptic lay leaders. relic was said to be a small piece of bone that had been given to the Roman pope by Giovanni Cardinal Urbani, Patriarch of Venice. Pope Paul, in an address to the delegation, said that the rest of the relics of the saint remained in Venice. delegation received the relic on June 22, 1968. The next day, the delegation celebrated a pontifical liturgy in the Church of Saint Athanasius the Apostolic in Rome. The metropolitans, bishops, and priests of the delegation all served in the liturgy. Members of the Roman papal delegation, Copts who lived in Rome, newspaper and news agency reporters, and many foreign dignitaries attended the liturgy.

Rome, 30-68, Onesiphorus of the Seventy, visited Paul in 68, died in 68 in Parium, Hellespont
Rome, 30-68, Onesiphorus of the Seventy; (meaning "bringing profit" or "useful") was a Christian referred to in the New Testament letter of Second Timothy (2 Tim 1:16–18 and 2 Tim 4:19). According to the letter sent by St. Paul, Onesiphorus sought out Paul who was imprisoned at the time in Rome. Apollos, Cephas, Tychicus, Epaphroditus, Cæsar, and Onesiphorus, from the Menologion of Basil II. to Orthodox tradition, Saint Onesiphorus was one of the seventy disciples chosen and sent by Jesus to preach. They were chosen some time after the selection of the Twelve Apostles (Luke 10:1-24).[1] St Onesiphorus was bishop at Colophon (Asia Minor), and later at Corinth. Both the Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches hold that he died a martyr in the city of Parium (not far from Ephesus) on the shores of the Hellespont.[2] 2 Timothy persecution of Christians during Nero’s reign made Rome a dangerous city for Christians. Paul praises Onesiphorus for his hospitality, kindness, and courage.[3][4] Onesiphorus is contrasted with the other Christians in Asia who have deserted Paul at this time. 2 Timothy 1:16-18, Paul sends a greeting to the man’s household in Ephesus and refers to the help he showed Paul earlier in Ephesus. Timothy, who led the Ephesian church is familiar with these acts.[5] Paul's praise of Onesiphorus is significant because it was written shortly before Paul's death as a final encouragement to Timothy. now, at the time of correspondence, only "Luke alone is with (Paul)" (4:11). Because Paul speaks of Onesiphorus only in the past tense, wishes blessings upon his house (family), and mercy for him "in that day", some scholars believe that Onesiphorus had at this point died.[5] the end of the same letter, in 2 Timothy 4:19, Paul sends greetings to "Priscilla and Aquila, and the house of Onesiphorus", again apparently distinguishing the situation of Onesiphorus from that of the still-living Priscilla and Aquila. reference to Onesiphorus, along with 2 Maccabees 12:40–46, is cited by Catholics as one of the early examples of prayer for the dead,[6] while some Protestants opposing this practice reject such an interpretation.[7] is commemorated on September 6 in Roman Catholic Church,[8] and September 7 in Orthodox Church.[9] should not be confused with the Onesiphorus of Ephesus who was martyred with Porphyrius during the Diocletian persecution, and is commemorated on November 9. Apostle Onesiphorus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 7; Holy Apostle Onesiphorus of the Seventy Saint Paul writes of him: “God grant mercy to the house of Onesiphorus, for he often refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my bonds. When he was at Rome, he searched for me with great diligence, and found me. May the Lord grant him to find the mercy of the Lord on that day; and you know how much he served me at Ephesus.” (2 Tim 1:16-18). Onesiphorus was bishop at Colophon (Asia Minor), and later at Corinth. He died a martyr in the city of Parium (not far from Ephesus) on the shores of the Hellespont, where he had gone to proclaim Christ among the local pagans.

Rome, 30-68, Apostle Justus, replaced Judas, Jesus step b, Bishop & martyred at Eleutheropolis (a Judean crossroads)
Jerusalem, 30-68, Apostle Justus martyred at Eleutheropolis (a Judean crossroads); Eleutheropolis (a crossroads); Eleutheropolis (Greek, "City of the Free") was a Roman city in Israel, some 53 km southwest of Jerusalem. Its remains still straddle the ancient road to Gaza. Seven routes met at Eleutheropolis. Apostle Justus of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30 ; Justus, called Barsaba, a son of Saint Joseph the Betrothed, was chosen with Matthias to replace Judas. He was a bishop and died a martyr’s death at Eleutheropolis. Apostle Justus of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; info and now deleted

Rome, 30-1st Century, Apostle Andronicus, bishop of Pannonia, relatives of Paul, and preached other lands
Serbia, Pannonia, 30-68, Apostle Andronicus of the Seventy and his fellow-laborer, Junia, bishop of Pannonia (parts of: Hungary, Austia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Croatia, Bosnia, Hezegovinia), relatives of Paul, and preached other lands; Pannonia (parts of: Hungary, Austia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Croatia, Bosnia, Hezegovinia) ; Apostle Andronicus of the Seventy and his fellow-laborer, Junia, Commemorated on May 17; Andronicus Apostle of the Seventy and Saint Junia were relatives of the holy Apostle Paul. They labored much, preaching the Gospel to pagans. Saint Paul mentions them in his Epistle to the Romans: “Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen and fellow prisoners, who are of note among the Apostles, who also were in Christ, before me” (Romans 16:7). Andronicus was made Bishop of Pannonia, but his preaching also took him and Saint Junia to other lands, far from the boundaries of his diocese. the efforts of Saints Andronicus and Junia the Church of Christ was strengthened, pagans were converted to the knowledge of God, many pagan temples closed, and in their place Christian churches were built. The service in honor of these saints states that they suffered martyrdom for Christ. the fifth century, during the reign of the emperors Arcadius and Honorius, their holy relics were uncovered on the outskirts of Constantinople together with the relics of other martyrs at the gate of Eugenius (February 22). was revealed to the pious cleric Nicholas Kalligraphos that among the relics of these seventeen martyrs were the relics of the holy Apostle Andronicus. Afterwards, a magnificent church was built on this spot.

Armenia, 30-68, Apostle Aquila of the 70, from Pontus, Armenia, tentmaker w paul, taught Apollos baptisim of Spirit
Armenia, 30-68, Apostle Aquila of the 70, from City of Pontus, Armenia (Eupatoria, a crossroads, Isis River 3, Kelkit River 3), jews k out Rome, tentmaker w paul in Corinth, became zealous disciples, w Paul to Ephesus, there taught Apollos baptisim of Spirit, returned to Rome time of Claudius' death, bishop in Asia Achaia Heraklia, martyred; Eupatoria (Pontus); Apostle Aquila of the Seventy, Commemorated on July 14; Aquila, Apostle of the 70: is possible that he was a disciple of the Apostle Paul, a native of Pontus and a Jew, in the city of Rome with his wife Priscilla (they are commemorated on February 13 on the Greek Calendar) the reign of the emperor Claudius (41-54) all the Jews were banished from Rome, so Saint Aquilla and his wife were compelled to leave. settled in Corinth. short while later, the holy Apostle Paul arrived there from Athens preaching the Gospel. made the acquaintance of Aquila, he began to live at his house and labored together with him, making tents. received Baptism from the Apostle Paul, Aquila and Priscilla bacame his devoted and zealous disciples. accompanied the apostle to Ephesus. Apostle Paul instructed them to continue the preaching of the Gospel at Ephesus, and he himself went to Jerusalem, in order to be present for the feast of Pentecost. Ephesus, Aquila and Priscilla heard the bold preaching of a newcomer from Alexandria, the Jew Apollos. He had been instructed in the fundamentals of the Faith, but knew only the baptism of John the Forerunner. They called him over and explained more precisely about the way of the Lord. the death of the emperor Claudius, Jews were permitted to return to Italy, and Aquila and Priscilla then returned to Rome. Apostle Paul in his Epistle to the Romans recalls his faithful disciples, “Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my coworkers in Christ Jesus, who put forth their heads for my soul, whom I do not alone thank, but also all the Church of the Gentiles and the church of their household” (Rom. 16: 3-4). Aquila did not long dwell in Rome: the Apostle Paul made him a bishop in Asia. Saint Aquila zealously labored at preaching the Gospel in Asia, Achaia and Heraklia. converted pagans to Christ, he confirmed newly-converted Christians in the faith, he established presbyters and destroyed idols. Priscilla constantly assisted him in the apostolic work. Saint Aquila ended his life a martyr: pagans murdered him. According to the Tradition of the Church, Saint Priscilla was killed together with him.

Rome, 30-70, Apostle Gaius of the Seventy, Bishop at Ephesus after Timothy
Ephesus, 30-70, Apostle Gaius of the Seventy; Gaius (Rom 16:23), was Bishop of Ephesus after Saint Timothy. Patrobus, Hermes, Linus, Gaius, and Philologus, Apostles of the Seventy, preached the Gospel in various cities, each enduring various hardships in their service as bishops. Saint Patrobus (Rom 16:14) was Bishop of Neopolis (now Naples) and Puteoli in Italy. Saint Hermes was bishop in the city of Philippoplis where he died a martyr. Saint Linus (2 Tim 4:21) was a successor to the Apostle Peter at Rome. Saint Gaius (Rom 16:23), was Bishop of Ephesus after Saint Timothy. The Apostle Andrew consecrated Saint Philologus (Rom 16:15) as bishop of the city of Sinope (in the Black Sea region). Apostle Apelles of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 10 ; Seventy Apostles; Apelles of Heraklion;

Rome, 30-70, Apostle Hermes of the Seventy, Bishop of Philippopolis on the Roman Road Via Militarius
Bulgaria, 30-70, Apostle Hermes of the Seventy; Holy Apostle Hermas of the Seventy was bishop at Philippopolis, and died a martyr in the first century. In the Epistle to the Romans, the holy Apostle Paul commands the Romans to greet Hermas (Rom 16:14) (Rom 16:14). Apostle Hermes of the Seventy, Commemorated November 5 ; Saints Patrobus, Hermes, Linus, Gaius, and Philologus, Apostles of the Seventy, preached the Gospel in various cities, each enduring various hardships in their service as bishops. Saint Patrobus (Rom 16:14) was Bishop of Neopolis (now Naples) and Puteoli in Italy. Saint Hermes was bishop in the city of Philippoplis where he died a martyr. Saint Linus (2 Tim 4:21) was a successor to the Apostle Peter at Rome. Saint Gaius (Rom 16:23), was Bishop of Ephesus after Saint Timothy. The Apostle Andrew consecrated Saint Philologus (Rom 16:15) as bishop of the city of Sinope (in the Black Sea region). Apostle Hermas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; no longer there at OCA Apostle Hermas of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 8; Hermes is mentioned by the Holy Apostle Paul in his Epistle to the Romans (16:14). According to Tradition, he was the Bishop of Dalmatia and reposed in peace. In the Synaxarion of Hippolyte Delehaye (1902) he is called Ermylos. In the Paris Codex 13 f. 296 he is listed on April 8 along with with Herodion, Asynkritos (Bishop of Hyrkania in Asia), Phlegon (Bishop of Marathon), Rufus and his mother (whom Saint Paul refers to as his mother, as well), Epaphras, and Agabos. Apostle Hermas of the Seventy, Commemorated on May 31 ; Holy Apostle Hermas was a bishop in Philippopolis, Thrace. He was a Greek, but he spent some time in Rome. The holy Apostle Paul greets him in the Epistle to the Romans (Rom 16:14). The Apostle Hermas endured much grief from the pagans for preaching the Gospel, but he died in peace. to Tradition, Saint Hermas is the author of The Shepherd, an instructive book based on revelations from angels.

Rome, 30-70, Apostle Patrobus of the Seventy, Puteoli and Naples Bishop
Naples, 30-70, Apostle Patrobus of the Seventy; Puteoli; Apostle Patrobus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5 ; Patrobus, Hermes, Linus, Gaius, and Philologus, Apostles of the Seventy, preached the Gospel in various cities, each enduring various hardships in their service as bishops. Patrobus (Rom 16:14) was Bishop of Neopolis (now Naples) and Puteoli in Italy. Apostle Patrobus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on February 15;

Rome, 30-70, Apostle Philologus of the Seventy, Sinope, Pathlegonia, Armenia
Philologus of Sinope; Armenia, 30-70, Apostle Philologus of the Seventy; Patrobus, Hermes, Linus, Gaius, and Philologus, Apostles of the Seventy, preached the Gospel in various cities, each enduring various hardships in their service as bishops. Apostle Andrew consecrated Saint Philologus (Rom 16:15) as bishop of the city of Sinope (in the Black Sea region). Sinope, Turkey (Black Sea); Translation of the relics of the Hieromartyr Phocas the Bishop of Sinope, Commemorated on July 22 ; Apostle Matthias of the Seventy, Commemorated August 9 ; Cappadocian city of Tianum and Sinope; Hieromartyr Phocas the Bishop of Sinope, Commemorated on September 22 ; Martyr Phocas the Gardener of Sinope, Commemorated on September 22 ; Apostle Philologus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5 ; St Paul the Confessor the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated on November 6 ; Apostle Andrew, the Holy and All-Praised First-Called, Commemorated on November 30 ; Martyr Rufinus the Deacon at Sinope, Commemorated on April 7; Righteous Virginmartyr Glaphyra, Commemorated on April 26;

Rome, 30-70, Apelles of the Seventy, Bishop, Heraclea, Trachis, Thessaly
Greece, 30-70, Apelles of the Seventy, Bishop, Heraclea, Trachis, Thessaly; Heraclea, Trachis; Dormition of the Righteous Anna, the Mother of the Most Holy Theotokos, Commemorated on July 25 ; Apostle Apelles of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 10 ; Apelles Apelles was an important figure in the early Church, who labored diligently to spread the message of the Gospel. His zeal led him to Rome, where he became a support for the faithful. He knew the Apostle Paul, who mentioned him in the Epistle to the Romans (16:10): "Greet Apelles, who is approved (or "has been tested") in Christ." Apelles is said to have died at Smyrna as a good soldier of Christ, laboring until his last breath to make firm the Gospel. Some say he was the Bishop of Heraklion in Trakhis. Apostle Apelles of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31 ; Apelles, one of the Seventy Apostles, was bishop at Heraclion in Trachis.

Rome, 30-70, Apelles of the Seventy, died at Smyrna as a good soldier of Christ
Greece, 30-70, Apelles of the Seventy, Bishop, Heraclea, Trachis, Thessaly; Heraclea, Trachis; Dormition of the Righteous Anna, the Mother of the Most Holy Theotokos, Commemorated on July 25 ; Apostle Apelles of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 10 ; Apelles Apelles was an important figure in the early Church, who labored diligently to spread the message of the Gospel. His zeal led him to Rome, where he became a support for the faithful. He knew the Apostle Paul, who mentioned him in the Epistle to the Romans (16:10): "Greet Apelles, who is approved (or "has been tested") in Christ." Apelles is said to have died at Smyrna as a good soldier of Christ, laboring until his last breath to make firm the Gospel. Some say he was the Bishop of Heraklion in Trakhis. Apostle Apelles of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31 ; Apelles, one of the Seventy Apostles, was bishop at Heraclion in Trachis.

Rome, 30-70, Apelles of Seventy, zeal led him to Rome, where he became a support for the faithful
Greece, 30-70, Apelles of the Seventy, Bishop, Heraclea, Trachis, Thessaly; Heraclea, Trachis; Dormition of the Righteous Anna, the Mother of the Most Holy Theotokos, Commemorated on July 25 ; Apostle Apelles of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 10 ; Apelles Apelles was an important figure in the early Church, who labored diligently to spread the message of the Gospel. His zeal led him to Rome, where he became a support for the faithful. He knew the Apostle Paul, who mentioned him in the Epistle to the Romans (16:10): "Greet Apelles, who is approved (or "has been tested") in Christ." Apelles is said to have died at Smyrna as a good soldier of Christ, laboring until his last breath to make firm the Gospel. Some say he was the Bishop of Heraklion in Trakhis. Apostle Apelles of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31 ; Apelles, one of the Seventy Apostles, was bishop at Heraclion in Trachis.

Rome, 30-70, Saint Mary Magdalene, first to proclaim resurrection, A daring woman, w r meomory, she preached in Rome
Galilee, 30-70, Saint Mary Magdalene, Magdala, Galilee (Magdalan or Magadan); Holy Myrrh-Bearer Equal of the Apostles Mary Magdalene. On the banks of Lake Genesareth (Galilee), between the cities of Capharnum and Tiberias, was the small city of Magdala, the remains of which have survived to our day. Now only the small village of Mejhdel stands on the site. woman whose name has entered forever into the Gospel account was born and grew up in Magdala. The Gospel tells us nothing of Mary’s younger years, but Tradition informs us that Mary of Magdala was young and pretty, and led a sinful life. It says in the Gospels that the Lord expelled seven devils from Mary (Luke. 8:2). From the moment of her healing Mary led a new life, and became a true disciple of the Savior. Gospel relates that Mary followed after the Lord, when He went with the Apostles through the cities and villages of Judea and Galilee preaching about the Kingdom of God. Together with the pious women Joanna, wife of Choza (steward of Herod), Susanna and others, she served Him from her own possessions (Luke 8:1-3) and undoubtedly shared with the Apostles the evangelic tasks in common with the other women. The Evangelist Luke, evidently, has her in view together with the other women, stating that at the moment of the Procession of Christ onto Golgotha, when after the Scourging He took on Himself the heavy Cross, collapsing under its weight, the women followed after Him weeping and wailing, but He consoled them. The Gospel relates that Mary Magdalene was present on Golgotha at the moment of the Lord’s Crucifixion. While all the disciples of the Savior ran away, she remained fearlessly at the Cross together with the Mother of God and the Apostle John. Evangelists also list among those standing at the Cross the mother of the Apostle James, and Salome, and other women followers of the Lord from Galilee, but all mention Mary Magdalene first. Saint John, in addition to the Mother of God, names only her and Mary Cleopas. This indicates how much she stood out from all the women who gathered around the Lord. was faithful to Him not only in the days of His Glory, but also at the moment of His extreme humiliation and insult. As the Evangelist Matthew relates, she was present at the Burial of the Lord. Before her eyes Joseph and Νikόdēmos went out to the tomb with His lifeless Body. She watched as they covered over the entrance to the cave with a large stone, entombing the Source of Life. to the Law in which she was raised, Mary together with the other women spent the following day at rest, because it was the great day of the Sabbath, coinciding with the Feast of Passover. But all the rest of the peaceful day the women gathered spices to go to the Grave of the Lord at dawn on Sunday and anoint His Body according to the custom of the Jews. is necessary to mention that, having agreed to go on the first day of the week to the Tomb early in the morning, the holy women had no possibility of meeting with one another on Saturday. They went separately on Friday evening to their own homes. They went out only at dawn the following day to go to the Sepulchre, not all together, but each from her own house. Evangelist Matthew writes that the women came to the grave at dawn, or as the Evangelist Mark expresses, extremely early before the rising of the sun. The Evangelist John, elaborating upon these, says that Mary came to the grave so early that it was still dark. Obviously, she waited impatiently for the end of night, but it was not yet daybreak. She ran to the place where the Lord’s Body lay. went to the tomb alone. Seeing the stone pushed away from the cave, she ran away in fear to tell the close Apostles of Christ, Peter and John. Hearing the strange message that the Lord was gone from the tomb, both Apostles ran to the tomb and, seeing the shroud and winding cloths, they were amazed. They went and said nothing to anyone, but Mary returned to the tomb and stood about the entrance to the tomb and wept. Here in this dark tomb so recently lay her lifeless Lord. proof that the tomb really was empty, she went down to it and saw a strange sight. She saw two angels in white garments, one sitting at the head, the other at the foot, where the Body of Jesus had been placed. They asked her, “Woman, why weepest thou?” She answered them with the words which she had said to the Apostles, “They have taken my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him.” At that moment, she turned around and saw the Risen Jesus standing near the grave, but she did not recognize Him. asked Mary, “Woman, why weepest thou? Whom dost thou seek?” She answered thinking that she was seeing the gardener, “Sir, if thou hast taken him, tell where thou hast put Him, and I will take Him away.” she recognized the Lord’s voice. This was the voice she heard in those days and years, when she followed the Lord through all the cities and places where He preached. He spoke her name, and she gave a joyful shout, “Rabbi” (Teacher). and love, fondness and deep veneration, a feeling of thankfulness and recognition at His Splendor as great Teacher, all came together in this single outcry. She was able to say nothing more and she threw herself down at the feet of her Teacher to wash them with tears of joy. But the Lord said to her: “Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to My Father; but go to My brethren and tell them: ‘I ascend to My Father, and your Father; to My God and to your God.’” came to herself and again ran to the Apostles, to do the will of Him sending her to preach. Again she ran into the house, where the Apostles still remained in dismay, and proclaimed to them the joyous message, “I have seen the Lord!” This was the first preaching in the world about the Resurrection. Apostles proclaimed the Glad Tidings to the world, but she proclaimed it to the Apostles themselves. Scripture does not tell us about the life of Mary Magdalene after the Resurrection of Christ, but it is impossible to doubt, that if in the terrifying minutes of Christ’s Crucifixion she was at the foot of His Cross with His All-Pure Mother and Saint John, she must have stayed with them during the happier time after the Resurrection and Ascension of Christ. Thus in the Acts of the Apostles Saint Luke writes that all the Apostles with one mind stayed in prayer and supplication, with certain women and Mary the Mother of Jesus and His brethren. Tradition testifies that when the Apostles departed from Jerusalem to preach to all the ends of the earth, then Mary Magdalene also went with them. A daring woman, whose heart was full of reminiscence of the Resurrection, she went beyond her native borders and went to preach in pagan Rome. Everywhere she proclaimed to people about Christ and His teaching. When many did not believe that Christ is risen, she repeated to them what she had said to the Apostles on the radiant morning of the Resurrection: “I have seen the Lord!” With this message she went all over Italy. relates that in Italy Mary Magdalene visited Emperor Tiberias (14-37 A.D.) and proclaimed to him Christ’s Resurrection. According to Tradition, she brought him a red egg as a symbol of the Resurrection, a symbol of new life with the words: “Christ is Risen!” Then she told the emperor that in his Province of Judea the unjustly condemned Jesus the Galilean, a holy man, a miracleworker, powerful before God and all mankind, had been executed at the instigation of the Jewish High Priests, and the sentence confirmed by the procurator appointed by Tiberias, Pontius Pilate. repeated the words of the Apostles, that we are redeemed from the vanity of life not with perishable silver or gold, but rather by the precious Blood of Christ. to Mary Magdalene the custom to give each other paschal eggs on the day of the Radiant Resurrection of Christ spread among Christians over all the world. In one ancient Greek manuscript, written on parchment, kept in the monastery library of Saint Athanasius near Thessalonica, is a prayer read on the day of Holy Pascha for the blessing of eggs and cheese. In it is indicated that the igumen in passing out the blessed eggs says to the brethren: “Thus have we received from the holy Fathers, who preserved this custom from the very time of the holy Apostles, therefore the holy Equal of the Apostles Mary Magdalene first showed believers the example of this joyful offering.” Magdalene continued her preaching in Italy and in the city of Rome itself. Evidently, the Apostle Paul has her in mind in his Epistle to the Romans (16: 6), where together with other ascetics of evangelic preaching he mentions Mary (Mariam), who as he expresses “has bestowed much labor on us.” Evidently, she extensively served the Church in its means of subsistence and its difficulties, being exposed to dangers, and sharing with the Apostles the labors of preaching. to Church Tradition, she remained in Rome until the arrival of the Apostle Paul, and for two more years following his departure from Rome after the first court judgment upon him. From Rome, Saint Mary Magdalene, already bent with age, moved to Ephesus where the holy Apostle John unceasingly labored. There the saint finished her earthly life and was buried. holy relics were transferred in the ninth century to Constantinople, and placed in the monastery Church of Saint Lazarus. In the era of the Crusader campaigns they were transferred to Italy and placed at Rome under the altar of the Lateran Cathedral. Part of the relics of Mary Magdalene are said to be in Provage, France near Marseilles, where over them at the foot of a steep mountain a splendid church is built in her honor. Orthodox Church honors the holy memory of Saint Mary Magdalene, the woman called by the Lord Himself from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God. immersed in sin and having received healing, she sincerely and irrevocably began a new life and never wavered from that path. Mary loved the Lord Who called her to a new life. She was faithful to Him not only when He was surrounded by enthusiastic crowds and winning recognition as a miracle-worker, but also when all the disciples deserted Him in fear and He, humiliated and crucified, hung in torment upon the Cross. This is why the Lord, knowing her faithfulness, appeared to her first, and esteemed her worthy to be first to proclaim His Resurrection. Magdala, Galilee (Magdalan or Magadan, between Capharnum and Tiberias); Matthew 15:29-39, Jesus Cures Many People, and Feeding the Four Thousand They returned to Magadan.; The Holy Myrrh-Bearer Equal of the Apostles Mary Magdalene. On the banks of Lake Genesareth (Galilee), between the cities of Capharnum and Tiberias, was the small city of Magdala, the remains of which have survived to our day. Now only the small village of Mejhdel stands on the site. Myrrhbearer and Equal of the Apostles Mary Magdalene, Commemorated on July 22; MARY MAGDALENE, FIRST WITNESS OF THE RESURRECTION (22 JULY NT);

Rome, 30-70, Apostle Zacchaeus, Jericho, Benjamin, rich tax collector, Short, climbed Sycamore tree to see Jesus
Jerusalem, 30-70, Apostle Zacchaeus, Jericho, Benjamin (near Jerusalem), rich tax collector, Short, climbed Sycamore tree to see Jesus, Accompanied Peter, Caesarea Palestine Bishop Jericho; Apostle Zacchaeus, Commemorated on April 20; holy Apostle Zacchaeus was a rich publican at Jericho. Since he was short of stature, he climbed a sycamore tree in order to see the Savior passing by. After the Ascension of the Lord, Saint Zacchaeus accompanied Saint Peter on his travels. Tradition says he became the Bishop of Caesarea in Palestine, where he died in peace. Gospel (Luke 19:1-10) describing Zacchaeus’ encounter with Christ is read on the Sunday before the Triodion begins.

Rome, 30-76, Apostle Linus of the Seventy, successor to Apostle Peter at Rome
Rome, 30-76, Apostle Linus of the Seventy; Rome, 67-76, Roman Pope, Linus; Rome, 30-68, Apostle Peter ; Roman Pope, 66-99, Clement I ; Apostles Patrobus, Hermes, Linus, Gaius, and Philologus, of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Patrobus, Hermes, Linus, Gaius, and Philologus, Apostles of the Seventy, preached the Gospel in various cities, each enduring various hardships in their service as bishops. Saint Patrobus (Rom 16:14) was Bishop of Neopolis (now Naples) and Puteoli in Italy. Saint Hermes was bishop in the city of Philippoplis where he died a martyr. Saint Linus (2 Tim 4:21) was a successor to the Apostle Peter at Rome. Saint Gaius (Rom 16:23), was Bishop of Ephesus after Saint Timothy. The Apostle Andrew consecrated Saint Philologus (Rom 16:15) as bishop of the city of Sinope (in the Black Sea region). CLEMENT OF ROME, BISHOP (23 NOV 100); Hieromartyr Clement the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on November 25; Apostles Patrobus, Hermes, Linus, Gaius, and Philologus, of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5;

Rome, 30-80, Apostle Philip, all-praised, Bethsaida, Galilee, knew Scripture, awaited coming, Call, preaching, miracles
Galilee, 30-80, Apostle Philip, all-praised, Bethsaida, Galilee, knew Scripture, awaited coming, Call, preaching, miracles; the Apostle was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus according to the New Testament. Later Christian traditions describe Philip as the apostle who preached in Greece, Syria, and Phrygia. Galilee, 30-80, Apostle Philip, all-praised, Bethsaida, Galilee, knew Scripture, awaited coming, Call, preaching, miracles, greece, parthia, Azotus, Syrian Hieropolis, Lydia, Emessa, sister Mariamne, Bartholomew, Phrygian Hieropolis, k serpent, healed wife, arrested, o crucified, earthquake, prayed for those, they believed, he died on cross, M&B to Armenia, M to Lykaonia; Bethsaida; Holy, All-Praised Apostle Philip, Commemorated on November 14; Holy and All-praised Apostle Philip was a native of the city of Bethsaida in Galilee. had a profound depth of knowledge of the Holy Scripture, and rightly discerning the meaning of the Old Testament prophecies, he awaited the coming of the Messiah. the call of the Savior (John 1:43), Philip followed Him. Apostle Philip is spoken about several times in the Holy Gospel: he brought to Christ the Apostle Nathaniel (i.e. Bartholomew, April 22, June 30, and August 25. See John. 1:46). The Lord asks him where to buy bread for five thousand men (John. 6: 5-7). He brought certain of the Hellenized Jews wanting to see Jesus (John. 12:21-22); and finally, at the Last Supper he asked Christ to show them the Father (John. 14:8). the Ascension of the Lord, the Apostle Philip preached the Word of God in Galilee, accompanying his preaching with miracles. he restored to life a dead infant in the arms of its mother. Galilee he went to Greece, and preached among the Jews that had settled there. Some of them reported the preaching of the Apostle to Jerusalem. In response, some scribes arrived in Greece from Jerusalem, with one of the Jewish chief priests at their head, to interrogate the Apostle Philip. Apostle Philip exposed the lie of the chief priest, who said that the disciples of Christ had stolen away and hidden the body of Christ. told instead how the Pharisees had bribed the soldiers on watch, to deliberately spread this rumor. the Jewish chief priest and his companions began to insult the Lord and lunged at the Apostle Philip, they suddenly were struck blind. By his prayer the Apostle restored everyone’s sight. Seeing this miracle, many believed in Christ. Apostle Philip provided a bishop for them, by the name of Narcissus (one of the Seventy Apostles, January 4). Greece the Apostle Philip went to Parthia, and then to the city of Azotus, where he healed an eye affliction of the daughter of a local resident named Nikoklides, who had received him into his home, and then baptized his whole family. Azotus the Apostle Philip set out to Syrian Hieropolis (there were several cities of this name) where, stirred up by the Pharisees, the Jews burned the house of Heros, who had taken in the Apostle Philip, and they wanted to kill the apostle. The apostle performed several miracles: the healing of the hand of the city official Aristarchus, withered when he attempted to strike the apostle; and restoring a dead child to life. When they saw these marvels, they repented and many accepted holy Baptism. making Heros the bishop at Hieropolis, the Apostle Philip went on to Syria, Asia Minor, Lydia, Emessa, and everywhere preaching the Gospel and undergoing sufferings. he and his sister Mariamne (February 17) were pelted with stones, locked up in prison, and thrown out of villages. the Apostle Philip arrived in the city of Phrygian Hieropolis, where there were many pagan temples. There was also a pagan temple where people worshiped an enormous serpent as a god. The Apostle Philip by the power of prayer killed the serpent and healed many bitten by snakes. those healed was the wife of the city prefect, Amphipatos. Having learned that his wife had accepted Christianity, the prefect Amphipatos gave orders to arrest Saint Philip, his sister, and the Apostle Bartholomew traveling with them. At the urging of the pagan priests of the temple of the serpent, Amphipatos ordered the holy Apostles Philip and Bartholomew to be crucified. an earthquake struck, and it knocked down all those present at the place of judgment. upon the cross by the pagan temple of the serpent, the Apostle Philip prayed for those who had crucified him, asking God to save them from the ravages of the earthquake. this happen, the people believed in Christ and began to demand that the apostles be taken down from the crosses. Apostle Bartholomew was still alive when he was taken down, and he baptized all those believing and established a bishop for them. the Apostle Philip, through whose prayers everyone remained alive, except for Amphipatos and the pagan priests, died on the cross. his sister buried his body, and went with the Apostle Bartholomew to preach in Armenia, where the Apostle Bartholomew was crucified (June 11); herself then preached until her own death at Lykaonia. holy Apostle Philip is not to be confused with Saint Philip the Deacon (October 11), one of the Seventy. ANDREW THE APOSTLE, (30 NOV NT) ; Philip of PHILIP AND JAMES, APOSTLES (1 MAY NT); PHILIP ;

Rome, 30-80, Apostle Philip, Athens, from Galilee to Greece to preach to Jews, Jews struck blind
Greece, 1st Century, Apostle Philip; Holy, All-Praised Apostle Philip, Commemorated on November 14; Galilee he went to Greece, and preached among the Jews that had settled there. Some of them reported the preaching of the Apostle to Jerusalem. In response, some scribes arrived in Greece from Jerusalem, with one of the Jewish chief priests at their head, to interrogate the Apostle Philip. Apostle Philip exposed the lie of the chief priest, who said that the disciples of Christ had stolen away and hidden the body of Christ. Philip told instead how the Pharisees had bribed the soldiers on watch, to deliberately spread this rumor. When the Jewish chief priest and his companions began to insult the Lord and lunged at the Apostle Philip, they suddenly were struck blind. By his prayer the Apostle restored everyone’s sight. Seeing this miracle, many believed in Christ. The Apostle Philip provided a bishop for them, by the name of Narcissus (one of the Seventy Apostles, January 4). Holy and All-praised Apostle Philip was a native of the city of Bethsaida in Galilee. He had a profound depth of knowledge of the Holy Scripture, and rightly discerning the meaning of the Old Testament prophecies, he awaited the coming of the Messiah. Through the call of the Savior (John 1:43), Philip followed Him. The Apostle Philip is spoken about several times in the Holy Gospel: he brought to Christ the Apostle Nathaniel (i.e. Bartholomew, April 22, June 30, and August 25. See John. 1:46). The Lord asks him where to buy bread for five thousand men (John. 6: 5-7). He brought certain of the Hellenized Jews wanting to see Jesus (John. 12:21-22); and finally, at the Last Supper he asked Christ to show them the Father (John. 14:8). the Ascension of the Lord, the Apostle Philip preached the Word of God in Galilee, accompanying his preaching with miracles. Thus, he restored to life a dead infant in the arms of its mother. Galilee he went to Greece, and preached among the Jews that had settled there. Some of them reported the preaching of the Apostle to Jerusalem. In response, some scribes arrived in Greece from Jerusalem, with one of the Jewish chief priests at their head, to interrogate the Apostle Philip. Apostle Philip exposed the lie of the chief priest, who said that the disciples of Christ had stolen away and hidden the body of Christ. Philip told instead how the Pharisees had bribed the soldiers on watch, to deliberately spread this rumor. When the Jewish chief priest and his companions began to insult the Lord and lunged at the Apostle Philip, they suddenly were struck blind. By his prayer the Apostle restored everyone’s sight. Seeing this miracle, many believed in Christ. The Apostle Philip provided a bishop for them, by the name of Narcissus (one of the Seventy Apostles, January 4). Greece the Apostle Philip went to Parthia, and then to the city of Azotus, where he healed an eye affliction of the daughter of a local resident named Nikoklides, who had received him into his home, and then baptized his whole family. Azotus the Apostle Philip set out to Syrian Hieropolis (there were several cities of this name) where, stirred up by the Pharisees, the Jews burned the house of Heros, who had taken in the Apostle Philip, and they wanted to kill the apostle. The apostle performed several miracles: the healing of the hand of the city official Aristarchus, withered when he attempted to strike the apostle; and restoring a dead child to life. When they saw these marvels, they repented and many accepted holy Baptism. After making Heros the bishop at Hieropolis, the Apostle Philip went on to Syria, Asia Minor, Lydia, Emessa, and everywhere preaching the Gospel and undergoing sufferings. Both he and his sister Mariamne (February 17) were pelted with stones, locked up in prison, and thrown out of villages. the Apostle Philip arrived in the city of Phrygian Hieropolis, where there were many pagan temples. There was also a pagan temple where people worshiped an enormous serpent as a god. The Apostle Philip by the power of prayer killed the serpent and healed many bitten by snakes. those healed was the wife of the city prefect, Amphipatos. Having learned that his wife had accepted Christianity, the prefect Amphipatos gave orders to arrest Saint Philip, his sister, and the Apostle Bartholomew traveling with them. At the urging of the pagan priests of the temple of the serpent, Amphipatos ordered the holy Apostles Philip and Bartholomew to be crucified. an earthquake struck, and it knocked down all those present at the place of judgment. Hanging upon the cross by the pagan temple of the serpent, the Apostle Philip prayed for those who had crucified him, asking God to save them from the ravages of the earthquake. Seeing this happen, the people believed in Christ and began to demand that the apostles be taken down from the crosses. The Apostle Bartholomew was still alive when he was taken down, and he baptized all those believing and established a bishop for them. the Apostle Philip, through whose prayers everyone remained alive, except for Amphipatos and the pagan priests, died on the cross. his sister buried his body, and went with the Apostle Bartholomew to preach in Armenia, where the Apostle Bartholomew was crucified (June 11); Mariamne herself then preached until her own death at Lykaonia. holy Apostle Philip is not to be confused with Saint Philip the Deacon (October 11), one of the Seventy.

Rome, 30-80, Apostle Jude the Brother of the Lord, went m places, c on Mt Ararat, Armenia, Epistle of J, truth in a few words
Armenia, 30-80, Apostle Jude the Brother of the Lord, crucified on Mount Ararat, Armenia (south of Aras River 7), Joseph's first wife's son, did not believe until Jesus' ministry, other names, went to Judea, Galilee, Samaria, Idumaia, Arabia, Syria, Messopotamia, Edessa, Persia, Epistle of J, truth in a few words ; Mount Ararat; Apostle Jude the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on June 19; Holy Apostle Jude, one of the twelve apostles of Christ, is descended from King David and Solomon, and was the son of Righteous Joseph the Betrothed (Sunday after the Nativity of the Lord) by his first wife. Holy Apostle John the Theologian writes in his Gospel, “... neither did his brethren believe in Him” (John. 7:5). Saint Theophylact, Archbishop of Bulgaria, explains this passage. He says that at the beginning of the Lord Jesus Christ’s earthly ministry, Joseph’s sons, Jude among them, did not believe in His divine nature. Tradition says that when Saint Joseph returned from Egypt, he began to divide his possessions among his sons. He wanted to allot a share to Christ the Savior, born miraculously and incorruptibly from the All-Pure Virgin Mary. The brothers were opposed to this because Jesus was born of another mother. Only James, later called “The Brother of God,” offered to share his portion with Him. came to believe in Christ the Savior as the awaited Messiah, and he followed Him and was chosen as one of the twelve Apostles. Mindful of his sin, the Apostle Jude considered himself unworthy to be called the Lord’s brother, and in his Epistle he calls himself merely the brother of James. Holy Apostle Jude also had other names: the Evangelist Matthew terms him “Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddeus” (Mt. 10:3). The Holy Evangelist Mark also calls him Thaddeus (Mark 3:18), and in the Acts of the Holy Apostles he is called Barsabas (Acts 15: 22). This was customary at that time. the Ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ, Saint Jude traveled about preaching the Gospel. He propagated the faith in Christ at first in Judea, Galilee, Samaria and Idumaia, and later in the lands of Arabia, Syria and Mesopotamia. Finally, he went to the city of Edessa. Here he finished the work that was not completed by his predecessor, Saint Thaddeus, Apostle of the Seventy (August 21). There is a tradition that Saint Jude went to Persia, where he wrote his catholic Epistle in Greek. In the Epistle much profound truth was expressed in a few words. Jude’s Epistle speaks about the Holy Trinity, about the Incarnation of the Lord Jesus Christ, about the good and bad angels, and about the dread Last Judgment. The Apostle urges believers to guard themselves against fleshly impurity, to be diligent in prayer, faith and love, to convert the lost to the path of salvation, and to guard themselves from the teachings of heretics. He also says that it is not enough just to be converted to Christianity, but faith must be demonstrated by good works. He cites the rebellious angels and men punished by God (verse 6) to support this. Holy Apostle Jude died as a martyr around the year 80 near Mt. Ararat in Armenia, where he was crucified and pierced by arrows.

Rome, 30-84 , Apostle Luke, f Antioch S Dr, Emmaus, w Paul, Achaia, Libya, Egypt, Thebaid, Icons, Gospel & Acts, 80+ icons
Syria, 30-84 , Apostle Luke of the Seventy; Antioch (Orontes River 7); Apostle and Evangelist Luke, Commemorated on October 18 ; Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke, was a native of Syrian Antioch, a companion of the holy Apostle Paul (Phil.1:24, 2 Tim. 4:10-11), and a physician enlightened in the Greek medical arts. about Christ, Luke arrived in Palestine and fervently accepted the preaching of salvation from the Lord Himself. one of the Seventy Apostles, Saint Luke was sent by the Lord with the others to preach the Kingdom of Heaven during the Savior’s earthly life (Luke 10:1-3). the Resurrection, the Lord Jesus Christ appeared to Saints Luke and Cleopas on the road to Emmaus. accompanied Saint Paul on his second missionary journey, and from that time they were inseparable. When Paul’s coworkers had forsaken him, only Luke remained to assist him in his ministry (2 Tim. 4:10-11). the martyric death of the First-Ranked Apostles Peter and Paul, Saint Luke left Rome to preach in Achaia, Libya, Egypt and the Thebaid. He ended his life by suffering martyrdom in the city of Thebes. credits Saint Luke with painting the first icons of the Mother of God. “Let the grace of Him Who was born of Me and My mercy be with these Icons,” said the All-Pure Virgin after seeing the icons. Luke also painted icons of the First-Ranked Apostles Peter and Paul. Luke’s Gospel was written in the years 62-63 at Rome, under the guidance of the Apostle Paul. In the preliminary verses (1:1-3), Saint Luke precisely sets forth the purpose of his work. He proposes to record, in chronological order, everything known by Christians about Jesus Christ and His teachings. By doing this, he provided a firmer historical basis for Christian teaching (1:4). He carefully investigated the facts, and made generous use of the oral tradition of the Church and of what the All-Pure Virgin Mary Herself had told him (2:19, 51). Saint Luke’s Gospel, the message of the salvation made possible by the Lord Jesus Christ, and the preaching of the Gospel, are of primary importance. Luke also wrote the Acts of the Holy Apostles at Rome around 62-63 A.D. The Book of Acts, which is a continuation of the four Gospels, speaks about the works and the fruits of the holy Apostles after the Ascension of the Savior. the center of the narrative is the Council of the holy Apostles at Jerusalem in the year 51, a Church event of great significance, which resulted in the separation of Christianity from Judaism and its independent dissemination into the world (Acts 15:6-29). The theological focus of the Book of Acts is the coming of the Holy Spirit, Who will guide the Church “into all truth” (John 16:13) until the Second Coming of Christ. holy relics of Saint Luke were taken from Constantinople and brought to Padua, Italy at some point in history. Perhaps this was during the infamous Crusade of 1204. 1992, Metropolitan Hieronymus (Jerome) of Thebes requested the Roman Catholic bishop in Thebes to obtain a portion of Saint Luke’s relics for the saint’s empty sepulchre in the Orthodox cathedral in Thebes. Roman Catholic bishop Antonio Mattiazzo of Padua, noting that Orthodox pilgrims came to Padua to venerate the relics while many Catholics did not even know that the relics were there, appointed a committee to investigate the relics in Padua, and the skull of Saint Luke in the Catholic Cathedral of Saint Vico in Prague. skeleton was determined to be that of an elderly man of strong build. In 2001, a tooth found in the coffin was judged to be consistent with the DNA of Syrians living near the area of Antioch dating from 72-416 A.D. The skull in Prague perfectly fit the neck bone of the skelton. The tooth found in the coffin in Padua was also found to fit the jawbone of the skull. Mattiazzo sent a rib from the relics to Metropolitan Hieronymus to be venerated in Saint Luke’s original tomb in the Orthodox cathedral at Thebes. Saint Luke is also commemorated on April 22. LUKE THE EVANGELIST, (18 OCTOBER) ; all that we know about Luke comes from the New Testament. He was a physician (Col 4:14), a companion of Paul on some of his missionary journeys (Acts 16:10ff; 20:5ff; 27-28). found in his Gospel and not elsewhere includes much of the account of Our Lord's birth and infancy and boyhood, some of the most moving parables, such as that of the Good Samaritan and that of the Prodigal Son, and three of the sayings of Christ on the Cross: "Father, forgive them," "Thou shalt be with me in Paradise," and "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit." Luke's account of the Gospel, we find an emphasis on the human love of Christ, on His compassion for sinners and for suffering and unhappy persons, for outcasts such as the Samaritans, tax collectors, lepers, shepherds (not a respected profession), and for the poor. The role of women in Christ's ministry is more emphasized in Luke than in the other Gospel writings. the book of Acts, we find the early Christian community poised from the start to carry out its commission, confident and aware of Divine guidance. We see how the early Christians at first preached only to Jews, then to Samaritans (a borderline case), then to outright Gentiles like Cornelius, and finally explicitly recognized that Gentiles and Jews are called on equal terms to the service and fellowship of Christ. Luke, from an old Book of Common PrayerLuke makes many casual references throughout his writings (especially in Acts) to local customs and practices, often with demonstrable and noteworthy precision. To mention just one example, he refers to two centurions by name, Cornelius in Acts 10 and Julius in Acts 27, and he calls them both by nomen only, rather than by nomen and cognomen (Sergius Paulus in Acts 13;7) or cognomen only (Gallio in Acts 18:12), as he does when speaking of civilian officials. It is a distinction that would have been routine at the time that Luke is writing about, but one that had largely died out by, say, 70 AD. His preserving it shows either that (1) he wrote fairly close to the events he described, or (2) he was describing persons and events on which he had good information, or (3) he was an expert historical novelist, with an ear for the authentic-sounding detail. is commonly thought to be the only non-Jewish New Testament writer. His writings place the life of Christ and the development of the early Church in the larger context of the Roman Empire and society. On the other hand, his writings are focused on Jerusalem and on the Temple. His Gospel begins and ends in the Temple, and chapters nine through nineteen portray Jesus as journeying from Galilee to Jerusalem. Similarly, the Book of Acts describes the Church in Jerusalem (and worshipping in the Temple) and then describes the missionary journeys of Paul as excursions from and returns to Jerusalem. writer wrote more pages of the New Testament than anyone else? If you say Paul, try again. In my pocket Bible, Acts and the Gospel of Luke occupy a total of sixty pages, while all the letters traditionally attributed to Paul (not counting Hebrews) total fifty-six. writer of the Third Gospel and the Book of Acts does not give his name in his writings. (Except for Nehemiah, no Biblical writer of a narrative book does.) He does claim to be a traveling companion of Paul, and his interests and vocabulary suggest that he is a physician. Since Paul tells us that he had a companion named Luke who was a physician, the conclusion that Luke is the writer we are looking for is reasonable. the two-volume work Luke-Acts in fact written by a companion of Paul? Scholars are not agreed on the answer. By and large, most German writers favor a negative answer. Their reasons are that (1) the chronology of Paul's life found in the Book of Acts presents certain apparent conflicts with that found in Paul's letter to the Galatians, and that (2) the writer seems unfamiliar with the geography of Israel. On the other hand, most English scholars favor an affirmative answer. Their reasons are that the "We" sections in Acts (the sections in which the author explicitly claims to have been present at the events he describes) contain a wealth of circumstantial detail that make invention extremely unlikely. (Thus, for example, Mr. James Smith of Jordan Hill, FRS, having sailed a vessel over the same route described in Acts 27-28, argues in his book, The Voyage and Shipwreck of Saint Paul, that the account must have been written by someone who had sailed that route. It used to be a popular theory that the writer had somehow gotten his hands on a travel diary of the real "Luke" and incorporated it into his work. However, a detailed analysis of the writing style of various sections of the work shows none of the differences that would be expected on this theory. Scholars on the affirmative side generally answer the negative objections mentioned above by supposing that (1) the conferences mentioned in Acts 15 and Galatians 2 are not the same conference, and that (2) Luke uses the word "Judea" sometimes to mean the southern portion of the land of Israel, and sometimes to mean the whole land. For some comments on the historical reliability of the opening chapters of the Gospel of Luke, go to the following URLs: by James Kiefer

Rome, 30-90, Apostle Matthew, Capernaum, tax c, Gospel early in 50 at J, many lands, Ethiopia, Fulvian-Matthew story
Galilee, 30-90, Apostle Matthew, Capernaum, Sea of Galilee; the Apostle,[a] also known as Saint Matthew and possibly as Levi, was, according to the New Testament, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. to Christian traditions, he was also one of the four Evangelists as author of the Gospel of Matthew, and thus is also known as Matthew the Evangelist, a claim rejected by the majority of modern biblical scholars, though the "traditional authorship still has its defenders."[3] New Testament records that as a disciple, he followed Jesus, and was one of the witnesses of the Ascension of Jesus. Later Church fathers such as Irenaeus and Clement of Alexandria claim that Matthew preached the Gospel to the Jewish community in Judea, before going to other countries. Capernaum; MATTHEW, APOSTLE AND EVANGELIST (21 SEP NT); day Jesus was walking and saw a tax collector named Matthew sitting at a tax collection post, and said to him, "Follow me." And Matthew stood up and followed Him, and became one of His twelve apostles. (See M 9:9-13 = P 2:13-17 = L 5:27-32) Tax collectors in those days were social outcasts. Devout Jews avoided them because they were usually dishonest (the job carried no salary, and they were expected to make their profits by cheating the people from whom they collected taxes). Patriotic and nationalistic Jews hated them because they were agents of the Roman government, the conquerors, and hated them with a double hatred if (like Matthew) they were Jews, because they had gone over to the enemy, had betrayed their own people for money. Thus, throughout the Gospels, we find tax collectors (publicans) mentioned as a standard type of sinful and despised outcast. Matthew brought many of his former associates to meet Jesus, and social outcasts in general were shown that the love of Jesus extended even to them. (Jesus numbered among his disciples persons of widely different backgrounds. They included not only Matthew, a former agent of the Roman government, but Simon the Zealot (not to be confused with Simon Peter). Josephus tells us that the Zealots were fanatical nationalists, determined to drive out the Romans by guerrilla tactics, ambushes, assassinations, terrorist methods, or whatever worked. Their motto was, "No king but Messiah, no tax but the Temple, no friend but the Zealot." It is not clear that Simon was, or had been, a member of the group that Josephus describes, but it seems clear that he would have regarded himself as at the opposite end of the political spectrum from Matthew.) The name "Matthew" means "gift of the LORD." Mark and Luke, in the story of his calling, name him "Levi." Perhaps this was his original name, and he received a new name from Jesus when he became a disciple. (It has also been suggested that he was simply a member of the tribe of Levi.) Of Matthew's life after Pentecost the Scriptures tell us nothing. Later accounts of his life vary, some reporting that he was martyred, others that he died a natural death. The Christian community since early times has commemorated him as a martyr. the Apostle Matthew is also the Evangelist Matthew -- that is, whether the Apostle Matthew wrote the Gospel that bears his name -- is disputed. The Gospel itself does not say who wrote it, but the designation "according to Matthew" is very old. In favor of his authorship it may be noted that (1) while Mark and Luke give the fourth pair of Apostles as "Matthew and Thomas," the Gospel of Matthew gives them as "Thomas and Matthew"; and (2) while Luke 5:29 explicitly states, and Mark 2:15 suggests, that Matthew gave a banquet for Jesus, Matthew 9:10 in describing the same banquet does not indicate who the host was. Both of these variations would be routine touches of modesty if Matthew was the author. On the other hand, the gospel (1) does not have the manner of an eyewitness, and (2) is thought by many scholars to contain material borrowed from Mark, whereas one would not expect someone who had been an eyewitness to borrow from someone who had not. (NOTE: The view that Mark is an older Gospel than Matthew is widespread and not long ago many scholars regarded the matter as settled. However, there is respectable opinion holding that Matthew is the earliest Gospel after all. See, for example, the comments in the Matthew volume of The Anchor Bible.) the Gospel was written by some early Christian, not an apostle, whose name was Matthew, and about whom nothing else is known. Early Christian readers, hearing the Gospel ascribed to "Matthew," would naturally associate it with the Apostle of that name, and so the ascribing of the work to the Apostle Matthew becomes common at an early date, by a perfectly natural misunderstanding. of Hierapolis, writing in the late first or early second century, says that Matthew compiled the sayings (Logia) of Jesus in Hebrew. Now the material common to Matthew and Luke, but not to Mark, includes sayings of Jesus but almost no narrative. It has therefore been conjectured that there was once a document (usually called Q), now lost, that is basically a collection of speeches by Jesus, and that Matthew (the evangelist) and Luke, had access to it while Mark did not. It has been suggested that Matthew (the apostle) is the author of this document Q, which may well have been first written in Hebrew (or Aramaic). Scripture readings associated with the day bear the themes of Matthew as a Gospel-writer (hence readings that speak of the Scriptures), Matthew as an Apostle, and Matthew as a sinner called by God's grace. by James Kiefer Apostle and Evangelist Matthew, Commemorated on November 16; Holy Apostle and Evangelist Matthew, was also named Levi (Mark 2:14; Luke 5:27); he was one of the Twelve Apostles (Mark 3:18; Luke 6:45; Acts 1:13), and was brother of the Apostle James Alphaeus (Mark 2:14). was a publican, or tax-collector for Rome, in a time when the Jews were under the rule of the Roman Empire. lived in the Galilean city of Capernaum. Matthew heard the voice of Jesus Christ: “Come, follow Me” (Mt. 9:9), left everything and followed the Savior. and His disciples did not refuse Matthew’s invitation and they visited his house, where they shared table with the publican’s friends and acquaintances. Like the host, they were also publicans and known sinners. event disturbed the pharisees and scribes a great deal. who collected taxes from their countrymen did this with great profit for themselves. Usually greedy and cruel people, the Jews considered them pernicious betrayers of their country and religion. The word “publican” for the Jews had the connotation of “public sinner” and “idol-worshipper.” To even speak with a tax-collector was considered a sin, and to associate with one was defilement. the Jewish teachers were not able to comprehend that the Lord had “come to call not the righteous, but sinners to repentance” (Mt. 9:13). acknowledging his sinfulness, repaid fourfold anyone he had cheated, and he distributed his remaining possessions to the poor, and he followed after Christ with the other apostles. Matthew was attentive to the instructions of the Divine Teacher, he beheld His innumerable miracles, he went together with the Twelve Apostles preaching to “the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Mt. 10:6). was a witness to the suffering, death, and Resurrection of the Savior, and of His glorious Ascension into Heaven. received the grace of the Holy Spirit, which descended upon the Apostles on the day of Pentecost, Saint Matthew preached in Palestine for several years. the request of the Jewish converts at Jerusalem, the holy Apostle Matthew wrote his Gospel describing the earthly life of the Savior, before leaving to preach the Gospel in faraway lands. the order of the books of the New Testament, the Gospel of Matthew comes first. Palestine is said to be the place where the Gospel was written. Saint Matthew wrote in Aramaic, and then it was translated into Greek. The Aramaic text has not survived, but many of the linguistic and cultural-historical peculiarities of the Greek translation give indications of it. Apostle Matthew preached among people who were awaiting the Messiah. His Gospel manifests itself as a vivid proof that Jesus Christ is the Messiah foretold by the prophets, and that there would not be another (Mt. 11:3). preaching and deeds of the Savior are presented by the evangelist in three divisions, constituting three aspects of the service of the as Prophet and Law-Giver (Ch. 5-7), over the world both visible and invisible (Ch. 8-25), finally as High Priest offered as Sacrifice for the sins of all mankind (Ch. 26-27). theological content of the Gospel, besides the Christological themes, includes also the teaching about the Kingdom of God and about the Church, which the Lord sets forth in parables about the inner preparation for entering into the Kingdom (Ch. 5-7), about the worthiness of servers of the Church in the world (Ch. 10-11), about the signs of the Kingdom and its growth in the souls of mankind (Ch. 13), about the humility and simplicity of the inheritors of the Kingdom (Mt. 18:1-35; 19 13-30; 20:1-16; 25-27; 23:1-28), and about the eschatological revelations of the Kingdom in the Second Coming of Christ within the daily spiritual life of the Church (Ch. 24-25). Kingdom of Heaven and the Church are closely interconnected in the spiritual experience of Christianity: the Church is the historical embodiment of the Kingdom of Heaven in the world, and the Kingdom of Heaven is the Church of Christ in its eschatological perfection (Mt. 16:18-19; 28:18-20). holy Apostle brought the Gospel of Christ to Syria, Media, Persia, Parthia, finishing his preaching in Ethiopia with a martyr’s death. land was inhabited by tribes of cannibals with primitive customs and beliefs. The holy Apostle Matthew converted some of the idol-worshippers to faith in Christ. He founded the Church and built a temple in the city of Mirmena, establishing there his companion Platon as bishop. the holy apostle was fervently entreating God for the conversion of the Ethiopians the Lord Himself appeared to him in the form of a youth. He gave him a staff, and commanded him to plant it at the doors of the church. The Lord said that a tree would grow from this staff and it would bear fruit, and from its roots would flow a stream of water. the Ethiopians washed themselves in the water and ate the fruit, they lost their wild ways and became gentle and good. the holy apostle carried the staff towards the church, he was met by the wife and son of the ruler of the land, Fulvian, who were afflicted by unclean spirits. In the Name of Christ the holy apostle healed them. This miracle converted a number of the pagans to the Lord. But the ruler did not want his subjects to become Christians and cease worshiping the pagan gods. He accused the apostle of sorcery and gave orders to execute him. put Saint Matthew head downwards, piled up brushwood and ignited it. When the fire flared up, everyone then saw that the fire did not harm Saint Matthew. Then Fulvian gave orders to add more wood to the fire, and frenzied with boldness, he commanded to set up twelve idols around the fire. But the flames melted the idols and flared up toward Fulvian. The frightened Ethiopian turned to the saint with an entreaty for mercy, and by the prayer of the martyr the flame went out. The body of the holy apostle remained unharmed, and he departed to the Lord. ruler Fulvian deeply repented of his deed, but still he had doubts. his command, they put the body of Saint Matthew into an iron coffin and threw it into the sea. In doing this Fulvian said that if the God of Matthew would preserve the body of the apostle in the water as He preserved him in the fire, then this would be proper reason to worship this One True God. night the Apostle Matthew appeared to Bishop Platon in a dream, and commanded him to go with clergy to the shore of the sea and to find his body there. righteous Fulvian and his retinue went with the bishop to the shore of the sea. The coffin carried by the waves was taken to the church built by the apostle. Then Fulvian begged forgiveness of the holy Apostle Matthew, after which Bishop Platon baptized him, giving him the name Matthew in obedience to a command of God. Saint Fulvian-Matthew abdicated his rule and became a presbyter. Upon the death of Bishop Platon, the Apostle Matthew appeared to him and exhorted him to head the Ethiopian Church. Having become a bishop, Saint Fulvian-Matthew toiled at preaching the Word of God, continuing the work of his heavenly patron.

Rome, 30-97, Apostle Titus, Paul's closest, Preoccupied by Sciences, Isaiah 47, Bishop, 65 Epistle Rome, 68 Lycia Crete
Apostle Titus of the Seventy and Bishop of Crete, Commemorated on August 25; Titus, Apostle of the Seventy was a native of the island of Crete, the son of an illustrious pagan. In his youth he studied Hellenistic philosophy and the ancient poets. by the sciences, Titus led a virtuous life, not devoting himself to the vices and passions characteristic of the majority of pagans. He preserved his virginity, as the Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-bearer (December 20) testifies of him. such a manner of life the Lord did not leave him without His help. At age twenty Saint Titus heard a voice in a dream, suggesting that he abandon Hellenistic wisdom, which could not provide salvation for his soul, but rather to seek that which would save him. After this dream, Saint Titus waited yet another year, since it was not actually a command, but it did guide him to familiarize himself with the teachings of the prophets of God. first that he happened to read was the Book of the Prophet Isaiah. Having opened it to the 47th Chapter, he was struck by the words, speaking as it were about his own spiritual condition. news reached Crete about the appearance of a Great Prophet in Palestine, and about the great miracles He worked, the governor of the island of Crete (an uncle of Titus) sent him there. This Prophet was the Lord Jesus Christ Himself, incarnate of the Most Holy Virgin Mary Who came into the world for the redemption of the race of mankind from the oppression of ancestral sin. Jerusalem, Saint Titus saw the Lord. He heard His preaching and believed in Him. He witnessed the suffering and death of the Savior on the Cross, His glorious Resurrection and Ascension to Heaven. On the day of Pentecost the future apostle heard how the Twelve Apostles, after the descent of the Holy Spirit, spoke in various languages, among which was the Cretan language (Acts 2: 11). Titus accepted Baptism from the Apostle Paul and became his closest disciple. He accompanied Saint Paul on his missionary journeys, fulfilling the tasks entrusted to him. He was involved in establishing new churches, and was with Paul in Jerusalem. Titus was numbered among the Seventy Apostles and was made Bishop of Crete by the Apostle Paul. Around the year 65, not long before his second imprisonment, the Apostle Paul sent a pastoral epistle to his son in the Faith (Tit. 1: 4). the Apostle Paul was taken like a criminal to Rome to stand trial before Caesar, Saint Titus left his flock in Crete for a time and went to Rome to be of service to his spiritual Father. After Saint Paul’s death by martyrdom, Titus returned to Gortyna, the chief city of Crete. Titus peacefully guided his flock and toiled at enlightening the pagans with the light of faith in Christ. He was granted the gift of wonderworking by the Lord. During one of the pagan feasts in honor of the goddess Diana, Titus preached to a crowd of pagans. he saw that they would not listen to him, he prayed to the Lord, so that the Lord Himself would show to the mistaken people the falseness of idols. By the prayer of Saint Titus, the idol of Diana fell down and shattered before the eyes of all. Another time Saint Titus prayed that the Lord would not permit the completion of a temple of Zeus, and it collapsed. such miracles Saint Titus brought many to faith in Christ. After bringing the light of faith to the surrounding regions, Saint Titus died peacefully at the age of 97. At the time of his death, his face shone like the sun. Lycia, 68-100, Hieromartyrs of Myra, Bishop Nicander, Presbyter Hermas; Myra, Lycia; Hieromartyr Nicander the Bishop of Myra, Commemorated on November 4 ; Hieromartyrs Nicander, Bishop of Myra, and Hermas the Presbyter, were disciples of the holy Apostle Paul’s follower and fellow ascetic, the holy Apostle Titus of the Seventy (August 25), and they were ordained by him to the priesthood. the ascetic life amid incessant pastoral works, the saints converted many pagans to Christ. For this they were arrested and brought before the city prefect, Libanius. Neither flattery nor threats swayed the holy martyrs to renounce Christ. Then Libanius gave orders that they be tortured. saints endured fierce and inhuman torments: they were tied to horses and dragged over stones, their bodies were raked with iron hooks, and they were cast into a hot oven. The Lord helped them endure things that a mere man by his own strength could not endure. Towards the end, iron nails were hammered into their heads and hearts. They were thrown into a pit, then covered over with earth. enduring such a cruel death, now they live forever in the joy of the Lord (Mt. 25:21). Apostle Titus of the Seventy and Bishop of Crete, Commemorated on August 25; such miracles Saint Titus brought many to faith in Christ. After bringing the light of faith to the surrounding regions, Saint Titus died peacefully at the age of 97. At the time of his death, his face shone like the sun. Titus, Apostle of the Seventy was a native of the island of Crete, the son of an illustrious pagan. In his youth he studied Hellenistic philosophy and the ancient poets. by the sciences, Titus led a virtuous life, not devoting himself to the vices and passions characteristic of the majority of pagans. He preserved his virginity, as the Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-bearer (December 20) testifies of him. such a manner of life the Lord did not leave him without His help. At age twenty Saint Titus heard a voice in a dream, suggesting that he abandon Hellenistic wisdom, which could not provide salvation for his soul, but rather to seek that which would save him. After this dream, Saint Titus waited yet another year, since it was not actually a command, but it did guide him to familiarize himself with the teachings of the prophets of God. first that he happened to read was the Book of the Prophet Isaiah. Having opened it to the 47th Chapter, he was struck by the words, speaking as it were about his own spiritual condition. news reached Crete about the appearance of a Great Prophet in Palestine, and about the great miracles He worked, the governor of the island of Crete (an uncle of Titus) sent him there. This Prophet was the Lord Jesus Christ Himself, incarnate of the Most Holy Virgin Mary Who came into the world for the redemption of the race of mankind from the oppression of ancestral sin. Jerusalem, Saint Titus saw the Lord. He heard His preaching and believed in Him. He witnessed the suffering and death of the Savior on the Cross, His glorious Resurrection and Ascension to Heaven. On the day of Pentecost the future apostle heard how the Twelve Apostles, after the descent of the Holy Spirit, spoke in various languages, among which was the Cretan language (Acts 2: 11). Titus accepted Baptism from the Apostle Paul and became his closest disciple. He accompanied Saint Paul on his missionary journeys, fulfilling the tasks entrusted to him. He was involved in establishing new churches, and was with Paul in Jerusalem. Titus was numbered among the Seventy Apostles and was made Bishop of Crete by the Apostle Paul. Around the year 65, not long before his second imprisonment, the Apostle Paul sent a pastoral epistle to his son in the Faith (Tit. 1: 4). the Apostle Paul was taken like a criminal to Rome to stand trial before Caesar, Saint Titus left his flock in Crete for a time and went to Rome to be of service to his spiritual Father. After Saint Paul’s death by martyrdom, Titus returned to Gortyna, the chief city of Crete. Titus peacefully guided his flock and toiled at enlightening the pagans with the light of faith in Christ. He was granted the gift of wonderworking by the Lord. During one of the pagan feasts in honor of the goddess Diana, Titus preached to a crowd of pagans. he saw that they would not listen to him, he prayed to the Lord, so that the Lord Himself would show to the mistaken people the falseness of idols. By the prayer of Saint Titus, the idol of Diana fell down and shattered before the eyes of all. Another time Saint Titus prayed that the Lord would not permit the completion of a temple of Zeus, and it collapsed. such miracles Saint Titus brought many to faith in Christ. After bringing the light of faith to the surrounding regions, Saint Titus died peacefully at the age of 97. At the time of his death, his face shone like the sun.

Rome, 30-73 or 107, Apostle Simon the Zealot, Cana, Galilee, the bridegroom, went many places from Britain to Black Sea
Galilee, 30-73, Cana, Galilee (Kishon River Drainage) the bridegroom at Jesus' first miracle, so became zealous for Christ, went many places from Britain to Black Sea, Crucified; Cana in Galilee; Apostle Simon Zealotes, Commemorated on May 10; Simon was from Cana in Galilee, and was known to the Lord and His Mother. says that he was the bridegroom at the wedding where the Savior performed His first miracle. witnessing the miracle of the water which had been turned into wine, he became a zealous follower of Christ. For this reason, he is known as Saint Simon the Zealot. Simon was one of the twelve Apostles, and received the Holy Spirit with the others on Pentecost. traveled to many places from Britain to the Black Sea, proclaiming the Gospel of Christ. After winning many pagans to the Lord, Saint Simon suffered martyrdom by crucifixion. Demetrius of Rostov says that this Saint Simon is to be distinguished from the Apostle Simon Peter, and from the Lord’s relative Simon (Mt.13:55), who was the second Bishop of Jerusalem. Simon is also commemorated on June 30 with the other Apostles.

Rome, 30-110, Apostle Sosipater, Bishop of Iconium (Konya), Lyconia, then in 63 went to Corfu, Epirus
Lyconia, 30-110, Apostle Sosipater, Bishop of Iconium (Konya), Lyconia ; is a person mentioned in the New Testament, in Romans 16:21. He is probably the same person as Sopater mentioned in Acts 20:4. church tradition, he is known as Sosipater of Iconium, and is numbered among the Seventy Apostles. St. Sosipater's feast days are on April 28 (Slavic tradition), or 29 (Greek tradition) with St. Jason; 10 with saints Erastus, Olympas, Herodian, Quartus and Tertius; and January 4 with the Seventy. According to Latin tradition, the disciple of St Paul the Apostle died on the 25th of June in Beroea. was born in Achaea. According to legend, he was Bishop in Iconium[1] (prior to the Apostle Tertius) by his relative the Apostle Paul. the Apostle Jason he traveled to the island of Corfu where they built a church in honor of the Apostle Stephen the Protomartyr and converted many pagans to the Christian faith. this, the governor of Corfu threw them into prison where they converted seven other prisoners to the Christian faith: Saturninus, Jakischolus, Faustianus, Januarius, Marsalius, Euphrasius and Mammius, known as the Seven Robbers. The governor had those seven put to death by boiling pitch for their faith. governor's daughter, the virgin Cercyra [uk], having watched these holy apostles being tortured and turned to the Christian faith, distributed all her jewels to the poor. governor became angry and put her in prison, yet she would not deny Christ. So he had the prison burned, but she remained unharmed. Many people were baptized upon seeing this miracle. He then had her killed with arrows while tied to a tree. believers fled to a nearby island to get away from the enraged governor, but as he chased them his boat sank. The new governor embraced the Christian faith and in baptism received the name Sebastian. then on Sts. Sosipater and Jason freely preached the Gospel and built up the Church in Corfu until a very old age, when they gave up their souls to God. Iconium; Apostle Sosipater of the Seventy, Commemorated November 10; Sosipater, a native of Achaia, was Bishop of Iconium, where he also died. Saint Paul mentions him in Romans 16:21. The holy Apostles Erastus, Sosipater (April 28), Olympas (January 4), Rodion (April 8), Quartus and Tertius (October 30) were disciples of Saint Paul. They all lived during the first century. Apostle to the Gentiles speaks of them in the Epistle to the Romans, “And Erastus, the city treasurer, greets you, and Quartus, a brother” (Rom 16: 23). Sosipater, a native of Achaia, was Bishop of Iconium, where he also died. Saint Paul mentions him in Romans 16:21. Olympas was mentioned by the holy Apostle Paul (Rom 16:15). He was also a companion of the Apostle Peter. Saint Rodion (Herodion), was a kinsman of the Apostle Paul (Romans 16:11), and left the bishop’s throne at Patras to go to Rome with the Apostle Peter. Saints Rodion and Olympas were beheaded on the very day and hour when Saint Peter was crucified. Quartus endured much suffering for his piety and converted many pagans to Christ, dying peacefully as a bishop in the city of Beirut. Tertius is mentioned in the Epistle to the Romans, “I, Tertius, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord” (Rom 16:22). Saint Tertius, to whom Saint Paul dictated the Epistle to the Romans, was the second Bishop of Iconium, where also he died.

Rome, 30-1st Century, Apostle Andronicus of 70, Bishop of Pannonia (modern-day Hungary), Paul's kin
Hungary, 30 - 1st Century, Apostle Andronicus, Bishop of Pannonia (modern-day Hungary), Paul's kin; Hungary, Pannonia (modern-day Hungary), Pannonia was located over the territory of the present-day western Hungary, eastern Austria, northern Croatia, north-western Serbia, northern Slovenia, western Slovakia and northern Bosnia and Herzegovina.; Apostle Andronicus of the Seventy, Commemorated July 30 ; Holy Apostle of the Seventy Andronicus was a disciple of the Savior. Apostle Andronicus is mentioned by Saint Paul: “Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, ... who are of note among the Apostles, who also were in Christ, before me” (Rom. 16:7). holy Apostle Andronicus was bishop in Pannonia (modern-day Hungary). Andronicus and Junia are also commemorated on May 17.

Rome, 30-1st Century, Adronicus, Paul's kin, Pannonia (Hungary, Austia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Croatia, Bosnia, Hezegovinia)
Serbia, 40-60 approx, Adronicus and Junia, Paul's kin, in Pannonia (parts of: Hungary, Austia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Croatia, Bosnia, Hezegovinia); Andronicus Apostle of the Seventy and Saint Junia were relatives of the holy Apostle Paul. They labored much, preaching the Gospel to pagans. Saint Paul mentions them in his Epistle to the Romans: “Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen and fellow prisoners, who are of note among the Apostles, who also were in Christ, before meâ€ (Romans 16:7). Andronicus was made Bishop of Pannonia, but his preaching also took him and Saint Junia to other lands, far from the boundaries of his diocese. Through the efforts of Saints Andronicus and Junia the Church of Christ was strengthened, pagans were converted to the knowledge of God, many pagan temples closed, and in their place Christian churches were built. The service in honor of these saints states that they suffered martyrdom for Christ. the fifth century, during the reign of the emperors Arcadius and Honorius, their holy relics were uncovered on the outskirts of Constantinople together with the relics of other martyrs at the gate of Eugenius (February 22). was revealed to the pious cleric Nicholas Kalligraphos that among the relics of these seventeen martyrs were the relics of the holy Apostle Andronicus. Afterwards, a magnificent church was built on this spot. Pannonia (parts of: Hungary, Austia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Croatia, Bosnia, Hezegovinia) ; Apostle Andronicus of the Seventy and his fellow-laborer, Junia, Commemorated on May 17

Rome, 30-1st Century, Apostle Quartus, Bishop of Beirut, served in Magnesia, born and died in Athens
Lebanon, 30-1st Century, Apostle Quartus, Bishop of Beirut, Lebanon; (Greek: Κούαρτος, romanized: Kouartos) was an early Christian who is mentioned in the Bible. to church tradition, he is known as Quartus of Berytus[1] and is numbered among the Seventy Disciples. Furthermore, he was Bishop of Beirut and suffered for the faith. He converted many to the Christian faith. His feast day is 10 November. was born in the city of Athens, and was one of its wealthy and learned nobles. He believed in the Lord Christ and served him. Having received the grace of the Comforter on the day of Pentecost, he preached the gospel in many countries. He entered the city of Magnis and preached there. The people of the city believed; he baptized them and taught them the commandments. Then he returned to Athens, to preach there also, but they stoned him and tortured him severely. Finally they cast him into the fire; thus, he received the crown of martyrdom. Beirut; Apostle Quartus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10 ; Quartus endured much suffering for his piety and converted many pagans to Christ, dying peacefully as a bishop in the city of Beirut. holy Apostles Erastus, Sosipater (April 28), Olympas (January 4), Rodion (April 8), Quartus and Tertius (October 30) were disciples of Saint Paul. They all lived during the first century. Apostle to the Gentiles speaks of them in the Epistle to the Romans, “And Erastus, the city treasurer, greets you, and Quartus, a brother” (Rom 16: 23). Sosipater, a native of Achaia, was Bishop of Iconium, where he also died. Saint Paul mentions him in Romans 16:21. Olympas was mentioned by the holy Apostle Paul (Rom 16:15). He was also a companion of the Apostle Peter. Saint Rodion (Herodion), was a kinsman of the Apostle Paul (Romans 16:11), and left the bishop’s throne at Patras to go to Rome with the Apostle Peter. Saints Rodion and Olympas were beheaded on the very day and hour when Saint Peter was crucified. Quartus endured much suffering for his piety and converted many pagans to Christ, dying peacefully as a bishop in the city of Beirut. Tertius is mentioned in the Epistle to the Romans, “I, Tertius, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord” (Rom 16:22). Saint Tertius, to whom Saint Paul dictated the Epistle to the Romans, was the second Bishop of Iconium, where also he died. Apostle Quartus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4;

Rome, 30-1st century, Timon the Deacon, Bishop of Bosra in Syria (Kings Highway 16) of the Seventy, red hot furnace
Syria, 30- 1st century, Timon the Deacon, Bishop of Bosra in Syria (Kings Highway 16) of the Seventy, red hot furnace; Bosra in Syria; Apostle Timon the Deacon of the Seventy, Commerated December 30 ; Holy Apostle Timon was one of the seven deacons appointed by the Apostles (Acts 6:5) to minister to destitute Christian widows. he was chosen bishop of the city of Bosra in Syria, where he led many to Christianity. was thrown into a red-hot furnace and received the crown of martyrdom. He is also commemorated on July 28.

Rome, 30-1st Century, Apostle Caesar, of the 70, Dirrachium, Albania (Roman Road, K Triangle Via Egnatia, Macedonia)
Albania, 30-, Apostle Caesar, Dirrachium, Albania (K Triangle Via Egnatia, Macedonia) Dirrachium, Albania Apostle Caesar of the Seventy, Commemorated December 8 ; Caesar preached at and was bishop of Dyrrhachium, a district of the Peloponnesos in Greece.

Rome, 30-1st Century, Apostle Tertius of the Seventy, 2nd bishop of Iconium, amanuensis for Paul for E to Romans
Lykaonia, 30-1st Century, Apostle Tertius of the Seventy, 2nd bishop of Iconium; to the New Testament book of Romans, Tertius of Iconium (also Tertios) acted as an amanuensis for Paul the Apostle, writing down his Epistle to the Romans.[1] He is numbered among the Seventy Disciples in a list pseudonymously attributed to Hippolytus of Rome,[2] which is found in the margin of several ancient manuscripts.[3] to tradition, Tertius was Bishop in Iconium[4][5] after the Apostle Sosipater[6] and died a martyr.[citation needed] The Catholic Church marks St. Tertius days on October 30 and November 10. Iconium; Apostles of the Seventy: Tertius, Commemorated on November 10; Tertius is mentioned in the Epistle to the Romans, “I, Tertius, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord” (Rom 16:22). Saint Tertius, to whom Saint Paul dictated the Epistle to the Romans, was the second Bishop of Iconium, where also he died.

Rome, 30-1st Century, Erastus of Corinth, of the Seventy, steward at Jerusalem, Paneas and C
Erastus of Corinth; of Corinth, also known as Erastus of Paneas, held the political office of steward, in Corinth, according to the Epistle to the Romans 16:23 of the New Testament. office is defined as "the manager of household or of household affairs" or, in this context, "treasurer".[1] King James Version uses the translation "chamberlain", while the New International Version uses "director of public works". person named Erastus mentioned in 2 Timothy 4:20 and Acts 19:22 is often taken to be the same person. However, whereas the Erastus mentioned in the second letter to Timothy may be the same person, it is unlikely that the Erastus referred to in the Book of Acts is the same Erastus. This Erastus was a travelling companion of the apostle Paul and accompanied him on his third missionary journey. It was on this third expedition that Paul penned the letter to the Roman believers in which he sent greetings from Erastus, the city treasurer. He could not have been the person in Paul's entourage. The apostle Paul wrote his letter to the church in Rome while he was in Corinth (Romans 14:25-26, 27). to the tradition of the Orthodox Church, Erastus is numbered among the Seventy Disciples. He served as a deacon and steward of the Church at Jerusalem and later of Paneas in Palestine. The Church remembers St. Erastus on January 4 among the Seventy, and on November 10. Corinth;

Rome, 30-1st Century, Apostle Narcissus of the Seventy, Bishop of Athens, made by Philip
Greece, 30-1st Century, Apostle Narcissus of the Seventy, Bishop of Athens, made by Philip; Athens; Apostle Narcissus of the Seventy, Commemorated October 31 ; Narcissus, one of the Seventy Apostles, was made Bishop of Athens by the Apostle Philip. Apostle Narcissus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Synaxis of the Seventy Apostles was established by the Orthodox Church to indicate the equal honor of each of the Seventy. They were sent two by two by the Lord Jesus Christ to go before Him into the cities He would visit (Luke 10:1). the celebration of the Synaxis of the Holy Disciples, the Church celebrates the memory of each of them during the course of the year: Saint James the Brother of the Lord (October 23); Mark the Evangelist (April 25); Luke the Evangelist (October 18); Cleopas (October 30), brother of Saint Joseph the Betrothed, and Simeon his son (April 27); Barnabas (June 11); Joses, or Joseph, named Barsabas or Justus (October 30); Thaddeus (August 21); Ananias (October 1); Protomartyr Stephen the Archdeacon (December 27); Philip the Deacon (October 11); Prochorus the Deacon (28 July); Nicanor the Deacon (July 28 and December 28); Timon the Deacon (July 28 and December 30); Parmenas the Deacon (July 28); Timothy (January 22); Titus (August 25); Philemon (November 22 and February 19); Onesimus (February 15); Epaphras and Archippus (November 22 and February 19); Silas, Silvanus, Crescens or Criscus (July 30); Crispus and Epaenetos (July 30); Andronicus (May 17 and July 30); Stachys, Amplias, Urban, Narcissus, Apelles (October 31); Aristobulus (October 31 and March 16); Herodion or Rodion (April 8 and November 10); Agabus, Rufus, Asyncritus, Phlegon (April 8); Hermas (November 5, November 30 and May 31); Patrobas (November 5); Hermes (April 8); Linus, Gaius, Philologus (November 5); Lucius (September 10); Jason (April 28); Sosipater (April 28 and November 10); Olympas or Olympanus (November 10 ); Tertius (October 30 and November 10); Erastos (November 30), Quartus (November 10); Euodius (September 7); Onesiphorus (September 7 and December 8); Clement (November 25); Sosthenes (December 8); Apollos (March 30 and December 8); Tychicus, Epaphroditus (December 8); Carpus (May 26); Quadratus (September 21); Mark (September 27), called John, Zeno (September 27); Aristarchus (April 15 and September 27); Pudens and Trophimus (April 15); Mark nephew of Barnabas, Artemas (October 30); Aquila (July 14); Fortunatus (June 15) and Achaicus (January 4). the Descent of the Holy Spirit the Seventy Apostles preached in various lands. Some accompanied the Twelve Apostles, like the holy Evangelists Mark and Luke, or Saint Paul’s companion Timothy, or Prochorus,the disciple of the holy Evangelist John the Theologian, and others. Many of them were thrown into prison for Christ, and many received the crown of martyrdom. are two more Apostles of the Seventy: Saint Cephas, to whom the Lord appeared after the Resurrection (1 Cor. 15:5-6), and Simeon, called Niger (Acts 13:1). They also were glorified by apostolic preaching. are discrepancies and errors in some lists of the Seventy Apostles. In a list attributed to Saint Dorotheus of Tyre (June 5) some names are repeated (Rodion, or Herodion, Apollos, Tychicus, Aristarchus), while others are omitted (Timothy, Titus, Epaphras, Archippus, Aquila, Olympas). Saint Demetrius of Rostov consulted the Holy Scripture, the traditions passed down by the Fathers, and the accounts of trustworthy historians when he attempted to correct the mistakes and uncertainties in the list in compiling his collection of Lives of the Saints. Church in particular venerates and praises the Seventy Apostles because they taught us to honor the Trinity One in Essence and Undivided. the ninth century Saint Joseph the Hymnographer composed the Canon for the Synaxis of the Seventy Apostles of Christ.

Rome, 30-1st Century, Apostle Urban of the Seventy, Bishop of Macedonia, Greece, St Andrew ordained Urban, martyr
Greece, 30-1st Century, Apostle Urban of the Seventy, Macedonia, Greece; of Macedonia is numbered among the Seventy Apostles. Along with the Apostles Ampliatus, Stachys, Narcissus of Athens, Apelles of Heraklion and Aristobulus of Britannia (all of these names are mentioned together by St. Paul in Romans 16:8-11, which cannot be casual) he assisted Saint Andrew. St. Andrew ordained Urban bishop in Macedonia. He died a martyr, and his feast day is October 31. is venerated as saint by Eastern Orthodox Church (January 4, October 31), Roman Catholic Church (July 13) and other Christian Churches. Macedonia ancient kingdom; Macedonia Region; Apostle Urban of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31 ; Urban, one of the Seventy Apostles, was made a bishop by Saint Andrew (November 30), and was active in Macedonia. He was killed by Jews and pagan Greeks because of his zeal in preaching the Gospel.

Rome, 30-1st Century, Apostle Amplias of the Seventy, Bishop of Lydda or Diospolis
Apostle Amplias of the Seventy; Lydda or Lod; Apostle Zenas of the Seventy, Commemorated September 27 ; St Tabitha the Widow, raised from the dead by the Apostle Peter, Commemorated October 25 ; Apostle Amplias of the Seventy, Commemorated October 31 ; Amplias was a bishop in the city of Diospolis. Apostle Amplias of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Synaxis of the Seventy Apostles was established by the Orthodox Church to indicate the equal honor of each of the Seventy. They were sent two by two by the Lord Jesus Christ to go before Him into the cities He would visit (Luke 10:1). the celebration of the Synaxis of the Holy Disciples, the Church celebrates the memory of each of them during the course of the year: Saint James the Brother of the Lord (October 23); Mark the Evangelist (April 25); Luke the Evangelist (October 18); Cleopas (October 30), brother of Saint Joseph the Betrothed, and Simeon his son (April 27); Barnabas (June 11); Joses, or Joseph, named Barsabas or Justus (October 30); Thaddeus (August 21); Ananias (October 1); Protomartyr Stephen the Archdeacon (December 27); Philip the Deacon (October 11); Prochorus the Deacon (28 July); Nicanor the Deacon (July 28 and December 28); Timon the Deacon (July 28 and December 30); Parmenas the Deacon (July 28); Timothy (January 22); Titus (August 25); Philemon (November 22 and February 19); Onesimus (February 15); Epaphras and Archippus (November 22 and February 19); Silas, Silvanus, Crescens or Criscus (July 30); Crispus and Epaenetos (July 30); Andronicus (May 17 and July 30); Stachys, Amplias, Urban, Narcissus, Apelles (October 31); Aristobulus (October 31 and March 16); Herodion or Rodion (April 8 and November 10); Agabus, Rufus, Asyncritus, Phlegon (April 8); Hermas (November 5, November 30 and May 31); Patrobas (November 5); Hermes (April 8); Linus, Gaius, Philologus (November 5); Lucius (September 10); Jason (April 28); Sosipater (April 28 and November 10); Olympas or Olympanus (November 10 ); Tertius (October 30 and November 10); Erastos (November 30), Quartus (November 10); Euodius (September 7); Onesiphorus (September 7 and December 8); Clement (November 25); Sosthenes (December 8); Apollos (March 30 and December 8); Tychicus, Epaphroditus (December 8); Carpus (May 26); Quadratus (September 21); Mark (September 27), called John, Zeno (September 27); Aristarchus (April 15 and September 27); Pudens and Trophimus (April 15); Mark nephew of Barnabas, Artemas (October 30); Aquila (July 14); Fortunatus (June 15) and Achaicus (January 4). the Descent of the Holy Spirit the Seventy Apostles preached in various lands. Some accompanied the Twelve Apostles, like the holy Evangelists Mark and Luke, or Saint Paul’s companion Timothy, or Prochorus,the disciple of the holy Evangelist John the Theologian, and others. Many of them were thrown into prison for Christ, and many received the crown of martyrdom. are two more Apostles of the Seventy: Saint Cephas, to whom the Lord appeared after the Resurrection (1 Cor. 15:5-6), and Simeon, called Niger (Acts 13:1). They also were glorified by apostolic preaching. are discrepancies and errors in some lists of the Seventy Apostles. In a list attributed to Saint Dorotheus of Tyre (June 5) some names are repeated (Rodion, or Herodion, Apollos, Tychicus, Aristarchus), while others are omitted (Timothy, Titus, Epaphras, Archippus, Aquila, Olympas). Saint Demetrius of Rostov consulted the Holy Scripture, the traditions passed down by the Fathers, and the accounts of trustworthy historians when he attempted to correct the mistakes and uncertainties in the list in compiling his collection of Lives of the Saints. Church in particular venerates and praises the Seventy Apostles because they taught us to honor the Trinity One in Essence and Undivided. the ninth century Saint Joseph the Hymnographer composed the Canon for the Synaxis of the Seventy Apostles of Christ. Icon œNot Made by HandsÂ from Lydda, Commemorated on March 12; Icon of the Mother of God of Lydda or œthe RomanÂ, Commemorated on June 26;

Rome, 33, TRANSFIGURATION, Tabor, Jesus d light, Peter, James, John, w Moses & Elijah, this my son, Orthodox d light focus
Galilee, 33, FEAST OF THE TRANSFIGURATION, Mt Tabor, Galilee (Kishon River Source), beginning to teach his death and resurrection, revealed himself to Peter, James and John, w Moses and Elijah, Law and Prophets, Father proclaimed this is my son, Listen to him, Orthodox say what light, why 6 days and 8 days, 8 on the mt only 6 visible, it is because mystery of the 8th day in the future, the day of the Church; Mount Tabor; FEAST OF THE TRANSFIGURATION, (6 AUGUST NT); we celebrate the occasion (recorded in M 17:1-8 = P 9:2-8 = L 9:28-36) on which Christ, He was beginning to teach His disciples that He must die and rise again, Himself in shining splendor to Peter, James, and John. and Elijah were present, and are taken to signify that the Law and the Prophets testify that Jesus is the promised Messiah. the Father also proclaimed him as such, saying, "This is my Beloved Son. Listen to him." For a moment the veil is drawn aside, and men still on earth are permitted a glimpse of the heavenly reality, the glory of the Eternal Triune God. The Transfiguration, by Giovanno Lanfranco the East, the Festival of the Transfiguration has been celebrated since the late fourth century, and is one of the twelve great festivals of the East Orthodox calendar. the West it was observed after the ninth century by some monastic orders, and in 1457 Pope Callistus III ordered its general observance. the time of the Reformation, it was still felt in some countries to be a "recent innovation," and so was not immediately taken over into most Reformation calendars, but is now found on most calendars that have been revised in the twentieth century. recent tendency in the West is to commemorate the Transfiguration on the Sunday just before Lent, in accordance with the pattern found in the Synoptics, where Jesus is represented as beginning to speak of his forthcoming death just about the time of the Transfiguration, so that it forms a fitting transition between the Epiphany season, in which Christ makes himself known, and the Lenten season, in which he prepares the disciples for what lies ahead. observing the Transfiguration then will affect the observation of it on 6 August remains to be seen. The Transfiguration, from the Predis Codex FIRST READING: Exodus 34:29-35 (When Moses came down from Mount Sinai, after speaking with the LORD, the skin of his face was so radiant that the Israelites were afraid to look at him. Therefore, he wore a veil.) PSALM 99 or 99:5-9 (The LORD reigns, let the peoples tremble.... Moses and Aaron and Samuel cried unto him, and he spoke to them from the pillar of cloud.) EPISTLE: 2 Peter 1:13-21 (Peter, near the end of his life, for his own strengthening and that of his readers, recalls his long-ago experience of seeing the Transfigured Christ.) THE HOLY GOSPEL: Luke 9:28-36 (Jesus took Peter and James and John up a mountain, and there appeared to them in shining splendor, and with Him appeared Moses and Elijah, who spoke with Him.) by James Kiefer The Holy Transfiguration of our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ (the Second œFeast of the Savior in August), Commemorated on August 6; on the Holy Transfiguration of Our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ of Saint Gregory Palamas, Archbishop of Thessalonica an explanation of the present Feast and understanding of its truth, it is necessary for us to turn to the very start of today’s reading from the Gospel: “Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James and John his brother, and led them up onto a high mountain by themselves” (Mt.17:1). of all we must ask, from whence does the Evangelist Matthew begin to reckon with six days? From what sort of day is it? What does the preceding turn of speech indicate, where the Savior, in teaching His disciples, said to them: “For the Son of Man shall come with his angels in the glory of His Father,” further: “Amen I say to you, there are some standing here who shall not taste death, until they have seen the Son of Man coming in His Kingdom” (Mt.16:27-28)? is to say, it is the Light of His own forthcoming Transfiguration which He terms the Glory of His Father and of His Kingdom. Evangelist Luke points this out and reveals this more clearly saying: “Now it came to pass about eight days after these words, that He took Peter and John and James, and went up the mountain to pray. as He prayed, His countenance was altered, and His raiment became a radiant white” (Luke 9:28-29). how can the two be reconciled, when one of them speaks definitively about the interval of time as being eight days between the sayings and the manifestation, whereas the other (says): “after six days?” were eight on the mountain, but only six were visible. Three, Peter, James and John, had come up with Jesus, and they saw Moses and Elias standing there and conversing with Him, so altogether there were six of them. the Father and the Holy Spirit were invisibly with the Lord: the Father, with His Voice testifying that this was His Beloved Son, and the Holy Spirit shining forth with Him in the radiant cloud. the six are actually eight, and there is no contradiction regarding the eight. there is no contradiction with the Evangelists when one says “after six days,” and the other says “eight days after these words.” these twofold sayings as it were present is a certain format set in mystery, and together with it that of those actually present upon the Mount. stands to reason, and everyone rationally studying in accordance with Scripture knows that the Evangelists are in agreement one with another. spoke of eight days without contradicting Matthew, who declared “after six days.” There is not another day added on to represent the day on which these sayings were uttered, nor is the day on which the Lord was transfigured added on (which a rational person might reasonably imagine to be added to the days of Matthew). Evangelist Luke does not say “after eight days” (like the Evangelist Matthew says “after six days”), but rather “it came to pass eight days after these words.” where the Evangelists seem to contradict one another, they actually point out to us something great and mysterious. In actual fact, why did the one say “after six days,” but the other, in ignoring the seventh day, have in mind the eighth day? is because the great vision of the Light of the Transfiguration of the Lord is the mystery of the Eighth Day, i.e., of the future age, coming to be revealed after the passing away of the world created in six days. the power of the Divine Spirit, through Whom the Kingdom of God is to be revealed, the Lord predicted: “There are some standing here who shall not taste death, until they have seen the Son of Man coming in His Kingdom” (Mt.16:28). and in every way the King will be present, and everywhere will be His Kingdom, since the advent of His Kingdom does not signify the passing over from one place to another, but rather the revelation of its power of the Divine Spirit. is why it is said: “come in power.” And this power is not manifest to simply ordinary people, but to those standing with the Lord, that is to say, those who have affirmed their faith in Him like Peter, James and John, and especially those who are free of our natural abasement. and precisely because of this, God manifests Himself upon the Mount, on the one hand coming down from His heights, and on the other, raising us up from the depths of abasement, since the Transcendent One takes on mortal nature. such a manifest appearance by far transcends the utmost limits of the mind’s grasp, as effectualized by the power of the Divine Spirit. the Light of the Transfiguration of the Lord is not something that comes to be and then vanishes, nor is it subject to the sensory faculties, although it was contemplated by corporeal eyes for a short while upon an inconsequential mountaintop. the initiates of the Mystery, (the disciples) of the Lord at this time passed beyond mere flesh into spirit through a transformation of their senses, effectualized within them by the Spirit, and in such a way that they beheld what, and to what extent, the Divine Spirit had wrought blessedness in them to behold the Ineffable Light. not grasping this point have conjectured that the chosen from among the Apostles beheld the Light of the Transfiguration of the Lord by a sensual and creaturely faculty, and through this they attempt to reduce to a creaturely level (i.e., as something “created”) not only this Light, the Kingdom and the Glory of God, but also the Power of the Divine Spirit, through Whom it is meet for Divine Mysteries to be revealed. all likelihood, such persons have not heeded the words of the Apostle Paul: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man, what things God has prepared for those who love Him. But to us God has revealed them through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God” (1 Cor.2:9-10). with the onset of the Eighth Day, the Lord, taking Peter, James and John, went up on the Mount to pray. always prayed alone, withdrawing from everyone, even from the Apostles themselves, as for example when with five loaves and two fish He fed the five thousand men, besides women and children (Mt.14:19-23). taking with Him those who excelled others, as at the approach of His Saving Passion, when He said to the other disciples: “Sit here while I go over there and pray” (Mt.26:36). He took with Him Peter, James and John. But in our instance right here and now, having taken only these same three, the Lord led them up onto a high mountain by themselves and was transfigured before them, that is to say, before their very eyes. “What does it mean to say: He was transfigured?” asks the Golden-Mouthed Theologian (Chrysostom). answers this by saying: “It revealed something of His Divinity to them, as much and insofar as they were able to apprehend it, and it showed the indwelling of God within Him.” Evangelist Luke says: “And as He prayed, His countenance was altered” (Luke 9:29); from the Evangelist Matthew we read: “And His face shone as the sun” (Mt.17:2). the Evangelist said this, not in the context that this Light be thought of as subsistent for the senses us put aside the blindness of mind of those who can conceive of nothing higher than what is known through the senses). it is to show that Christ God, for those living and contemplating by the Spirit, is the same as the sun is for those living in the flesh and contemplating by the senses. some other Light for the knowing the Divinity is not necessary for those who are enriched by Divine gifts. same Inscrutable Light shone and was mysteriously manifest to the Apostles and the foremost of the Prophets at that moment, when (the Lord) was praying. shows that what brought forth this blessed sight was prayer, that the radiance occured and was manifest by uniting the mind with God, that it is granted to all who, with constant exercise in efforts of virtue and prayer, strive with their mind towards God. beauty, essentially, can be contemplated only with a purified mind. To gaze upon its luminance assumes a sort of participation in it, as though some bright ray etches itself upon the face. the face of Moses was illumined by his association with God. Do you not know that Moses was transfigured when he went up the mountain, and there beheld the Glory of God? But he (Moses) did not effect this, but rather he underwent a transfiguration. our Lord Jesus Christ possessed that Light Himself. this regard, actually, He did not need prayer for His flesh to radiate with the Divine Light; it was but to show from whence that Light descends upon the saints of God, and how to contemplate it. it is written that even the saints “will shine forth like the sun” (Mt.13:43), is to say, entirely permeated by Divine Light as they gaze upon Christ, divinely and inexpressibly shining forth His Radiance, issuing from His Divine Nature. Mount Tabor it was manifest also in His Flesh, by reason of the Hypostatic Union (i.e., the union of the two perfect natures, divine and human, within the divine Person [Hypostasis] of Christ, the Second Person of the Most Holy Trinity). Fourth Ecumenical Council at Chalcedon defined this Hypostatic union of Christ’s two natures, divine and human, as “without mingling, without change, without division, without separation.” believe that at the Transfiguration He manifested not some other sort of light, but only that which was concealed beneath His fleshly exterior. This Light was the Light of the Divine Nature, and as such, it was Uncreated and Divine. also, in the teachings of the Fathers, Jesus Christ was transfigured on the Mount, taking upon Himself something new nor being changed into something new, nor something which formerly He did not possess. it was to show His disciples that which He already was, opening their eyes and bringing them from blindness to sight. For do you not see that eyes that can perceive natural things would be blind to this Light? this Light is not a light of the senses, and those contemplating it do not simply see with sensual eyes, rather they are changed by the power of the Divine Spirit. were transformed, and only in this way did they see the transformation taking place amidst the very assumption of our perishability, with the deification through union with the Word of God in place of this. also she who miraculously conceived and gave birth recognized that the One born of her is God Incarnate. it was also for Simeon, who only received this Infant into his arms, the aged Anna, coming out [from the Jerusalem Temple] for the Meeting, since the Divine Power illumined, as through a glass windowpane, giving light for those having pure eyes of heart. why did the Lord, before the beginning of the Transfiguration, choose the foremost of the Apostles and lead them up onto the Mount with Him? it was to show them something great and mysterious. is particularly great or mysterious in showing a sensory light, which not only the foremost, but all the other Apostles already abundantly possessed? would they need a transforming of their eyes by the power of the Holy Spirit for a contemplation of this Light, if it were merely sensory and created? could the Glory and the Kingdom of the Father and the Holy Spirit project forth in some sort of sensory light? in what sort of Glory and Kingdom would Christ the Lord come at the end of the ages, when there would not be necessary anything in the air, nor in expanse, nor anything similar, but when, in the words of the Apostle, “God will be all in all” (1 Cor.15: 28)? is to say, will He alter everything for all? If so, then it follows that light is included. it is clear that the Light of Tabor was a Divine Light. the Evangelist John, inspired by Divine Revelation, says clearly that the future eternal and enduring city “has no need of the sun or moon to shine upon it. For the Glory of God lights it up, and the Lamb will be its lamp” (Rev 21:23). it not clear, that he points out here that this [Lamb] is Jesus, Who is divinely transfigured now upon Tabor, and the flesh of Whom shines, is the lamp manifesting the Glory of divinity for those ascending the mountain with Him? the Theologian also says about the inhabitants of this city: “they will not need light from lamps, nor the light of the sun, for the Lord God will shed light upon them, and night shall be no more” (Rev 22:5). how, we might ask, is there this other light, in which “there is no change, nor shadow of alteration” (Jas 1:17)? light is there that is constant and unsetting, unless it be the Light of God? could Moses and Elias (and particularly the former, who clearly was present only in spirit, and not in flesh [Elias having ascended bodily to Heaven on the fiery chariot]) be shining with any sort of sensory light, and be seen and known? since it was written of them: “they appeared in glory, and spoke of his death, which he was about to fulfill at Jerusalem” (Luke 9:30-31). how otherwise could the Apostles recognize those whom they had never seen before, unless through the mysterious power of the Divine Light, opening their mental eyes? let us not tire our attention with the furthermost interpretations of the words of the Gospel. shall believe thus, as those same ones have taught us, who themselves were enlightened by the Lord Himself, insofar as they alone know this well: Mysteries of God, in the words of a prophet, are known to God alone and His perpetual proximity. us, considering the Mystery of the Transfiguration of the Lord in accord with their teaching, strive to be illumined by this Light ourselves encourage in ourselves love and striving towards the Unfading Glory and Beauty, our spiritual eyes of worldly thoughts and refraining from perishable and quickly passing delights and beauty which darken the garb of the soul and lead to the fire of Gehenna and everlasting darkness. us be freed from these by the illumination and knowledge of the incorporeal and ever-existing Light of our Savior transfigured on Tabor, in His Glory, and of His Father from all eternity, and His Life-Creating Spirit, Whom are One Radiance, One Godhead, and Glory, and Kingdom, and Power now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.

Rome, 33, Holy Transfiguration, Tabor, Orthodox d light focus, Jesus d light, 6days&8, 6people&8, Spiritual 8th day Church
Galilee, 33, Holy Transfiguration, Tabor, Orthodox d light focus, Jesus d light, 6days&8, 6people&8, 8th day Church, Peter, James, John, Moses, Elijah, Jesus, Father God, Holy Spirit, Spiritual Church of the 8th Day Mount Tabor; The Holy Transfiguration of our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ (the Second œFeast of the Savior in August), Commemorated on August 6; on the Holy Transfiguration of Our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ of Saint Gregory Palamas, Archbishop of Thessalonica an explanation of the present Feast and understanding of its truth, it is necessary for us to turn to the very start of today’s reading from the Gospel: “Now after six days Jesus took Peter, James and John his brother, and led them up onto a high mountain by themselves” (Mt.17:1). of all we must ask, from whence does the Evangelist Matthew begin to reckon with six days? From what sort of day is it? What does the preceding turn of speech indicate, where the Savior, in teaching His disciples, said to them: “For the Son of Man shall come with his angels in the glory of His Father,” further: “Amen I say to you, there are some standing here who shall not taste death, until they have seen the Son of Man coming in His Kingdom” (Mt.16:27-28)? is to say, it is the Light of His own forthcoming Transfiguration which He terms the Glory of His Father and of His Kingdom. Evangelist Luke points this out and reveals this more clearly saying: “Now it came to pass about eight days after these words, that He took Peter and John and James, and went up the mountain to pray. as He prayed, His countenance was altered, and His raiment became a radiant white” (Luke 9:28-29). how can the two be reconciled, when one of them speaks definitively about the interval of time as being eight days between the sayings and the manifestation, whereas the other (says): “after six days?” were eight on the mountain, but only six were visible. Three, Peter, James and John, had come up with Jesus, and they saw Moses and Elias standing there and conversing with Him, so altogether there were six of them. the Father and the Holy Spirit were invisibly with the Lord: the Father, with His Voice testifying that this was His Beloved Son, and the Holy Spirit shining forth with Him in the radiant cloud. the six are actually eight, and there is no contradiction regarding the eight. there is no contradiction with the Evangelists when one says “after six days,” and the other says “eight days after these words.” these twofold sayings as it were present is a certain format set in mystery, and together with it that of those actually present upon the Mount. stands to reason, and everyone rationally studying in accordance with Scripture knows that the Evangelists are in agreement one with another. spoke of eight days without contradicting Matthew, who declared “after six days.” There is not another day added on to represent the day on which these sayings were uttered, nor is the day on which the Lord was transfigured added on (which a rational person might reasonably imagine to be added to the days of Matthew). Evangelist Luke does not say “after eight days” (like the Evangelist Matthew says “after six days”), but rather “it came to pass eight days after these words.” where the Evangelists seem to contradict one another, they actually point out to us something great and mysterious. In actual fact, why did the one say “after six days,” but the other, in ignoring the seventh day, have in mind the eighth day? is because the great vision of the Light of the Transfiguration of the Lord is the mystery of the Eighth Day, i.e., of the future age, coming to be revealed after the passing away of the world created in six days. the power of the Divine Spirit, through Whom the Kingdom of God is to be revealed, the Lord predicted: “There are some standing here who shall not taste death, until they have seen the Son of Man coming in His Kingdom” (Mt.16:28). and in every way the King will be present, and everywhere will be His Kingdom, since the advent of His Kingdom does not signify the passing over from one place to another, but rather the revelation of its power of the Divine Spirit. is why it is said: “come in power.” And this power is not manifest to simply ordinary people, but to those standing with the Lord, that is to say, those who have affirmed their faith in Him like Peter, James and John, and especially those who are free of our natural abasement. and precisely because of this, God manifests Himself upon the Mount, on the one hand coming down from His heights, and on the other, raising us up from the depths of abasement, since the Transcendent One takes on mortal nature. such a manifest appearance by far transcends the utmost limits of the mind’s grasp, as effectualized by the power of the Divine Spirit. the Light of the Transfiguration of the Lord is not something that comes to be and then vanishes, nor is it subject to the sensory faculties, although it was contemplated by corporeal eyes for a short while upon an inconsequential mountaintop. the initiates of the Mystery, (the disciples) of the Lord at this time passed beyond mere flesh into spirit through a transformation of their senses, effectualized within them by the Spirit, and in such a way that they beheld what, and to what extent, the Divine Spirit had wrought blessedness in them to behold the Ineffable Light. not grasping this point have conjectured that the chosen from among the Apostles beheld the Light of the Transfiguration of the Lord by a sensual and creaturely faculty, and through this they attempt to reduce to a creaturely level (i.e., as something “created”) not only this Light, the Kingdom and the Glory of God, but also the Power of the Divine Spirit, through Whom it is meet for Divine Mysteries to be revealed. all likelihood, such persons have not heeded the words of the Apostle Paul: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man, what things God has prepared for those who love Him. But to us God has revealed them through His Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God” (1 Cor.2:9-10). with the onset of the Eighth Day, the Lord, taking Peter, James and John, went up on the Mount to pray. always prayed alone, withdrawing from everyone, even from the Apostles themselves, as for example when with five loaves and two fish He fed the five thousand men, besides women and children (Mt.14:19-23). taking with Him those who excelled others, as at the approach of His Saving Passion, when He said to the other disciples: “Sit here while I go over there and pray” (Mt.26:36). He took with Him Peter, James and John. But in our instance right here and now, having taken only these same three, the Lord led them up onto a high mountain by themselves and was transfigured before them, that is to say, before their very eyes. “What does it mean to say: He was transfigured?” asks the Golden-Mouthed Theologian (Chrysostom). answers this by saying: “It revealed something of His Divinity to them, as much and insofar as they were able to apprehend it, and it showed the indwelling of God within Him.” Evangelist Luke says: “And as He prayed, His countenance was altered” (Luke 9:29); from the Evangelist Matthew we read: “And His face shone as the sun” (Mt.17:2). the Evangelist said this, not in the context that this Light be thought of as subsistent for the senses us put aside the blindness of mind of those who can conceive of nothing higher than what is known through the senses). it is to show that Christ God, for those living and contemplating by the Spirit, is the same as the sun is for those living in the flesh and contemplating by the senses. some other Light for the knowing the Divinity is not necessary for those who are enriched by Divine gifts. same Inscrutable Light shone and was mysteriously manifest to the Apostles and the foremost of the Prophets at that moment, when (the Lord) was praying. shows that what brought forth this blessed sight was prayer, that the radiance occured and was manifest by uniting the mind with God, that it is granted to all who, with constant exercise in efforts of virtue and prayer, strive with their mind towards God. beauty, essentially, can be contemplated only with a purified mind. To gaze upon its luminance assumes a sort of participation in it, as though some bright ray etches itself upon the face. the face of Moses was illumined by his association with God. Do you not know that Moses was transfigured when he went up the mountain, and there beheld the Glory of God? But he (Moses) did not effect this, but rather he underwent a transfiguration. our Lord Jesus Christ possessed that Light Himself. this regard, actually, He did not need prayer for His flesh to radiate with the Divine Light; it was but to show from whence that Light descends upon the saints of God, and how to contemplate it. it is written that even the saints “will shine forth like the sun” (Mt.13:43), is to say, entirely permeated by Divine Light as they gaze upon Christ, divinely and inexpressibly shining forth His Radiance, issuing from His Divine Nature. Mount Tabor it was manifest also in His Flesh, by reason of the Hypostatic Union (i.e., the union of the two perfect natures, divine and human, within the divine Person [Hypostasis] of Christ, the Second Person of the Most Holy Trinity). Fourth Ecumenical Council at Chalcedon defined this Hypostatic union of Christ’s two natures, divine and human, as “without mingling, without change, without division, without separation.” believe that at the Transfiguration He manifested not some other sort of light, but only that which was concealed beneath His fleshly exterior. This Light was the Light of the Divine Nature, and as such, it was Uncreated and Divine. also, in the teachings of the Fathers, Jesus Christ was transfigured on the Mount, taking upon Himself something new nor being changed into something new, nor something which formerly He did not possess. it was to show His disciples that which He already was, opening their eyes and bringing them from blindness to sight. For do you not see that eyes that can perceive natural things would be blind to this Light? this Light is not a light of the senses, and those contemplating it do not simply see with sensual eyes, rather they are changed by the power of the Divine Spirit. were transformed, and only in this way did they see the transformation taking place amidst the very assumption of our perishability, with the deification through union with the Word of God in place of this. also she who miraculously conceived and gave birth recognized that the One born of her is God Incarnate. it was also for Simeon, who only received this Infant into his arms, the aged Anna, coming out [from the Jerusalem Temple] for the Meeting, since the Divine Power illumined, as through a glass windowpane, giving light for those having pure eyes of heart. why did the Lord, before the beginning of the Transfiguration, choose the foremost of the Apostles and lead them up onto the Mount with Him? it was to show them something great and mysterious. is particularly great or mysterious in showing a sensory light, which not only the foremost, but all the other Apostles already abundantly possessed? would they need a transforming of their eyes by the power of the Holy Spirit for a contemplation of this Light, if it were merely sensory and created? could the Glory and the Kingdom of the Father and the Holy Spirit project forth in some sort of sensory light? in what sort of Glory and Kingdom would Christ the Lord come at the end of the ages, when there would not be necessary anything in the air, nor in expanse, nor anything similar, but when, in the words of the Apostle, “God will be all in all” (1 Cor.15: 28)? is to say, will He alter everything for all? If so, then it follows that light is included. it is clear that the Light of Tabor was a Divine Light. the Evangelist John, inspired by Divine Revelation, says clearly that the future eternal and enduring city “has no need of the sun or moon to shine upon it. For the Glory of God lights it up, and the Lamb will be its lamp” (Rev 21:23). it not clear, that he points out here that this [Lamb] is Jesus, Who is divinely transfigured now upon Tabor, and the flesh of Whom shines, is the lamp manifesting the Glory of divinity for those ascending the mountain with Him? the Theologian also says about the inhabitants of this city: “they will not need light from lamps, nor the light of the sun, for the Lord God will shed light upon them, and night shall be no more” (Rev 22:5). how, we might ask, is there this other light, in which “there is no change, nor shadow of alteration” (Jas 1:17)? light is there that is constant and unsetting, unless it be the Light of God? could Moses and Elias (and particularly the former, who clearly was present only in spirit, and not in flesh [Elias having ascended bodily to Heaven on the fiery chariot]) be shining with any sort of sensory light, and be seen and known? since it was written of them: “they appeared in glory, and spoke of his death, which he was about to fulfill at Jerusalem” (Luke 9:30-31). how otherwise could the Apostles recognize those whom they had never seen before, unless through the mysterious power of the Divine Light, opening their mental eyes? let us not tire our attention with the furthermost interpretations of the words of the Gospel. shall believe thus, as those same ones have taught us, who themselves were enlightened by the Lord Himself, insofar as they alone know this well: Mysteries of God, in the words of a prophet, are known to God alone and His perpetual proximity. us, considering the Mystery of the Transfiguration of the Lord in accord with their teaching, strive to be illumined by this Light ourselves encourage in ourselves love and striving towards the Unfading Glory and Beauty, our spiritual eyes of worldly thoughts and refraining from perishable and quickly passing delights and beauty which darken the garb of the soul and lead to the fire of Gehenna and everlasting darkness. us be freed from these by the illumination and knowledge of the incorporeal and ever-existing Light of our Savior transfigured on Tabor, in His Glory, and of His Father from all eternity, and His Life-Creating Spirit, Whom are One Radiance, One Godhead, and Glory, and Kingdom, and Power now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen. FEAST OF THE TRANSFIGURATION, (6 AUGUST NT); we celebrate the occasion (recorded in M 17:1-8 = P 9:2-8 = L 9:28-36) on which Christ, He was beginning to teach His disciples that He must die and rise again, Himself in shining splendor to Peter, James, and John. and Elijah were present, and are taken to signify that the Law and the Prophets testify that Jesus is the promised Messiah. the Father also proclaimed him as such, saying, "This is my Beloved Son. Listen to him." For a moment the veil is drawn aside, and men still on earth are permitted a glimpse of the heavenly reality, the glory of the Eternal Triune God. The Transfiguration, by Giovanno Lanfranco the East, the Festival of the Transfiguration has been celebrated since the late fourth century, and is one of the twelve great festivals of the East Orthodox calendar. the West it was observed after the ninth century by some monastic orders, and in 1457 Pope Callistus III ordered its general observance. the time of the Reformation, it was still felt in some countries to be a "recent innovation," and so was not immediately taken over into most Reformation calendars, but is now found on most calendars that have been revised in the twentieth century. recent tendency in the West is to commemorate the Transfiguration on the Sunday just before Lent, in accordance with the pattern found in the Synoptics, where Jesus is represented as beginning to speak of his forthcoming death just about the time of the Transfiguration, so that it forms a fitting transition between the Epiphany season, in which Christ makes himself known, and the Lenten season, in which he prepares the disciples for what lies ahead. observing the Transfiguration then will affect the observation of it on 6 August remains to be seen. The Transfiguration, from the Predis Codex FIRST READING: Exodus 34:29-35 (When Moses came down from Mount Sinai, after speaking with the LORD, the skin of his face was so radiant that the Israelites were afraid to look at him. Therefore, he wore a veil.) PSALM 99 or 99:5-9 (The LORD reigns, let the peoples tremble.... Moses and Aaron and Samuel cried unto him, and he spoke to them from the pillar of cloud.) EPISTLE: 2 Peter 1:13-21 (Peter, near the end of his life, for his own strengthening and that of his readers, recalls his long-ago experience of seeing the Transfigured Christ.) THE HOLY GOSPEL: Luke 9:28-36 (Jesus took Peter and James and John up a mountain, and there appeared to them in shining splendor, and with Him appeared Moses and Elijah, who spoke with Him.) by James Kiefer

Rome, 33-50, Loginius, Centurion at Cross & Sepulchre & then Cappadocia, his head story
Cappadocia, 033-050, Loginius the Centurion at the Cross and then Cappadocia ; Martyr Longinus the Centurion, who stood at the Cross of the Lord, Commemorated on October 16 ; Holy Martyr Longinus the Centurion, a Roman soldier, served in Judea under the command of the Governor, Pontius Pilate. our Savior Jesus Christ was crucified, it was the detachment of soldiers under the command of Longinus which stood watch on Golgotha, at the very foot of the holy Cross. and his soldiers were eyewitnesses of the final moments of the earthly life of the Lord, and of the great and awesome portents that appeared at His death. events shook the centurion’s soul. Longinus believed in Christ and confessed before everyone, “Truly this was the Son of God” (Mt. 27:54). to Church Tradition, Longinus was the soldier who pierced the side of the Crucified Savior with a spear, and received healing from an eye affliction when blood and water poured forth from the wound. the Crucifixion and Burial of the Savior, Longinus stood watch with his company at the Sepulchre of the Lord. soldiers were present at the All-Radiant Resurrection of Christ. The Jews bribed them to lie and say that His disciples had stolen away the Body of Christ, but Longinus and two of his comrades refused to be seduced by the Jewish gold. They also refused to remain silent about the miracle of the Resurrection. come to believe in the Savior, the soldiers received Baptism from the apostles and decided to leave military service. Longinus left Judea to preach about Jesus Christ the Son of God in his native land (Cappadocia), and his two comrades followed him. fiery words of those who had actually participated in the great events in Judea swayed the hearts and minds of the Cappadocians; Christianity began quickly to spread throughout the city and the surrounding villages. they learned of this, the Jewish elders persuaded Pilate to send a company of soldiers to Cappadocia to kill Longinus and his comrades. When the soldiers arrived at Longinus’s village, the former centurion himself came out to meet the soldiers and took them to his home. After a meal, the soldiers revealed the purpose of their visit, not knowing that the master of the house was the very man whom they were seeking. Then Longinus and his friends identified themselves and told the startled soldiers to carry out their duty. soldiers wanted to let the saints go and advised them to flee, but they refused to do this, showing their firm intention to suffer for Christ. holy martyrs were beheaded, and their bodies were buried at the place where the saints were martyred. The head of Saint Longinus, however, was sent to Pilate. gave orders to cast the martyr’s head on a trash-heap outside the city walls. After a while a certain blind widow from Cappadocia arrived in Jerusalem with her son to pray at the holy places, and to ask that her sight be restored. After becoming blind, she had sought the help of physicians to cure her, but all their efforts were in vain. woman’s son became ill shortly after reaching Jerusalem, and he died a few days later. The widow grieved for the loss of her son, who had served as her guide. Longinus appeared to her in a dream and comforted her. He told her that she would see her son in heavenly glory, and also receive her sight. He told her to go outside the city walls and there she would find his head in a great pile of refuse. led the blind woman to the rubbish heap, and she began to dig with her hands. As soon as she touched the martyr’s head, the woman received her sight, and she glorified God and Saint Longinus. up the head, she brought it to the place she was staying and washed it. next night, Saint Longinus appeared to her again, this time with her son. They were surrounded by a bright light, and Saint Longinus said, “Woman, behold the son for whom you grieve. See what glory and honor are his now, and be consoled. God has numbered him with those in His heavenly Kingdom. Now take my head and your son’s body, and bury them in the same casket. Do not weep for your son, for he will rejoice forever in great glory and happiness.” woman carried out the saint’s instructions and returned to her home in Cappadocia. There she buried her son and the head of Saint Longinus. Once, she had been overcome by grief for her son, but her weeping was transformed into joy when she saw him with Saint Longinus. She had sought healing for her eyes, and also received healing of her soul.

Rome, 34, Lydda Icon, Diospolis, new church, Peter&Johnl, go there I will be with you, Roman Icon
Palestine, 34, Lydda Icon, Diospolis; Lydda or Lod or Diospolis; St Tabitha the Widow, raised from the dead by the Apostle Peter, Commemorated October 25 ; Icon œNot Made by Hands from Lydda, Commemorated on March 12; wonderworking Lydda Icon is mentioned in the service for the Kazan Icon (July 8 & October 22) in the third Ode of the Canon. to Tradition, the Apostles Peter and John were preaching in Lydda (later called Diospolis) near Jerusalem. There they built a church dedicated to the Most Holy Theotokos, then went to Jerusalem and asked her to come and sanctify the church by her presence. She sent them back to Lydda and said, “Go in peace, and I shall be there with you.” at Lydda, they found an icon of the Virgin imprinted in color on the wall of the church (some sources say the image was on a pillar). Then the Mother of God appeared and rejoiced at the number of people who had gathered there. She blessed the icon and gave it the power to work miracles. This icon was not made by the hand of man, but by a divine power. the Apostate (reigned 361-363) heard about the icon and tried to eradicate it. Masons with sharp tools chipped away at the image, but the paint and lines just seemed to penetrate deeper into the stone. Those whom the emperor had sent were unable to destroy the icon. As word of this miracle spread, millions of people came to venerate the icon. the eighth century, Saint Germanus, the future Patriarch of Constantinople (May 12) passed through Lydda. He had a copy of the icon made, and sent it to Rome during the iconoclastic controversy. It was placed in the church of Saint Peter, and was the source of many healings. In 842, the reproduction was returned to Constantinople and was known as the Roman Icon (June 26). oldest sources of information for the Lydda Icon are a document attributed to Saint Andrew of Crete in 726, a letter written by three eastern Patriarchs to the iconoclast emperor Theophilus in 839, and a work of George the Monk in 886. The icon still existed as late as the ninth century. Icon of the Mother of God of Lydda or œthe Roman, Commemorated on June 26; Story wonderworking Lydda Icon is mentioned in the service for the Kazan Icon (July 8 & October 22) in the third Ode of the Canon. to Tradition, the Apostles Peter and John were preaching in Lydda (later called Diospolis) near Jerusalem. There they built a church dedicated to the Most Holy Theotokos, then went to Jerusalem and asked her to come and sanctify the church by her presence. She sent them back to Lydda and said, “Go in peace, and I shall be there with you.” at Lydda, they found an icon of the Virgin imprinted in color on the wall of the church (some sources say the image was on a pillar). Then the Mother of God appeared and rejoiced at the number of people who had gathered there. She blessed the icon and gave it the power to work miracles. This icon was not made by the hand of man, but by a divine power. the Apostate (reigned 361-363) heard about the icon and tried to eradicate it. Masons with sharp tools chipped away at the image, but the paint and lines just seemed to penetrate deeper into the stone. Those whom the emperor had sent were unable to destroy the icon. As word of this miracle spread, millions of people came to venerate the icon. the eighth century, Saint Germanus, the future Patriarch of Constantinople (May 12) passed through Lydda. He had a copy of the icon made, and sent it to Rome during the iconoclastic controversy. It was placed in the church of Saint Peter, and was the source of many healings. In 842, the reproduction was returned to Constantinople and was known as the Roman Icon (June 26). oldest sources of information for the Lydda Icon are a document attributed to Saint Andrew of Crete in 726, a letter written by three eastern Patriarchs to the iconoclast emperor Theophilus in 839, and a work of George the Monk in 886. icon still existed as late as the ninth century. The Lydda Icon of the Mother of God is also commemorated on March 12.

Rome, 34-63,Matthias,replaced Judas,studied u Simeon,many places,Survived poison, invisible, enemies engulfed, crucified
Jerusalem, 34-63, Matthias, Apostle, from Bethlehem, Judea, replaced Judas, studied under Simeon, preached in Jerusalem, Antioch, Tianum, Sinope, Amasea, Edessa, Sebaste, Pontine Ethiopia Georgia, Macedonia, Survived poison, left prison invisible, enemies engulfed by earth, crucified; Bethlehem; Apostle Matthias of the Seventy, Commemorated on August 9; Holy Apostle Matthias was born at Bethlehem of the Tribe of Judah. From his early childhood he studied the Law of God under the guidance of Saint Simeon the God-Receiver (February 3). the Lord Jesus Christ revealed Himself to the world, Saint Matthias believed in Him as the Messiah, followed constantly after Him and was numbered among the Seventy Apostles, whom the Lord “sent them two by two before His face” (Luke 10:1). the Ascension of the Savior, Saint Matthias was chosen by lot to replace Judas Iscariot as one of the Twelve Apostles (Acts 1:15-26). After the Descent of the Holy Spirit, the Apostle Matthias preached the Gospel at Jerusalem and in Judea together with the other Apostles (Acts 6:2, 8:14). From Jerusalem he went with the Apostles Peter and Andrew to Syrian Antioch, and was in the Cappadocian city of Tianum and Sinope. Here the Apostle Matthias was locked into prison, from which he was miraculously freed by Saint Andrew the First-Called. Apostle Matthias journeyed after this to Amasea, a city on the shore of the sea. During a three year journey of the Apostle Andrew, Saint Matthias was with him at Edessa and Sebaste. According to Church Tradition, he was preaching at Pontine Ethiopia (presently Western Georgia) and Macedonia. He was frequently subjected to deadly peril, but the Lord preserved him to preach the Gospel. pagans forced the saint to drink a poison potion. He drank it, and not only did he himself remain unharmed, but he also healed other prisoners who had been blinded by the potion. Saint Matthias left the prison, the pagans searched for him in vain, for he had become invisible to them. time, when the pagans had become enraged intending to kill the Apostle, the earth opened up and engulfed them. Apostle Matthias returned to Judea and did not cease to enlighten his countrymen with the light of Christ’s teachings. He worked great miracles in the Name of the Lord Jesus and he converted a great many to faith in Christ. Jewish High Priest Ananias hated Christ and earlier had commanded the Apostle James, Brother of the Lord, to be flung down from the heights of the Temple, and now he ordered that the Apostle Matthias be arrested and brought for judgment before the Sanhedrin at Jerusalem. impious Ananias uttered a speech in which he blasphemously slandered the Lord. the prophecies of the Old Testament, the Apostle Matthias demonstrated that Jesus Christ is the True God, the promised Messiah, the Son of God, Consubstantial and Coeternal with God the Father. these words the Apostle Matthias was sentenced to death by the Sanhedrin and stoned. Saint Matthias was already dead, the Jews, to hide their malefaction, cut off his head as an enemy of Caesar. (According to several historians, the Apostle Matthias was crucified, and indicate that he instead died at Colchis.) The Apostle Matthias received the martyr’s crown of glory in the year 63.

Rome, 35-101, Clement of Rome, Corinthian Letter, great story, sea moves 3 mi one day, for 700yr, Rus baptism
Rome, 35-101, Clement of Rome, Letter to the Corinthians, sermon II Clement, anchor, rich, unsatisfied, heard about christ, went to Alexandria, Barnabas, Palestine, Peter, Bishop of Rome, 424 conversions one day, banishment to Cherson by Trajan, stone quarry, prayed for water, lamb revealed spring, hundreds converted each day, church, ordered drowned with anchor in 101, prayer to see his body, sea drew back 3 miles, marble cave angelic church, each year sea would withdraw on that date, till 805, 50 year hiatis, 855 began again, taken to Rome by Cyril and Methodius, later to Kiev by Vladimir, Baptism of the Rus; Clement I (died 99), also known as Saint Clement of Rome, is listed by Irenaeus and Tertullian as the fourth bishop of Rome, holding office from 88 AD to his death in 99 AD.[2] He is considered to be the first Apostolic Father of the Church, one of the three chief ones together with Polycarp and Ignatius of Antioch.[3] details are known about Clement's life. Clement was said to have been consecrated by Peter the Apostle,[3] and he is known to have been a leading member of the church in Rome in the late 1st century. Early church lists place him as the second or third[2][a] bishop of Rome after Peter. The Liber Pontificalis states that Clement died in Greece in the third year of Emperor Trajan's reign, or 101 AD. only genuine extant writing is his letter to the church at Corinth (1 Clement) in response to a dispute in which certain presbyters of the Corinthian church had been deposed.[2] He asserted the authority of the presbyters as rulers of the church on the ground that the Apostles had appointed such.[2] His letter, which is one of the oldest extant Christian documents outside the New Testament, was read in church, along with other epistles, some of which later became part of the Christian canon. These works were the first to affirm the apostolic authority of the clergy.[2] A second epistle, 2 Clement, was once controversially attributed to Clement, although recent scholarship suggests it to be a homily by another author.[2] In the legendary Clementine literature, Clement is the intermediary through whom the apostles teach the church.[2] to tradition, Clement was imprisoned under the Emperor Trajan; during this time he is recorded to have led a ministry among fellow prisoners. Thereafter he was executed by being tied to an anchor and thrown into the sea.[2] Clement is recognized as a saint in many Christian churches and is considered a patron saint of mariners. He is commemorated on 23 November in the Catholic Church, the Anglican Communion, and the Lutheran Church. In Eastern Orthodox Christianity his feast is kept on 24 or 25 November. Rome; CLEMENT OF ROME, BISHOP (23 NOV 100) ; is counted as the third bishop of Rome (after the apostles). predecessors are Linus and Cletus (or Anacletus, or Anencletus), about whom almost nothing is known. They are simply names on a list. is a little more than this, chiefly because he wrote a letter to the Corinthians, which was highly valued by the early church, and has been preserved to the present day. The letter itself does not carry his name, but is merely addressed from the congregation at Rome to the congregation at Corinth. a letter from Corinth to Rome a few decades later refers to "the letter we received from your bishop Clement, which we still read regularly." early writers are unanimous in attributing the letter to Clement. Perhaps because this letter made his name familiar, he has had an early anonymous sermon (commonly called II Clement) attributed to him, and is a character in some early religious romances (e.g. the Clementine Recognitions). story about Clement is that he was put to death by being tied to an anchor and thrown into the sea. Accordingly, he is often depicted with an anchor, and many churches in port towns intended to minister chiefly to mariners are named for him. Epistle of Clement to the Corinthians (also called I Clement) can be found in collections of the writings of the Apostolic Fathers, such as the Penguin Paperback Early Christian Writings, translated by Maxwell Staniforth. letter is commonly dated around 96 AD, but an earlier date is suggested by John Robinson in his Redating the New Testament. letter is occasioned by the fact that a group of Christians at Corinth had banded together against their leaders and had deposed them from office. Clement writes to tell them that they have behaved badly, and to remind them of the importance of Christian unity and love. speaks at length of the way in which each kind of official in the church has his own function for the good of the whole. The letter is an important witness to the early Christian understanding of Church government, but an ambiguous witness in that we are never told precisely why the Corinthians had deposed their leaders, and therefore the letter can be read as saying that presbyters ought not to be deposed without reasonable grounds, or as saying that they cannot be deposed on any grounds at all. letter refers only to the presbyters of Corinth, and makes no reference to the bishop of Corinth. Moreover, there is no mention of a bishop at Rome--the letter is sent as from the Church at Rome collectively, and Clement's name does not appear. this, some have inferred that the office of bishop had not yet developed at either Rome or Corinth, and that in both congregations the office of presbyter was the highest office known. probable alternate explanation, however, is that the troubles in Corinth had arisen when the bishop of that congregation had died, and the congregation had split into factions, none containing both a majority of the presbyters and a majority of the congregation. letter makes no apology for intervening in what might be thought an internal affair of the congregation at Corinth. On the contrary, the writer apologizes for the delay in commenting, as if an earlier intervention might have been expected. this, some have inferred that, even at this early date (96 AD or, some think, earlier), when the Apostle John was perhaps still alive, the authority and jurisdiction of the Roman congregation over every other congregation of the Christian Church was already universally conceded. a perfectly reasonable alternative explanation is that the congregation at Corinth, torn by division, had agreed to settle their disputes by inviting another congregation, or the head of another congregation, to act as arbitrator. would be a reasonable thing to do, and the choice of Rome as that congregation was natural, partly because of the prestige of the city, and the prestige of one of the largest congregations in the Church, and because the Corinth of Clement's day had been built as a Roman colony, with a special dependence directly on the city of Rome (a civil relation that might affect the habits of thought of the Corinthians on matters ecclestiastical as well), but also because Rome was far enough away so that it could be assumed to be impartial and not affected by local personalities. Clement's Letter to the Corinthians: the one truly possessed by the love of Christ keep his commandments. Who can express the binding power of divine love? Who can find words for the splendor of its beauty? Beyond all description are the heights to which it lifts us. Love unites us to God; "it cancels innumerable sins," has no limits to its endurance, bears everything patiently. Love is neither servile nor arrogant. It does not provoke schisms or form cliques, but always acts in harmony with others. By it all God's chosen ones have been sanctified; without it, it is impossible to please him. Out of love the Lord took us to himself; because he loved us and it was God's will, our Lord Jesus Christ gave his life's blood for us -- he gave his body for our body, his soul for our soul. then, beloved, what a great and wonderful thing love is, and how inexpressible its perfection. Who are worthy to possess it unless God makes them so? To him therefore we must turn, begging of his mercy that there may be found in us a love free from human partiality and beyond reproach. Every generation from Adam's time to ours has passed away; but those who by God's grace were made perfect in love and have a dwelling now among the saints, and when at last the kingdom of Christ appears, they will be revealed. "Take shelter in your rooms for a little while," says Scripture, "until my wrath subsides. Then I will remember the good days, and will raise you from your graves." are we, beloved, if love enables us to live in harmony and in the observance of God's commandments, for then it will also gain for us the remission of our sins. Scripture pronounces "happy those whose transgressions are pardoned, whose sins are forgiven. Happy the one," it says, "to whom the Lord imputes no fault, on whose lips there is no guile." This is the blessing given those whom God has chosen through Jesus Christ our Lord. To him be glory for ever and ever. * * * * us fix our attention on the blood of Christ and recognize how precious it is to God his Father, since it was shed for our salvation and brought the grace of repentance to all the world. we review the various ages of history, we will see that in every generation the Lord has "offered the opportunity of repentance" to any who were willing to turn to him. When Noah preached God's message of repentance, all who listened to him were saved. Jonah told the Ninevites they were going to be destroyed, but when they repented, their prayers gained God's forgiveness for their sins, and they were saved, even though they were not of God's people. the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the ministers of God's grace have spoken of repentance; indeed, the Master of the whole universe himself spoke of repentance with an oath: "As I live," says the Lord, "I do not wish the death of the sinner but the sinner's repentance." He added this evidence of his goodness: "House of Israel, repent of your wickedness. Tell my people: If their sins should reach from earth to heaven, if they are brighter than scarlet and blacker than sackcloth, you need only turn to me with your whole heart and say, `Father,' and I will listen to you as to a holy people." other words, God wanted all his beloved ones to have the opportunity to repent and he confirmed this desire by his own almighty will. That is why we should obey his sovereign and glorious will and prayerfully entreat his mercy and kindness. We should be suppliant before him and turn to his compassion, rejecting empty works and quarreling and jealousy which only lead to death. should be humble in mind, putting aside all arrogance, pride, and foolish anger. Rather, we should act in accordance with the Scriptures, as the Holy Spirit says: "The wise must not glory in wisdom nor the strong in strength nor the rich in riches. Rather, let the one who glories glory in the Lord, by seeking him and doing what is right and just." Recall especially what the Lord Jesus said when he taught gentleness and forbearance. "Be merciful," he said, "so that you may have mercy shown to you. Forgive, so that you may be forgiven. As you treat others, so you will be treated. As you give, so you will receive. As you judge, so you will be judged. As you are kind to others, so you will be treated kindly. The measure of your giving will be the measure of your receiving." these commandments and precepts strengthen us to live in humble obedience to his sacred words. As Scripture asks: "Whom shall I look upon with favor except the humble, peaceful one who trembles at my words?" then in the heritage of so many vast and glorious achievements, let us hasten toward the goal of peace, set before us from the beginning. Let us keep our eyes firmly fixed on the Father and Creator of the whole universe, and hold fast to his splendid and transcendent gifts of peace and all his blessings. by James Kiefer Hieromartyr Clement, Pope of Rome, Commemorated on November 25; Hieromartyr Clement, Pope of Rome, was born at Rome into a rich and illustrious family. from his parents from childhood by force of circumstances, Clement was raised by strangers. in Rome, the youth received a fine education, he was surrounded by luxury, and had access to the imperial court. But these comforts brought him no joy, and pagan wisdom failed to attract him. He began to ponder the meaning of life. the news of Christ and His teaching began to reach the capital, Saint Clement left his home and estate and went to the lands where the Apostles were preaching. Alexandria Saint Clement met the holy Apostle Barnabas, listening to his words with deep attention, and perceiving the power and truth of the Word of God. in Palestine, Saint Clement was baptized by the holy Apostle Peter and became his zealous disciple and constant companion, sharing his toil and sufferings with him. Shortly before his own sufferings and death, Saint Peter consecrated Saint Clement as Bishop of Rome. the death of the Apostle Peter, Saint Linus (67-79) was the next Bishop of Rome, succeeded by Saint Anacletus (79-91), and then Saint Clement (92-101). virtuous life, charitable works and prayerful activity of Saint Clement converted many to Christ. He once baptized 424 people on the day of Pascha. Among the baptized were people of all social classes: slaves, officials, and even members of the imperial family. pagans, seeing the success of his apostolic preaching, denounced Saint Clement to the emperor Trajan (98-117), accusing the saint of insulting the pagan gods. The emperor banished Saint Clement from the capital, sending him to the Crimea, to work at a stone quarry near the city of Cherson. Many of the saint’s disciples followed after him voluntarily, preferring to go into exile rather than live without their spiritual Father. he arrived at the place of exile, Saint Clement found many Christian believers there, sentenced to labor under harsh conditions amidst a scarcity of water. prayed together with the condemned, and the Lord appeared to him in the form of a lamb and revealed the location of a spring, from which gushed forth a veritable river of water. miracle attracted a multitude of people to Saint Clement. Hearing the zealous preacher, hundreds of pagans were converted to Christ. Each day 500 or more men were baptized. And there in the stone quarry, a church was built, in which he served as priest. apostolic activity of the saint aroused the wrath of the emperor Trajan, and he ordered that Saint Clement be drowned. They threw the martyr into the sea with an anchor tied to his neck. This occurred in the year 101. saint’s faithful disciples Cornelius and Fibius asked the people to pray that the Lord would permit them to see the martyr’s body. The sea drew back a distance of three miles from the shore and the people walked out on the seabed until they found a marble cave shaped like a church. they found the incorrupt body of their archpastor in this “Angelic Church” formed by God. After this, each year on the anniversary of Saint Clement’s martyric death the sea receded, and for seven days Christians were able to venerate his holy relics. the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Nikēphóros (802-811), by divine providence, the sea failed to withdraw, and the relics of Saint Clement became inaccessible for fifty years. the time of the emperor Michael and his mother Theodora (855-867), Saints Cyril and Methodius visited Cherson. When they learned of the concealed relics of Saint Clement, they asked Bishop George of Cherson to pray that the Lord would show them the relics of the hieromartyr. Cyril and Methodius walked along the shore in procession with the clergy who came with them from Constantinople. Through the fervent prayers of everyone gathered there, the holy relics of Saint Clement miraculously appeared on the surface of the sea at midnight. They solemnly took them to the Church of the Holy Apostles at Constantinople. portion of the relics were then brought to Rome by Saints Cyril and Methodius, a large portion of the relics was later brought to Kiev by the holy Prince Vladimir (July 15) and placed in the Desyatin-Tithe church, together with the relics of Saint Fibius, where a chapel dedicated to Saint Clement had been built. hieromartyr Clement is widely venerated in Russia. From ancient times, many churches have been dedicated to him. Clement, who belongs to the Apostolic Fathers, has left to us a spiritual legacy (two Epistles to the Corinthians) the first written examples of Christian teaching after the writings of the holy Apostles.

Rome, 37-41, Emperor, Caius Caligua, Pagan, sadist, sex pervert, aquaduct construction, assainated
Rome, 37-41, Roman Emperor, Caius Caligua; (31 August 12 AD – 24 January 41 AD), formally known as Gaius (Gaius Caesar Augustus Germanicus), was the third Roman emperor, ruling from AD 37 to 41. The son of the popular Roman general Germanicus and Augustus's granddaughter Agrippina the Elder, Caligula was born into the first ruling family of the Roman Empire, conventionally known as the Julio-Claudian dynasty. uncle and adoptive father, Tiberius, succeeded Augustus as emperor of Rome in AD 14. Although Gaius was named after Gaius Julius Caesar, he acquired the nickname "Caligula" (meaning little [soldier's] boot) from his father's soldiers during their campaign in Germania. Germanicus died at Antioch in 19, Agrippina returned with her six children to Rome, where she became entangled in a bitter feud with Tiberius. conflict eventually led to the destruction of her family, with Caligula as the sole male survivor. by the deadly intrigues, Caligula accepted an invitation in 31 to join the emperor on the island of Capri, where Tiberius had withdrawn five years earlier. Following the death of Tiberius, Caligula succeeded his adoptive grandfather as emperor in 37. are few surviving sources about the reign of Caligula, though he is described as a noble and moderate emperor during the first six months of his rule. this, the sources focus upon his cruelty, sadism, extravagance, and sexual perversion, presenting him as an insane tyrant. While the reliability of these sources is questionable, it is known that his brief reign, Caligula worked to increase the unconstrained personal power of the emperor, as opposed to countervailing powers within the principate. directed much of his attention to ambitious construction projects and luxurious dwellings for himself, and initiated the construction of two aqueducts in Rome: the Aqua Claudia and the Anio Novus. During his reign, the empire annexed the client kingdom of Mauretania as a province. early 41, Caligula was assassinated as a result of a conspiracy by officers of the Praetorian Guard, senators, and courtiers. The conspirators' attempt to use the opportunity to restore the Roman Republic was thwarted, however. On the day of the assassination of Caligula, the Praetorians declared Caligula's uncle, Claudius, the next Roman emperor. Although the Julio-Claudian dynasty continued to rule the empire until the fall of his nephew Nero in 68, Caligula's death marked the official end of the Julii Caesares in the male line. The Beheading of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist John, Commemorated on August 29;

Rome, 40, LYDIA, DORCAS & PHOEBE, CO-WORKERS WITH THE APOSTLES, Joppa, Palestine (Jaffa, Tel Aviv, Yarkon River Mouth, Way of the Sea 7)
Palestine, 40, LYDIA, DORCAS AND PHOEBE, CO-WORKERS WITH THE APOSTLES, Joppa, Palestine (Jaffa, Tel Aviv, Yarkon River Mouth, Way of the Sea 7); was an early disciple of Jesus mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles[1][2] (Acts 9:36-43, see discussion here). lived in the port city of Joppa, today absorbed by Tel Aviv. Acts describes her as being known for her "good works and acts of mercy", sewing clothes for the poor.[3][4] she died, the widows of her community mourned her and sent urgently for Peter (Acts 9:38), who was in nearby Lydda. As evidence of her charity, they showed him some of the clothes she had sewn, and according to the biblical account he raised her from the dead.[5] Joppa, now Jaffa, 1 Maccabees Ch 10-15; LYDIA, DORCAS AND PHOEBE, CO-WORKERS WITH THE APOSTLES, 27 JAN. NT ; (or Tabitha in Aramaic -- both names mean "gazelle") is mentioned in Acts 9:36-42. was a member of the early Christian community in Joppa, a seacoast town of Israel, and noted for her acts of charity, in particular for making garments and giving them to needy widows. she fell ill and died, Peter came to see her, and raised her to life. words to her, "Tabitha, kumi," (Tabitha, arise), are reminiscent of the words of Jesus to the daughter of Jairus, "Talitha, kumi," (little girl, arise) as given in Mark 5:41. this is anything more than coincidence is hard to say. If the Aramaic words of Jesus had been quoted by Luke rather than by Mark, one might suppose that Luke was underscoring a resemblance between the two episodes (the reader is invited to look up both stories, the former in M 9:18-26 = P 5:22-43 = L 41-56 and the latter in A 9:36-42). As it is, I am not sure that Luke (or Peter, presumably Mark's source for his account) intends a connection. by James Kiefer

Rome, 40-50, Marcellus, Hieromartyr, Sicily, Southern Italy, disciple of Peter, Bishop, death for spreading faith of Christ
Sicily, 40-50, Marcellus, Hieromartyr, Sicily, Southern Italy, disciple of Peter, Bishop, death for spreading faith of Christ; Sicily; Hieromartyr Marcellus the Bishop of Sicily, Commemorated on February 9; Hieromartyrs Marcellus, Philagrius and Pancratius were disciples of the holy Apostle Peter and were made bishops by him: Marcellus of Sicily, of Cyprus, Pancratius of Taormina. were put to death for spreading the faith of Christ among the pagans.

Rome, 40-50, Pancratius, disciple of Peter, Antioch native, Pontus cave, Bishop of Taormina in Sicily
Sicily, 40-50, First Century Saint Pancratius, disciple of Peter, Antioch native, Bishop of Taormina in Sicily; Hieromartyr Pancratius the Bishop of Taormina in Sicily, Commemorated on July 9; Hieromartyr Pancratius, Bishop of Taormina, was born when our Lord Jesus Christ yet lived upon the earth. parents of Pancratius were natives of Antioch. Hearing the good news of Jesus Christ, Pancratius’ father took his young son with him and went to Jerusalem in order to see the great Teacher for himself. The miracles astonished him, and when he heard the divine teaching, he then believed in Christ as the Son of God. He became close with the disciples of the Lord, especially with the holy Apostle Peter. It was during this period that young Pancratius got to know the holy Apostle Peter. the Ascension of the Savior, one of the Apostles came to Antioch and baptized the parents of Pancratius together with all their household. When the parents of Pancratius died, he left behind his inherited possessions and went to Pontus and began to live in a cave, spendng his days in prayer and deep spiritual contemplation. The holy Apostle Peter, while passing through those parts, visited Pancratius at Pontus. He took him along to Antioch, and then to Sicily, where the holy Apostle Paul then was. There the holy Apostles Peter and Paul made Saint Pancratius Bishop of Taormina in Sicily. Pancratius toiled zealously for the Christian enlightenment of the people. In a single month he built a church where he celebrated divine services. The number of believers quickly grew, and soon almost all the people of Taormina and the surrounding cities accepted the Christian Faith. Pancratius governed his flock peacefully for many years. However, pagans plotted against the saint, and seizing an appropriate moment, they fell upon him and stoned him. Thus, Saint Pancratius ended his life as a martyr. saint’s relics are in the church named for him in Rome. He is also commemorated on February 9.

Rome, 40-75, Apollinarius the Bishop of Ravenna, Iraneous' blind son, Tribune's wife, Boniface's speech
Ravenna; Hieromartyr Apollinarius the Bishop of Ravenna, Commemorated on July 23; Apollinaris was a disciple of the Apostle Peter, whom he followed from Antioch to Rome sometime during the reign of the Roman emperor Claudius (41-54). Saint Peter appointed Apollinaris as Bishop of Ravenna. Arriving in Ravenna as a stranger, Saint Apollinaris asked shelter of a local inhabitant, the soldier Irenaeus, and during their conversation he revealed the purpose for which he had come. had a blind son, whom Saint Apollinaris healed, after he had prayed to the Lord. The soldier Irenaeus and his family were the first people in Ravenna to believe in Christ. The saint stayed at the house of Irenaeus and preached about Christ to everyone who wished to hear his words. One of the miracles that Saint Apollinaris performed was the healing of Thekla, the incurably sick wife of the tribune. Through the prayers of the saint, she got up from her bed completely healthy. Not only did she believe in Christ, but so did her husband the tribune. In their house Saint Apollinaris set up a small church, where he celebrated the Divine Liturgy. Saint Apollinaris ordained two presbyters, Aderetus and Calocyrus, and also two deacons for the newly-baptized people of Ravenna. Apollinaris labored with great zeal, preaching the Gospel at Ravenna for twelve years, and the number of Christians steadily increased. Pagan priests complained about the bishop to the governor Saturninus. The hierarch was brought to trial and subjected to grievous tortures. Thinking that he had died, the torturers took him out of the city to the seacoast and threw him into the water. The saint, however, was still alive. A certain pious Christian widow helped him and gave him shelter in her home. Saint Apollinaris stayed with her for six months, and secretly continued to preach about Christ. The saint’s whereabouts became known when he restored the power of speech to an illustrious resident of the city named Boniface, whose wife had requested the saint to help her husband. this miracle many pagans were converted to Christ, and once again Saint Apollinaris was brought to trial and tortured. His bare feet were placed on red-hot coals. They expelled him from the city a second time, but the Lord again kept him alive. The saint did not cease preaching until he left the city. For a certain time Saint Apollinaris found himself elsewhere in Italy, where he continued to preach the Gospel as before. Returning to his flock in Ravenna, Saint Apollinaris went on trial yet again and was sentenced to banishment. heavy fetters, he was placed on a ship bound for Illyrica and the Danube River. Two soldiers were responsible for escorting him to his place of exile. Three of the clergy voluntarily followed their bishop into exile. Along the way the vessel was wrecked and everyone drowned, except for Saint Apollinaris, his clergy and the two soldiers. The soldiers, listening to Saint Apollinaris, believed in the Lord and were baptized. Not finding any shelter, the travelers came to Moisia in Thrace, where Saint Apollinaris healed a certain illustrious inhabitant from leprosy. Both he and his companions were given shelter at the man’s home. In this land Saint Apollinaris preached tirelessly about Christ and he converted many of the pagans to Christianity, for which he was subjected to persecution by the unbelievers. They beat the saint mercilessly, then they sent him back to Italy aboard a ship. a three year absence, Saint Apollinaris returned to Ravenna and was joyfully received by his flock. The pagans, however, entered the church where the saint was serving the Divine Liturgy, scattered those at prayer, and dragged the saint before the idolatrous priests at the pagan temple of Apollo. The idol fell and shattered to pieces just as the saint was brought in. The pagan priests brought Saint Apollinaris to Taurus, the new governor of the district for trial. Apollinaris performed a new miracle, healing the son of the governor, who had been blind from birth. In gratitude for the healing of his son, Taurus tried to protect Saint Apollinaris from the angry crowd. He sent him to his own estate outside the city. Although Taurus’s wife and son were baptized, he feared the anger of the emperor, and did not receive Baptism. However, he was filled with gratitude and love toward his benefactor. Apollinaris lived for five years at Taurus’s estate and preached without hindrance. During this time pagan priests sent letters of denunciation to Emperor Vespasian requesting a sentence of death or exile for the Christian “sorcerer” Apollinaris. But the emperor told the pagan priests that the gods were sufficiently powerful to take revenge for themselves, if they felt insulted. All the wrath of the pagans fell upon Saint Apollinaris: they seized him and beat him fiercely as he was leaving the city for a nearby settlement. Christians found him barely alive and took him to the settlement, where he lived for seven days. During his final illness the saint did not cease to teach his flock. He predicted that after the persecutions ended, Christians would enter upon better times when they could openly and freely confess their faith. After bestowing his archpastoral blessing upon those present, the hieromartyr Apollinaris fell asleep in the Lord. Saint Apollinaris was Bishop of Ravenna for twenty-eight years, and he reposed in the year 75.

Rome, 40-75, Hieromartyr Apollinarius of Ravenna, Peter's disciple, Antioch to Rome to, healed many for safe church
Northern Italy, 40-75, Hieromartyr Apollinarius of Ravenna, Northern Italy (Candiano Canal, Reno River Mouth), Peter's disciple, from Antioch to Rome, healed soldier Irenius' blind son, healed incurable Thekla tribune's wife, church in their house, 2 presbyters, 2 deacons, 12yrs, tortured left for dead, saved from water by widow, 6mos, healed Boniface speech, tortured red hot coals, elsewhere in italy, banished from Ravenna again, ship to Illyrica and Danube, shipwreck all drowned except his group, soldiers believed, Thrace healed illustrious of leprosy, shelter in his home, tortured back to Italy, Ravenna after 3yrs, dragged temple, Apollo to pieces, brought to Taurus, healed gov's son, 5yrs his estate, Pagan letters to Vespasian, gods sufficiently powerful, beaten, lived 7 days settlement, predicted end persecutions ; Ravenna; Hieromartyr Apollinarius the Bishop of Ravenna, Commemorated on July 23; Apollinaris was a disciple of the Apostle Peter, he followed from Antioch to Rome sometime during the reign of the Roman emperor Claudius (41-54). Peter appointed Apollinaris as Bishop of Ravenna. in Ravenna as a stranger, Saint Apollinaris asked shelter of a local inhabitant, the soldier Irenaeus, and during their conversation he revealed the purpose for which he had come. had a blind son, whom Saint Apollinaris healed, after he had prayed to the Lord. soldier Irenaeus and his family were the first people in Ravenna to believe in Christ. saint stayed at the house of Irenaeus and preached about Christ to everyone who wished to hear his words. of the miracles that Saint Apollinaris performed was the healing of Thekla, the incurably sick wife of the tribune. Through the prayers of the saint, she got up from her bed completely healthy. only did she believe in Christ, but so did her husband the tribune. their house Saint Apollinaris set up a small church, where he celebrated the Divine Liturgy. Saint Apollinaris ordained two presbyters, Aderetus and Calocyrus, and also two deacons for the newly-baptized people of Ravenna. Apollinaris labored with great zeal, preaching the Gospel at Ravenna for twelve years, and the number of Christians steadily increased. priests complained about the bishop to the governor Saturninus. The hierarch was brought to trial and subjected to grievous tortures. that he had died, the torturers took him out of the city to the seacoast and threw him into the water. saint, however, was still alive. A certain pious Christian widow helped him and gave him shelter in her home. Saint Apollinaris stayed with her for six months, and secretly continued to preach about Christ. saint’s whereabouts became known when he restored the power of speech to an illustrious resident of the city named Boniface, whose wife had requested the saint to help her husband. this miracle many pagans were converted to Christ, and once again Saint Apollinaris was brought to trial and tortured. bare feet were placed on red-hot coals. expelled him from the city a second time, but the Lord again kept him alive. The saint did not cease preaching until he left the city. a certain time Saint Apollinaris found himself elsewhere in Italy, where he continued to preach the Gospel as before. to his flock in Ravenna, Saint Apollinaris went on trial yet again and was sentenced to banishment. heavy fetters, he was placed on a ship bound for Illyrica and the Danube River. Two soldiers were responsible for escorting him to his place of exile. Three of the clergy voluntarily followed their bishop into exile. the way the vessel was wrecked and everyone drowned, except for Saint Apollinaris, his clergy and the two soldiers. The soldiers, listening to Saint Apollinaris, believed in the Lord and were baptized. finding any shelter, the travelers came to Moisia in Thrace, where Saint Apollinaris healed a certain illustrious inhabitant from leprosy. Both he and his companions were given shelter at the man’s home. this land Saint Apollinaris preached tirelessly about Christ and he converted many of the pagans to Christianity, which he was subjected to persecution by the unbelievers. They beat the saint mercilessly, then they sent him back to Italy aboard a ship. a three year absence, Saint Apollinaris returned to Ravenna and was joyfully received by his flock. pagans, however, entered the church where the saint was serving the Divine Liturgy, scattered those at prayer, and dragged the saint before the idolatrous priests at the pagan temple of Apollo. idol fell and shattered to pieces just as the saint was brought in. pagan priests brought Saint Apollinaris to Taurus, the new governor of the district for trial. Apollinaris performed a new miracle, healing the son of the governor, who had been blind from birth. gratitude for the healing of his son, Taurus tried to protect Saint Apollinaris from the angry crowd. He sent him to his own estate outside the city. Although Taurus’s wife and son were baptized, he feared the anger of the emperor, and did not receive Baptism. However, he was filled with gratitude and love toward his benefactor. Apollinaris lived for five years at Taurus’s estate and preached without hindrance. this time pagan priests sent letters of denunciation to Emperor Vespasian requesting a sentence of death or exile for the Christian “sorcerer” Apollinaris. the emperor told the pagan priests that the gods were sufficiently powerful to take revenge for themselves, if they felt insulted. the wrath of the pagans fell upon Saint Apollinaris: they seized him and beat him fiercely as he was leaving the city for a nearby settlement. found him barely alive and took him to the settlement, where he lived for seven days. his final illness the saint did not cease to teach his flock. He predicted that after the persecutions ended, Christians would enter upon better times when they could openly and freely confess their faith. bestowing his archpastoral blessing upon those present, the hieromartyr Apollinaris fell asleep in the Lord. Apollinaris was Bishop of Ravenna for twenty-eight years, and he reposed in the year 75.

Rome, 40-90, Cyril, Bishop of Catania, Sicily, Peter's Antioch disciple, wonderworker, sweetened bitter water, old age
Sicily, 40-90, Cyril, Bishop of Catania, Sicily, from Antioch, Peter's disciple, pious, wonderworker, sweetened bitter water, old age; Catania; St Cyril the Bishop of Catania, Commemorated on March 21; Cyril was born in Antioch. was a disciple of the Apostle Peter (June 29, January 16), installed him as Bishop of Catania in Sicily. Cyril wisely guided his flock; he was pious, and the Lord granted him the gift of wonderworking. his prayer the bitter water in a certain spring lost its bitterness and became drinkable. This miracle converted many pagans to Christianity. Cyril died in old age and was buried in Sicily.

Rome, 40-96, Lucian, from rome to Belgium, successful preacher, strict ascetic, killed by E Dometian, picked up head
Belgium, 40-96, Saint, Lucian of Beauvais; Hieromartyr Lucian the Bishop at Beauvais in France, Commemorated on June 3; Hieromartyr Lucian lived in Rome, and his pagan name was Lucius. He was converted to Christ by the Apostle Peter, and was baptized. After Saint Pete'™s death, Saint Lucian preached the Gospel in Italy. Saint Dionysius the Areopagite (October 3), a disciple of Saint Paul, arrived in Rome at this time. At the request of Saint Clement, Pope of Rome (November 25), he agreed to preach the Gospel in the West, and gathered companions and helpers for this task. Saint Clement consecrated Saint Lucian a bishop, then sent him off with Saint Dionysius, Saints Marcellinus and Saturninus, the Presbyter Maximian, and the Deacon Julian. holy preachers sailed from Italy to Gaul (modern France). Saint Marcellinus and those accompanying him continued on to Spain. Saint Saturninus went to Gaul, and Saint Dionysius and the others went to the region of Paris. From there Saint Lucian went to Belgium with Maximian and Julian. Lucian'™s preaching was very successful. By the power of his words and the example of his life, he converted a large number of pagans to Christianity. Saint Lucian was a strict ascetic, and all day long he ate only a morsel of bread and some water. Towards the converted he was kindly, always joyful and cheerful of face. Soon almost all the settlements of Belgium were converted to Christ. this period, the Roman emperor Dometian (81-96) initiated a second persecution against Christians (after that of Nero, 54-68), and he issued an edict prescribing torture and execution for anyone who refused to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. officials were sent to Belgium to carry out the edict. The Lord revealed to Saint Lucian the ordeal facing him. He gathered the flock together, urging them not to fear threats, tortures or death, and then he gave thanks to God for granting him the possibility of joining the company of the holy martyrs. After praying, Saint Lucian and the priest Maximian and Deacon Julian withdrew to the summit of a hill, where he continued to teach the people who came with him. the soldiers of the emperor came upon the saints and led them away for trial. Saints Maximian and Julian were urged to renounce Christ and offer sacrifice to idols, but both refused and were beheaded. the judge began to interrogate Saint Lucian, accusing him of sorcery and disobedience to the emperor and Senate. The saint replied that he was not a sorcerer, but rather a servant of the true God, the Lord Jesus Christ, and he refused to offer sacrifice to idols made by human hands. saint was subjected to fierce beatings, during which he repeated, œNever will I cease to praise Christ, the Son of God, in my heart, and with my lips. Then the holy martyr was beheaded. A heavenly light shone over his body, and the Voice of the Savior was heard, summoning the valiant sufferer into the heavenly Kingdom to receive the marty'™s crown. By the power of God the saint stood up, picked up his severed head, and crossed over the river. Reaching the burial spot he had chosen, he lay down upon the ground and reposed in peace. of this great miracle about 500 pagans were converted to Christ. Later, a church was built over Saint Lucian'™s grave, to which the relics of the martyrs Maximian and Julian were transferred.

Rome, 40-96, Hieromartyr Lucian, sent to Gaul, then to Belgium, c all Belgium, heavenly light, picked up head
France, 40-96, Hieromartyr Lucian the Bishop at Beauvais, France (Avalon River Mouth, Therain River 4), converted by Peter, preached in Italy, Clement sent him to Gaul, then to Belgium, very successful, by words and life example, strict ascetic, c all Belgium, beheaded, heavenly light, picked up head and carried to his grave; Beauvais; Hieromartyr Lucian the Bishop at Beauvais in France, Commemorated on June 3; Hieromartyr Lucian lived in Rome, and his pagan name was Lucius. was converted to Christ by the Apostle Peter, and was baptized. Saint Peter’s death, Saint Lucian preached the Gospel in Italy. Dionysius the Areopagite (October 3), a disciple of Saint Paul, arrived in Rome at this time. the request of Saint Clement, Pope of Rome (November 25), he agreed to preach the Gospel in the West, and gathered companions and helpers for this task. Clement consecrated Saint Lucian a bishop, then sent him off with Saint Dionysius, Saints Marcellinus and Saturninus, the Presbyter Maximian, and the Deacon Julian. holy preachers sailed from Italy to Gaul (modern France). Marcellinus and those accompanying him continued on to Spain. Saturninus went to Gaul, Saint Dionysius and the others went to the region of Paris. there Saint Lucian went to Belgium with Maximian and Julian. Lucian’s preaching was very successful. By the power of his words and the example of his life, he converted a large number of pagans to Christianity. Lucian was a strict ascetic, and all day long he ate only a morsel of bread and some water. the converted he was kindly, always joyful and cheerful of face. almost all the settlements of Belgium were converted to Christ. this period, the Roman emperor Dometian (81-96) initiated a second persecution against Christians (after that of Nero, 54-68), and he issued an edict prescribing torture and execution for anyone who refused to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. officials were sent to Belgium to carry out the edict. Lord revealed to Saint Lucian the ordeal facing him. He gathered the flock together, urging them not to fear threats, tortures or death, and then he gave thanks to God for granting him the possibility of joining the company of the holy martyrs. After praying, Saint Lucian and the priest Maximian and Deacon Julian withdrew to the summit of a hill, where he continued to teach the people who came with him. the soldiers of the emperor came upon the saints and led them away for trial. Saints Maximian and Julian were urged to renounce Christ and offer sacrifice to idols, but both refused and were beheaded. the judge began to interrogate Saint Lucian, accusing him of sorcery and disobedience to the emperor and Senate. The saint replied that he was not a sorcerer, but rather a servant of the true God, the Lord Jesus Christ, and he refused to offer sacrifice to idols made by human hands. saint was subjected to fierce beatings, during which he repeated, “Never will I cease to praise Christ, the Son of God, in my heart, and with my lips.” Then the holy martyr was beheaded. heavenly light shone over his body, and the Voice of the Savior was heard, summoning the valiant sufferer into the heavenly Kingdom to receive the martyr’s crown. the power of God the saint stood up, picked up his severed head, and crossed over the river. Reaching the burial spot he had chosen, he lay down upon the ground and reposed in peace. of this great miracle about 500 pagans were converted to Christ. Later, a church was built over Saint Lucian’s grave, to which the relics of the martyrs Maximian and Julian were transferred.

Rome, 40-109, Onesimus, Apostle of the 70, Colossae, fled to Rome from Philemon, Paul sent letter, Ph sent him back to Pa
Phyrgia, 40-109, Onesimus, Apostle of the 70, Colossae, Phyrgia (Chonae, plunging, Lycus River 1), guilty offense against his master Philemon, he fled to Rome, prison as a runaway slave, Baptized by Paul, served him like a son, Knowing P Paul sent him letter carried by O, P forgave O, sent him back to P, O became bishop of Ephesus, stoned and beheaded in 109; Colossae or Chonae means plunging. ; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on February 15; Onesimus, Apostle of the Seventy in his youth was a servant of Philemon, a Christian of distinguished lineage, living in the city of Colossae, Phrygia. of an offense against his master and fearing punishment, Saint Onesimus fled to Rome, but as a runaway slave he wound up in prison. In prison he encountered the Apostle Paul, was enlightened by him, and was baptized. prison Saint Onesimus served the Apostle Paul like a son. Saint Paul was personally acquainted with Philemon, and wrote him a letter filled with love, asking him to forgive the runaway slave and to accept him like a brother. He sent Saint Onesimus with this letter to his master, depriving himself of help, of which he was very much in need. he received the letter, Saint Philemon not only forgave Onesimus, but also sent him back to Rome to the apostle. Saint Philemon (January 4, February 19, and November 22) was afterwards consecrated bishop of the city of Gaza. the death of the Apostle Paul, Saint Onesimus served the apostles until their end, and he was made a bishop. the death of the holy apostles he preached the Gospel in many lands and cities: in Spain, Carpetania, Colossae, Patras. In his old age, Saint Onesimus occupied the bishop’s throne at Ephesus, after the Apostle Timothy. When they took Saint Ignatius the God-Bearer (December 20) to Rome for execution, Bishop Onesimus came to meet with him with other Christians, as Saint Ignatius mentions in his Epistle to the Ephesians. the reign of the emperor Trajan (89-117), Saint Onesimus was arrested and brought to trial before the eparch Tertillus. He held the saint in prison for eighteen days, and then sent him to prison in the city of Puteoli. After a certain while, the eparch sent for the prisoner and, convincing himself that Saint Onesimus maintained his faith in Christ, had him stoned, after which they beheaded the saint with a sword. A certain illustrious woman took the body of the martyr and placed it in a silver coffin. This took place in the year 109.

Rome, 41-54, Emperor, Claudius, Pagan, banished Jews and Jewish Christians
Roman Emperor, 41-54, Claudius; St Julian the Bishop of Cenomanis (Le Mans) in Gaul, Commemorated July 13 ; Hieromartyr Apollinaris the Bishop of Ravenna, Commemorated on July 23; Apostle Andronicus of the Seventy, Commemorated July 30 ; Apostle Silas of the Seventy, Commemorated July 30 ; BARTHOLOMEW THE APOSTLE, (24 AUGUST NT) ; Hieromartyr Eutyches the Disciple of St John the Theologian, Commemorated on August 24; Return of the Relics of the Apostle Bartholomew from Anastasiopolis to Lipari, Commemorated August 25 : By the power of God the chests did not sink into the depths of the sea, but miraculously floated upon the waves and reached Italy. The chest with the relics of the Apostle Bartholomew came to land at the island of Lipari, and the remaining chests continued their journey and came to land at various places in Italy. The chest with the relics of the Martyr Papian halted at Sicily, the Martyr Lucian at Messina, the Martyr Gregory at Calabria, and the Martyr Acacius at Askalon. ; St Phoebe the Deaconess at Cenchreae near Corinth, Commemorated on September 3 ; Apostle Evodius (Euodias) of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 7; Icon of the Mother of God of Kholm, Commemorated September 8 ; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 21; St Xanthippe Disciple of the Apostles, who died in Spain, Commemorated on September 23 ; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 27; Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 1 ; Hieromartyr Dionysius the Areopagite the Bishop of Athens, Commemorated on October 3; Hieromartyr Hierotheus the Bishop of Athens, Commemorated October 4 ; Holy, Glorious Apostle Thomas, Commemorated on October 6 ; Apostle James the Son of Alphaeus, Commemorated on October 9; Apostle Philip of the Seventy, One of the Seven Deacons, Commemorated on October 11; PHILIP, DEACON AND EVANGELIST (11 OCT NT); Martyr Zenaida (Zenais) of Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on October 11; Martyr Longinus the Centurion, who stood at the Cross of the Lord, Commemorated on October 16; Apostle and Evangelist Luke, Commemorated on October 18; LUKE THE EVANGELIST, (18 OCTOBER) ; Apostle James, the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on October 23; JAMES OF JERUSALEM, BISHOP AND MARTYR (23 OCT NT); St Tabitha the Widow, raised from the dead by the Apostle Peter, Commemorated on October 25; Apostle Artemas of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30 ; Apostle Justus of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30; Apostle Mark of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30; Apostle Tertius of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30; Hieromartyr Marcian the Bishop of Syracuse, Commemorated on October 30 ; Apostle Amplias of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Apelles of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Aristobulus of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Narcissus of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Stachys of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Urban of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Hieromartyr Nicander the Bishop of Myra, Commemorated on November 4; Apostle Gaius of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Hermes of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Linus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Patrobus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Philologus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Erastus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Apostle Quartus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Apostle Rodion of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Apostle Sosipater of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Apostle Tertius of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Holy, All-Praised Apostle Philip, Commemorated on November 14; Apostle and Evangelist Matthew, Commemorated on November 16; Apostle Philemon of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 22; Apostle Archippus the Martyr of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 22; St Onesimus the Disciple of St Paul, Commemorated on November 22; Hieromartyr Clement the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on November 25; ANDREW THE APOSTLE, (30 NOV NT) ; Apostle Andrew, the Holy and All-Praised First-Called, Commemorated on November 30; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Cephas of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Onesiphorus of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Sosthenes of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Tychicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20; THOMAS THE APOSTLE, (21 DEC NT) ; STEPHEN, DEACON AND PROTOMARTYR (26 DEC NT); Icon of the Mother of God œthe Merciful, Commemorated on December 27; JOHN, APOSTLE AND EVANGELIST (27 DEC NT); James of Holy Righteous Joseph the Betrothed, along with David the King, and James the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on December 27; Apostle Nicanor the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 28; Apostle Timon the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 30 ; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Euodius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle James, of the Seventy, the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Justus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Mark the Evangelist of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Simeon, of the Seventy, the son of Cleophas, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Cleophas of the Seventy, the Brother of Joseph the Betrothed, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Philip the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Prochorus the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Nicanor the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Timon the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Parmenas the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Timothy of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Titus of the Seventy and Bishop of Crete, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Philemon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Archippus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Silas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Silvanus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Crescens of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Crispus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Crispus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Epenetus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Andronicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Stachys of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Amplias of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Urban of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Narcissus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Apelles of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Aristobulus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Agabus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Rufus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Asyncritus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Phlegon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Hermes of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Patrobus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Hermas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Linus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Gaius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Lucius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Jason of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Sosipater of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Olympas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Tertius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Erastus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quartus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Onesiphorus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Clement of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Sosthenes of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Tychicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Carpus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Mark of the Seventy, called John, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Zenas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Pudens of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Trophimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Mark of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Artemas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Aquila of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Fortunatus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Veneration of the Precious Chains of the Holy and All-Glorious Apostle Peter, Commemorated on January 16; Apostle Timothy of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 22; THE CONVERSION OF THE APOSTLE PAUL, (JANUARY 25); SILAS, MISSIONARY COMPANION OF PAUL, Commemorated January 26 ; TIMOTHY AND TITUS, COMPANIONS OF PAUL (26 JAN NT); LYDIA, DORCAS AND PHOEBE, CO-WORKERS WITH THE APOSTLES, 27 JAN. NT ; CORNELIUS THE CENTURION, (7 FEBRUARY) ; Hieromartyr Marcellus the Bishop of Sicily, Commemorated on February 9; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on February 15; St Auxibius Bishop of Soli, Cyprus, Commemorated on February 17; St Mariamne the sister of the Apostle Philip, Commemorated on February 17; Apostle Philemon the Martyr of the Seventy, Commemorated on February 19; Martyr Archippus of the Seventy Apostles, Commemorated on February 19; Uncovering of the relics of the Holy Martyrs at the Gate of Eugenius at Constantinople, Commemorated on February 22; MATTHIAS THE APOSTLE, (24 FEB NT); Martyr Kyriake of Rome, Commemorated on March 20; Martyr Photina (Svetlana), the Samaritan Woman, and Her Sons, Commemorated on March 20; St Cyril the Bishop of Catania, Commemorated on March 21; St Artemon (Menignus) the Bishop of Seleucia, Commemorated on March 24 ; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 30; Apostle Cephas of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 30; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 30; Apostle Sosthenes of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 30; Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, and those with Him, Commemorated on April 8 ; Hieromartyr Antipas the Bishop of Pergamum and Disciple of St John the Theologian, Commemorated on April 11; Martyr Processus of Rome, Commemorated on April 11 ; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15; Apostle Pudens of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15 ; Apostle Trophimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15; Apostle Zacchaeus, Commemorated on April 20; Apostle and Evangelist Mark, Commemorated on April 25 ; MARK THE EVANGELIST, (25 APR NT) ; Apostle Jason, of the Seventy and those with him, Commemorated on April 28; Apostle Sosipater of the Seventy and those with him, Commemorated on April 28; Apostle James the Brother of St John the Theologian, Commemorated on April 30; James of PHILIP AND JAMES, APOSTLES (1 MAY NT) ; Philip of PHILIP AND JAMES, APOSTLES (1 MAY NT); Apostle Andronicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on May 17 ; St Eutychius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on May 28; Apostle Hermas of the Seventy, Commemorated on May 31 ; Martyr Frontasius of Gaul, Commemorated on June 4; Righteous Martha the sister of Lazarus, Commemorated on June 4; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated on June 11 ; Icon of the Mother of God of Lydda or œthe Roman, Commemorated on June 26; PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES AND MARTYRS (29 JUN 64); The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leader of the Apostles, Paul, Commemorated on June 29; The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leader of the Apostles, Peter, Commemorated on June 29; The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leaders of the Apostles, Peter and Paul, Commemorated on June 29 ;

Rome, 41-54, All the Jews banished from Rome, including christians of course
Rome, 41-54, All the Jews banished from Rome ; Roman Emperor, 41-54, Claudius; St Julian the Bishop of Cenomanis (Le Mans) in Gaul, Commemorated July 13 ; Hieromartyr Apollinaris the Bishop of Ravenna, Commemorated on July 23; Apostle Andronicus of the Seventy, Commemorated July 30 ; Apostle Silas of the Seventy, Commemorated July 30 ; BARTHOLOMEW THE APOSTLE, (24 AUGUST NT) ; Hieromartyr Eutyches the Disciple of St John the Theologian, Commemorated on August 24; Return of the Relics of the Apostle Bartholomew from Anastasiopolis to Lipari, Commemorated August 25 : By the power of God the chests did not sink into the depths of the sea, but miraculously floated upon the waves and reached Italy. The chest with the relics of the Apostle Bartholomew came to land at the island of Lipari, and the remaining chests continued their journey and came to land at various places in Italy. The chest with the relics of the Martyr Papian halted at Sicily, the Martyr Lucian at Messina, the Martyr Gregory at Calabria, and the Martyr Acacius at Askalon. ; St Phoebe the Deaconess at Cenchreae near Corinth, Commemorated on September 3 ; Apostle Evodius (Euodias) of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 7; Icon of the Mother of God of Kholm, Commemorated September 8 ; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 21; St Xanthippe Disciple of the Apostles, who died in Spain, Commemorated on September 23 ; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 27; Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 1 ; Hieromartyr Dionysius the Areopagite the Bishop of Athens, Commemorated on October 3; Hieromartyr Hierotheus the Bishop of Athens, Commemorated October 4 ; Holy, Glorious Apostle Thomas, Commemorated on October 6 ; Apostle James the Son of Alphaeus, Commemorated on October 9; Apostle Philip of the Seventy, One of the Seven Deacons, Commemorated on October 11; PHILIP, DEACON AND EVANGELIST (11 OCT NT); Martyr Zenaida (Zenais) of Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on October 11; Martyr Longinus the Centurion, who stood at the Cross of the Lord, Commemorated on October 16; Apostle and Evangelist Luke, Commemorated on October 18; LUKE THE EVANGELIST, (18 OCTOBER) ; Apostle James, the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on October 23; JAMES OF JERUSALEM, BISHOP AND MARTYR (23 OCT NT); St Tabitha the Widow, raised from the dead by the Apostle Peter, Commemorated on October 25; Apostle Artemas of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30 ; Apostle Justus of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30; Apostle Mark of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30; Apostle Tertius of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30; Hieromartyr Marcian the Bishop of Syracuse, Commemorated on October 30 ; Apostle Amplias of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Apelles of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Aristobulus of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Narcissus of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Stachys of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Urban of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Hieromartyr Nicander the Bishop of Myra, Commemorated on November 4; Apostle Gaius of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Hermes of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Linus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Patrobus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Philologus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Erastus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Apostle Quartus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Apostle Rodion of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Apostle Sosipater of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Apostle Tertius of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Holy, All-Praised Apostle Philip, Commemorated on November 14; Apostle and Evangelist Matthew, Commemorated on November 16; Apostle Philemon of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 22; Apostle Archippus the Martyr of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 22; St Onesimus the Disciple of St Paul, Commemorated on November 22; Hieromartyr Clement the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on November 25; ANDREW THE APOSTLE, (30 NOV NT) ; Apostle Andrew, the Holy and All-Praised First-Called, Commemorated on November 30; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Cephas of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Onesiphorus of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Sosthenes of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Tychicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20; THOMAS THE APOSTLE, (21 DEC NT) ; STEPHEN, DEACON AND PROTOMARTYR (26 DEC NT); Icon of the Mother of God œthe Merciful, Commemorated on December 27; JOHN, APOSTLE AND EVANGELIST (27 DEC NT); James of Holy Righteous Joseph the Betrothed, along with David the King, and James the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on December 27; Apostle Nicanor the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 28; Apostle Timon the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 30 ; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Euodius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle James, of the Seventy, the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Justus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Mark the Evangelist of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Simeon, of the Seventy, the son of Cleophas, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Cleophas of the Seventy, the Brother of Joseph the Betrothed, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Philip the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Prochorus the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Nicanor the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Timon the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Parmenas the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Timothy of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Titus of the Seventy and Bishop of Crete, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Philemon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Archippus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Silas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Silvanus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Crescens of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Crispus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Crispus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Epenetus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Andronicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Stachys of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Amplias of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Urban of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Narcissus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Apelles of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Aristobulus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Agabus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Rufus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Asyncritus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Phlegon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Hermes of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Patrobus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Hermas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Linus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Gaius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Lucius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Jason of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Sosipater of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Olympas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Tertius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Erastus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quartus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Onesiphorus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Clement of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Sosthenes of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Tychicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Carpus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Mark of the Seventy, called John, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Zenas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Pudens of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Trophimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Mark of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Artemas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Aquila of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Fortunatus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Veneration of the Precious Chains of the Holy and All-Glorious Apostle Peter, Commemorated on January 16; Apostle Timothy of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 22; THE CONVERSION OF THE APOSTLE PAUL, (JANUARY 25); SILAS, MISSIONARY COMPANION OF PAUL, Commemorated January 26 ; TIMOTHY AND TITUS, COMPANIONS OF PAUL (26 JAN NT); LYDIA, DORCAS AND PHOEBE, CO-WORKERS WITH THE APOSTLES, 27 JAN. NT ; CORNELIUS THE CENTURION, (7 FEBRUARY) ; Hieromartyr Marcellus the Bishop of Sicily, Commemorated on February 9; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on February 15; St Auxibius Bishop of Soli, Cyprus, Commemorated on February 17; St Mariamne the sister of the Apostle Philip, Commemorated on February 17; Apostle Philemon the Martyr of the Seventy, Commemorated on February 19; Martyr Archippus of the Seventy Apostles, Commemorated on February 19; Uncovering of the relics of the Holy Martyrs at the Gate of Eugenius at Constantinople, Commemorated on February 22; MATTHIAS THE APOSTLE, (24 FEB NT); Martyr Kyriake of Rome, Commemorated on March 20; Martyr Photina (Svetlana), the Samaritan Woman, and Her Sons, Commemorated on March 20; St Cyril the Bishop of Catania, Commemorated on March 21; St Artemon (Menignus) the Bishop of Seleucia, Commemorated on March 24 ; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 30; Apostle Cephas of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 30; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 30; Apostle Sosthenes of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 30; Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, and those with Him, Commemorated on April 8 ; Hieromartyr Antipas the Bishop of Pergamum and Disciple of St John the Theologian, Commemorated on April 11; Martyr Processus of Rome, Commemorated on April 11 ; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15; Apostle Pudens of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15 ; Apostle Trophimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15; Apostle Zacchaeus, Commemorated on April 20; Apostle and Evangelist Mark, Commemorated on April 25 ; MARK THE EVANGELIST, (25 APR NT) ; Apostle Jason, of the Seventy and those with him, Commemorated on April 28; Apostle Sosipater of the Seventy and those with him, Commemorated on April 28; Apostle James the Brother of St John the Theologian, Commemorated on April 30; James of PHILIP AND JAMES, APOSTLES (1 MAY NT) ; Philip of PHILIP AND JAMES, APOSTLES (1 MAY NT); Apostle Andronicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on May 17 ; St Eutychius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on May 28; Apostle Hermas of the Seventy, Commemorated on May 31 ; Martyr Frontasius of Gaul, Commemorated on June 4; Righteous Martha the sister of Lazarus, Commemorated on June 4; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated on June 11 ; Icon of the Mother of God of Lydda or œthe Roman, Commemorated on June 26; PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES AND MARTYRS (29 JUN 64); The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leader of the Apostles, Paul, Commemorated on June 29; The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leader of the Apostles, Peter, Commemorated on June 29; The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leaders of the Apostles, Peter and Paul, Commemorated on June 29 ;

Rome, 41-54, CORNELIUS, Centurion, angel appeared while praying, send people to Peter, Peter sheet vision, preach to pagans
Palestine, 41-54, Cornelius the Centurion, Joppa, Palestine, virtuous life, monotheist, piety, good deeds, angel appeared while he praying, send people from Caesarea to Joppa to Peter, Peter at prayer, vision great sheet 3 times lowered to him, all kinds beasts and fowl, eat everything, what God cleansed, not calll common, preach to pagans, C first pagan to receive baptism; Joppa, now Jaffa, 1 Maccabees Ch 10-15; Hieromartyr Cornelius the Centurion, Commemorated on September 13; Hieromartyr Cornelius the Centurion: Soon after the sufferings of the Lord Jesus Christ on the Cross and His Ascension into Heaven, a centurion by the name of Cornelius settled at Caesarea in Palestine. had lived previously in Thracian Italy. Although he was a pagan, he distinguished himself by deep piety and good deeds, as the holy Evangelist Luke says (Acts 10:1). The Lord did not disdain his virtuous life, and so led him to the knowledge of truth and to faith in Christ. Cornelius was praying in his home. An angel of God appeared to him and said that his prayer had been heard and accepted by God. angel commanded him to send people to Joppa to find Simon, also called Peter. Cornelius immediately fulfilled the command. those people were on their way to Joppa, the Apostle Peter was at prayer, and he had a vision: three times a great sheet was lowered down to him, filled with all kinds of beasts and fowl. He heard a voice from Heaven commanding him to eat everything. When the apostle refused to eat food which Jewish Law regarded as unclean, the voice said: “What God hath cleansed, you must not call common” (Acts 10:15). this vision the Lord commanded the Apostle Peter to preach the Word of God to the pagans. When the Apostle Peter arrived at the house of Cornelius in the company of those sent to meet him, he was received with great joy and respect by the host together with his kinsmen and comrades. fell down at the feet of the apostle and requested to be taught the way of salvation. Saint Peter talked about the earthly life of Jesus Christ, and spoke of the miracles and signs worked by the Savior, and of His teachings about the Kingdom of Heaven. Then Saint Peter told him of the Lord’s death on the Cross, His Resurrection and Ascension into Heaven. By the grace of the Holy Spirit, Cornelius believed in Christ and was baptized with all his family. He was the first pagan to receive Baptism. retired from the world and went preaching the Gospel together with the Apostle Peter, who made him a bishop. When the Apostle Peter, together with his helpers Saints Timothy and Cornelius, was in the city of Ephesus, he learned of a particularly vigorous idol-worship in the city of Skepsis. Lots were drawn to see who would go there, and Saint Cornelius was chosen. the city lived a prince by the name of Demetrius, learned in the ancient Greek philosophy, hating Christianity and venerating the pagan gods, in particular Apollo and Zeus. Learning about the arrival of Saint Cornelius in the city, he immediately summoned him and asked him the reason for his coming. Saint Cornelius answered that he came to free him from the darkness of ignorance and lead him to knowledge of the True Light. prince, not comprehending the meaning of what was said, became angry and demanded that he answer each of his questions. When Saint Cornelius explained that he served the Lord and that the reason for his coming was to announce the Truth, the prince became enraged and demanded that Cornelius offer sacrifice to the idols. saint asked to be shown the gods. When he entered the pagan temple, Cornelius turned towards the east and uttered a prayer to the Lord. There was an earthquake, and the temple of Zeus and the idols situated in it were destroyed. All the populace, seeing what had happened, were terrified. prince was even more vexed and began to take counsel together with those approaching him, about how to destroy Cornelius. They bound the saint and took him to prison for the night. At this point, one of his servants informed the prince that his wife and child had perished beneath the rubble of the destroyed temple. a certain while, one of the pagan priests, by the name of Barbates, reported that he heard the voice of the wife and son somewhere in the ruins and that they were praising the God of the Christians. The pagan priest asked that the imprisoned one be released, in gratitude for the miracle worked by Saint Cornelius, and the wife and son of the prince remained alive. joyful prince hastened to the prison in the company of those about him, declaring that he believed in Christ and asking him to bring his wife and son out of the ruins of the temple. Saint Cornelius went to the destroyed temple, and through prayer the suffering were freed. this the prince Demetrius, and all his relatives and comrades accepted holy Baptism. Saint Cornelius lived for a long time in this city, converted all the pagan inhabitants to Christ, and made Eunomios a presbyter in service to the Lord. Saint Cornelius died in old age and was buried not far from the pagan temple he destroyed. CORNELIUS THE CENTURION, (7 FEBRUARY); that we know of Cornelius is contained in the Book of Acts (chapters 10 and 11). centurion was a Roman army officer, theoretically in charge of a hundred men. Several centurions are mentioned in the New Testament (Matt 8:5 = Luke 7:2; Matt 27:54 = Luke 23:47; Acts 10:1; 22:25; 23:17,23; 22:23; 27:1), and they are consistently portrayed favorably. Cornelius is called a God-fearer--that is to say, he was a monotheist, a Gentile who worshipped the One God. The Jews traditionally recognized that such Gentiles had a place in the Family of God, and they are mentioned along with the priests (House of Aaron), the Levites (House of Levi), and the Jews or Israelites (House of Israel) in Ps 115:9-13, Ps 118:2-4, and Ps 135:19-20. In New Testament times, an estimated ten per cent of the population of the Roman Empire consisted of God-fearers, Gentiles who recognized that the pagan belief in many gods and goddesses, who according to the myths about them were given to adultery, treachery, intrigue, and the like, was not a religion for a thoughtful and moral worshipper, and who had accordingly embraced an ethical monotheism -- belief in One God, who had created the world, and who was the upholder of the Moral Law. Although only a few of them took the step of formal conversion to Judaism, undergoing circumcision and accepting the obligations of keeping the food laws and ritual laws of Moses and his rabbinical interpreters, most of them attended synagogue services regularly. Cornelius, then, was a Roman centurion, and a God-fearing man. One day, as he was praying, an angel appeared to him and told him to send a messenger to Joppa and ask Peter to come and preach to him. Peter, meanwhile, was given a vision that disposed him to go with the messenger. When Peter had preached to Cornelius and his family and friends, the Holy Spirit fell on them, as on the first Christians at Pentecost (Acts 2), and they began to speak in other tongues. Thus, there was ample evidence to convince Jewish Christians who hesitated to believe that it was the will of God that Gentiles should be brought into the Church. Cornelius was the first Gentile converted to Christianity, along with his household, and Luke, recording this event, clearly regards it as an event of the utmost importance in the history of the early Church, the beginning of the Church's decision to admit Gentiles to full and equal fellowship with Jewish Christians. Cornelius lived in Caesarea, the political capital of Judea under Herod and the Romans. (Given that Jerusalem was a holy city to the Jews, it would have been needlessly provocative for the Romans to establish their headquarters there.) Although he is not mentioned again, he and his household presumably formed the nucleus of the Christian community that we find mentioned later (Acts 8:40; 21:18) in this important city. by James Kiefer

Rome, 41-54, Cornelius, Centurion, Peter, sheet, eat everything, salvation, Skepsis, idols, earthquake, wife and c
Palestine Centurion, 1st Century, Cornelius the Centurion; Martyr Demetrius with his wife and son, at Skepsis on the Hellespont, Commemorated on September 11 ; Hieromartyr Cornelius the Centurion, Commemorated September 13 ; Hieromartyr Cornelius the Centurion: Soon after the sufferings of the Lord Jesus Christ on the Cross and His Ascension into Heaven, a centurion by the name of Cornelius settled at Caesarea in Palestine. He had lived previously in Thracian Italy. Although he was a pagan, he distinguished himself by deep piety and good deeds, as the holy Evangelist Luke says (Acts 10:1). The Lord did not disdain his virtuous life, and so led him to the knowledge of truth and to faith in Christ. Cornelius was praying in his home. An angel of God appeared to him and said that his prayer had been heard and accepted by God. The angel commande him to send people to Joppa to find Simon, also called Peter. Cornelius immediately fulfilled the command. those people were on their way to Joppa, the Apostle Peter was at prayer, and he had a vision: three times a great sheet was lowered down to him, filled with all kinds of beasts and fowl. He heard a voice from Heaven commanding him to eat everything. When the apostle refused to eat food which Jewish Law regarded as unclean, the voice said: “What God hath cleansed, you must not call common” (Acts 10:15). this vision the Lord commanded the Apostle Peter to preach the Word of God to the pagans. When the Apostle Peter arrived at the house of Cornelius in the company of those sent to meet him, he was received with great joy and respect by the host together with his kinsmen and comrades. fell down at the feet of the apostle and requested to be taught the way of salvation. Saint Peter talked about the earthly life of Jesus Christ, and spoke of the miracles and signs worked by the Savior, and of His teachings about the Kingdom of Heaven. Then Saint Peter told him of the Lord’s death on the Cross, His Resurrection and Ascension into Heaven. By the grace of the Holy Spirit, Cornelius believed in Christ and was baptized with all his family. He was the first pagan to receive Baptism. retired from the world and went preaching the Gospel together with the Apostle Peter, who made him a bishop. When the Apostle Peter, together with his helpers Saints Timothy and Cornelius, was in the city of Ephesus, he learned of a particularly vigorous idol-worship in the city of Skepsis. Lots were drawn to see who would go there, and Saint Cornelius was chosen. the city lived a prince by the name of Demetrius, learned in the ancient Greek philosophy, hating Christianity and venerating the pagan gods, in particular Apollo and Zeus. Learning about the arrival of Saint Cornelius in the city, he immediately summoned him and asked him the reason for his coming. Saint Cornelius answered that he came to free him from the darkness of ignorance and lead him to knowledge of the True Light. prince, not comprehending the meaning of what was said, became angry and demanded that he answer each of his questions. When Saint Cornelius explained that he served the Lord and that the reason for his coming was to announce the Truth, the prince became enraged and demanded that Cornelius offer sacrifice to the idols. saint asked to be shown the gods. When he entered the pagan temple, Cornelius turned towards the east and uttered a prayer to the Lord. There was an earthquake, and the temple of Zeus and the idols situated in it were destroyed. All the populace, seeing what had happened, were terrified. prince was even more vexed and began to take counsel together with those approaching him, about how to destroy Cornelius. They bound the saint and took him to prison for the night. At this point, one of his servants informed the prince that his wife and child had perished beneath the rubble of the destroyed temple. a certain while, one of the pagan priests, by the name of Barbates, reported that he heard the voice of the wife and son somewhere in the ruins and that they were praising the God of the Christians. The pagan priest asked that the imprisoned one be released, in gratitude for the miracle worked by Saint Cornelius, and the wife and son of the prince remained alive. joyful prince hastened to the prison in the company of those about him, declaring that he believed in Christ and asking him to bring his wife and son out of the ruins of the temple. Saint Cornelius went to the destroyed temple, and through prayer the suffering were freed. this the prince Demetrius, and all his relatives and comrades accepted holy Baptism. Saint Cornelius lived for a long time in this city, converted all the pagan inhabitants to Christ, and made Eunomios a presbyter in service to the Lord. Saint Cornelius died in old age and was buried not far from the pagan temple he destroyed.

Rome, 45-99, Apostle Aristobulus, Bishop of Britain, Barnabas' brother, from Cyprus, evangelized Scotland, Ireland also
England, 45-99, Apostle Aristobulus of the Seventy, Bishop of Britain, Barnabas' brother, from Cyprus, evangelized Scotland, Ireland also; Apostle Aristobulus of the Seventy the Bishop of Britain, Commemorated on March 16; Holy Apostle Aristóboulos of the Seventy was born on Cyprus. He and his brother, the Apostle Barnabas (June 11), accompanied Saint Paul on his missionary journeys. Saint Aristóboulos is mentioned by the Apostle Paul in his Epistle to the Romans (Romans 16:10). are several conflicting narratives about the hierarch's life before he went to Britain. Some identify him with Zebedee, the father of the Apostles James and John. Others say that he was the father-in-law of the Apostle Peter. Most of these are unreliable, however. Paul made Aristóboulos a bishop and sent him to preach the Gospel in Britain, Scotland, and Hibernia (Ireland), where he converted many people to Christ. He also had to endure many torments and afflictions from hostile pagans, who beat him and mocked him. Eventually, he won them over and brought them to Christ as well. Aristóboulos reposed peacefully in Britain among the people he had evangelized. Some sources say he suffered a martyr's death in Wales at an advanced age. Aristóboulos is also commemorated on October 31 (with Saints Stachys, Apellēs, Amplias, Urban, and Narcissus), and also on the Synaxis of the Seventy Apostles (January 4). In Greek usage he is commemorated on March 15.

Rome, 45-107, Ignatius the God-Bearer, Antioch, Theologian John's disciple w Polycarp, Jesus hugged him, bore God in his heart
Syria, 45-107, Ignatius the God-Bearer, Antioch, Syria (Orontes River 7), Theologian John's disciple w Polycarp, 2nd Bishop of Antioch, little boy Jesus hugged, bore God in his heart, prayed unceasingly, antiphonal singing, by angels example, Trajan 107, I came to him, T sent I to Rome for wild beasts to I joy, from Seleucia to Smyrna and Polycarp, to Troas, to Neapolis, to Philippi, visited churches, wrote 7 epistles to Ephesus, Magnesia, Tralles, Rome, Philidelphia, Smyrna, to Polycarp; joy of roman christians meeting, lions tore him to pieces leaving heart w gold JC, Trajan stopped persecution, relics to Antioch then to San Clemente church Rome; Antioch (Orontes River 7); Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20 ; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer, was a disciple of the holy Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian, as was also Saint Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna (February 23). Saint Ignatius was the second bishop of Antioch, and successor to Bishop Euodius, Apostle of the Seventy (September 7). suggests that when Saint Ignatius was a little boy, the Savior hugged him and said: “Unless you turn and become as little children, you shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven” (Mt. 18:3). The saint was called “God-Bearer” (Theophoros), because he bore God in his heart and prayed unceasingly to Him. He also had this name because he was held in the arms of Christ, the incarnate Son of God. Ignatius was a disciple of the Apostle John the Theologian, together with Saint Polycarp of Smyrna. As Bishop of Antioch, Saint Ignatius was zealous and spared no effort to build up the church of Christ. To him is attributed the practice of antiphonal singing (by two choirs) during church services. He had seen a vision of the angels in heaven alternately singing praises to God, and divided his church choir to follow this example. In the time of persecution he was a source of strength to the souls of his flock, and was eager to suffer for Christ. the year 106 the emperor Trajan (98-117), after his victory over the Scythians, ordered everyone to give thanks to the pagan gods, and to put to death any Christians who refused to worship the idols. In the year 107, Trajan happened to pass through Antioch. Here they told him that Bishop Ignatius openly confessed Christ, and taught people to scorn riches, to lead a virtuous life, and preserve their virginity. Saint Ignatius came voluntarily before the emperor, so as to avert persecution of the Christians in Antioch. Saint Ignatius rejected the persistent requests of the emperor Trajan to sacrifice to the idols. The emperor then decided to send him to Rome to be thrown to the wild beasts. Saint Ignatius joyfully accepted the sentence imposed upon him. His readiness for martyrdom was attested to by eyewitnesses, who accompanied Saint Ignatius from Antioch to Rome. the way to Rome, the ship sailed from Seleucia stopped at Smyrna, where Saint Ignatius met with his friend Bishop Polycarp. Clergy and believers from other cities and towns thronged to see Saint Ignatius. He exhorted everyone not to fear death and not to grieve for him. In his Epistle to the Roman Christians, he asked them to assist him with their prayers, and to pray that God would strengthen him in his impending martyrdom for Christ: “I seek Him Who died for us; I desire Him Who rose for our salvation... In me, desire has been nailed to the cross, and no flame of material longing is left. Only the living water speaks within me, saying, ‘Hasten to the Father.’” Smyrna, Saint Ignatius went to Troas. Here he heard the happy news of the end of the persecution against Christians in Antioch. From Troas, Saint Ignatius sailed to Neapolis (in Macedonia) and then to Philippi. the way to Rome Saint Ignatius visited several churches, teaching and guiding the Christians there. He also wrote seven epistles: to the churches of Ephesus, Magnesia, Tralles, Rome, Philadelphia, and Smyrna. He also addressed a letter to Saint Polycarp, who mentions a collection of the letters of Saint Ignatius in his letter to the Philippians (Ch. 13). Saint Irenaeus of Lyons quotes from Saint Ignatius’s letter to the Romans (AGAINST HERESIES 5:28:4). All these letters have survived to the present day. Roman Christians met Saint Ignatius with great joy and profound sorrow. Some of them hoped to prevent his execution, but Saint Ignatius implored them not to do this. Kneeling down, he prayed together with the believers for the Church, for love between the brethren, and for an end to the persecution against Christians. December 20, the day of a pagan festival, they led Saint Ignatius into the arena, and he turned to the people: “Men of Rome, you know that I am sentenced to death, not because of any crime, but because of my love for God, by Whose love I am embraced. I long to be with Him, and offer myself to him as a pure loaf, made of fine wheat ground fine by the teeth of wild beasts.” this the lions were released and tore him to pieces, leaving only his heart and a few bones. Tradition says that on his way to execution, Saint Ignatius unceasingly repeated the name of Jesus Christ. When they asked him why he was doing this, Saint Ignatius answered that this Name was written in his heart, and that he confessed with his lips Him Whom he always carried within. When the saint was devoured by the lions, his heart was not touched. When they cut open the heart, the pagans saw an inscription in gold letters: “Jesus Christ.” After his execution Saint Ignatius appeared to many of the faithful in their sleep to comfort them, and some saw him at prayer for the city of Rome. of the saint’s great courage, Trajan thought well of him and stopped the persecution against the Christians. The relics of Saint Ignatius were transferred to Antioch (January 29), and on February 1, 637 were returned to Rome and placed in the church of San Clemente.

Rome, 50, Presbyter Julian & Deacon Caesarius at Terracina, pagan temple collapsed, killing many, bodies floated
Naples, 50, Martyrs Julian the Presbyter and Caesarius the Deacon at Terracina; Caesarius was thrown into prison for insulting the pagan gods. They later took him in bonds to the temple of Apollo, but before they got him near the pagan temple it collapsed, killing the pagan priests and many of the people. the same time the idolaters arrested the Christian priest Julian. At the emperor’s orders, the holy martyrs were cast into the sea, but their bodies floated to the surface, and Christians buried the sufferers. Terracina, near Rome ; Martyr Julian the Presbyter at Terracina, Commemorated October 7 ; Martyr Julian the Presbyter suffered martyrdom for Christ with Saint Caesarius the Deacon at Terracina, Italy in the first century. Caesarius was thrown into prison for insulting the pagan gods. They later took him in bonds to the temple of Apollo, but before they got him near the pagan temple it collapsed, killing the pagan priests and many of the people. the same time the idolaters arrested the Christian priest Julian. At the emperor’s orders, the holy martyrs were cast into the sea, but their bodies floated to the surface, and Christians buried the sufferers. relics of Saint Caesarius are kept in Rome.

Rome, 50 1st Century, Hieromartyr Terence, Bishop of Iconium (Konya), Lycaonia, tortured and beheaded for his faith in Christ
Lyconia, 50 1st Century, Hieromartyr Terence the Bishop of Iconium (Konya), Lycaonia (Goksu River and Great Road), tortured and beheaded for his faith in Christ ; Iconium; Hieromartyr Terence the Bishop of Iconium, Commemorated on June 21; Terence was Bishop of Iconium in Lycaonia in the first century. was tortured and beheaded for his faith in Christ.

Rome, 52-93, Apostle Timothy, Lystra, Lykaonia, converted in 52 by Paul, became his disciple and constant companion
Lykaonia, 52-93, Apostle Timothy, Lystra, Lykaonia, converted in 52 by Paul, became his disciple and constant companion, called his son, bishop Ephesus, martyred there; Lystra and Derben, Lyconia (Konya) ; Apostle Timothy of the Seventy, Commemorated January 22 ; Holy Apostle Timothy was from the Lycaonian city of Lystra in Asia Minor. Saint Timothy was converted to Christ in the year 52 by the holy Apostle Paul (June 29). When the Apostles Paul and Barnabas first visited the cities of Lycaonia, Saint Paul healed one crippled from birth. Many of the inhabitants of Lystra then believed in Christ, and among them was the future Saint Timothy, his mother Eunice and grandmother Loida (Lois) (Acts 14:6-12; 2 Tim. 1:5). seed of faith, planted in Saint Timothy’s soul by the Apostle Paul, brought forth abundant fruit. He became Saint Paul’s disciple, and later his constant companion and co-worker in the preaching of the Gospel. The Apostle Paul loved Saint Timothy and in his Epistles called him his beloved son, remembering his devotion and fidelity with gratitude. wrote to Timothy: “You have followed my teaching, way of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, love, and patience” (2 Tim. 3:10-11). The Apostle Paul appointed Saint Timothy as Bishop of Ephesus, where the saint remained for fifteen years. Finally, when Saint Paul was in prison and awaiting martyrdom, he summoned his faithful friend, Saint Timothy, for a last farewell (2 Tim. 4:9). Timothy ended his life as a martyr. The pagans of Ephesus celebrated a festival in honor of their idols, and used to carry them through the city, accompanied by impious ceremonies and songs. Saint Timothy, zealous for the glory of God, attempted to halt the procession and reason with the spiritually blind idol-worshipping people, by preaching the true faith in Christ. pagans angrily fell upon the holy apostle, they beat him, dragged him along the ground, and finally, they stoned him. Saint Timothy’s martyrdom occurred in the year 93. the fourth century the holy relics of Saint Timothy were transferred to Constantinople and placed in the church of the Holy Apostles near the tombs of Saint Andrew (November 30) and Saint Luke (October 18). The Church honors Saint Timothy as one of the Apostles of the Seventy. Russian practice, the back of a priest’s cross is often inscribed with Saint Paul’s words to Saint Timothy: “Be an example to the believers in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity” (1 Tim. 4:12).

Rome, 54-68, Emperor, Nero, Pagan, popular w citizens, but tyranny, extravagance, religious persecution and debauchery
Roman Emperor, 54-68, Nero ; Claudius Caesar Augustus Germanicus (15 December 37 - 9 June 68 AD), originally named Lucius Domitius Ahenobarbus, was the fifth emperor of Rome, and the last in the Julio-Claudian dynasty line of emperors. was adopted by the Roman emperor Claudius at the age of thirteen, and succeeded him to the throne at the age of seventeen. Nero was popular with the lower-class Roman citizens during his time, but the aristocracy which have monopoly on surviving written tradition tended to associate his reign with unrestricted tyranny, extravagance, religious persecution and debauchery.[2][i][ii] was born in Antium, south of Rome, in AD 37. As biological great great-grandson of Augustus he was member of the innermost circle of the ruling dynasty. When Nero was two years old, his father died of edema, which enabled his mother (Agrippina the Younger) to marry the emperor Claudius and ultimately convince him to adopt and make Nero his heir. Early in his reign Nero was initially heavily guided by his mother Agrippina, his tutor Seneca the Younger, and Roman official Afranius Burrus. However, these early years saw Nero attempting to free himself from all such advisors and become his own man. As time passed, Nero played a more active role in government and foreign policy and came to rely much less on his initial influences. and colorful personality, Nero was at the center of several public and private scandals, some of which continue to live in public imagination even today. He made public appearances as an actor, poet, musician, and charioteer which shocked his aristocratic contemporaries as these occupations were usually seen as the domain of slaves, freedmen and commoners. Power struggle with his mother eventually led to him murdering his foster brother Britannicus and later to matricide. He also banished and later had his wife Claudia Octavia murdered in order to marry Poppaea Sabina, wife of his friend Otho who would later briefly succeed him. Soon afterwards Nero polygamously married freedman Pythagoras, with Nero acting as the bride at the ceremony. After Poppaea's death in unclear circumstances, Nero in short succession married an aristocratic woman Statilia Messalina and another freedman Sporus whom Nero had castrated. government Nero focused much of his attention on diplomacy and trade, as well as on the cultural life of the empire. He ordered the construction of amphitheaters and promoted athletic games. A significant event that took place during his reign was the Roman–Parthian War of 58–63, where the prestigious general Corbulo had acted as commander and had successfully negotiated peace with the hostile Parthian Empire as a result of the war. The Roman general Suetonius Paulinus had also quashed a major revolt in Britain led by the Iceni tribal Queen Boudica. The Bosporan Kingdom was briefly annexed to the empire, and the First Jewish–Roman War began. Late in Nero's reign much of the city of Rome was destroyed by the Great Fire of Rome. The massive state expenses, partially related to reconstruction efforts, forced Nero to increase tax burdens and debase currency which put him on the collision course with the empire's elites. His decision to use the freed space in Rome's center for a statue of himself and a massive palace complex shaped public perception that money raised by such measures was being wasted for Nero's personal use. Nero's reign, various plots against his life developed, and Nero had many of those involved in these conspiracies put to death. Nero's increasing paranoia caused by these conspiracies resulted in harsh measures against the upper classes, which in turn increased the number of those desiring to remove him from power. In AD 68, the Roman senator Vindex, who had support from the eventual Roman emperor Galba, rebelled against Nero. Vindex's revolt failed in its immediate aim; however, Nero fled Rome when its discontented civil and military authorities eventually chose Galba as emperor. On 9 June in AD 68, Nero committed suicide, becoming the first Roman Emperor to do so. He made this decision after learning that he had been tried in absentia and condemned to death as a public enemy.[3][4] His death ended the Julio-Claudian dynasty, sparking a brief period of civil war known as the Year of the Four Emperors. Roman sources (including the Ancient Roman historians Suetonius and Cassius Dio) offer overwhelmingly negative assessments of his personality and reign. The contemporary historian Tacitus claims the Roman people thought him compulsive and corrupt. Suetonius tells that many Romans believed that the Great Fire of Rome was instigated by Nero as a way to clear land for his planned palatial complex, the Domus Aurea.[5] Also, according to Tacitus, he was said to have seized Christians as scapegoats for the fire, and had them burned alive, seemingly motivated not by public justice but by personal cruelty.[6] Some modern historians question the reliability of the ancient sources on Nero's tyrannical acts[7][8] due to the overwhelming evidence of his popularity among the Roman commoners (especially in the eastern provinces of the Empire, where a popular legend arose that Nero had not died and would return). After his death, at least three leaders of short-lived, failed rebellions presented themselves as "Nero reborn" in order to gain popular support. Hieromartyr Eutyches the Disciple of St John the Theologian, Commemorated on August 24; BARTHOLOMEW THE APOSTLE, (24 AUGUST NT) ; Apostle Titus of the Seventy and Bishop of Crete, Commemorated August 25 ; Return of the Relics of the Apostle Bartholomew from Anastasiopolis to Lipari, Commemorated August 25 : By the power of God the chests did not sink into the depths of the sea, but miraculously floated upon the waves and reached Italy. The chest with the relics of the Apostle Bartholomew came to land at the island of Lipari, and the remaining chests continued their journey and came to land at various places in Italy. The chest with the relics of the Martyr Papian halted at Sicily, the Martyr Lucian at Messina, the Martyr Gregory at Calabria, and the Martyr Acacius at Askalon. ; St Julian the Bishop of Cenomanis (Le Mans) in Gaul, Commemorated July 13 ; Apostle Evodius (Euodias) of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 7; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 21; St Xanthippe Disciple of the Apostles, who died in Spain, Commemorated on September 23 ; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 27; Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 1 ; Hieromartyr Dionysius the Areopagite the Bishop of Athens, Commemorated on October 3; Hieromartyr Hierotheus the Bishop of Athens, Commemorated October 4 ; Holy, Glorious Apostle Thomas, Commemorated on October 6 ; Martyr Julian the Presbyter at Terracina, Commemorated on October 7; Apostle James the Son of Alphaeus, Commemorated on October 9; Apostle Philip of the Seventy, One of the Seven Deacons, Commemorated on October 11; PHILIP, DEACON AND EVANGELIST (11 OCT NT); Martyr Nazarius of Milan, Commemorated on October 14; Martyr Zenaida (Zenais) of Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on October 11; Apostle and Evangelist Luke, Commemorated on October 18; LUKE THE EVANGELIST, (18 OCTOBER) ; Apostle James, the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on October 23; JAMES OF JERUSALEM, BISHOP AND MARTYR (23 OCT NT); Apostle Artemas of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30 ; Apostle Justus of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30; Apostle Mark of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30; Apostle Tertius of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 30; Hieromartyr Marcian the Bishop of Syracuse, Commemorated on October 30 ; Apostle Amplias of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Apelles of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Aristobulus of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Narcissus of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Stachys of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Apostle Urban of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 31; Hieromartyr Nicander the Bishop of Myra, Commemorated on November 4; Apostle Gaius of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Hermes of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Linus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Patrobus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Philologus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Apostle Erastus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Apostle Quartus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Apostle Rodion of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Apostle Sosipater of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Apostle Tertius of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Icon of the Mother of God œthe MercifulÂ, Commemorated on November 12; Holy, All-Praised Apostle Philip, Commemorated on November 14; Apostle and Evangelist Matthew, Commemorated on November 16; Apostle Philemon of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 22; Apostle Archippus the Martyr of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 22; St Onesimus the Disciple of St Paul, Commemorated on November 22; St Onesimus the Disciple of St Paul, Commemorated on November 22; CLEMENT OF ROME, BISHOP (23 NOV 100); ANDREW THE APOSTLE, (30 NOV NT) ; Apostle Andrew, the Holy and All-Praised First-Called, Commemorated on November 30; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Cephas of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Onesiphorus of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Sosthenes of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Apostle Tychicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 8; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20; THOMAS THE APOSTLE, (21 DEC NT) ; Icon of the Mother of God œthe MercifulÂ, Commemorated on December 27; JOHN, APOSTLE AND EVANGELIST (27 DEC NT); James of Holy Righteous Joseph the Betrothed, along with David the King, and James the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on December 27; Apostle Timon the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on December 30 ; Apostle and Evangelist Luke of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Euodius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle James, of the Seventy, the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Justus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Mark the Evangelist of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Simeon, of the Seventy, the son of Cleophas, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Cleophas of the Seventy, the Brother of Joseph the Betrothed, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Philip the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Prochorus the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Timon the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Parmenas the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Timothy of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Titus of the Seventy and Bishop of Crete, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Philemon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Archippus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Silas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Silvanus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Crescens of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Crispus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Epenetus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Andronicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Stachys of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Amplias of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Urban of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Narcissus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Apelles of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Aristobulus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Rufus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Asyncritus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Phlegon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Hermes of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Patrobus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Hermas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Linus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Gaius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Lucius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Jason of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Sosipater of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Olympas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Tertius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Erastus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quartus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Onesiphorus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Clement of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Sosthenes of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Tychicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Carpus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Mark of the Seventy, called John, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Zenas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Pudens of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Trophimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Mark of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Artemas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Aquila of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Fortunatus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Veneration of the Precious Chains of the Holy and All-Glorious Apostle Peter, Commemorated on January 16; Apostle Timothy of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 22; SILAS, MISSIONARY COMPANION OF PAUL, Commemorated January 26 ; TIMOTHY AND TITUS, COMPANIONS OF PAUL (26 JAN NT); LYDIA, DORCAS AND PHOEBE, CO-WORKERS WITH THE APOSTLES, 27 JAN. NT ; St Bucolus the Bishop of Smyrna, Commemorated on February 6; CORNELIUS THE CENTURION, (7 FEBRUARY) ; Hieromartyr Marcellus the Bishop of Sicily, Commemorated on February 9; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on February 15; St Auxibius Bishop of Soli, Cyprus, Commemorated on February 17; St Mariamne the sister of the Apostle Philip, Commemorated on February 17; Apostle Philemon the Martyr of the Seventy, Commemorated on February 19; Martyr Archippus of the Seventy Apostles, Commemorated on February 19; Uncovering of the relics of the Holy Martyrs at the Gate of Eugenius at Constantinople, Commemorated on February 22; MATTHIAS THE APOSTLE, (24 FEB NT); Martyr Archippus of the Seventy Apostles, Commemorated February 19; Martyr Kyriake of Rome, Commemorated on March 20; Martyr Photina (Svetlana), the Samaritan Woman, and Her Sons, Commemorated on March 20; St Cyril the Bishop of Catania, Commemorated on March 21; St Artemon (Menignus) the Bishop of Seleucia, Commemorated on March 24 ; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 30; Apostle Cephas of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 30; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 30; Apostle Sosthenes of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 30; Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, and those with Him, Commemorated on April 8 ; Hieromartyr Antipas the Bishop of Pergamum and Disciple of St John the Theologian, Commemorated on April 11; Martyr Processus of Rome, Commemorated on April 11; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15; Apostle Pudens of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15 ; Apostle Trophimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15; Martyr Basilissa of Rome the Disciple of Apostles Peter and Paul, Commemorated on April 15 ; Apostle Zacchaeus, Commemorated on April 20; Apostle and Evangelist Mark, Commemorated on April 25 ; MARK THE EVANGELIST, (25 APR NT) ; Apostle Jason, of the Seventy and those with him, Commemorated on April 28; Apostle Sosipater of the Seventy and those with him, Commemorated on April 28; Virginmartyr Kerkyra and those with her, Commemorated on April 28; James of PHILIP AND JAMES, APOSTLES (1 MAY NT) ; Philip of PHILIP AND JAMES, APOSTLES (1 MAY NT); Apostle Andronicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on May 17 ; Hieromartyr Patrick the Bishop of Prusa with his companions, Commemorated on May 19; St Eutychius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on May 28; Apostle Hermas of the Seventy, Commemorated on May 31 ; Hieromartyr Lucian the Bishop at Beauvais in France, Commemorated on June 3; Righteous Martha the sister of Lazarus, Commemorated on June 4; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated on June 11 ; PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES AND MARTYRS (29 JUN 64); The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leader of the Apostles, Paul, Commemorated on June 29; The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leader of the Apostles, Peter, Commemorated on June 29; The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leaders of the Apostles, Peter and Paul, Commemorated on June 29 ;

Rome, 54-68, Kyriake, sister of S well Woman Photina, Nero's extreme torments, unharmed, N's d Domnina c, devine light, prison c
Rome, , Kyriake of Rome (Aniene River, Tiber River 5), sister of Samaritan Woman at the well, summoned to Nero, smashed finger joints, unharmed, no pain, Nero's d Domnina, Sorcerer converted, 3 years, devine light, prison converted, crucified, 4 days, healed, blinded servants sight r, converted, cut off breasts, flayed skinblind, 2 bent trees ; Rome; Martyr Kyriake of Rome, Commemorated on March 20; - Martyr Kyriake of Rome, Commemorated on March 20: Saint Kyriake was the sister of the Holy Martyr Photina (Svetlana) the Samaritan Woman, with whom the Savior conversed at Jacob’s Well (John. 4:5-42). to appear before Nero, the emperor asked the saints whether they truly believed in Christ. All the confessors refused to renounce the Savior. Then the emperor gave orders to smash the martyrs’ finger joints. During the torments, the confessors felt no pain, and their hands remained unharmed. Photina and her five sisters Anatolia, Phota, Photis, Paraskeva and Kyriake were sent to the imperial court under the supervision of Nero’s daughter Domnina. Saint Photina converted both Domnina and all her servants to Christ. She also converted a sorcerer, who had brought her poisoned food to kill her. years passed, and Nero sent to the prison for one of his servants, who had been locked up. The messengers reported to him that Saints Sebastian, Photinus and Joses, who had been blinded, had completely recovered, and that people were visiting them to hear their preaching, and indeed the whole prison had been transformed into a bright and fragrant place where God was glorified. then gave orders to crucify the saints, and to beat their naked bodies with straps. On the fourth day the emperor sent servants to see whether the martyrs were still alive. But, approaching the place of the tortures, the servants fell blind. An angel of the Lord freed the martyrs from their crosses and healed them. The saints took pity on the blinded servants, and restored their sight by their prayers to the Lord. Those who were healed came to believe in Christ and were soon baptized. sisters of Saint Photina also suffered terrible torments. Nero gave orders to cut off their breasts and then to flay their skin. An expert in cruelty, the emperor readied the fiercest execution for Saint Photis: they tied her by the feet to the tops of two bent-over trees. When the ropes were cut the trees sprang upright and tore the martyr apart. The emperor ordered the others beheaded, except for Saint Photina. Martyr Photina (Svetlana), the Samaritan Woman, and Her Sons, Commemorated on March 20;

Rome, 61, Epistle of St James, Brother of the Lord
Rome, 61, Epistle of St James, Brother of the Lord; Epistle of James, the Letter of James, or simply James (Ancient Greek: Ἰάκωβος, romanized: Iakōbos), is a General epistle and one of the 21 epistles (didactic letters) in the New Testament. author identifies himself as "James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ" who is writing to "the twelve tribes scattered abroad" (James 1:1). The epistle is traditionally attributed to James the brother of Jesus (James the Just),[1][2] and the audience is generally considered to be Jewish Christians, who were dispersed outside Israel.[3][4] his letter within an overall theme of patient perseverance during trials and temptations, James writes in order to encourage his readers to live consistently with what they have learned in Christ. He condemns various sins, including pride, hypocrisy, favouritism, and slander. He encourages and implores believers to humbly live by godly, rather than worldly wisdom and to pray in all situations. the most part, until the late 20th century, the epistle of James was relegated to benign disregard – though it was shunned by many early theologians and scholars due to its advocacy of Torah observance and good works.[5] Famously, Luther at one time considered the epistle to be among the disputed books, and sidelined it to an appendix,[6] although in his Large Catechism he treated it as the authoritative word of God.[7] epistle aims to reach a wide Jewish audience.[8] During the last decades, the epistle of James has attracted increasing scholarly interest due to a surge in the quest for the historical James,[9] his role within the Jesus movement, his beliefs, and his relationships and views. This James revival is also associated with an increasing level of awareness of the Jewish grounding of both the epistle and the early Jesus movement.[10] James, Brother of the Lord; the Just, or a variation of James, brother of the Lord, was "a brother of Jesus", according to the New Testament. He was an early leader of the Jerusalem Church of the Apostolic Age. He died as a martyr in AD 62 or 69 after being stoned to death by order of High Priest Ananus ben Ananus. and Eastern Orthodox Christians, as well as some Anglicans and Lutherans, teach that James, along with others named in the New Testament as "brothers"[note 2] of Jesus, were not the biological children of Mary, but were possibly cousins of Jesus,[6] or step-brothers from a previous marriage of Joseph (as related in the Gospel of James).[7][note 3] The Catholic tradition holds that this James is to be identified with James, son of Alphaeus, and James the Less.[11] It is agreed by most that he should not be confused with James, son of Zebedee also known as James the Great.[1] Apostle James, the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on October 23; Apostle James, the Brother of God (Adelphotheos) was the son of Righteous Joseph the Betrothed of the Most Holy Theotokos (December 26). his early years James was a Nazarene, a man especially dedicated to God. The Nazarenes vowed to preserve their virginity, to abstain from wine, to refrain from eating meat, and not to cut their hair. The vow of the Nazarenes symbolized a life of holiness and purity, commanded formerly by the Lord for all Israel. the Savior began to teach the nation about the Kingdom of God, Saint James believed in Christ and became His apostle. He was chosen as the first Bishop of Jerusalem. James presided over the Council of Jerusalem and his word was decisive (Acts 15). his thirty years as bishop, Saint James converted many of the Jews to Christianity. Annoyed by this, the Pharisees and the Scribes plotted together to kill Saint James. They led the saint up on the pinnacle of the Jerusalem Temple and asked what he thought of Jesus. The holy Apostle began to bear witness that Christ is the Messiah, which was not the response the Pharisees were expecting. Greatly angered, the Jewish teachers threw him off the roof. saint did not die immediately, but gathering his final strength, he prayed to the Lord for his enemies while they were stoning him. Saint James’ martyrdom occurred about 63 A.D. holy Apostle James composed a Divine Liturgy, which formed the basis of the Liturgies of Saints Basil the Great and John Chrysostom. The Church has preserved an Epistle of Saint James, one of the books of the New Testament. 1853, Patriarch Hierotheus of Alexandria sent to Moscow a portion of the relics of Saint James. The Church distinguishes between the holy Apostle James the Brother of God, and Saint James the son of Zebedee (April 30) and Saint James the son of Alphaeus (October 9).

Rome, 61, Epistle of Jude, Brother of the Lord, sometime before Temple Destruction
Rome, 61, Epistle of Jude, Brother of the Lord, sometime before Temple Destruction; Epistle of Jude[a] is the penultimate book of the New Testament as well as the Christian Bible. It is traditionally attributed to Jude the Apostle, brother of James the Just, and thus possibly brother of Jesus as well. is a short epistle written in Koine Greek. It condemns in fierce terms certain people the author sees as a threat to the early Christian community, but describes these opponents only vaguely. According to Jude, these opponents are within the Christian community, but are not true Christians: they are scoffers, false teachers, malcontents, given to their lusts, and so on. The epistle reassures its readers that these people will soon be judged by God. It is possible that the group being referred to would have been obvious to the original recipients of the letter, but if a specific group was being referred to, knowledge of the details has since been lost. The one bit of their potential ideology discussed in the letter is that these opponents denigrate angels and their role. If this was indeed a part of the ideology of this group the author opposed, then the epistle is possibly a counterpoint to the Epistle to the Colossians. Colossians condemns those who give angels undue prominence and worship them; this implies the two letters might be part of an early Christian debate on Christian angelology. epistle introduces itself with a simple claim of authorship: "Jude, a servant of Jesus Christ and brother of James" (NRSV). "James" is generally taken to mean James, brother of Jesus, a prominent leader in the early church. Introductions would typically refer to a father in the era, so the use of a brother suggests that this would only be done if the brother was famous within the community. Little is known about Jude himself. As the brother of James, it has traditionally meant Jude was also a brother of Jesus, since James is described as being the brother of Jesus. This is why Clement of Alexandria (c. 150–215 AD) wrote in his work "Comments on the Epistle of Jude" that Jude, the author, was a son of Joseph and a brother of Jesus.[3] However, there is a dispute as to whether "brother" means someone who has the same father and mother, or a half-brother, cousin, or more distant familial relationship. This dispute over the true meaning of "brother" grew as the doctrine of the Virgin Birth evolved.[4][5][6] For example, Saint Jerome believed that not only Mary but also Joseph were virgins their entire lives, and thus James and by extension Jude were cousins.[7] the book of Jude, a "Jude" is mentioned five times in the New Testament: three times as Jude the Apostle,[8] and twice as Jude the brother of Jesus[9] (aside from references to Judas Iscariot and Judah (son of Jacob)). Debate continues as to whether the author of the epistle is the apostle, the brother of Jesus, both, or neither. Scholars have argued that since the author of the letter has not identified himself as an apostle and also refers to the apostles as a third party, and thus cannot be identified with Jude the Apostle. Other scholars have drawn the opposite conclusion, which is that, as an apostle, he would not have made a claim of apostleship on his own behalf.[6] reason to doubt that a relative of Jesus wrote the book is that they are unlikely to have been literate.[10] Jesus's family were common laborers from Aramaic-speaking Galilee, and literary composition skills were overwhelmingly concentrated in the elite in antiquity. Few knew how to read, fewer how to write, and fewer still how to write complicated literary treatises. Jesus himself may have been able to read, presumably in Hebrew, but he was also exceptional and the star of the family. Even if somehow Jude had learned a little of how to read Hebrew, the epistle is written in excellent, complicated Koine Greek, with knowledge of common forms of rhetoric and argument of the era, as well as seeming knowledge of the scriptures in Hebrew. All this would be exceptional for a countryside Galilean. Scholars who support the authorship of Jude generally assume that he must have embarked upon extensive travel and missionary work among Hellenized Jews to master Greek as the author did. Ultimately, it is impossible to know more details of Jude's life for sure. One early Christian tradition states that Jude's grandchildren were brought before Emperor Domitian and interrogated; in the story, they defended themselves as not rebels and mere poor laborers eking out what they could from a single patch of land. While the story is clearly apocryphal - Roman Emperors did not generally interrogate Galilean peasants - it does suggest that early Christians remembered Jude's family as lower-class laborers, not literate elites.[11] the Jude writing the letter was not Jude the Apostle mentioned in the gospels, then he was possibly an unknown Christian who happened to share the name and coincidentally also had a brother named James. A final possibility is that the epistle is pseudepigrapha - that the author intentionally hinted to readers that it was from the more famous Jude, but only as a false attribution to give the letter more authority.[11][10] date of composition is not known, but is loosely speculated to be between the years 50 and 110. Among those who favor the authorship of the Jude mentioned in the gospels, the letter is generally placed before the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem in 70 AD. Among those who favor the authorship of an unknown Christian, it is assumed to be a work of the early second century.[12][13] Scholars who consider the letter a pseudonymous work generally favor the later dates due to the letter's references to the apostles (as if they lived in the past)[14] and to tradition[15] and because of its competent Greek style.[16][17][6] Bo Reicke suggests around 90 AD; Heikki Räisänen concurs and believes that it may have been written at the end of the first century.[10][18] Bart Ehrman suggests an even later date, in the second half of the second century, due to use of certain terminology in ways similar to the pastoral epistles that was uncommon in the first century.[11] urges his readers to "contend for the faith" against "certain intruders [who] have stolen in among you."[19] He warns about false teachers who twist the grace of Christ as a pretext for wantonness. Jude asks the reader to recall how even after the Lord saved his own people out of the land of Egypt, he did not hesitate to destroy those who fell into unbelief, much as he punished the angels who fell from their original exalted status and the inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah.[20] He also paraphrases (verse 9) an incident apparently from the Testament of Moses that has since been lost about Satan and Michael the Archangel quarreling over the body of Moses. the analogy from Israel's history, he says that the false teachers have followed in the way of Cain, have rushed after reward into the error of Balaam, and have perished in the rebellion of Korach. He describes in vivid terms the opponents he warns of, calling them "clouds without rain", "trees without fruit", "foaming waves of the sea", and "wandering stars".[21] He exhorts believers to remember the words spoken by the Apostles, using language similar to the second epistle of Peter to answer concerns that the Lord seemed to tarry: "In the last time there will be scoffers, indulging their own ungodly lusts,"[22] and to keep themselves in God's love,[23] before delivering a doxology to God.[24] quotes directly from 1 Enoch, a widely distributed work among the Old Testament Pseudepigrapha, citing a section of 1 Enoch 1:8 that is based on Deuteronomy 33:2.[25][26] and audience[edit] Epistle of Jude is a brief book. It is one of the shortest books of the New Testament, consisting of just 1 chapter of 25 verses, and almost the shortest book in the Bible, with the shortest the Book of Obadiah. It may have been composed as an encyclical letter—that is, one not directed to the members of one church in particular, but intended rather to be circulated and read in all churches. While addressed to the Christian Church as a whole, the reference to the Old Testament figures such as Michael, Cain, and Korah's sons; the Book of Enoch quotation; and the invocation of James, the head of the church of Jerusalem, suggests a Jewish Christian main audience that would be familiar with Enochian literature and revere James.[10] wording and syntax of this epistle in its original Greek demonstrates that the author was capable and fluent. The epistle's style is combative, impassioned, and rushed. Many examples of evildoers and warnings about their fates are given in rapid succession. epistle concludes with a doxology, which is considered by Peter H. Davids to be one of the highest in quality contained in the Bible.[27] status[edit] letter of Jude was one of the disputed books of the biblical canon of the New Testament. Despite some opposition, it seems to have been accepted by most churches around the end of the second century.[28] Clement of Alexandria, Tertullian, and the Muratorian canon considered the letter canonical. The letter was eventually accepted as part of the canon by later Church Fathers such as Athanasius of Alexandria.[29] The canon list at the Council of Carthage (c. 397) included the epistle of Jude.[30] first historical record of doubts as to authorship are found in the writings of Origen of Alexandria, who spoke of the doubts held by some in the early third century. Eusebius classified it with the "disputed writings, the antilegomena" in the early fourth century. Eusebius doubted its authenticity partially because it was rarely quoted among ancient sources, although he acknowledges it was read in many churches.[31] The links between the Epistle and 2 Peter and its use of the biblical apocrypha raised concern: Saint Jerome wrote in 392 AD that the book was "rejected by many" since it quotes the Book of Enoch.[32] witnesses[edit] See also: Textual variants in the Epistle of Jude Papyrus 78, containing the Epistle of Jude verses 4, 5, 7 and 8; it is dated to the 3rd or 4th century Colophon of the Epistle of Jude in the Codex Alexandrinus manuscripts containing the text of the epistle of Jude include:[33] Papyrus 72 (3rd/4th century) Papyrus 78 (3rd/4th century; extant verses 4–5, 7–8)[34] Codex Vaticanus (B or 03; 325–350) Codex Sinaiticus (א or 01; 330–360) Codex Alexandrinus (A or 02; 400–440) Codex Ephraemi Rescriptus (C or 04; c. 450; extant verses 3–25)[35] Identity of the opponents[edit] epistle fiercely condemns the opponents it warns of and declares that God will judge and punish them, despite them being a part of the Christian community. However, the exact nature of these opponents have been a continuing interest for both theologians and historians, as the epistle does not describe them in any more detail than calling them corrupt and ungodly. Several theories have been proposed. The most specific verse describing the opponents is verse 8: the very same way, on the strength of their dreams these ungodly people pollute their own bodies, reject authority and heap abuse on celestial beings. — Jude 1:8 (NIV)[36] "authority" (κυριοτητα, kyriotēta; alternate translations include "dominion" or "lordship") could mean several things. The most direct would be rejection of civil or ecclesiastical authority: the opponents were ignoring guidance from leaders. Martin Luther and Jean Calvin agreed with this interpretation, and it is the most common one.[37] Another possibility is that this specifically referred to rejecting the authority of Jesus or God, which would agree with verse 4 and be reinforcing the claim that these opponents are not true Christians.[37] A third possibility is that this is the singular of kyriotētes (Dominions), a class of angels.[37] This would fit with the final part of the sentence of "heap abuse on celestial beings", but it is unusual that the singular is used. Versions of Jude vary, and some manuscripts such as the Codex Sinaiticus indeed use the plural form, though.[38] abuse on celestial beings" is also a relevant statement, as it stands in some tension with the works of Paul the Apostle as well as the Epistle to the Hebrews.[37][39] Paul's undisputed works indicate that believers are already on the same level as angels, that all existing powers are subject to Christ, and believers are the future judges of angels.[11] Later writings attributed to Paul such as Colossians and Ephesians go even farther, with Colossians decrying the alleged worship of angels.[11] A hypothesis is thus that the author may have been attacking forms of Pauline Christianity that were not suitably deferential to angels in their opinion. "Rejecting authority" may be a reference to Paul's preaching that gentiles did not need to comply with Jewish Law. As James was known to be a major figure among Jewish Christians, this might indicate tension between the more Jewish strands of early Christianity represented by James and Jude set against Paul's message to the gentiles.[11] However, the line about "heap abuse on celestial beings" might have essentially been just another insult, in which case this entire line of thought is rendered moot. inherent vagueness of the epistle means that the identities of these opponents may well never be known. to 2 Peter[edit] passages[40] 2 Peter Jude 1:5 3 1:12 5 2:1 4 2:4 6 2:6 7 2:10–11 8–9 2:12 10 2:13–17 11–13 3:2-3 17-18 3:14 24 3:18 25 of Jude is very similar to 2 Peter (mainly 2 Peter chapter 2); so much so that most scholars agree that either one letter used the other directly, or they both drew on a common source.[41] Comparing the Greek text portions of 2 Peter 2:1–3:3 (426 words) to Jude 4–18 (311 words) results in 80 words in common and 7 words of substituted synonyms.[42] this epistle is much shorter than 2 Peter, and due to various stylistic details, some scholars consider Jude the source for the similar passages of 2 Peter.[43] However, other writers, arguing that Jude 18 quotes 2 Peter 3:3 as past tense, consider Jude to have come after 2 Peter.[44] scholars who consider Jude to predate 2 Peter note that the latter appears to quote the former but omits the reference to the non-canonical book of Enoch.[45] to other books[edit] Jude 9 on Codex Sinaiticus (c. 330–360) Epistle of Jude references at least three other books, with two (Book of Zechariah & 2 Peter) being canonical in all churches and the other (Book of Enoch) non-canonical in most churches. 9 refers to a dispute between Michael the Archangel and the devil about the body of Moses. Some interpreters understand this reference to be an allusion to the events described in Zechariah 3:1–2.[46][47] The classical theologian Origen, as well as Clement of Alexandria, Didymus the Blind, and others, attributes this reference to the non-canonical Assumption of Moses.[48] However, no extant copies of the Assumption of Moses contain this story, leading most scholars to conclude the section covering this dispute has been lost - perhaps a lost ending, since a story involving Moses's body would logically occur at the end.[49][50] Some scholars disagree; James Charlesworth argues that the Assumption of Moses never contained any such content, and other ancient Church writers supported a different origin.[51] 14–15 contain a direct quotation of a prophecy from 1 Enoch 1:9. The title "Enoch, the seventh from Adam" is also sourced from 1 En. 60:1.[52] Most commentators assume that this indicates that Jude accepts the antediluvian patriarch Enoch as the author of the Book of Enoch which contains the same quotation. An alternative explanation is that Jude quotes the Book of Enoch aware that verses 14–15 are an expansion of the words of Moses from Deuteronomy 33:2.[53][54] Book of Enoch is not considered canonical by most churches, although it is by the Ethiopian Orthodox church. According to Western scholars, the older sections of the Book of Enoch (mainly in the Book of the Watchers) date from about 300 BC and the latest part (Book of Parables) probably was composed at the end of the 1st century BC.[55] 1 Enoch 1:9, mentioned above, is part of the pseudepigrapha and is among the Dead Sea Scrolls [4Q Enoch (4Q204[4QENAR]) COL I 16–18].[56] It is largely accepted by scholars that the author of the Epistle of Jude was familiar with the Book of Enoch and was influenced by it in thought and diction.[57] epistle also closely mirrors the Epistle of James, with many similar sentences and borrowed phrases.[11]

Rome, 62-63, Gospel of Mark
Rome, 62-63, Gospel of Mark; Gospel of Mark in Wikipedia; Apostle and Evangelist Mark, Commemorated on April 25;

Rome, 62-63, Gospel of Luke and Book of Acts
Rome, 62-63, Gospel of Luke and Book of Acts; Book of Acts; Apostle and Evangelist Luke, Commemorated on October 18;

Rome, 63-110, Apostles Sosipater&Jason, Corfu Island, Epirus, Kerkyra story, J&S boiling tar story, Island converted
Lyconia, 30-110, Apostle Sosipater, Bishop of Iconium (Konya), Lyconia ; is a person mentioned in the New Testament, in Romans 16:21. He is probably the same person as Sopater mentioned in Acts 20:4. church tradition, he is known as Sosipater of Iconium, and is numbered among the Seventy Apostles. St. Sosipater's feast days are on April 28 (Slavic tradition), or 29 (Greek tradition) with St. Jason; 10 with saints Erastus, Olympas, Herodian, Quartus and Tertius; and January 4 with the Seventy. According to Latin tradition, the disciple of St Paul the Apostle died on the 25th of June in Beroea. was born in Achaea. According to legend, he was Bishop in Iconium[1] (prior to the Apostle Tertius) by his relative the Apostle Paul. the Apostle Jason he traveled to the island of Corfu where they built a church in honor of the Apostle Stephen the Protomartyr and converted many pagans to the Christian faith. this, the governor of Corfu threw them into prison where they converted seven other prisoners to the Christian faith: Saturninus, Jakischolus, Faustianus, Januarius, Marsalius, Euphrasius and Mammius, known as the Seven Robbers. The governor had those seven put to death by boiling pitch for their faith. governor's daughter, the virgin Cercyra [uk], having watched these holy apostles being tortured and turned to the Christian faith, distributed all her jewels to the poor. governor became angry and put her in prison, yet she would not deny Christ. So he had the prison burned, but she remained unharmed. Many people were baptized upon seeing this miracle. He then had her killed with arrows while tied to a tree. believers fled to a nearby island to get away from the enraged governor, but as he chased them his boat sank. The new governor embraced the Christian faith and in baptism received the name Sebastian. then on Sts. Sosipater and Jason freely preached the Gospel and built up the Church in Corfu until a very old age, when they gave up their souls to God. Kerkyra (Kephalonia); Apostle Jason, of the Seventy and those with him, Commemorated on April 28; Apostle Jason was from Tarsus (Asia Minor). He was the first Christian in the city. The Apostle Sosipater was a native of Patra, Achaia. He is thought to be the same Sosipater mentioned in Acts 20:4. They both became disciples of Saint Paul, who even called them his kinsmen (Rom 16:21). John Chrysostom (Homily 32 on Romans) says that this is the same Jason who is mentioned in Acts 17:5-9. Jason was made bishop in his native city of Tarsus, and Saint Sosipater in Iconium. traveled west preaching the Gospel, and in 63 they reached the island of Kerkyra [Korfu] in the Ionian Sea near Greece. they built a church in the name of the Protomartyr Stephen and they baptized many. The governor of the island learned of this and locked them up in prison, where they met seven thieves: Saturninus, Iakischolus, Faustianus, Januarius, Marsalius, Euphrasius and Mammius. The Apostles converted them to Christ. For their confession of Christ, the seven prisoners died as martyrs in a cauldron of molten tar, wax and sulfur. prison guard, after witnessing their martyrdom, declared himself a Christian. For this they cut off his left hand, then both feet and finally his head. The governor ordered the Apostles Jason and Sosipater to be whipped and again locked up in prison. the daughter of the governor of Kerkyra (Korfu), the maiden, learned how Christians were suffering for Christ, she declared herself a Christian and gave away all her finery to the poor. The infuriated governor attempted to persuade his daughter to deny Christ, but Saint Kerkyra stood firm against both persuasion and threats. Then the enraged father devised a terrible punishment for his daughter: he gave orders that she be placed in a prison cell with the robber and murderer Murinus, so that he might defile the betrothed of Christ when the robber approached the door of the prison cell, a bear attacked him. Saint Kerkyra heard the noise and she drove off the beast in the name of Christ. Then, by her prayers, she healed the wounds of Murinus. Then Saint Kerkyra enlightened him with the faith of Christ, and Saint Murinus declared himself a Christian and was executed. governor gave orders to burn down the prison, but the holy virgin remained alive. Then on her enraged father’s order, she was suspended upon a tree, choked with bitter smoke and shot with arrows. After her death, the governor decided to execute all the Christians on the island of Kerkyra. The Martyrs Zeno, Eusebius, Neon and Vitalis, after being enlightened by Saints Jason and Sosipater, were burned alive. inhabitants of Kerkyra, escaping from the persecution, crossed to an adjoining island. The governor set sail with a detachment of soldiers, but was swallowed up by the waves. The governor succeeding him gave orders to throw the Apostles Jason and Sosipater into a cauldron of boiling tar. When he beheld them unharmed, he cried out with tears, “O God of Jason and Sosipater, have mercy on me!” been set free, the Apostles baptized the governor and gave him the name Sebastian. With his help, the Apostles Jason and Sosipater built several churches on the island, and increased the flock of Christ by their fervent preaching. They lived there until they reached old age. Apostle Sosipater of the Seventy, Commemorated November 10; Sosipater, a native of Achaia, was Bishop of Iconium, where he also died. Saint Paul mentions him in Romans 16:21. The holy Apostles Erastus, Sosipater (April 28), Olympas (January 4), Rodion (April 8), Quartus and Tertius (October 30) were disciples of Saint Paul. They all lived during the first century. Apostle to the Gentiles speaks of them in the Epistle to the Romans, “And Erastus, the city treasurer, greets you, and Quartus, a brother” (Rom 16: 23). Sosipater, a native of Achaia, was Bishop of Iconium, where he also died. Saint Paul mentions him in Romans 16:21. Olympas was mentioned by the holy Apostle Paul (Rom 16:15). He was also a companion of the Apostle Peter. Saint Rodion (Herodion), was a kinsman of the Apostle Paul (Romans 16:11), and left the bishop’s throne at Patras to go to Rome with the Apostle Peter. Saints Rodion and Olympas were beheaded on the very day and hour when Saint Peter was crucified. Quartus endured much suffering for his piety and converted many pagans to Christ, dying peacefully as a bishop in the city of Beirut. Tertius is mentioned in the Epistle to the Romans, “I, Tertius, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord” (Rom 16:22). Saint Tertius, to whom Saint Paul dictated the Epistle to the Romans, was the second Bishop of Iconium, where also he died.

Rome, 66-70, Acasius of Apamea, Martyr, brought to 3 governors, Syria, Thessalonica, Ephesus, Phrygia
Syria, 66-70, Martyr Acasius of Apamea, brought to 3 governors, Syria, Greece, Phrygia; Apamea, Syria; Martyr Acacius of Apamea, Commemorated July 28 ; Holy Martyr Acacius was brought to trial for his belief in Christ. Three governors attempted to compel the holy martyr to offer sacrifice to idols, having subjected him to fierce tortures. Governor Licinius gave orders to rend the body of Saint Acacius with instruments of torture. He then sent him to Governor Terence, who gave orders to throw Acacius into a cauldron filled with boiling tar and tallow, but the martyr remained unharmed. Terence went to the cities of Apamea and Apollonia and gave orders to bring the martyr after him. In one of these cities Saint Acacius was led into a pagan temple, but by his prayer all the idols there fell down. beat the saint viciously and gave him over to be eaten by wild beasts. When they saw that he remained unharmed, they threw him into a red-hot furnace. The martyr also remained unharmed there. The governor, wanting to check whether the furnace was sufficiently hot, went near it and was burned himself. They then took the holy Martyr Acacius for torture to a certain Posidonius, who put heavy fetters on the holy martyr and gave orders to take him to the city of Miletus. There also the saint, by his prayer, destroyed idols. Finally, the exhausted torturers beheaded Saint Acacius. A priest by the name of Leontius buried his body in the city of Synados (Asia Minor).

Rome, 67-76, Linus, Pope, was a successor to the Apostle Peter at Rome
Rome, 67-76, Roman Pope, Linus; Linus (died c. AD 76) was the second bishop of Rome. His pontificate lasted from c. AD 67 to his death. As with all the early popes, he was later canonized. those to have been pope, Peter, Linus, and Clement I are specifically named in the New Testament.[1] Linus is mentioned in the valediction of the Second Epistle to Timothy as being with Paul the Apostle in Rome near the end of Paul's life. Apostle Linus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 5; Patrobus, Hermes, Linus, Gaius, and Philologus, Apostles of the Seventy, preached the Gospel in various cities, each enduring various hardships in their service as bishops. Saint Patrobus (Rom 16:14) was Bishop of Neopolis (now Naples) and Puteoli in Italy. Saint Hermes was bishop in the city of Philippoplis where he died a martyr. Saint Linus (2 Tim 4:21) was a successor to the Apostle Peter at Rome. Saint Gaius (Rom 16:23), was Bishop of Ephesus after Saint Timothy. The Apostle Andrew consecrated Saint Philologus (Rom 16:15) as bishop of the city of Sinope (in the Black Sea region).

Rome, 67-96, Dionysius, Areopagite, Important Orthodox writer, spiritual principles&deification, holy mysteries
Greece, 30-96, Saint, Dionysius the Areopagite ; Hill of Ares (The Aeropagus): Areopagus (both a place and a judicial body); Hieromartyr Dionysius the Areopagite the Bishop of Athens, Commemorated on October 3; Dionysius lived originally in the city of Athens. He was raised there and received a classical Greek education. He then went to Egypt, where he studied astronomy at the city of Heliopolis. It was in Heliopolis, along with his friend Apollophonos where he witnessed the solar eclipse that occurred at the moment of the death of the Lord Jesus Christ by Crucifixion. “Either the Creator of all the world now suffers, or this visible world is coming to an end,” Dionysius said. Upon his return to Athens from Egypt, he was chosen to be a member of the Areopagus Council (Athenian high court). the holy Apostle Paul preached at the place on the Hill of Ares (Acts 17:16-34), Dionysius accepted his salvific proclamation and became a Christian. For three years Saint Dionysius remained a companion of the holy Apostle Paul in preaching the Word of God. Later on, the Apostle Paul selected him as bishop of the city of Athens. And in the year 57 Saint Dionysius was present at the repose of the Most Holy Theotokos. the lifetime of the Mother of God, Saint Dionysius had journeyed from Athens to Jerusalem to meet Her. He wrote to his teacher the Apostle Paul: “I witness by God, that besides the very God Himself, there is nothing else filled with such divine power and grace. No one can fully comprehend what I saw. I confess before God: when I was with John, who shone among the Apostles like the sun in the sky, when I was brought before the countenance of the Most Holy Virgin, I experienced an inexpressible sensation. Before me gleamed a sort of divine radiance which transfixed my spirit. I perceived the fragrance of indescribable aromas and was filled with such delight that my very body became faint, and my spirit could hardly endure these signs and marks of eternal majesty and heavenly power. The grace from her overwhelmed my heart and shook my very spirit. If I did not have in mind your instruction, I should have mistaken Her for the very God. It is impossible to stand before greater blessedness than this which I beheld.” the death of the Apostle Paul, Saint Dionysius wanted to continue with his work, and therefore went off preaching in the West, accompanied by the Presbyter Rusticus and Deacon Eleutherius. They converted many to Christ at Rome, and then in Germany, and then in Spain. In Gaul, during a persecution against Christians by the pagan authorities, all three confessors were arrested and thrown into prison. By night Saint Dionysius celebrated the Divine Liturgy with angels of the Lord. In the morning the martyrs were beheaded. According to an old tradition, Saint Dionysius took up his head, proceeded with it to the church and fell down dead there. A pious woman named Catulla buried the relics of the saint. writings of Saint Dionysius the Areopagite hold great significance for the Orthodox Church. Four books of his have survived to the present day: On the Celestial Hierarchy On the Ecclesiastical Hierarchy On the Names of God On Mystical Theology In additional, there are ten letters to various people. book On the Celestial Hierarchies was written actually in one of the countries of Western Europe, where Saint Dionysius was preaching. In it he speaks of the Christian teaching about the angelic world. The angelic (or Celestial-Heavenly) hierarchy comprises the nine angelic Ranks: Seraphim Cherubim Thrones Dominions Powers Authorities Principalities Archangels Angels account of the Synaxis of the Bodiless Powers of Heaven is located under November 8. purpose of the divinely-established Angelic Hierarchy is the ascent towards godliness through purification, enlightenment and perfection. The highest ranks are bearers of divine light and divine life for the lower ranks. And not only are the sentient, bodiless angelic hosts included in the spiritual light-bearing hierarchy, but also the human race, created anew and sanctified in the Church of Christ. book of Saint Dionysius On the Ecclesiastical Hierarchies is a continuation of his book On the Celestial Hierarchies. The Church of Christ, like the Angelic ranks, in its universal service is set upon the foundation of priestly principles established by God. the earthly world, for the children of the Church, divine grace comes down indescribably in the holy Mysteries of the Church, which are spiritual in nature, though perceptible to the senses in form. Few, even among the holy ascetics, were able to behold with their earthly eyes the fiery vision of the Holy Mysteries of God. But outside of the Church’s sacraments, outside of Baptism and the Eucharist, the light-bearing saving grace of God is not found, neither is divine knowledge nor theosis (deification). book On the Names of God expounds upon the way of divine knowledge through a progression of the Divine Names. Dionysius’ book On Mystical Theology also sets forth the teaching about divine knowledge. The theology of the Orthodox Church is totally based upon experience of divine knowledge. In order to know God it is necessary to be in proximity to Him, to have come near to Him in some measure, so as to attain communion with God and deification (theosis). This condition is accomplished through prayer. This is not because prayer in itself brings us close to the incomprehensible God, but rather that the purity of heart in true prayer brings us closer to God. written works of Saint Dionysius the Areopagite are of extraordinary significance in the theology of the Orthodox Church, and also for late Medieval Western theology. For almost four centuries, until the beginning of the sixth century, the works of this holy Father of the Church were preserved in an obscure manuscript tradition, primarily by theologians of the Alexandrian Church. The concepts in these works were known and utilized by Clement of Alexandria, Origen, Dionysius the Great, pre-eminent figures of the catechetical school in Alexandria, and also by Saint Gregory the Theologian. Saint Dionysius of Alexandria wrote to Saint Gregory the Theologian a Commentary on the “Areopagitum.” The works of Saint Dionysius the Areopagite received general Church recognition during the sixth-seventh centuries. relevant are the Commentaries written by Saint Maximus the Confessor (January 21). (trans. note: although many scholars suggest that the “Areopagitum” was actually written by an anonymous sixth century figure who employed the common ancient device of piously borrowing an illustrious name, this in no way diminishes the profound theological significance of the works.) the Russian Orthodox Church the teachings of Saint Dionysius the Areopagite about the spiritual principles and deification were at first known through the writings of Saint John of Damascus (December 4). The first Slavonic translation of the “Areopagitum” was done on Mt. Athos in about the year 1371 by a monk named Isaiah. Copies of it were widely distributed in Russia. Many of them have been preserved to the present day in historic manuscript collections, among which is a parchment manuscript “Works of Saint Dionysius the Areopagite” belonging to Saint Cyprian, Metropolitan of Kiev and All Rus (September 16) in his own handwriting. to one tradition, he was killed at Lutetia (ancient name of Paris, France) in the year 96 during the persecution under the Roman emperor Dometian (81-96). Today most scholars and theologians believe that Saint Dionysius the Areopagite did not die in Gaul, and that Saint Dionysius (or Denys) of Paris is a different saint with the same name. Demetrius of Rostov says that the Hieromartyr Dionysius was beheaded in Athens, and that many miracles were worked at his grave.

Rome, 68-69, Emperor, Three Emperors, Galba, Otho, and Vitellius
Roman Emperor, 68-69, Three Emperors, Galba; Roman Emperor, 68-69, Three Emperors, Otho; Roman Emperor, 68-69, Three Emperors, Vitellius; Hieromartyr Eutyches the Disciple of St John the Theologian, Commemorated on August 24; Apostle Titus of the Seventy and Bishop of Crete, Commemorated August 25 ; Return of the Relics of the Apostle Bartholomew from Anastasiopolis to Lipari, Commemorated August 25 : By the power of God the chests did not sink into the depths of the sea, but miraculously floated upon the waves and reached Italy. The chest with the relics of the Apostle Bartholomew came to land at the island of Lipari, and the remaining chests continued their journey and came to land at various places in Italy. The chest with the relics of the Martyr Papian halted at Sicily, the Martyr Lucian at Messina, the Martyr Gregory at Calabria, and the Martyr Acacius at Askalon. ; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 27; CLEMENT OF ROME, BISHOP (23 NOV 100); Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20; JOHN, APOSTLE AND EVANGELIST (27 DEC NT); St Julian the Bishop of Cenomanis (Le Mans) in Gaul, Commemorated July 13 ; Apostle Evodius (Euodias) of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 7; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 21; St Xanthippe Disciple of the Apostles, who died in Spain, Commemorated on September 23 ; Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 1 ; Hieromartyr Dionysius the Areopagite the Bishop of Athens, Commemorated on October 3; Hieromartyr Hierotheus the Bishop of Athens, Commemorated October 4 ; Holy, Glorious Apostle Thomas, Commemorated on October 6 ; Martyr Julian the Presbyter at Terracina, Commemorated on October 7; Apostle James the Son of Alphaeus, Commemorated on October 9; Apostle Philip of the Seventy, One of the Seven Deacons, Commemorated on October 11; Apostle and Evangelist Luke, Commemorated on October 18; LUKE THE EVANGELIST, (18 OCTOBER) ; Hieromartyr Nicander the Bishop of Myra, Commemorated on November 4; Apostle Erastus of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 10; Icon of the Mother of God œthe MercifulÂ, Commemorated on November 12; Apostle Archippus the Martyr of the Seventy, Commemorated on November 22; Hieromartyr Clement the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on November 25; Apostle Simeon, of the Seventy, the son of Cleophas, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Parmenas the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Silas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Crescens of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Apelles of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Erastus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quartus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Clement of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Sosthenes of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Tychicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Artemas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Timothy of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 22; St Bucolus the Bishop of Smyrna, Commemorated on February 6; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on February 15; St Auxibius Bishop of Soli, Cyprus, Commemorated on February 17; St Mariamne the sister of the Apostle Philip, Commemorated on February 17; St Artemon (Menignus) the Bishop of Seleucia, Commemorated on March 24 ; Apostle Zacchaeus, Commemorated on April 20; Hieromartyr Patrick the Bishop of Prusa with his companions, Commemorated on May 19;

Rome, 68-100, Hieromartyrs of Myra, Bishop Nicander, Presbyter Hermas, by Titus, converted many, torments but help
Lycia, 68-100, Hieromartyrs of Myra, Bishop Nicander, Presbyter Hermas; Myra, Lycia; Hieromartyr Nicander the Bishop of Myra, Commemorated on November 4 ; Hieromartyrs Nicander, Bishop of Myra, and Hermas the Presbyter, were disciples of the holy Apostle Paul’s follower and fellow ascetic, the holy Apostle Titus of the Seventy (August 25), and they were ordained by him to the priesthood. the ascetic life amid incessant pastoral works, the saints converted many pagans to Christ. For this they were arrested and brought before the city prefect, Libanius. Neither flattery nor threats swayed the holy martyrs to renounce Christ. Then Libanius gave orders that they be tortured. saints endured fierce and inhuman torments: they were tied to horses and dragged over stones, their bodies were raked with iron hooks, and they were cast into a hot oven. The Lord helped them endure things that a mere man by his own strength could not endure. Towards the end, iron nails were hammered into their heads and hearts. They were thrown into a pit, then covered over with earth. enduring such a cruel death, now they live forever in the joy of the Lord (Mt. 25:21). Apostle Titus of the Seventy and Bishop of Crete, Commemorated on August 25; such miracles Saint Titus brought many to faith in Christ. After bringing the light of faith to the surrounding regions, Saint Titus died peacefully at the age of 97. At the time of his death, his face shone like the sun. Titus, Apostle of the Seventy was a native of the island of Crete, the son of an illustrious pagan. In his youth he studied Hellenistic philosophy and the ancient poets. by the sciences, Titus led a virtuous life, not devoting himself to the vices and passions characteristic of the majority of pagans. He preserved his virginity, as the Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-bearer (December 20) testifies of him. such a manner of life the Lord did not leave him without His help. At age twenty Saint Titus heard a voice in a dream, suggesting that he abandon Hellenistic wisdom, which could not provide salvation for his soul, but rather to seek that which would save him. After this dream, Saint Titus waited yet another year, since it was not actually a command, but it did guide him to familiarize himself with the teachings of the prophets of God. first that he happened to read was the Book of the Prophet Isaiah. Having opened it to the 47th Chapter, he was struck by the words, speaking as it were about his own spiritual condition. news reached Crete about the appearance of a Great Prophet in Palestine, and about the great miracles He worked, the governor of the island of Crete (an uncle of Titus) sent him there. This Prophet was the Lord Jesus Christ Himself, incarnate of the Most Holy Virgin Mary Who came into the world for the redemption of the race of mankind from the oppression of ancestral sin. Jerusalem, Saint Titus saw the Lord. He heard His preaching and believed in Him. He witnessed the suffering and death of the Savior on the Cross, His glorious Resurrection and Ascension to Heaven. On the day of Pentecost the future apostle heard how the Twelve Apostles, after the descent of the Holy Spirit, spoke in various languages, among which was the Cretan language (Acts 2: 11). Titus accepted Baptism from the Apostle Paul and became his closest disciple. He accompanied Saint Paul on his missionary journeys, fulfilling the tasks entrusted to him. He was involved in establishing new churches, and was with Paul in Jerusalem. Titus was numbered among the Seventy Apostles and was made Bishop of Crete by the Apostle Paul. Around the year 65, not long before his second imprisonment, the Apostle Paul sent a pastoral epistle to his son in the Faith (Tit. 1: 4). the Apostle Paul was taken like a criminal to Rome to stand trial before Caesar, Saint Titus left his flock in Crete for a time and went to Rome to be of service to his spiritual Father. After Saint Paul’s death by martyrdom, Titus returned to Gortyna, the chief city of Crete. Titus peacefully guided his flock and toiled at enlightening the pagans with the light of faith in Christ. He was granted the gift of wonderworking by the Lord. During one of the pagan feasts in honor of the goddess Diana, Titus preached to a crowd of pagans. he saw that they would not listen to him, he prayed to the Lord, so that the Lord Himself would show to the mistaken people the falseness of idols. By the prayer of Saint Titus, the idol of Diana fell down and shattered before the eyes of all. Another time Saint Titus prayed that the Lord would not permit the completion of a temple of Zeus, and it collapsed. such miracles Saint Titus brought many to faith in Christ. After bringing the light of faith to the surrounding regions, Saint Titus died peacefully at the age of 97. At the time of his death, his face shone like the sun.

Rome, 69-79, Emperor, Vespasian, military success, into Britain and Jerusalem
Roman Emperor, 69-79, Vespasian ; (17 November AD 9 - 23 June 79) was Roman emperor from 69 to 79. The fourth and last in the Year of the Four Emperors, he founded the Flavian dynasty that ruled the Empire for 27 years. was the first emperor from an equestrian family and only rose into the senatorial rank as the first member of his family later in his lifetime. renown came from his military success; he was legate of Legio II Augusta during the Roman invasion of Britain in 43 and subjugated Judaea during the Jewish rebellion of 66.[4] Vespasian besieged Jerusalem during the Jewish rebellion, emperor Nero committed suicide and plunged Rome into a year of civil war known as the Year of the Four Emperors. After Galba and Otho perished in quick succession, Vitellius became emperor in April 69. The Roman legions of Roman Egypt and Judaea reacted by declaring Vespasian, their commander, the emperor on 1 July 69.[5] In his bid for imperial power, Vespasian joined forces with Mucianus, the governor of Syria, and Primus, a general in Pannonia, leaving his son Titus to command the besieging forces at Jerusalem. Primus and Mucianus led the Flavian forces against Vitellius, while Vespasian took control of Egypt. On 20 December 69, Vitellius was defeated, and the following day Vespasian was declared emperor by the Senate.[6] information survives about the government during Vespasian's ten-year rule. He reformed the financial system of Rome after the campaign against Judaea ended successfully, and initiated several ambitious construction projects, including the building of the Flavian Amphitheatre, better known today as the Roman Colosseum. Through his general Agricola, Vespasian increased imperial expansion in Britain. After he died in 79, he was succeeded by his eldest son Titus, thus becoming the first Roman emperor to be succeeded by his natural son and establishing the Flavian dynasty. St Julian the Bishop of Cenomanis (Le Mans) in Gaul, Commemorated July 13 ; Hieromartyr Apollinaris the Bishop of Ravenna, Commemorated on July 23; Hieromartyr Eutyches the Disciple of St John the Theologian, Commemorated on August 24; Apostle Titus of the Seventy and Bishop of Crete, Commemorated August 25 ; Return of the Relics of the Apostle Bartholomew from Anastasiopolis to Lipari, Commemorated August 25 : By the power of God the chests did not sink into the depths of the sea, but miraculously floated upon the waves and reached Italy. The chest with the relics of the Apostle Bartholomew came to land at the island of Lipari, and the remaining chests continued their journey and came to land at various places in Italy. The chest with the relics of the Martyr Papian halted at Sicily, the Martyr Lucian at Messina, the Martyr Gregory at Calabria, and the Martyr Acacius at Askalon. ; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 21; St Xanthippe Disciple of the Apostles, who died in Spain, Commemorated on September 23 ; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 27; Hieromartyr Dionysius the Areopagite the Bishop of Athens, Commemorated on October 3; Hieromartyr Hierotheus the Bishop of Athens, Commemorated October 4 ; Holy, Glorious Apostle Thomas, Commemorated on October 6 ; Martyr Julian the Presbyter at Terracina, Commemorated on October 7; Apostle Philip of the Seventy, One of the Seven Deacons, Commemorated on October 11; Icon of the Mother of God œthe MercifuÂ, Commemorated on November 12; CLEMENT OF ROME, BISHOP (23 NOV 100); Hieromartyr Clement the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on November 25; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20; JOHN, APOSTLE AND EVANGELIST (27 DEC NT); Apostle Simeon, of the Seventy, the son of Cleophas, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Parmenas the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Silas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Crescens of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Erastus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quartus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Clement of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Sosthenes of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Tychicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Artemas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Timothy of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 22; St Bucolus the Bishop of Smyrna, Commemorated on February 6; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on February 15; St Auxibius Bishop of Soli, Cyprus, Commemorated on February 17; St Mariamne the sister of the Apostle Philip, Commemorated on February 17; St Artemon (Menignus) the Bishop of Seleucia, Commemorated on March 24 ; Apostle Zacchaeus, Commemorated on April 20; Apostle Andronicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on May 17 ; Hieromartyr Patrick the Bishop of Prusa with his companions, Commemorated on May 19; Martyr Leontius at Tripoli in Syria, Commemorated on June 18 ;

Rome, 70 1st Century, Tryphaina, Cyzikus, confessed to strengthen weak, tortures, spring for women needing milk
Constantinople, 70 1st Century, Tryphaina, Cyzikus (Sea of Marmara, between Troy and Constantinople) she boldly confessed to strengthen those weak, tortures, firery furnace, tall tree into nails, wild animals, mad bull, spring pure water where her blood shed, for women who did not have milk; Cyzicus Martyr Tryphaina at Cyzicus, Commemorated January 31; Tryphaina was from Kyzikos on the Hellespont and was the daughter of devout parents, Senator Anastasios and his virtuous wife Sokratia. revealed her Christian upbringing and courage during a persecution where, in order to strengthen those who were weak, she boldly confessed her faith in Christ, and in the ultimate triumph of Orthodoxy. As soon as the ruler Caesarius heard these things he became enraged and ordered the Saint's arrest. His order was carried out and the tortures began. Saint Tryphaina was pushed into a fiery furnace, but miraculously, she was saved. Then, she was thrown from a tall tree, onto a bed of iron nails. Afterward, she was given to some wild animals to be devoured by them, but they did not harm her. Finally, she was gored by a mad bull. In this manner, the Saint received the glorious crown of martyrdom in the first century. is said that a spring of pure water welled up at the place where Saint Tryphaίnē's blood was shed. After drinking this water, women who gave birth, but did not have any milk, were able to produce milk to feed their newborn children. Tryphaina is invoked by women who have difficulty in nursing their babies.

Rome, 79-81, Emperor, Titus, commander, pretorian guard, Colosseum, Mt Vesuvius, died of a fever after 2 yrs
Roman Emperor, 79-81, Titus ; Caesar Vespasianus (/ˈtaɪtəs/ TY-təs; 30 December 39 – 13 September 81 AD) was Roman emperor from 79 to 81. A member of the Flavian dynasty, Titus succeeded his father Vespasian upon his death. becoming emperor, Titus gained renown as a military commander, serving under his father in Judea during the First Jewish–Roman War. The campaign came to a brief halt with the death of emperor Nero in 68, launching Vespasian's bid for the imperial power during the Year of the Four Emperors. When Vespasian was declared Emperor on 1 July 69, Titus was left in charge of ending the Jewish rebellion. In 70, he besieged and captured Jerusalem, and destroyed the city and the Second Temple. For this achievement Titus was awarded a triumph; the Arch of Titus commemorates his victory to this day. his father's rule, Titus gained notoriety in Rome serving as prefect of the Praetorian Guard, and for carrying on a controversial relationship with the Jewish queen Berenice. Despite concerns over his character, Titus ruled to great acclaim following the death of Vespasian in 79, and was considered a good emperor by Suetonius and other contemporary historians. emperor, Titus is best known for completing the Colosseum and for his generosity in relieving the suffering caused by two disasters, the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79 and a fire in Rome in 80. After barely two years in office, Titus died of a fever on 13 September 81. He was deified by the Roman Senate and succeeded by his younger brother Domitian. St Julian the Bishop of Cenomanis (Le Mans) in Gaul, Commemorated July 13 ; Hieromartyr Eutyches the Disciple of St John the Theologian, Commemorated on August 24; Apostle Titus of the Seventy and Bishop of Crete, Commemorated August 25 ; Commemoration of the Founding of the Church of the Resurrection (Holy Sepulchre) at Jerusalem, Commemorated on September 13; Greatmartyr Eustathius (Eustace) Placidas with his wife and children of Rome, Commemorated on September 20; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 21; St Xanthippe Disciple of the Apostles, who died in Spain, Commemorated on September 23 ; Hieromartyr Dionysius the Areopagite the Bishop of Athens, Commemorated on October 3; Holy, Glorious Apostle Thomas, Commemorated on October 6 ; Martyr Julian the Presbyter at Terracina, Commemorated on October 7; CLEMENT OF ROME, BISHOP (23 NOV 100); Hieromartyr Clement the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on November 25; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20; JOHN, APOSTLE AND EVANGELIST (27 DEC NT); Apostle Simeon, of the Seventy, the son of Cleophas, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Parmenas the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Silas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Crescens of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Erastus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quartus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Clement of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Sosthenes of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Tychicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Artemas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Timothy of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 22; St Bucolus the Bishop of Smyrna, Commemorated on February 6; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on February 15; St Auxibius Bishop of Soli, Cyprus, Commemorated on February 17; St Mariamne the sister of the Apostle Philip, Commemorated on February 17; St Artemon (Menignus) the Bishop of Seleucia, Commemorated on March 24 ; Hieromartyr Patrick the Bishop of Prusa with his companions, Commemorated on May 19;

Rome, 80-90, Saint Fulvianus, Mirmena, Jesus, wooden rod, spring, Matthew burned at stake, Fulvianus-Matthew
Africa, East Africa, 80-90, Saint Fulvianus, Mirmena (Asmara or Massawa), Jesus, wooden rod, plant it in Mirmena, sprouted immediately, delicious fruit, spring welled up, healing waters, Matthew burned at stake, Fulvianus-Matthew ; Saint Fulvianus (in Baptism Matthew), Prince of Ethiopia, Commemorated on November 16; is believed that after the day of Pentecost, the Apostle and Evangelist Matthew preached the Gospel first in Palestine, and then in Syria, Media, Persia, Parthia and finally, Ethiopia. holds that the Lord appeared to Saint Matthew, giving him a wooden rod and instructing him to plant it in a particular place in Ethiopia. his arrival at the place in Ethiopia described by the Lord, he met a Bishop named Platon. rod was planted, as the Lord had instructed, and almost immediately it sprouted leaves and grew into a beautiful tree, the fruit of which was delicious. spring also welled up nearby, the water of which could heal the sick. Ethiopians were won over to Christ, although the local sovereign Prince, Fulvianus, a dedicated pagan, was violently opposed to this and, by his order, Saint Matthew was arrested and burned at the stake. time, however, Fulvianus came to doubt his action and agonized over his horrific act. His conscience beckoned him towards Christ. Ultimately, he embraced the Christian faith and was baptized, taking the name "Matthew." the elderly Bishop Platon reposed, Saint Fulvianus-Matthew was consecrated to the episcopacy and succeeded him. He spent his remaining years preaching the Gospel and winning his people to the Church.

Rome, 81-96, Emperor, Dometian, Pagan, authority, cut Senate powers, economy, b defense, m building p, wars, k by S
Roman Emperor, 81-96, Dometian ; (24 October 51 - 18 September 96) was Roman emperor from 81 to 96. He was the son of Vespasian and the younger brother of Titus, his two predecessors on the throne, and the last member of the Flavian dynasty. his reign, the authoritarian nature of his rule put him at sharp odds with the Senate, whose powers he drastically curtailed. had a minor and largely ceremonial role during the reigns of his father and brother. After the death of his brother, Domitian was declared emperor by the Praetorian Guard. 15-year reign was the longest since that of Tiberius.[5] As emperor, Domitian strengthened the economy by revaluing the Roman coinage, expanded the border defenses of the empire, and initiated a massive building program to restore the damaged city of Rome. wars were fought in Britain, where his general Agricola attempted to conquer Caledonia (Scotland), and in Dacia, where Domitian was unable to procure a decisive victory against King Decebalus. Domitian's government exhibited strong authoritarian characteristics. Religious, military, and cultural propaganda fostered a cult of personality, and by nominating himself perpetual censor, he sought to control public and private morals. a consequence, Domitian was popular with the people and army, but considered a tyrant by members of the Roman Senate. reign came to an end in 96 when he was assassinated by court officials. He was succeeded the same day by his advisor Nerva. After his death, Domitian's memory was condemned to oblivion by the Senate, while senatorial authors such as Tacitus, Pliny the Younger, and Suetonius propagated the view of Domitian as a cruel and paranoid tyrant. revisionists instead have characterized Domitian as a ruthless but efficient autocrat whose cultural, economic, and political programs provided the foundation of the peaceful second century. Hieromartyr Eutyches the Disciple of St John the Theologian, Commemorated on August 24; Apostle Titus of the Seventy and Bishop of Crete, Commemorated August 25 ; St Sebastiana the Martyr and Disciple of St Paul the Apostle at Heraclea, Commemorated September 16 ; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 21; St Xanthippe Disciple of the Apostles, who died in Spain, Commemorated on September 23 ; Hieromartyr Dionysius the Areopagite the Bishop of Athens, Commemorated on October 3; Martyr Julian the Presbyter at Terracina, Commemorated on October 7; CLEMENT OF ROME, BISHOP (23 NOV 100); Hieromartyr Clement the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on November 25; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20; JOHN, APOSTLE AND EVANGELIST (27 DEC NT); Apostle Simeon, of the Seventy, the son of Cleophas, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Parmenas the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Silas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Crescens of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Erastus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quartus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Clement of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Sosthenes of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Tychicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Artemas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Timothy of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 22; St Bucolus the Bishop of Smyrna, Commemorated on February 6; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on February 15; St Auxibius Bishop of Soli, Cyprus, Commemorated on February 17; St Mariamne the sister of the Apostle Philip, Commemorated on February 17; St Artemon (Menignus) the Bishop of Seleucia, Commemorated on March 24 ; Hieromartyr Patrick the Bishop of Prusa with his companions, Commemorated on May 19; Hieromartyr Lucian the Bishop at Beauvais in France, Commemorated on June 3;

Rome, 89-155, Polycarp, Smyrna Bishop, assisted Theologian, ange widow raised him, flames not touch, stabbed creamated
Ephesus, 89-155, Polycarp, Smyrna (Izmir, Hemus River Mouth, Ephesus vicinity), fruitful in every good work, Jesus time, orphaned, angel had him raised by widow, gave possessions, Chaste life, caring sick, friend of Bishop Bucolus who ordained him and made him bishop, accompanied still alive John Theologian, as bishop Lord Jesus appeared to him, Ignatius wrote to Polycarp the father of all christians, to be burned alive, flames not touch him, stabbed and creamated; Smyrna; 2. Smyrna in Revelation 2: 8-11, Message to Smyrna ; Hieromartyr Polycarp the Bishop of Smyrna, Commemorated February 23 ; Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna, who was “fruitful in every good work” (Col. 1:10), born in the first century, and lived in Smyrna in Asia Minor. He was orphaned at an early age, but at the direction of an angel, he was raised by the pious widow Kallista. the death of his adoptive mother, Polycarp gave away his possessions and began to lead a chaste life, caring for the sick and the infirm. was very fond of and close to Saint Bucolus, Bishop of Smyrna (February 6). He ordained Polycarp as deacon, entrusting to him to preach the Word of God in church. He also ordained him to the holy priesthood. holy Apostle John the Theologian was still alive at this time. Saint Polycarp was especially close to Saint John, and sometimes accompanied him on his apostolic journeys. before his death, Saint Bucolus expressed his wish that Polycarp be made Bishop of Smyrna. Saint Polycarp was consecrated as a bishop, the Lord Jesus Christ appeared to him. Polycarp guided his flock with apostolic zeal, and he was also greatly loved by the clergy. Ignatius the God-Bearer of Antioch (December 20) also had a high regard for him. Setting out for Rome where execution awaited him, he wrote to Saint Polycarp, “This age is in need of you if it is to reach God, just as pilots need winds, and as a storm-tossed sailor needs a port.” emperor Marcus Aurelius (161-180) came to the Roman throne and started up a most fierce persecution against Christians. The pagans demanded that the judge search for Saint Polycarp, “the father of all the Christians” and “the seducer of all Asia.” this time Saint Polycarp, at the persistent urging of his flock, stayed in a small village not far from Smyrna. the soldiers came for him, he went out to them and invited them in to eat. He asked for time to pray, in order to prepare himself for martyrdom. suffering and death are recorded in the “Epistle of the Christians of the Church of Smyrna to the Other Churches,” one of the most ancient memorials of Christian literature. been brought to trial, Saint Polycarp firmly confessed his faith in Christ, and was condemned to be burned alive. The executioners wanted to nail him to a post, but he declared that God would give him the strength to endure the flames, so they could merely tie him with ropes. flames encircled the saint but did not touch him, coming together over his head in the shape of a vault. Seeing that the fire did him no harm, the pagans stabbed him with a dagger. So much blood flowed from this wound that it extinguished the flames. body of the hieromartyr Polycarp was then cremated. The Christians of Smyrna reverently gathered up what remained of his holy relics, and each year they celebrated the day of his martyrdom. story has been preserved about Saint Polycarp by his disciple, Saint Irenaeus of Lyons, which Eusebius cites in his ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY (V, 20): “I was still very young when I saw you in Asia Minor at Polycarp’s,” writes Saint Irenaeus to his friend Florinus, “but I would still be able to point out the place where Blessed Polycarp sat and conversed, and be able to depict his walk, his mannerisms in life, his outward appearance, his speaking to people, his companionable wandering with John, and how he himself related, together with other eyewitnesses of the Lord, those things that he remembered from the words of others. He also told what he heard from them about the Lord, His teachings and miracles.... “Through the mercy of God to me, I then already listened attentively to Polycarp and wrote down his words, not on tablets, but in the depths of my heart. I am able to bear witness before God, that if this blessed and apostolic Elder heard something similar to your fallacy, he would immediately stop up his ears and express his indignation with his usual phrase: ‘Good God! That Thou hast permitted me to be alive at such a time!’” his life the holy bishop wrote several Epistles to the flock and letters to various individuals. The only one that has survived to the present day is his Epistle to the Philippians which, Saint Jerome testifies, was read in the churches of Asia Minor at divine services. It was written by the saint in response to the request of the Philippians to send them some letters of the hieromartyr Ignatius (December 20) which Saint Polycarp had in his possession. composer H.I.F. Bibier (1644-1704) has written a Sonata “Scti Polycarpi” for eight trumpets in honor of the holy martyr.

Rome, 89-156, Polycarp, Roman Saint, Smyrna, close to J t theologian and Iraneous, alive in t fire, stabbed, fire out
Rome, 89-156, Roman Saint in Smyrna, Polycarp; Hieromartyr Polycarp the Bishop of Smyrna, Commemorated on February 23; Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna, who was “fruitful in every good work” (Col. 1:10), was born in the first century, and lived in Smyrna in Asia Minor. was orphaned at an early age, but at the direction of an angel, he was raised by the pious widow Kallista. the death of his adoptive mother, Polycarp gave away his possessions and began to lead a chaste life, caring for the sick and the infirm. was very fond of and close to Saint Bucolus, Bishop of Smyrna (February 6). He ordained Polycarp as deacon, entrusting to him to preach the Word of God in church. He also ordained him to the holy priesthood. holy Apostle John the Theologian was still alive at this time. Saint Polycarp was especially close to Saint John, and sometimes accompanied him on his apostolic journeys. before his death, Saint Bucolus expressed his wish that Polycarp be made Bishop of Smyrna. When Saint Polycarp was consecrated as a bishop, the Lord Jesus Christ appeared to him. Polycarp guided his flock with apostolic zeal, and he was also greatly loved by the clergy. Saint Ignatius the God-Bearer of Antioch (December 20) also had a high regard for him. Setting out for Rome where execution awaited him, he wrote to Saint Polycarp, “This age is in need of you if it is to reach God, just as pilots need winds, and as a storm-tossed sailor needs a port.” emperor Marcus Aurelius (161-180) came to the Roman throne and started up a most fierce persecution against Christians. The pagans demanded that the judge search for Saint Polycarp, “the father of all the Christians” and “the seducer of all Asia.” this time Saint Polycarp, at the persistent urging of his flock, stayed in a small village not far from Smyrna. When the soldiers came for him, he went out to them and invited them in to eat. He asked for time to pray, in order to prepare himself for martyrdom. suffering and death are recorded in the “Epistle of the Christians of the Church of Smyrna to the Other Churches,” one of the most ancient memorials of Christian literature. been brought to trial, Saint Polycarp firmly confessed his faith in Christ, and was condemned to be burned alive. The executioners wanted to nail him to a post, but he declared that God would give him the strength to endure the flames, so they could merely tie him with ropes. flames encircled the saint but did not touch him, coming together over his head in the shape of a vault. Seeing that the fire did him no harm, the pagans stabbed him with a dagger. So much blood flowed from this wound that it extinguished the flames. The body of the hieromartyr Polycarp was then cremated. The Christians of Smyrna reverently gathered up what remained of his holy relics, and each year they celebrated the day of his martyrdom. story has been preserved about Saint Polycarp by his disciple, Saint Irenaeus of Lyons, which Eusebius cites in his ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY (V, 20): “I was still very young when I saw you in Asia Minor at Polycarp’s,” writes Saint Irenaeus to his friend Florinus, “but I would still be able to point out the place where Blessed Polycarp sat and conversed, and be able to depict his walk, his mannerisms in life, his outward appearance, his speaking to people, his companionable wandering with John, and how he himself related, together with other eyewitnesses of the Lord, those things that he remembered from the words of others. He also told what he heard from them about the Lord, His teachings and miracles.... “Through the mercy of God to me, I then already listened attentively to Polycarp and wrote down his words, not on tablets, but in the depths of my heart. Therefore, I am able to bear witness before God, that if this blessed and apostolic Elder heard something similar to your fallacy, he would immediately stop up his ears and express his indignation with his usual phrase: ‘Good God! That Thou hast permitted me to be alive at such a time!’” his life the holy bishop wrote several Epistles to the flock and letters to various individuals. The only one that has survived to the present day is his Epistle to the Philippians which, Saint Jerome testifies, was read in the churches of Asia Minor at divine services. It was written by the saint in response to the request of the Philippians to send them some letters of the hieromartyr Ignatius (December 20) which Saint Polycarp had in his possession. The composer H.I.F. Bibier (1644-1704) has written a Sonata “Scti Polycarpi” for eight trumpets in honor of the holy martyr. Hieromartyr Pionius of Smyrna and those with him, Commemorated on March 11;

Rome, 92-101, 3rd Roman Pope, Clement I, miraculous ebbing of the sea r shrine c his bones, anchor
Roman Pope, 88-99, Clement I ; Hieromartyr Eutyches the Disciple of St John the Theologian, Commemorated on August 24; Apostle Titus of the Seventy and Bishop of Crete, Commemorated August 25 ; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 21; St Xanthippe Disciple of the Apostles, who died in Spain, Commemorated on September 23 ; CLEMENT OF ROME, BISHOP (23 NOV 100); Hieromartyr Clement the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on November 25; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; St Mariamne the sister of the Apostle Philip, Commemorated on February 17; St Julian the Bishop of Cenomanis (Le Mans) in Gaul, Commemorated July 13 ; Hieromartyr Lucian the Bishop at Beauvais in France, Commemorated on June 3;

Rome, 96-98, Emperor, Nerva, old, restored liberties, adopted Trajan
Roman Emperor, 96-98, Nerva ; (8 November 30 - 28 January 98) was Roman emperor from 96 to 98. Nerva became emperor when aged almost 66, after a lifetime of imperial service under Nero and the rulers of the Flavian dynasty. Under Nero, he was a member of the imperial entourage and played a vital part in exposing the Pisonian conspiracy of 65. Later, as a loyalist to the Flavians, he attained consulships in 71 and 90 during the reigns of Vespasian and Domitian, respectively. 18 September 96, Domitian was assassinated in a palace conspiracy involving members of the Praetorian Guard and several of his freedmen. On the same day, Nerva was declared emperor by the Roman Senate, although it is possible they were approving a decision made by the Praetorian Guard, as rare coins show him speaking with this group. the new ruler of the Roman Empire, he vowed to restore liberties which had been curtailed during the autocratic government of Domitian. brief reign was marred by financial difficulties and his inability to assert his authority over the Roman army. revolt by the Praetorian Guard in October 97 essentially forced him to adopt an heir. After some deliberation Nerva adopted Trajan, a young and popular general, as his successor. After barely fifteen months in office, Nerva died of natural causes on 28 January 98. Upon his death he was succeeded and deified by Trajan. much of his life remains obscure, Nerva was considered a wise and moderate emperor by ancient historians. Nerva's greatest success was his ability to ensure a peaceful transition of power after his death by selecting Trajan as his heir, thus founding the Nerva–Antonine dynasty.

Rome, 98-117, Sarbelus, Edessa, converted pagan priest and martyr
Armenia, 98-117, Sarbelus, Edessa, Converted priest and martyr; Edessa, Syria; Martyr Sarbelus of Edessa, Commemorated September 5 ; Holy Martyr Sarbelus was a pagan priest who lived during the reign of the emperor Trajan (98-117) He and his sister Bebaia were converted by Saint Barsimaius, the Bishop of Edessa (January 29). They both received the crown of martyrdom. This Saint Sarbelus appears to be the same one who is commemorated on January 29 and October 15.

Rome, 98-117, Emperor, Trajan, Pagan, best ruler, military expansion, socialist, adopted by Nerva
Roman Emperor, 98-117, Trajan ; (18 September 53 - c. 9 August 117) was Roman emperor from 98 to 117. Officially declared by the Senate optimus princeps (best ruler), Trajan is remembered as a successful soldier-emperor who presided over the second-greatest military expansion in Roman history, after Augustus, leading the empire to attain its maximum territorial extent by the time of his death. He is also known for his philanthropic rule, overseeing extensive public building programs and implementing social welfare policies, which earned him his enduring reputation as the second of the Five Good Emperors who presided over an era of peace within the Empire and prosperity in the Mediterranean world. was born in Italica, close to modern Seville in present-day Spain, an Italic settlement in the Roman province of Hispania Baetica. Although misleadingly designated by some later writers as a provincial, his Ulpia gens came from Umbria and he was born a Roman citizen.[3] rose to prominence during the reign of emperor Domitian. Serving as a legatus legionis in Hispania Tarraconensis, in 89 Trajan supported Domitian against a revolt on the Rhine led by Antonius Saturninus. In September 96, Domitian was succeeded by the old and childless Nerva, who proved to be unpopular with the army. After a brief and tumultuous year in power, culminating in a revolt by members of the Praetorian Guard, he decided to adopt the more popular Trajan as his heir and successor. died in 98 and was succeeded by his adopted son without incident. a civilian administrator, Trajan is best known for his extensive public building program, which reshaped the city of Rome and left numerous enduring landmarks such as Trajan's Forum, Trajan's Market and Trajan's Column. in his reign, he annexed the Nabataean Kingdom, creating the province of Arabia Petraea. conquest of Dacia enriched the empire greatly, as the new province possessed many valuable gold mines. war against the Parthian Empire ended with the sack of the capital Ctesiphon and the annexation of Armenia and Mesopotamia. campaigns expanded the Roman Empire to its greatest territorial extent. late 117, while sailing back to Rome, Trajan fell ill and died of a stroke in the city of Selinus. He was deified by the Senate and his ashes were laid to rest under the Trajan's Column. He was succeeded by his cousin Hadrian, whom Trajan supposedly adopted on his deathbed. Martyr Hilary of Ancyra, Commemorated July 12 ; St Julian the Bishop of Cenomanis (Le Mans) in Gaul, Commemorated July 13 ; Apostle Crescens of the Seventy, Commemorated July 30 ; Martyr Florus of Illyria, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Hermes of Rome, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Aristion the Bishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on September 3 ; Martyr Hermione the Daughter of St Philip the Deacon, Commemorated on September 4; Martyr Sarbelus of Edessa, Commemorated September 5 ; Martyr Romulus and with him many others, Commemorated September 6 ; Greatmartyr Eustathius (Eustace) Placidas with his wife and children of Rome, Commemorated on September 20; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 21; Hieromartyr Phocas the Bishop of Sinope, Commemorated on September 22; St Xanthippe Disciple of the Apostles, who died in Spain, Commemorated on September 23 ; Martyr Sarbelus of Edessa, Commemorated on October 15; IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH, BISHOP AND MARTYR (17 OCT 107); St Abercius the Bishop and Wonderworker of Hieropolis, Equal of the Apostles, Commemorated on October 22; Hieromartyr Clement the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on November 25; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20; Apostle Simeon, of the Seventy, the son of Cleophas, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Parmenas the Deacon of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Silas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Crescens of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Erastus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quartus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Clement of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Sosthenes of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Apollos of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Tychicus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Artemas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; St Sarbelus of Edessa, Commemorated on January 29; Translation of the relics of the Hieromartyr Ignatius, the Godbearer and Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on January 29; St Bucolus the Bishop of Smyrna, Commemorated on February 6; Apostle Onesimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on February 15; St Auxibius Bishop of Soli, Cyprus, Commemorated on February 17; Hieromartyr Polycarp the Bishop of Smyrna, Commemorated on February 23; POLYCARP, BISHOP OF SMYRNA AND MARTYR (23 FEB 156); Martyr Eudokia of Heliopolis, Commemorated on March 1 ; Hieromartyr Basil of Cherson, Commemorated on March 7; Martyr Drosis the Daughter of the Emperor Trajan, Commemorated on March 22; Hieromartyr Patrick the Bishop of Prusa with his companions, Commemorated on May 19; Hieromartyr Astius the Bishop of Dyrrachium in Macedonia, Commemorated on June 4; Martyr Zosimus the Soldier at Antioch, in Pisidia, Commemorated on June 19; Martyr Hyacinthus of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on July 3; Martyr Theodotus at Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on July 4; Martyr Peregrinus of Dyrrachium in Macedonia, Commemorated on July 7;

Rome, 98-117, Hieromartyr Astius, Dirrachium, (Via Egnatia), suffering dream, leaden rods oxhide whips, honey hornets, cruci
Albania, 98-117, Hieromartyr Astius, Dirrachium, Albania (near Shkumbiin River Mouth, K Triangle Via Egnatia, Macedonia), his dream impending and death for Christ, beaten leaden rods, oxhide whips, smeared honey for hornets, crucified ; Dirrachium, Albania Hieromartyr Astius the Bishop of Dyrrachium in Macedonia, Commemorated on June 4; Hieromartyr Astius was bishop of the city of Dyrrachium (Macedonia) during the time of the emperor Trajan (98-117), a persecutor of Christians. saint once had a dream, a foreboding of his impending suffering and death for Christ. He was arrested and beaten fiercely with leaden rods and oxhide whips, but Saint Astius did not renounce Christ. They smeared his body with honey, so as to increase his suffering with the stings of hornets and flies, and crucified him. The martyr’s body was reverently buried by Christians.

Rome, 100, Basilica (grave) of St. John, in Ephesus, 100 yr old J commanded dig grave, cover him w earth, later not there
Basilica (grave) of St. John, in Ephesus, 100 yr old J commanded dig grave, cover him w earth, later not there; Grave of Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian, Commemorated on May 8; Church commemorates Saint John on this day because of the annual pilgrimage to his grave. Saint John was more than one hundred years old, he took seven of his disciples and went to a spot outside the city of Ephesus. There he told them to dig a grave in the form of a cross. Then he climbed into the grave and told his disciples to cover him with earth. Later, the grave was opened and the saint’s body was not there. year on May 8 a red dust would arise from the grave which the faithful collected in order to be healed of their illnesses. John’s main Feast is on September 26. Basilica (grave) of St. John, in Ephesus; Basilica of St. John (Greek: Βασιλική του Αγίου Ιωάννη του Θεολόγου) was a basilica in Ephesus. It was constructed by Justinian I in the 6th century. It stands over the believed burial site of John the Apostle. It was modeled after the now lost Church of the Holy Apostles in Constantinople.[1] The basilica is on the slopes of Ayasuluk Hill just below the fortress near the center of Selçuk, İzmir Province, Turkey and about 3.5 km (2.2 mi) from Ephesus.[2] Church[edit] is known about the Basilica of St. John, with its only source being from a small description[3] provided by Procopius in one of his works, Buildings, whereupon he writes: chanced to be a certain place before the city of Ephesus, lying on a steep slope hilly and bare of soil and incapable of producing crops, even should one attempt to cultivate them, but altogether hard and rough. On that site the natives had set up a church in early times to the Apostle John; this Apostle has been named “the Theologian,” because the nature of God was described by him in a manner beyond the unaided power of man. church, which was small and in a ruined condition because of its great age, the Emperor Justinian tore down to the ground and replaced by a church so large and beautiful, that, to speak briefly, it resembles very closely in all respects, and is a rival to, the shrine which is dedicated to all the Apostles in the imperial city...[4] of the church began by 548 and was completed by 565.[3] The building of this church was presided over by the bishop, Hypatius of Ephesus. As the leading ecclesiastical theoretician and writer of his day, it was possible that he gained the influence of Justinian and had the tomb of St. John reconstructed, as major construction in the Asia Minor was rare.[5] After its completion, it was regarded as one of the holiest churches of its time and was held in great honor as Procopius makes mention of this in his Secret History: ...to the sanctuary of the Apostle John, which was the most holy one there and held in very high honour...[6] its popularity after the 9th century it was no longer mentioned, possibly due to a new church built in honor of St. John, Church of John the Theologian.[7]

Rome, 100, 2nd Century, Folder, Roman Empire, Pagan Rome, Justin Martyr Apologies

Rome, 101-167, Abercius the Wonderworker, Bishop of Hieropolis, Equal of the Apostles, Angels command to destroy idols
Ephesus, 150, Saint Abercius the Wonderworker, Bishop of Hieropolis, Equal of the Apostles, Angels command to destroy idols Herapolis (Hot Springs) ; St Abercius the Bishop and Wonderworker of Hieropolis, Equal of the Apostles, Commemorated on October 22 ; Abercius, Bishop and Wonderworker of Hieropolis lived in the second century in Phrygia. The city of Hieropolis was inhabited by many pagans and very few Christians. The saint prayed to the Lord for the salvation of their souls and that they might be numbered among God’s chosen flock. An angel appeared and bade Saint Abercius to destroy the idols in the pagan temple. He fulfilled the command of God with zeal. Hearing that the idol-worshippers wanted to kill him, the saint went to the place where the people had gathered and openly denounced the failings of the pagans. The pagans tried to seize the saint. this moment three demon-possessed youths in the crowd cried out. The people were dumbfounded, as the saint expelled the devils from them by his prayers. Seeing the youths restored to normal, the people of Hieropolis asked Saint Abercius to instruct them in the Christian Faith, and then they accepted Holy Baptism. this the saint went to the surrounding cities and villages, healing the sick and preaching the Kingdom of God. With his preaching he made the rounds of Syria, Cilicia, Mesopotamia, he visited Rome and everywhere he converted multitudes of people to Christ. For many years he guarded the Church against heretics, he confirmed Christians in the Faith, he set the prodigal upon the righteous path, he healed the sick and proclaimed the glory of Christ. Because of his great works, Saint Abercius is termed “Equal of the Apostles.” Abercius returned home to Hieropolis, where he soon rested from his labors. After his death, many miracles took place at his tomb. He wrote his own epitaph, and it was carved on his tombstone, which is now in the Lateran Museum.

Rome, 101-117, Martyrs Sarbelius and Bebaia of Edessa, Pagan Priest and his sister
Armenia, 101-117, Martyrs Sarbelius and Bebaia of Edessa, Pagan Priest and his sister; Martyrs Sarbelius and Bebaia of Edessa, Commemorated on October 15; Holy Martyrs Sarbelus and Bebaia (Barbea) of Edessa were brother and sister, suffering in the second century under the emperor Trajan for confessing Christianity. Saint Sarbelus was a priest of the idols at Edessa, but was converted to Christ by a certain bishop, then he and his sister were baptized. Pagans tortured the saints for a long while, and then beheaded them. saints are also commemorated on January 29. Saint Sarbelus may be the same one who is commemorated on September 5.

Rome, 101-141, Conon of Isauria, Archangel Michael protection, Anna, lived virginity, wonderworker, served b evil spirits
Lykaonia, 101-141, Conon of Isauria, Lykaonia, special protection Archangel Michael, betrothed Anna, lived virginity, saved father who became martyr, C wonderworker, m pagans converted, evil spirits served him, 2nd century, declining years, tortured Isauria; Martyr Conon of Isauria, Commemorated on March 5; Holy Martyr Conon of Isauria was born in Bethany, a village near the Asia Minor city of Isauria, whose inhabitants had accepted Christianity from the Apostle Paul. his youth, Saint Conon was accorded the special protection of the “Archistrategos” (“Leader of the Heavenly Hosts”) Michael, who appeared to him and assisted him in many difficult circumstances in life. the insistence of his parents, Conon was betrothed to a maiden named Anna. He persuaded her to live with him in virginity after the wedding. young couple lived as brother and sister, devoting themselves entirely to God. Saint Conon brought also his parents to the Christian Faith. His father, Saint Nestor, received a martyr’s death for denouncing idol-worshippers. burying both his mother and wife, Saint Conon continued his service to God, devoting himself entirely to monastic works, fasting and prayer. his declining years the holy ascetic was glorified with the gift of wonderworking. virtue of his preaching and miracles many pagans were converted to Christ. It is said that even the evil spirits were forced to serve him. a persecution against Christians broke out in Isauria, one of the first to suffer was Saint Conon. He was subjected to fierce torments for his refusal to offer sacrifice to idols. When the people of Isauria learned of the tortures to which the saint was being subjected, they came forth bearing arms to defend the martyr. Frightened by the people’s wrath, the torturers fled, and the Isaurians found the martyr wounded and bloodied at the place of torture. Conon wished to endure martyrdom for the Lord, but he lived two more years. Saint Conon died in the second century and was buried beside his parents and wife.

Rome, 107-108 , Ignatius, 2nd Bishop of Antioch, God Bearer, gold J C in his heart, to Rome, incouraging letters and preacing
Syria, 107-18 , Ignatius of Antioch; of Antioch (died c. 108/140 AD),[3][4][7][8][9] also known as Ignatius Theophorus (the God-bearing), was an early Christian writer and Patriarch of Antioch. While en route to Rome, where he met his martyrdom, Ignatius wrote a series of letters. This correspondence now forms a central part of a later collection of works known to be authored by the Apostolic Fathers. He is considered to be one of the three most important of these, together with Clement of Rome and Polycarp. His letters also serve as an example of early Christian theology. Important topics they address include ecclesiology, the sacraments, and the role of bishops. Antioch (Orontes River 7); IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH, BISHOP AND MARTYR (17 OCT 107) ; the Apostles, Ignatius was the second bishop of Antioch in Syria. His predecessor, of whom little is known, was named Euodius. he knew any of the Apostles directly is uncertain. is known of his life except for the very end of it. in the second century (perhaps around 107 AD, during the reign of the Emperor Trajan), he was arrested by the Imperial authorities, condemned to death, and transported to Rome to die in the arena. thus dealing with a leader, the rulers hoped to terrify the rank and file. Ignatius took the opportunity to encourage them, speaking to groups of Christians at every town along the way. the prison escort reached the west coast of Asia Minor, it halted before taking ship, and delegations from several Asian churches were able to visit Ignatius, to speak with him at length, to assist him with items for his journey, and to bid him an affectionate farewell and commend him to the grace of God. response he wrote seven letters that have been preserved: five to congregations that had greeted him, en masse or by delegates (Ephesians, Magnesians, Trallians, Philadelphians, and Smyrnaeans), one to the congregation that would greet him at his destination (Romans), and one to Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna and disciple of the Apostle John. His letters are available in several modern translations. Perhaps the most accessible is the Penguin Paperback, Early Christian Writings, translated by Maxwell Staniforth. The themes with which he is chiefly concerned are (1) the importance of maintaining Christian unity in love and sound doctrine (with warnings against factionalism and against the heresy of Docetism -- the belief that Christ was not fully human and did not have a material body or really suffer and die), (2) the role of the clergy as a focus of Christian unity, (3) Christian martyrdom as a glorious privilege, eagerly to be grasped. He writes: I am God's wheat, ground fine by the lion's teeth to be made purest bread for Christ. No early pleasures, no kingdoms of this world can benefit me in any way. I prefer death in Christ Jesus to power over the farthest limits of the earth. He who died in place of us is the one object of my quest. He who rose for our sakes is my one desire. The time for my birth is close at hand. Forgive me, my brothers. Do not stand in the way of my birth to real life; do not wish me stillborn. My desire is to belong to God. Do not, then, hand me back to the world. do not try to tempt me with material things. Let me attain pure light. Only on my arrival there can I be fully a human being. Give me the privilege of imitating the passion of my God. by James Kiefer Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer, Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer, was a disciple of the holy Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian, as was also Saint Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna (February 23). Saint Ignatius was the second bishop of Antioch, and successor to Bishop Euodius, Apostle of the Seventy (September 7). suggests that when Saint Ignatius was a little boy, the Savior hugged him and said: “Unless you turn and become as little children, you shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven” (Mt. 18:3). saint was called “God-Bearer” (Theophoros), because he bore God in his heart and prayed unceasingly to Him. He also had this name because he was held in the arms of Christ, the incarnate Son of God. Ignatius was a disciple of the Apostle John the Theologian, together with Saint Polycarp of Smyrna. Bishop of Antioch, Saint Ignatius was zealous and spared no effort to build up the church of Christ. To him is attributed the practice of antiphonal singing (by two choirs) during church services. He had seen a vision of the angels in heaven alternately singing praises to God, and divided his church choir to follow this example. the time of persecution he was a source of strength to the souls of his flock, and was eager to suffer for Christ. the year 106 the emperor Trajan (98-117), after his victory over the Scythians, ordered everyone to give thanks to the pagan gods, and to put to death any Christians who refused to worship the idols. the year 107, Trajan happened to pass through Antioch. Here they told him that Bishop Ignatius openly confessed Christ, and taught people to scorn riches, to lead a virtuous life, and preserve their virginity. Ignatius came voluntarily before the emperor, so as to avert persecution of the Christians in Antioch. Saint Ignatius rejected the persistent requests of the emperor Trajan to sacrifice to the idols. The emperor then decided to send him to Rome to be thrown to the wild beasts. Ignatius joyfully accepted the sentence imposed upon him. His readiness for martyrdom was attested to by eyewitnesses, who accompanied Saint Ignatius from Antioch to Rome. the way to Rome, the ship sailed from Seleucia stopped at Smyrna, where Saint Ignatius met with his friend Bishop Polycarp. Clergy and believers from other cities and towns thronged to see Saint Ignatius. He exhorted everyone not to fear death and not to grieve for him. In his Epistle to the Roman Christians, he asked them to assist him with their prayers, and to pray that God would strengthen him in his impending martyrdom for Christ: “I seek Him Who died for us; I desire Him Who rose for our salvation... In me, desire has been nailed to the cross, and no flame of material longing is left. Only the living water speaks within me, saying, ‘Hasten to the Father.’” Smyrna, Saint Ignatius went to Troas. Here he heard the happy news of the end of the persecution against Christians in Antioch. From Troas, Saint Ignatius sailed to Neapolis (in Macedonia) and then to Philippi. the way to Rome Saint Ignatius visited several churches, teaching and guiding the Christians there. He also wrote seven epistles: to the churches of Ephesus, Magnesia, Tralles, Rome, Philadelphia, and Smyrna. He also addressed a letter to Saint Polycarp, who mentions a collection of the letters of Saint Ignatius in his letter to the Philippians (Ch. 13). Saint Irenaeus of Lyons quotes from Saint Ignatius’s letter to the Romans (AGAINST HERESIES 5:28:4). All these letters have survived to the present day. Roman Christians met Saint Ignatius with great joy and profound sorrow. Some of them hoped to prevent his execution, but Saint Ignatius implored them not to do this. Kneeling down, he prayed together with the believers for the Church, for love between the brethren, and for an end to the persecution against Christians. December 20, the day of a pagan festival, they led Saint Ignatius into the arena, and he turned to the people: “Men of Rome, you know that I am sentenced to death, not because of any crime, but because of my love for God, by Whose love I am embraced. I long to be with Him, and offer myself to him as a pure loaf, made of fine wheat ground fine by the teeth of wild beasts.” this the lions were released and tore him to pieces, leaving only his heart and a few bones. Tradition says that on his way to execution, Saint Ignatius unceasingly repeated the name of Jesus Christ. When they asked him why he was doing this, Saint Ignatius answered that this Name was written in his heart, and that he confessed with his lips Him Whom he always carried within. When the saint was devoured by the lions, his heart was not touched. When they cut open the heart, the pagans saw an inscription in gold letters: “Jesus Christ.” After his execution Saint Ignatius appeared to many of the faithful in their sleep to comfort them, and some saw him at prayer for the city of Rome. of the saint’s great courage, Trajan thought well of him and stopped the persecution against the Christians. The relics of Saint Ignatius were transferred to Antioch (January 29), and on February 1, 637 were returned to Rome and placed in the church of San Clemente.

Rome, 107-115, Alexander I, Roman Bishop, Pope, healer, important Roman Catholic role in un-apostolic traditions
Rome, 107-115, Roman Bishop, Pope Alexander I; Alexander I (died c. 115) was the sixth Bishop of Rome from c. 107 to his death c. 115. The Holy See's Annuario Pontificio (2012) identifies him as a Roman who reigned from 108 or 109 to 116 or 119. Some believe he suffered martyrdom under the Roman Emperor Trajan or Hadrian. and legend[edit] According to the Liber Pontificalis, it was Alexander I who inserted the narration of the Last Supper (the Qui pridie) into the liturgy of the Mass. However, the article on Saint Alexander I in the 1907 Catholic Encyclopedia, written by Thomas Shahan, judges this tradition to be inaccurate, a view shared by both Catholic and non-Catholic experts.[1] It is viewed as a product of the agenda of Liber Pontificalis—this section of the book was probably written in the late 5th century—to show an ancient pattern of the earliest bishops of Rome ruling the church by papal decree. introduction of the customs of using blessed water mixed with salt for the purification of Christian homes from evil influences, as well as that of mixing water with the sacramental wine, are attributed to Pope Alexander I. Some sources consider these attributions unlikely.[2] is certainly possible, however, that Alexander played an important part in the early development of the Church of Rome's emerging liturgical and administrative traditions.[citation needed] later tradition holds that in the reign of Hadrian, Alexander I converted the Roman governor Hermes by miraculous means, together with his entire household of 1,500 people. Quirinus of Neuss, who was Alexander's supposed jailer, and Quirinus' daughter Balbina of Rome were also among his converts. is said to have seen a vision of the infant Jesus.[3] His remains are said to have been transferred to Freising in Bavaria, Germany in AD 834.[1] identification with a martyr[edit] fresco of Saint Pope Alexander I from Santa Maria Antiqua editions of the Roman Missal identified with Pope Alexander I with the Alexander that they give as commemorated, together with Eventius and Theodulus (who were supposed to be priests of his), on 3 May. See, for instance, the General Roman Calendar of 1954. But nothing is known of these three saints other than their names, together with the fact that they were martyred and were buried at the seventh milestone of the Via Nomentana on 3 May of some year.[4] For this reason, the Pope John XXIII's 1960 revision of the calendar returned to the presentation that was in the 1570 Tridentine Calendar of the three saints as simply "Saints Alexander, Eventius and Theodulus Martyrs" with no suggestion that any of them was a pope. The Roman Martyrology lists them as Eventius, Alexander and Theodulus, the order in which their names are given in historical documents.[5] Hieromartyr Alexander the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 16;

Rome, 117-138, Emperor Hadrian, defend and unify, Hadrian's Wall, Temples, k senators, diefied
Roman Emperor, 117-138, Hadrian ; (24 January 76 - 10 July 138) was Roman emperor from 117 to 138. He was born into a Roman Italo-Hispanic family that settled in Spain from the Italian city of Atri in Picenum. His father was of senatorial rank and was a first cousin of Emperor Trajan. He married Trajan's grand-niece Vibia Sabina early in his career, before Trajan became emperor and possibly at the behest of Trajan's wife Pompeia Plotina. Plotina and Trajan's close friend and adviser Lucius Licinius Sura were well disposed towards Hadrian. When Trajan died, his widow claimed that he had nominated Hadrian as emperor immediately before his death. military and Senate approved Hadrian's succession, but four leading senators were unlawfully put to death soon after. They had opposed Hadrian or seemed to threaten his succession, and the senate held him responsible for it and never forgave him. He earned further disapproval among the elite by abandoning Trajan's expansionist policies and territorial gains in Mesopotamia, Assyria, Armenia, and parts of Dacia. Hadrian preferred to invest in the development of stable, defensible borders and the unification of the empire's disparate peoples. He is known for building Hadrian's Wall, which marked the northern limit of Britannia. energetically pursued his own Imperial ideals and personal interests. He visited almost every province of the Empire, accompanied by an Imperial retinue of specialists and administrators. He encouraged military preparedness and discipline, and he fostered, designed, or personally subsidised various civil and religious institutions and building projects. In Rome itself, he rebuilt the Pantheon and constructed the vast Temple of Venus and Roma. In Egypt, he may have rebuilt the Serapeum of Alexandria. He was an ardent admirer of Greece and sought to make Athens the cultural capital of the Empire, so he ordered the construction of many opulent temples there. His intense relationship with Greek youth Antinous and the latter's untimely death led Hadrian to establish a widespread cult late in his reign. He suppressed the Bar Kokhba revolt in Judaea, but his reign was otherwise peaceful. last years were marred by chronic illness. He saw the Bar Kokhba revolt as the failure of his panhellenic ideal. He executed two more senators for their alleged plots against him, and this provoked further resentment. His marriage to Vibia Sabina had been unhappy and childless; he adopted Antoninus Pius in 138 and nominated him as a successor, on the condition that Antoninus adopt Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus as his own heirs. Hadrian died the same year at Baiae, and Antoninus had him deified, despite opposition from the Senate. Edward Gibbon includes him among the Empire's "Five Good Emperors", a "benevolent dictator"; Hadrian's own senate found him remote and authoritarian. He has been described as enigmatic and contradictory, with a capacity for both great personal generosity and extreme cruelty and driven by insatiable curiosity, self-conceit, and ambition.[2] Virginmartyr Seraphima (Serapia) of Antioch, Commemorated on July 29; Martyr Florus of Illyria, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Hermes of Rome, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Hermione the Daughter of St Philip the Deacon, Commemorated on September 4; Martyr Eupsychius of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on September 7 ; Commemoration of the Founding of the Church of the Resurrection (Holy Sepulchre) at Jerusalem, Commemorated on September 13; The Universal Exaltation of the Precious and Life-Giving Cross, Commemorated on September 14; Martyr Sophia and her three daughters at Rome, Commemorated on September 17; Martyr Ariadne of Phrygia, Commemorated on September 18 ; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 21; St Abercius the Bishop and Wonderworker of Hieropolis, Equal of the Apostles, Commemorated on October 22; Hieromartyr Eleutherius the Bishop of Illyria, and His Mother, Commemorated on December 15; Apostle Quadratus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Hieromartyr Polycarp the Bishop of Smyrna, Commemorated on February 23; POLYCARP, BISHOP OF SMYRNA AND MARTYR (23 FEB 156); Martyr Conon of Isauria, Commemorated on March 5; Hieromartyr Alexander the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 16; Martyr Philetus the Senator, his wife and sons in Illyria, Commemorated on March 23; Martyr Pausilippus of Heraclea in Thrace, Commemorated on April 8; Martyr Hesperus with his wife and sons at Attalia, Commemorated on May 2 ; Martyr Justin the Philosopher and those with him at Rome, Commemorated on June 1; JUSTIN MARTYR, PHILOSOPHER, APOLOGIST, AND MARTYR (1 JUNE 167) ;

Rome, 117-138, Eleutherius, Illyria, bishop at 20, tortured for preaching by Hadrian, beheaded w mother
Croatia, 117-138, Illyria, bishop at 20, tortured for preaching by Hadrian, beheaded w mother; Illyria; Yugoslavia; Hieromartyr Eleutherius the Bishop of Illyria, and His Mother, Commemorated on December 15; Eleutherius, the son of an illustrious Roman citizen, was raised in Christian piety by his mother. virtue was such that at the age twenty, he had been elevated to bishop of Illyria. the reign of the emperor Hadrian, Saint Eleutherius was tortured for his bold preaching about Christ, then was beheaded at Rome with his mother Evanthia. Eparch Caribus, who had tortured Saint Eleutherius, also came to believe in Christ and was executed. Martyr Evanthia of Illyria, Commemorated on December 15;

Rome, 120-160, Aristion, Bishop, Lesser Alexandria, Cilician Gates r, boyhood f martyr Anthony, life's purpose theosis
Alexandria in Cilicia (Asia Minor), Alexandria is probably Kitikien of the Ptolemaic Empire, along the Cilician Gates route ; Martyr Anthony of Alexandria, Commemorated on August 9; Martyr Anthony, a native of the city of Alexandria, was a Christian. For his confession of faith they tied him to a tree and tore at his body with iron hooks, and then sentenced him to burning. Standing in the fire, he calmly exhorted those standing about to toil not for the body but for the soul in aspiring towards God. After the fire flared up, the body of the saint remained unharmed. The time of his death is unknown. Martyr Aristion the Bishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on September 3 ; Aristion was the bishop of lesser Alexandria in Cilicia (Asia Minor). He was born in the small town of Aribazo in the eparchy of Apamea, Syria at the beginning of the second century. His parents were pagans, and he spent his early years in an atmosphere of idolatry. do not know what sort of early education Saint Aristion received, nor where he studied, but it did not satisfy his search for the truth. A ten-year-old boy who lived in the same town, the future martyr Anthony, showed him the path which led to the truth. Anthony instructed him in the true Faith, and Aristion increased in piety and zeal for God. is significant that Anthony, despite the constant fear of persecution, exile and even danger to his own life, was not just a member of the local church, but also preached the Faith to others. It is certain that Aristion prayed for his young friend and remembered his courage and strength, for Anthony’s efforts to bring Aristion to the saving Faith had born fruit and were not in vain. Not only did Anthony give himself to the Church through his martyrdom at the age of twenty, he also gave it another saint and martyr: Saint Aristion later, Saint Aristion was consecrated bishop for Isso in Cilicia, which is found in lesser Alexandria. He was a good shepherd to his flock, and cared diligently for their souls. day the ruler of Alexandria had Saint Aristion arrested because he was a Christian. Although he was placed on public trial, the holy bishop was calm and showed no fear. His whole demeanor made the Roman eparch realize that it would not easy to deal with this man who stood before him. He tried to turn Aristion from Christ through flattery and promises of reward, but the saint stood firm. Seeing that his words had no effect on the bishop, he threatened him with fierce tortures. He was not influenced by these threats, however. Aristion stood before the eparch and his counselors, gazing at them with love and concern for their salvation. Even in his weakness, this captive was stronger than his captors, and he refused to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. a multitude of idolaters, Saint Aristion spoke of the Triune God, by Whom all things were created. He also told them about the Incarnation of the Lord Jesus Christ, which was accomplished through God’s saving dispensation. He explained that Christ brings salvation to fallen man, thereby giving him another chance to attain the true purpose of his life—theosis. “How poor these soulless statues of the gods are,” the bishop said, “and how helpless the eparch looks in his radiant apparel.” who heard the saint speak were amazed and asked one another where he got such courage. Aristion invited them to believe in the truth which he was revealing to them. Those who watched understood that this holy man was someone special, and they wanted to hear more about his beliefs. Roman eparch could not find any way to resist Aristion except through violence, so he sentenced him to death. He commanded his soldiers to prepare a large furnace and then throw him into the flames.The saint went to his martyrdom without resistance, remaining brave and strong until the end. The few Christians who were present tried not to weep.They whispered prayers for him, and were saddened because their father was leaving them. They knew, however, that their archpastor would not cease praying for them, especially now that he was going to Christ. They could hear Saint Aristion singing hymns in the fire until his last breath. eparch did not know what a terrible mistake he had made. He did not realize that death is not the end for men, nor for the truth. Nothing could separate Saint Aristion from the Fountain of Life, and so the Lord bestowed upon him an imperishable crown of glory. the flames died down, his spiritual children approached the furnace and collected as many of his bones as they could. With great reverence they put the holy relics in a secret place, which remains unknown to the present day. more detailed biography of the saint has been published (in Greek): THE HOLY HIEROMARTYR ARISTION, by John G. Thalassinos (Athens, 2003). This volume also contains the Service to the saint, which was composed by Hieromonk Athanasius of Simonopetra Monastery on Mt. Athos. Martyr Anthony of Alexandria Commemorated on August 9

Rome, 123-165, Saint, JUSTIN MARTYR, apologies
Rome, 120-167, Saint, JUSTIN MARTYR; Roman Debate, 155, First Apology of Justin Martyr with Antonius Pius ; Martyr Florus of Illyria, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Hermes of Rome, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Justin the Philosopher and those with him at Rome, Commemorated on June 1; Holy Martyr Justin the Philosopher was born around 114 at Sychem, an ancient city of Samaria. Justin’s parents were pagan Greeks. From his childhood the saint displayed intelligence, love for knowledge and a fervent devotion to the knowledge of Truth. When he came of age he studied the various schools of Greek philosophy: the Stoics, the Peripatetics, the Pythagoreans, the Platonists, and he concluded that none of these pagan teachings revealed the way to knowledge of the true God. when he was strolling in a solitary place beyond the city and pondering about where to seek the way to the knowledge of Truth, he met an old man. In the ensuing conversation he revealed to Justin the essential nature of the Christian teaching and advised him to seek the answers to all the questions of life in the books of Holy Scripture. “But before anything else,â€ said the holy Elder, “pray diligently to God, so that He might open to you the doors of Light. No one is able to comprehend Truth, unless he is granted understanding from God Himself, Who reveals it to each one who seeks Him in prayer and in love.â€ his thirtieth year, Justin accepted holy Baptism (between the years 133 and 137). From this time Saint Justin devoted his talents and vast philosophical knowledge to preaching the Gospel among the pagans. He began to journey throughout the Roman Empire, sowing the seeds of faith. “Whosoever is able to proclaim Truth and does not proclaim it will be condemned by God,â€ he wrote. opened a school of Christian philosophy. Saint Justin subsequently defended the truth of Christian teaching, persuasively confuting pagan sophistry (in a debate with the Cynic philosopher Crescentius) and heretical distortions of Christianity. He also spoke out against the teachings of the Gnostic Marcian. the year 155, when the emperor Antoninus Pius (138-161) started a persecution against Christians, Saint Justin personally gave him an Apology in defense of two Christians innocently condemned to execution, Ptolemy and Lucias. The name of the third remains unknown. the Apology he demonstrated the falseness of the slander against Christians accused unjustly for merely having the name of Christians. The Apology had such a favorable effect upon the emperor that he ceased the persecution. Saint Justin journeyed, by decision of the emperor, to Asia Minor where they were persecuting Christians with particular severity. He proclaimed the joyous message of the imperial edict throughout the surrounding cities and countryside. debate of Saint Justin with the Rabbi Trypho took place at Ephesus. The Orthodox philosopher demonstrated the truth of the Christian teaching of faith on the basis of the Old Testament prophetic writings. Saint Justin gave an account of this debate in his work Dialogue with Trypho the Jew. second Apology of Saint Justin was addressed to the Roman Senate. It was written in the year 161, soon after Marcus Aurelius (161-180) ascended the throne. he returned to Italy, Saint Justin, like the Apostles, preached the Gospel everywhere, converting many to the Christian Faith. When the saint arrived at Rome, the envious Crescentius, whom Justin always defeated in debate, brought many false accusations against him before the Roman court. Saint Justin was put under guard, subjected to torture and suffered martyrdom in 165. The relics of Saint Justin the Philosopher rest in Rome. addition to the above-mentioned works, the following are also attributed to the holy martyr Justin the Philosopher: 1) An Address to the Greeks 2) A Hortatory Address to the Greeks 3) On the Sole Government of God John of Damascus preserved a significant part of Saint Justin’s On the Resurrection, which has not survived. The church historian Eusebius asserts that Saint Justin wrote books entitled Singer of all Existing Heresies and Marcian the Russian Church the memory of the martyr is particularly glorified in temples of his name. He is invoked by those who seek help in their studies. holy martyrs Justin, Chariton, Euelpistus, Hierax, Peonus, Valerian, Justus and the martyr Charito suffered with Saint Justin the Philosopher in the year 166. They were brought to Rome and thrown into prison. The saints bravely confessed their faith in Christ before the court of the prefect Rusticus. Rusticus asked Saint Justin, whether he really thought that after undergoing tortures he would go to heaven and receive a reward from God. Saint Justin answered, “Not only do I think this, but I know and am fully assured of it.â€ prefect proposed to all the Christian prisoners that they offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. When they refused he issued a sentence of death, and the saints were beheaded. JUSTIN MARTYR, PHILOSOPHER, APOLOGIST, AND MARTYR (1 JUNE 167) ;

Rome, 135, Roman Emperor Hadrian destroys Holy Places in Jerusalem
Roman Emperor, 117-138, Hadrian ; Commemoration of the Founding of the Church of the Resurrection (Holy Sepulchre) at Jerusalem, Commemorated on September 13; FEAST OF THE HOLY CROSS, (14 SEP 335) ; The Universal Exaltation of the Precious and Life-Giving Cross, Commemorated on September 14;

Rome, 138-161, Emperor, Antoninus Pius, Ungrateful Pagan, peace, no revolts, Scots Antonine Wall
Roman Emperor, 138-161, Antoninus Pius ; Pius (19 September 86 - 7 March 161) was Roman emperor from 138 to 161. He was one of the Five Good Emperors in the Nerva–Antonine dynasty.[2] into a senatorial family, Antoninus held various offices during the reign of emperor Hadrian, who adopted him as his son and successor shortly before his death. Antoninus acquired the cognomen Pius after his accession to the throne, either because he compelled the Senate to deify his adoptive father,[3] or because he had saved senators sentenced to death by Hadrian in his later years.[4] His reign is notable for the peaceful state of the Empire, with no major revolts or military incursions during this time, and for his governing without ever leaving Italy. successful military campaign in southern Scotland early in his reign resulted in the construction of the Antonine Wall. was an effective administrator, leaving his successors a large surplus in the treasury, expanding free access to drinking water throughout the Empire, encouraging legal conformity, and facilitating the enfranchisement of freed slaves. He died of illness in 161 and was succeeded by his adopted sons Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus as co-emperors. Martyr Parasceva of Rome, Commemorated on July 26; Martyr Julian of Dalmatia, Commemorated on July 28 ; Martyr Florus of Illyria, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Hermes of Rome, Commemorated on August 18; Hieromartyr Irenaeus the Bishop of Lyons, Commemorated on August 23 ; Martyr Melitina of Marcianopolis, Commemorated September 16 ; St Abercius the Bishop and Wonderworker of Hieropolis, Equal of the Apostles, Commemorated on October 22; Hieromartyr Polycarp the Bishop of Smyrna, Commemorated on February 23; POLYCARP, BISHOP OF SMYRNA AND MARTYR (23 FEB 156); Martyr Conon of Isauria, Commemorated on March 5; Hieromartyr Theodore of Perge in Pamphylia, with his Mother, Commemorated on April 21; Virginmartyr Glyceria at Heraclea, Commemorated on May 13 ; Martyr Meletius Stratelates who suffered in Galatia, Commemorated on May 24; Martyr Hermias at Comana, Commemorated on May 31 ; Martyr Justin the Philosopher and those with him at Rome, Commemorated on June 1; JUSTIN MARTYR, PHILOSOPHER, APOLOGIST, AND MARTYR (1 JUNE 167) ; Martyr Concordius of Spoleto, Commemorated on June 4 ; IRENAEUS, BISHOP OF LYONS, THEOLOGIAN (28 JUN 202); St Angelina of Serbia, Commemorated on July 1;

Rome, 138-161, Martyr Hermias at Comana, Armenia, tortured and recovered from many things
Armenia, 138-161, Martyr Hermias at Comana, Armenia (Pontica, Armenia, Cappadocia or Cilicia, Zamanti Seyhan River Valley), tortured and recovered from: skin pealed from face, red-hot oven 3 days, strong poison, sharp insturments, boiling oil, gouged out eyes, upside down 3 days, skin flayed again, then beheaded; Comana (Cappadocia); Martyr Hermias at Comana, Commemorated on May 31; Martyr Hermias suffered for Christ in the city of Comana during the persecution under the emperor Antoninus Pius (138-161). governor Sebastian, who was in Cappadocia to arrest Christians, urged the saint to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods, promising him honors and mercy from the emperor. old soldier bravely confessed his faith in Christ. After long exhortation, the governor gave orders to torture the saint. They beat him on the face so that the skin peeled from his face, and they threw him into a red-hot oven. When the oven was opened after three days, the martyr Hermias emerged from it unharmed. governor Sebastian ordered the sorcerer Marus to poison Saint Hermias with a potion. The poisonous drink did the saint no harm. A second goblet with even stronger poison also failed to kill the saint. The sorcerer believed in Christ the Savior, and was immediately beheaded. Saint Marus was baptized in his own blood, and received a martyr’s crown. Hermias was subjected to even more terrible tortures. They raked his body with sharp instruments, threw him in boiling oil, and gouged out his eyes, but he gave thanks to the Lord Jesus Christ. Then they suspended the martyr head downward. For three days he hung in this position. sent by the governor to verify his death found him alive. Struck by the miracle, they were blinded with fright and began to call out to the saint to help them. The holy martyr ordered the blind to approach him, and healed them in the Name of Jesus Christ. anger the governor ordered the skin flayed from the saint’s body, but he remained alive. Then the crazed Sebastian beheaded him with his own sword. Christians secretly buried the body of the martyr Hermias, whose relics bestowed numerous healings.

Rome, 140-155, Pope Pius I, saint, opposed Valentinians and Gnostics, important for Roman un-apostolic traditions
Roman Bishop, 140-155, Pope Pius I ; Pius I was the tenth bishop of Rome from c. 140 to his death c. 154,[1] according to the Annuario Pontificio. His dates are listed as 142 or 146 to 157 or 161, respectively.[2] is considered to have opposed both the Valentinians and Gnostics during his papacy. He is considered a saint by the Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church[3] with a feast day in 11 July, but it is unclear if he died as a martyr. life[edit] is believed to have been born at Aquileia, in Northern Italy, during the late 1st century.[4] His father was an Italian[5] called "Rufinus", who was also a native of Aquileia according to the Liber Pontificalis.[6] to the 2nd-century Muratorian Canon[7] and the Liberian Catalogue,[8] that he was the brother of Hermas, author of the text known as The Shepherd of Hermas. The writer of the later text identifies himself as a former slave. This has led to speculation that both Hermas and Pius were freedmen. However Hermas' statement that he was a slave may just mean that he belonged to a low-ranking plebeian family.[9] to Catholic tradition, Pius I governed the Church in the middle of the 2nd century during the reigns of the Emperors Antoninus Pius and Marcus Aurelius.[4] He is held to be the ninth successor of Saint Peter,[1] who decreed that Easter should only be kept on a Sunday. credited with ordering the publication of the Liber Pontificalis,[4] compilation of that document was not started before the beginning of the 6th century.[10] He is also said to have built one of the oldest churches in Rome, Santa Pudenziana. Justin taught Christian doctrine in Rome during the pontificate of St Pius I but the account of his martyrdom indicates there was no Roman bishop present there, an unsurprising occurrence, considering the brevity of the account.[11] The heretics Valentinus, Cerdon, and Marcion visited Rome during that period. Catholic apologists see this as an argument for the primacy of the Roman See during the 2nd century.[4] Pope Pius I is believed to have opposed the Valentinians and Gnostics under Marcion, whom he excommunicated.[12] is some conjecture that Pius was a martyr in Rome, a conjecture that entered earlier editions of the Roman Breviary. The study that had produced the 1969 revision of the General Roman Calendar stated that there were no grounds for his consideration as a martyr,[13] and he is not presented as such in the Roman Martyrology.[14] day[edit] I's feast day is 11 July. In the Tridentine Calendar it was given the rank of "Simple" and celebrated as the feast of a martyr. The rank of the feast was reduced to a Commemoration in the 1955 General Roman Calendar of Pope Pius XII and the General Roman Calendar of 1960. Though no longer mentioned in the General Roman Calendar, Saint Pius I may now, according to the rules in the present-day Roman Missal, be celebrated everywhere on his feast day as a Memorial, unless in some locality an obligatory celebration is assigned to that day.[15] Martyr Florus of Illyria, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Hermes of Rome, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Conon of Isauria, Commemorated on March 5; Martyr Concordius of Spoleto, Commemorated on June 4 ;

Rome, 150-202, Iraneus, Bishop of Lugdunum, Gaul, Lyons, France, from Smyrna and Polycarp, anti Gnostic writer
Gaul, 150-202, Iraneus, Bishop of Lugdunum, Gaul, Lyons, France ; Lugdunum (Lyons in France); Hieromartyr Irenaeus the Bishop of Lyons, Commemorated on August 23; Hieromartyr Irenaeus, Bishop of Lyons, was born in the year 130 in the city of Smyrna (Asia Minor). He received there the finest education, studying poetics, philosophy, rhetoric, and the rest of the classical sciences considered necessary for a young man of the world. guide in the truths of the Christian Faith was a disciple of the Apostle John the Theologian, Saint Polycarp of Smyrna (February 23). Saint Polycarp baptized the youth, and afterwards ordained him presbyter and sent him to a city in Gaul then named Lugdunum [the present day Lyons in France] to the dying bishop Pothinus. commission was soon entrusted to Saint Irenaeus. He was to deliver a letter from the confessors of Lugdunum to the holy Bishop Eleutherius of Rome (177-190). While he was away, all the known Christians were thrown into prison. After the martyric death of Bishop Pothinus, Saint Irenaeus was chosen a year later (in 178) as Bishop of Lugdunum. “During this time,” Saint Gregory of Tours (November 17) writes concerning him, “by his preaching he transformed all Lugdunum into a Christian city!” the persecution against Christians quieted down, the saint expounded upon the Orthodox teachings of faith in one of his fundamental works under the title: Detection and Refutation of the Pretended but False Gnosis. It is usually called Five Books against Heresy (Adversus Haereses). that time there appeared a series of religious-philosophical gnostic teachings. The Gnostics [from the Greek word “gnosis” meaning “knowledge”] taught that God cannot be incarnate [i.e. born in human flesh], since matter is imperfect and manifests itself as the bearer of evil. They taught also that the Son of God is only an outflowing (“emanation”) of Divinity. Together with Him from the Divinity issues forth a hierarchical series of powers (“aeons”), the unity of which comprise the “Pleroma”, i.e. “Fullness.” The world is not made by God Himself, but by the aeons or the “Demiourgos,” which is below the “Pleroma.” refuting this heresy, championed by Valentinus, Saint Irenaeus presents the Orthodox teaching of salvation. “The Word of God, Jesus Christ, through His inexplicable blessedness caused it to be, that we also, should be made that which He is ... ,” taught Saint Irenaeus. “Jesus Christ the Son of God, through exceedingly great love for His creation, condescended to be born of a Virgin, having united mankind with God in His own Self.” Through the Incarnation of God, creation becomes co-imaged and co-bodied to the Son of God. Salvation consists in the “Sonship” and “Theosis” (“Divinization”) of mankind. the refutation of another heretic, Marcian, who denied the divine origin of the Old Testament, the saint affirms the same divine inspiration of the Old and the New Testaments: “It is one and the same Spirit of God Who proclaimed through the prophets the precise manner of the Lord’s coming,” wrote the saint. “Through the apostles, He preached that the fulness of time of the filiation had arrived, and that the Kingdom of Heaven was at hand.” successors of the Apostles have received from God the certain gift of truth, which Saint Irenaeus links to the succession of the episcopate (Adv. Haer. 4, 26, 2). “Anyone who desires to know the truth ought to turn to the Church, since through Her alone did the apostles expound the Divine Truth. She is the door to life.” Irenaeus also exerted a beneficial influence in a dispute about the celebration of Pascha. In the Church of Asia Minor, there was an old tradition of celebrating Holy Pascha on the fourteenth day of the month of Nisan, regardless of what day of the week it happened to be. The Roman bishop Victor (190-202) forcefully demanded uniformity, and his harsh demands fomented a schism. In the name of the Christians of Gaul, Saint Irenaeus wrote to Bishop Victor and others, urging them to make peace. this incident, Saint Irenaeus drops out of sight, and we do not even know the exact year of his death. Saint Gregory of Tours, in his Historia Francorum, suggests that Saint Irenaeus was beheaded by the sword for his confession of faith in the year 202, during the reign of Severus. Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian, Saint Polycarp of Smyrna, and Saint Irenaeus of Lyons are three links in an unbroken chain of the grace of succession, which goes back to the Original Pastor, our Lord Jesus Christ Himself. his old age, Saint Irenaeus wrote to his old friend the priest Florinus: “When I was still a boy, I knew you... in Polycarp’s house.... I remember what happened in those days more clearly than what happens now.... I can describe for you the place where blessed Polycarp usually sat and conversed, the character of his life, the appearance of his body, and the discourses which he spoke to the people, how he spoke of the conversations which he had with John and others who had seen the Lord, how he remembered their words, and what he heard from them about the Lord ... I listened eagerly to these things, by the mercy of God, and wrote them, not on paper, but in my heart.” Hieromartyr Hippolytus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated January 30 ; IRENAEUS, BISHOP OF LYONS, THEOLOGIAN (28 JUN 202) ;

Rome, 152-153, Crescens the Cynic, Philosopher, attacked Christians, attacked by Justin Martyr
Roman Philosopher, 152-153, Crescens the Cynic; (fl. 2nd century AD) was a Cynic philosopher who attacked the Christians, and was in turn, attacked by Justin Martyr. Eusebius, writing 150 years later, accused him of causing Justin's death. Martyr Florus of Illyria, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Hermes of Rome, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Justin the Philosopher and those with him at Rome, Commemorated on June 1; JUSTIN MARTYR, PHILOSOPHER, APOLOGIST, AND MARTYR (1 JUNE 167) ;

Rome, 155, Debate with Antonius Pius, First Apology of Justin Martyr
Roman Debate, 155, First Apology of Justin Martyr with Antonius Pius ; Martyr Florus of Illyria, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Hermes of Rome, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Justin the Philosopher and those with him at Rome, Commemorated on June 1; JUSTIN MARTYR, PHILOSOPHER, APOLOGIST, AND MARTYR (1 JUNE 167) ;

Rome, 161-180, Victor, Soldier and Martyr at Damascus, Syria, w Corona
Syria, 161-180, Victor, Soldier and Martyr at Damascus, Syria; Victor and Corona (also known as Saints Victor and Stephanie) are two Christian martyrs. was a Roman soldier who was tortured and killed; Corona was killed for comforting him. Corona is invoked as a patron of causes involving money; she was not historically associated with pandemics or disease, but has been invoked against the coronavirus pandemic. St Victor of Siena (left) and St Corona by the Master of the Palazzo Venezia Madonna in the National Gallery of Denmark. legend states that Victor was a Roman soldier of Italian ancestry, who was tortured, including having his eyes gouged out, and was beheaded. sources state that he and Corona were killed in Roman Syria during the reign of Marcus Aurelius (around the 160s-170s AD), but various hagiographical texts disagree about the site of their martyrdom, with some stating that it was Damascus, while Coptic sources state that it was Antioch. Some Western sources state that Alexandria or Sicily was their place of martyrdom. also disagree about the date of their martyrdom. They may have been martyred during the reign of Antoninus Pius, or Diocletian, while the Roman Martyrology states that it was in the third century when they met their death.[1] he was suffering from the tortures, the sixteen-year-old wife of another soldier, named Corona or Stephanie (or Stefania or Stephana, the Greek version of her Latin name, which also means "crown")[2][3][4] comforted and encouraged him. this, she was arrested and interrogated. According to the passio of Corona, Corona was bound to two bent palm trees and torn apart as the trunks were released; the passio is considered largely fictional, and she herself may also be fictional.[5] Other sources state that Victor and Corona were husband and wife.[6][7] is also debate as to where Corona was from; differing accounts place her in Syria, Sicily, and Marseille.[7] and Corona's memorial day is 24 November (11 November in the Orthodox church calendar). feast day is 14 May. the town of Feltre in northern Italy, on the slopes of Mount Miesna, is the church of SS. Vittore e Corona, erected by the Crusaders from Feltre after the First Crusade. is especially venerated in Austria and eastern Bavaria. There is a chapel dedicated to her in Sauerlach, near Munich.[7] There are two churches named after her in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Passau and two towns named after her in Lower Austria.[7] A statue of her stands in the Münster Cathedral.[7] 1000 AD Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor brought Corona's relics to Aachen in western Germany.[7] relics were rediscovered during excavation work at Aachen Cathedral in 1910. The relics were removed from a crypt and placed in a shrine inside the cathedral.[7] is the patroness of causes involving money, such as gambling and treasure hunting, a result of a later treasure hunter who credited his success to invoking her.[5][8][9] She is called upon by a treasure hunter to bring treasure, and then sent away through a similarly elaborate ritual.[10] was not historically a patron saint of or invoked against pandemics or disease, but has been invoked against the COVID-19 pandemic.[5][9] Her relics will be available for public veneration once the pandemic has passed.[9][11] Damascus (Barada River foothills); Martyr Victor at Damascus, Commemorated on November 11 ; Holy Martyr Victor at Damascus was a soldier during the reign of the emperor Marcus Aurelius the Philosopher (161-180). the emperor began a persecution against Christians, Victor refused to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. Such obligatory sacrifices were a test of a soldier’s loyalty to the gods, the emperor and the state. The saint was given over to torture, but he came through all the torments unharmed. By the power of prayer he was victorious over a sorcerer, who from that point gave up give sorcery and became a Christian. Saint Victor’s prayers, blind soldiers suddenly received their sight. the miracle worked by the Lord through Saint Victor, Stephanida, the young Christian wife of one of the torturers, openly glorified Christ, for which she was condemned to a cruel death. She was tied to two palm trees bent to the ground, which when released, sprung back and tore her apart. She was fifteen years old. torturer ordered that the holy Martyr Victor be beheaded. Hearing the commander’s order, Saint Victor told his executioners that they would all die in twelve days, and that the commander would be captured by the enemy in twenty-four days. As he foretold, so it came to pass. martyrs suffered in the second century at Damascus, where their venerable relics were buried. Martyr Stephanida of Spain, Commemorated November 11 ; Stephanida witnessed the martyrdom at Damascus of the Holy Martyr Victor, a soldier, during the reign of the emperor Marcus Aurelius the Philosopher (161-180). was tortured, but he came through all the torments unharmed. the power of prayer he was victorious over a sorcerer, who from that point gave up give sorcery and became a Christian. Saint Victor’s prayers, blind soldiers suddenly received their sight. the miracle worked by the Lord through Saint Victor, Stephanida, the young Christian wife of one of the torturers, openly glorified Christ, for which she was condemned to a cruel death. was tied to two palm trees bent to the ground, which when released, sprung back and tore her apart. She was fifteen years old. martyrs suffered in the second century at Damascus, where their venerable relics were buried.

Rome, 161-180, Stephanida (Corona) of Spain, with Victor, Martyr at Damascus
Syria, 161-180, Stephanida of Spain, with Victor, Martyr at Damascus; Victor and Corona (also known as Saints Victor and Stephanie) are two Christian martyrs. was a Roman soldier who was tortured and killed; Corona was killed for comforting him. Corona is invoked as a patron of causes involving money; she was not historically associated with pandemics or disease, but has been invoked against the coronavirus pandemic. St Victor of Siena (left) and St Corona by the Master of the Palazzo Venezia Madonna in the National Gallery of Denmark. legend states that Victor was a Roman soldier of Italian ancestry, who was tortured, including having his eyes gouged out, and was beheaded. sources state that he and Corona were killed in Roman Syria during the reign of Marcus Aurelius (around the 160s-170s AD), but various hagiographical texts disagree about the site of their martyrdom, with some stating that it was Damascus, while Coptic sources state that it was Antioch. Some Western sources state that Alexandria or Sicily was their place of martyrdom. also disagree about the date of their martyrdom. They may have been martyred during the reign of Antoninus Pius, or Diocletian, while the Roman Martyrology states that it was in the third century when they met their death.[1] he was suffering from the tortures, the sixteen-year-old wife of another soldier, named Corona or Stephanie (or Stefania or Stephana, the Greek version of her Latin name, which also means "crown")[2][3][4] comforted and encouraged him. this, she was arrested and interrogated. According to the passio of Corona, Corona was bound to two bent palm trees and torn apart as the trunks were released; the passio is considered largely fictional, and she herself may also be fictional.[5] Other sources state that Victor and Corona were husband and wife.[6][7] is also debate as to where Corona was from; differing accounts place her in Syria, Sicily, and Marseille.[7] and Corona's memorial day is 24 November (11 November in the Orthodox church calendar). feast day is 14 May. the town of Feltre in northern Italy, on the slopes of Mount Miesna, is the church of SS. Vittore e Corona, erected by the Crusaders from Feltre after the First Crusade. is especially venerated in Austria and eastern Bavaria. There is a chapel dedicated to her in Sauerlach, near Munich.[7] There are two churches named after her in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Passau and two towns named after her in Lower Austria.[7] A statue of her stands in the Münster Cathedral.[7] 1000 AD Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor brought Corona's relics to Aachen in western Germany.[7] relics were rediscovered during excavation work at Aachen Cathedral in 1910. The relics were removed from a crypt and placed in a shrine inside the cathedral.[7] is the patroness of causes involving money, such as gambling and treasure hunting, a result of a later treasure hunter who credited his success to invoking her.[5][8][9] She is called upon by a treasure hunter to bring treasure, and then sent away through a similarly elaborate ritual.[10] was not historically a patron saint of or invoked against pandemics or disease, but has been invoked against the COVID-19 pandemic.[5][9] Her relics will be available for public veneration once the pandemic has passed.[9][11] Damascus (Barada River foothills); Martyr Stephanida of Spain, Commemorated November 11 ; Stephanida witnessed the martyrdom at Damascus of the Holy Martyr Victor, a soldier, during the reign of the emperor Marcus Aurelius the Philosopher (161-180). was tortured, but he came through all the torments unharmed. the power of prayer he was victorious over a sorcerer, who from that point gave up give sorcery and became a Christian. Saint Victor’s prayers, blind soldiers suddenly received their sight. the miracle worked by the Lord through Saint Victor, Stephanida, the young Christian wife of one of the torturers, openly glorified Christ, for which she was condemned to a cruel death. was tied to two palm trees bent to the ground, which when released, sprung back and tore her apart. She was fifteen years old. martyrs suffered in the second century at Damascus, where their venerable relics were buried. Martyr Victor at Damascus, Commemorated on November 11 ; Holy Martyr Victor at Damascus was a soldier during the reign of the emperor Marcus Aurelius the Philosopher (161-180). the emperor began a persecution against Christians, Victor refused to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. Such obligatory sacrifices were a test of a soldier’s loyalty to the gods, the emperor and the state. The saint was given over to torture, but he came through all the torments unharmed. By the power of prayer he was victorious over a sorcerer, who from that point gave up give sorcery and became a Christian. Saint Victor’s prayers, blind soldiers suddenly received their sight. the miracle worked by the Lord through Saint Victor, Stephanida, the young Christian wife of one of the torturers, openly glorified Christ, for which she was condemned to a cruel death. She was tied to two palm trees bent to the ground, which when released, sprung back and tore her apart. She was fifteen years old. torturer ordered that the holy Martyr Victor be beheaded. Hearing the commander’s order, Saint Victor told his executioners that they would all die in twelve days, and that the commander would be captured by the enemy in twenty-four days. As he foretold, so it came to pass. martyrs suffered in the second century at Damascus, where their venerable relics were buried.

Rome, 161-180, Emperor, Marcus Aurelius, Pagan, Philosopher
Roman Emperor, 161-180, Marcus Aurelius ; Martyr Florus of Illyria, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Hermes of Rome, Commemorated on August 18; Hieromartyr Irenaeus the Bishop of Lyons, Commemorated on August 23; St Abercius the Bishop and Wonderworker of Hieropolis, Equal of the Apostles, Commemorated on October 22; Martyr Stephanida of Spain, Commemorated on November 11; Martyr Victor at Damascus, Commemorated on November 11; Martyr Speusippus in Cappadocia, Commemorated on January 16; Martyr Felicitas of Rome, and Seven Sons, Commemorated on January 25; Hieromartyr Polycarp the Bishop of Smyrna, Commemorated on February 23; POLYCARP, BISHOP OF SMYRNA AND MARTYR (23 FEB 156); Martyr Conon of Isauria, Commemorated on March 5; Virginmartyr Glyceria at Heraclea, Commemorated on May 13 ; Martyr Chariton with his wife and those with him at Rome, Commemorated on June 1; Martyr Justin the Philosopher and those with him at Rome, Commemorated on June 1; JUSTIN MARTYR, PHILOSOPHER, APOLOGIST, AND MARTYR (1 JUNE 167) ;

Rome, 161, Debate with Senate, Second Apology, Martyr Justin
Roman Debate with Senate, 161, Second Apology, Martyr Justin ; Martyr Florus of Illyria, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Hermes of Rome, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Justin the Philosopher and those with him at Rome, Commemorated on June 1; holy martyrs Justin, Chariton, Euelpistus, Hierax, Peonus, Valerian, Justus and the martyr Charito suffered with Saint Justin the Philosopher in the year 166. They were brought to Rome and thrown into prison. The saints bravely confessed their faith in Christ before the court of the prefect Rusticus. Rusticus asked Saint Justin, whether he really thought that after undergoing tortures he would go to heaven and receive a reward from God. Saint Justin answered, “Not only do I think this, but I know and am fully assured of it.â€ Holy Martyr Justin the Philosopher was born around 114 at Sychem, an ancient city of Samaria. Justin’s parents were pagan Greeks. From his childhood the saint displayed intelligence, love for knowledge and a fervent devotion to the knowledge of Truth. When he came of age he studied the various schools of Greek philosophy: the Stoics, the Peripatetics, the Pythagoreans, the Platonists, and he concluded that none of these pagan teachings revealed the way to knowledge of the true God. when he was strolling in a solitary place beyond the city and pondering about where to seek the way to the knowledge of Truth, he met an old man. In the ensuing conversation he revealed to Justin the essential nature of the Christian teaching and advised him to seek the answers to all the questions of life in the books of Holy Scripture. “But before anything else,â€ said the holy Elder, “pray diligently to God, so that He might open to you the doors of Light. No one is able to comprehend Truth, unless he is granted understanding from God Himself, Who reveals it to each one who seeks Him in prayer and in love.â€ his thirtieth year, Justin accepted holy Baptism (between the years 133 and 137). From this time Saint Justin devoted his talents and vast philosophical knowledge to preaching the Gospel among the pagans. He began to journey throughout the Roman Empire, sowing the seeds of faith. “Whosoever is able to proclaim Truth and does not proclaim it will be condemned by God,â€ he wrote. opened a school of Christian philosophy. Saint Justin subsequently defended the truth of Christian teaching, persuasively confuting pagan sophistry (in a debate with the Cynic philosopher Crescentius) and heretical distortions of Christianity. He also spoke out against the teachings of the Gnostic Marcian. the year 155, when the emperor Antoninus Pius (138-161) started a persecution against Christians, Saint Justin personally gave him an Apology in defense of two Christians innocently condemned to execution, Ptolemy and Lucias. The name of the third remains unknown. the Apology he demonstrated the falseness of the slander against Christians accused unjustly for merely having the name of Christians. The Apology had such a favorable effect upon the emperor that he ceased the persecution. Saint Justin journeyed, by decision of the emperor, to Asia Minor where they were persecuting Christians with particular severity. He proclaimed the joyous message of the imperial edict throughout the surrounding cities and countryside. debate of Saint Justin with the Rabbi Trypho took place at Ephesus. The Orthodox philosopher demonstrated the truth of the Christian teaching of faith on the basis of the Old Testament prophetic writings. Saint Justin gave an account of this debate in his work Dialogue with Trypho the Jew. second Apology of Saint Justin was addressed to the Roman Senate. It was written in the year 161, soon after Marcus Aurelius (161-180) ascended the throne. he returned to Italy, Saint Justin, like the Apostles, preached the Gospel everywhere, converting many to the Christian Faith. When the saint arrived at Rome, the envious Crescentius, whom Justin always defeated in debate, brought many false accusations against him before the Roman court. Saint Justin was put under guard, subjected to torture and suffered martyrdom in 165. The relics of Saint Justin the Philosopher rest in Rome. addition to the above-mentioned works, the following are also attributed to the holy martyr Justin the Philosopher: 1) An Address to the Greeks 2) A Hortatory Address to the Greeks 3) On the Sole Government of God John of Damascus preserved a significant part of Saint Justin’s On the Resurrection, which has not survived. The church historian Eusebius asserts that Saint Justin wrote books entitled Singer of all Existing Heresies and Marcian the Russian Church the memory of the martyr is particularly glorified in temples of his name. He is invoked by those who seek help in their studies. holy martyrs Justin, Chariton, Euelpistus, Hierax, Peonus, Valerian, Justus and the martyr Charito suffered with Saint Justin the Philosopher in the year 166. They were brought to Rome and thrown into prison. The saints bravely confessed their faith in Christ before the court of the prefect Rusticus. Rusticus asked Saint Justin, whether he really thought that after undergoing tortures he would go to heaven and receive a reward from God. Saint Justin answered, “Not only do I think this, but I know and am fully assured of it.â€ prefect proposed to all the Christian prisoners that they offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. When they refused he issued a sentence of death, and the saints were beheaded. JUSTIN MARTYR, PHILOSOPHER, APOLOGIST, AND MARTYR (1 JUNE 167) ;

Rome, 164, Felicitas with her Seven Sons, rich roman, boldly confessed, which insulted the gods, tortured
Rome, 164, Felicitas with her Seven Sons, rich roman, boldly confessed, which insulted the gods, turned over for torture, sons died before her eyes, Felicitas followed; Rome; Martyr Felicitas of Rome, and Seven Sons, Commemorated January 25 ; Holy Martyr Felicitas with her Seven Sons, Januarius, Felix, Philip, Silvanus, Alexander, Vitalius and Marcial. Saint Felicitas was born of a rich Roman family. She boldly confessed before the emperor and civil authorities that she was a Christian. The pagan priests said that she was insulting the gods by spreading Christianity. Saint Felicitas and her sons were turned over to the Prefect Publius for torture. Felicitas witnessed the suffering of her sons, and prayed to God that they would stand firm and enter the heavenly Kingdom before her. All the sons died as martyrs before the eyes of their mother, who was being tortured herself. Felicitas soon followed her sons in martyrdom for Christ. They suffered at Rome about the year 164. Saint Gregory Dialogus mentions her in his Commentary on the Gospel of Saint Matthew (Mt.12:47).

Rome, 170-215, CLEMENT OF ALEXANDRIA, Athens native, intellectual, not saint, Cathetical School, philosopher, taught Origen
Greece, 170-215, CLEMENT OF ALEXANDRIA, Athens native, intellectual, not a saint, Cathetical School head about 180, theologian and philosopher, taught Origen and Alex of Jerusalem, influenced by Helenistic philosophy more than others, Plato and the Stoics, Jewish esotericism, Gnosticism, taught Torah a preparation for the Gospel, for sound liberal education; Flavius Clemens, also known as Clement of Alexandria (c. 150 - c. 215 AD),[5] was a Christian theologian and philosopher who taught at the Catechetical School of Alexandria. his pupils were Origen and Alexander of Jerusalem. A convert to Christianity, he was an educated man who was familiar with classical Greek philosophy and literature. his three major works demonstrate, Clement was influenced by Hellenistic philosophy to a greater extent than any other Christian thinker of his time, and in particular, by Plato and the Stoics.[6] secret works, which exist only in fragments, suggest that he was familiar with pre-Christian Jewish esotericism and Gnosticism as well. one of his works he argued that Greek philosophy had its origin among non-Greeks, claiming that both Plato and Pythagoras were taught by Egyptian scholars.[7] is usually regarded as a Church Father. He is venerated as a saint in Coptic Christianity, Eastern Catholicism, Ethiopian Christianity, and Anglicanism. was revered in Western Catholicism until 1586, when his name was removed from the Roman Martyrology by Pope Sixtus V on the advice of Baronius. The Eastern Orthodox Church officially stopped any veneration of Clement of Alexandria in the 10th century. Athens; CLEMENT OF ALEXANDRIA, TEACHER AND APOLOGIST (5 DEC 213?) ; a native of Athens, was converted to Christianity by Pantaenus, founder of the Catechetical School at Alexandria (then the intellectual capital of the Mediterranean world), succeeded his teacher as head of the School about 180. over 20 years he labored effectively as an apologist for the faith and catechist of the faithful. regarded the science and philosophy of the Greeks as being, like the Torah of the Hebrews, a preparation for the Gospel, and the curriculum of his School undertook to give his students both a knowledge of the Gospel of Christ and a sound liberal education. speculative theology, his scholarly defense of the faith and his willingness to meet non-Christian scholars on their own grounds, helped to establish the good reputation of Christianity in the world of learning and prepare the way for his pupil, Origen, the most eminent theologian of Greek Christianity. is not on the present Roman calendar (having been removed by Bellarmine at the time of Galileo, when the Roman See was undergoing a period of wariness about intellectual venturesomeness), but is on the Eastern calendar and many modern revisions of the Anglican calendar. His influence has been considerable. by James Kiefer

Rome, 174-251, Hieromartyr Cyril the Bishop of Gortyna, Cret, flames no touch, set free, sought & rejoiced martyrdom
Crete, 174-251, Hieromartyr Cyril the Bishop of Gortyna, Crete, Chief City of Crete, 50 yr, refused idol w, flames did not touch, set free, continued preaching, sought & rejoiced martyrdom; Gortyna; Hieromartyr Cyril the Bishop of Gortyna in Crete, Commemorated on July 9 ; Hieromartyr Cyril, Bishop of Gortyna, was bishop at Gortyna on the island of Crete for 50 years. He suffered either under the emperor Decius (249-251), or according to other historical sources, the emperor Maximian (284-305). to trial before a governor named Lucius, who demanded that he offer sacrifice to idols, the holy Elder steadfastly confessed his faith in Christ and refused to fulfill the soul-destroying command. The governor sentenced Saint Cyril to burning, but the flames did not touch him. Seeing this miracle, many pagans came to believe in Christ. Lucius himself offered up praise to the Christian God and set the saint free. Cyril continued with his preaching and led many pagans to Christ, but also he grieved that he had not been allowed to suffer for the Savior. It was reported to the governor that Saint Cyril would not cease his preaching, and that he continued to convert people from the darkness of paganism to the light of Christ. Hearing the sentence against him, Saint Cyril rejoiced that he was to be granted a martyr’s death for Truth, and the 84-year-old Elder willingly placed his head beneath the sword. Hieromartyr Cyril the Bishop of Gortyna, Commemorated September 6 ; Hieromartyr Cyril, Bishop of Gortyna, lived during the time of the emperor Diocletian and his co-emperor Maximian (284-305). As a Christian he was brought to trial before the governor Agrippina and after interrogation he was thrown into prison. One night the saint heard a voice commanding him to go to Rome. the morning the doors of the prison were open, and the idols overthrown and destroyed. On the road to Rome Saint Cyril had a vision: Saint Philoxenos appeared and said that he would receive two crowns, one of a hierarch and the other of a martyr. Rome, Saint Cyril rendered great help to the Church by his preaching. When a persecution against Christians started up, Saint Cyril went to Jerusalem to encourage the Christians living there. Along the way he had a vision and received a command not to neglect Crete. he arrived there, Saint Cyril was chosen bishop of the city of Gortyna. He was then 60 years of age. Still on the episcopal throne of Gortyna at age 95, Saint Cyril was brought to trial at the start of a new persecution against Christians and sentenced to death. He was beheaded with the sword in the vicinity of Raukos at the beginning of the fourth century. Cyril is commemorated on June 14 on the Greek calendar.

Rome, 177, Martyrs of Lyons, France or Gaul, charges that Christians practiced cannibalism and incest
Rome, 177, Martyrs of Lyons, France or Gaul; persecution in Lyon in AD 177 was a persecution of Christians in Lugdunum, Roman Gaul (present-day Lyon, France), during the reign of Marcus Aurelius (161-180). An account of this persecution is a letter preserved in Eusebius's Ecclesiastical History, book 5, chapter 1. Gregory of Tours describes the persecution in De Gloria martyrum. Lyons; BLANDINA AND HER COMPANIONS, (Formerly THE MARTYRS OF LYONS), (2 JUNE 177); Lyons and Vienne, in Gaul, there were missionary centers which had drawn many Christians from Asia and Greece. Persecution began in 177. Martyrs of Lyons, by JL Gerome painting by JL Gérôme first, Christians were excluded from the public baths, the market place, and from social and public life. They were subject to attack when they appeared in public, and many Christian homes were vandalized. At this point the government became involved, and began to take Christians into custody for questioning. Some slaves from Christian households were tortured to obtain confessions, and were induced to say that Christians practiced cannibalism and incest. These charges were used to arouse the whole city against the Christians, particularly against Pothinus, the aged bishop of Lyons; Sanctus, a deacon; Attalus; Maturus, a recent convert; and Blandina, a slave. Pothinus was beaten and then released, to die of his wounds a few days later. Sanctus was tormented with red-hot irons. Blandina, tortured all day long, would say nothing except, "I am a Christian, and nothing vile is done among us." Finally, the survivors were put to death in the public arena.

Rome, 177, BLANDINA AND HER COMPANIONS, (Formerly THE MARTYRS OF LYONS), slaves tortured for confessions & lies
France, 177, BLANDINA AND HER COMPANIONS, (Formerly THE MARTYRS OF LYONS), France (Saone River Mouth, Rhone River 4), slaves tortured for confessions and lies of cannibalism and incest, these charges aroused city, put to death in arena; Lyons; BLANDINA AND HER COMPANIONS, (Formerly THE MARTYRS OF LYONS), (2 JUNE 177); Lyons and Vienne, in Gaul, there were missionary centers which had drawn many Christians from Asia and Greece. Persecution began in 177. Martyrs of Lyons, by JL Gerome painting by JL Gérôme first, Christians were excluded from the public baths, the market place, and from social and public life. They were subject to attack when they appeared in public, many Christian homes were vandalized. this point the government became involved, and began to take Christians into custody for questioning. slaves from Christian households were tortured to obtain confessions, and were induced to say that Christians practiced cannibalism and incest. charges were used to arouse the whole city against the Christians, particularly against Pothinus, the aged bishop of Lyons; Sanctus, a deacon; Attalus; Maturus, a recent convert; and Blandina, a slave. was beaten and then released, to die of his wounds a few days later. Sanctus was tormented with red-hot irons. Blandina, tortured all day long, would say nothing except, "I am a Christian, and nothing vile is done among us." Finally, the survivors were put to death in the public arena. by James Kiefer

Rome, 177-192, Emperor, Commodus, end of the golden period of peace , Pax Romana, Gladiator, assinated
Roman Emperor, 177-192, Commodus ; Commodus (31 August 161 -“ 31 December 192) was Roman emperor jointly with his father Marcus Aurelius from 176 until his father's death in 180, and solely until 192. His reign is commonly considered to mark the end of the golden period of peace in the history of the Roman Empire known as the Pax Romana. He accompanied his father, Marcus, during the Marcomannic Wars in 172 and on a tour of the Eastern provinces in 176. He was made the youngest consul in Roman history in 177 and elevated to co-augustus with his father, having been given the title imperator in 176. During his solo reign, the Empire enjoyed a period of reduced military conflict compared with the reign of Marcus Aurelius, but intrigues and conspiracies abounded, leading Commodus to an increasingly dictatorial style of leadership that culminated in a god-like personality cult, with him performing as a gladiator in the Colosseum. His assassination in 192 marked the end of the Nervaâ€“Antonine dynasty. He was succeeded by Pertinax, the first emperor in the tumultuous Year of the Five Emperors. CLEMENT OF ALEXANDRIA, TEACHER AND APOLOGIST (5 DEC 213?); Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; Martyr Conon of Isauria, Commemorated on March 5;

Rome, 177-190, Eleutherius of Rome, Pope, linked to several legends, Lucius, King of Britain, forgery
Roman Pope, 177-190, Eleutherius of Rome; Eleutherius (died 24 May 189), also known as Eleutherus, was the thirteenth bishop of Rome of the Catholic Church from c. 174 to his death.[1] (The Vatican cites 171 or 177 to 185 or 193.) is linked to a number of legends, one of them credited him with receiving a letter from "Lucius, King of Britain", but which is now generally considered to be a pious forgery. to the Liber Pontificalis, he was a Greek born in Nicopolis in Epirus, Greece.[2][3] His contemporary Hegesippus wrote that he was a deacon of the Roman Church under Pope Anicetus (c. 154–164), and remained so under Pope Soter, whom he succeeded around 174.[a] law[edit] 6th-century recension of Liber Pontificalis ('Book of the Popes') known as the "Felician Catalog"[b] includes additional commentary to the work's earlier entry on Eleutherius. One addition ascribes to Eleutherius the reissuance of a decree:[c][4] "And he again affirmed that no food should be repudiated by Christians strong in their faith, as God created it, [provided] however that it is sensible and edible." Such a decree might have been issued against early continuations of Jewish dietary law and against similar laws practiced by the Gnostics and Montanists. It is also possible, however, that the editor of the passage attributed to Eleutherius a decree similar to another issued around the year 500 in order to give it greater authority. mission[edit] Main article: Lucius of Britain addition credited Eleutherius with receiving a letter from "Lucius, King of Britain" or "King of the Britons", declaring an intention to convert to Christianity.[d] No earlier accounts of this mission have been found. It is now generally considered to be a pious forgery, although there remains disagreement over its original purpose. Haddan, Stubbs, and Wilkins[5] considered the passage "manifestly written in the time and tone" of Prosper of Aquitaine, secretary to Pope Leo the Great in the mid-5th century, and supportive of the missions of Germanus of Auxerre and Palladius.[5] Duchesne dated the entry a little later to the pontificate of Boniface II around 530,[1] and Mommsen to the early 7th century.[1] Only the last would support the conjecture that it aimed to support the Gregorian mission to the Anglo-Saxons led by Augustine of Canterbury, who encountered great difficulty with the native British Christians, as at the Synod of Chester. Indeed, the Celtic Christians invoked the antiquity of their church to generally avoid submission to Canterbury until the Norman conquest, but no arguments invoking the mission to Lucius appear to have been made by either side during the synods among the Welsh and Saxon bishops. first Englishman to mention the story was Bede[6][7] and he seems to have taken it, not from native texts or traditions, but from The Book of the Popes. Subsequently, it appeared in the 9th-century History of the Britons traditionally credited to Nennius: The account relates that a mission from the pope baptised "Lucius, the Britannic king, with all the petty kings of the whole Britannic people".[8] The account, however, dates this baptism to AD 167 (a little before Eleutherius's pontificate) and credits it to Evaristus (reigned c. 99 – c. 107).[8] In the 12th century, more details began to be added to the story. Geoffrey of Monmouth's pseudohistorical History of the Kings of Britain goes into great detail concerning Lucius and names the pope's envoys to him as Fagan and Duvian.[9] The 12th-century Book of Llandaf placed the court of Lucius in southern Wales and names his emissaries to the pope as Elfan and Medwy.[10] echo of this legend penetrated even to Switzerland. In a homily preached at Chur and preserved in an 8th- or 9th-century manuscript, Timothy is represented as an apostle to Gaul, whence he went into Roman Britain and baptised a king named Lucius, who himself became a missionary to Gaul and finally settled at Chur, where he preached the gospel with great success. In this way Lucius, the early missionary of the Swiss district of Chur, became identified with the alleged British king of the Liber Pontificalis.[11] suggests that in the document which the compiler of the Liber Pontificalis drew his information, the name found was not Britanio, but Britio. Now this is the name (Birtha-, Britium) of the fortress of Edessa.[12] The king in question is, therefore, Lucius Ælius Septimus Megas Abgar IX, of Edessa, a Christian king as is well known. The original statement of the Liber Pontificalis, in this hypothesis, had nothing to do with Britain; the compiler of the Liber Pontificalis changed Britio to Brittanio, and in this way made a British king of the Syrian Lucius. to the Liber Pontificalis, Pope Eleutherius died on 24 May and was buried on the Vatican Hill (in Vaticano) near the body of Peter the Apostle. Later tradition has his body moved to the church of San Giovanni della Pigna, near the pantheon. In 1591, his remains were again moved to the church of Santa Susanna at the request of Camilla Peretti, the sister of Pope Sixtus V. His feast is celebrated on 26 May. Hieromartyr Irenaeus the Bishop of Lyons, Commemorated on August 23;

Rome, 180-268, Alexandria, Perfect's d, virginity, Paul's epistles, monastery as monk Eugene, much more
Egypt, 180-268, Alexandria, Perfect's d, fine upbringing, beautiful, g disposition, virginity, Paul's epistles, b by Bishop Elias' vision, monastery as monk Eugene, healing gift, false accusation of a rape, trial before her f, secret revealed, father rejoices w family, they receive baptism, father dismissed, becomes Bishop, new perfect assassins to kill him, back to Rome w mother Claudia and family, monastic life, Claudia built hostel, aided poor, new emperor Galenus' persecution, refuge w C & E, imperial line Basilla requests c teaching, accepts b, B tells fiance who tells emperor, B killed, idol shattered, E dragged to dianna temple which collapses before, E survives stone around neck into river, also s fire, into pit for 10 days, Jesus appears, into kingdom on Christmas by sword, later E appears to her mother for time of death; Alexandria; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24 ; Holy Martyr Eugenia, was a Roman by birth. lived at Alexandria, where her father Philip was sent by the emperor Commodus (180-192) to be Prefect of Egypt. received a fine upbringing and was noted for her beauty and good disposition. Many illustrious youths sought her hand, but she did not wish to marry anyone, for she was determined to preserve her virginity. she became acquainted with the Epistles of the Apostle Paul. She yearned with all her soul to become a Christian, but kept this a secret from her parents. At that time, Christians were banished from Alexandria by the command of the emperor. to learn more about Christian teachings, she asked permission to visit one of the family estates outside the city, supposedly to enjoy the countryside. She left in the company of her two servants Protus and Hyacinthus, dressed in men’s clothes. and her companions were baptized at a certain monastery by Bishop Elias (July 14), who learned about her in a vision. He blessed her to pursue asceticism at the monastery disguised as the monk Eugene. her ascetic labors, Saint Eugenia acquired the gift of healing. Once, a rich young woman named Melanthia turned to her for help. Seeing “Eugene,” this woman burned with an impure passion, and when she was spurned, she falsely accused the saint of attempted rape. Eugenia came to trial before the Prefect of Egypt (her father), and she was forced to reveal her secret. Her parents and brothers rejoiced to find the one for whom they had long grieved. a while they all accepted holy Baptism. But Philip, after being denounced by pagans, was dismissed from his post. The Alexandrian Christians chose him as their bishop. The new Prefect, fearing the wrath of the people, did not dare to execute Philip openly, but sent assassins to kill him. They inflicted wounds upon Saint Philip while he was praying, from which he died three days later. Claudia went to Rome with her sons, daughter, and her servants. There Saint Eugenia continued with monastic life, and brought many young women to Christ. Claudia built a wanderers’ hostel and aided the poor. After several peaceful years, the emperor Galienus (260-268) intensified the persecution against Christians, and many of them found refuge with Saints Claudia and Eugenia. an orphaned Roman girl of imperial lineage, heard about the Christians and Saint Eugenia. She sent a trusted servant to the saint asking her to write her a letter explaining Christian teachings. Saint Eugenia sent her friends and co-ascetics, Protus and Hyacinthus, who enlightened Basilla, and she accepted holy Baptism. ’s servant then told her fiancé Pompey that his betrothed had become a Christian. Pompey then complained to the emperor against the Christians for preaching celibacy and denouncing idolatry. Basilla refused to enter into marriage with Pompey, and so they killed her with a sword. dragged Saints Protus and Hyacinthus into a temple to make them sacrifice to the idols, but just as they entered, the idol fell down and was shattered. The holy Martyrs Protus and Hyacinthus were beheaded. They also brought Saint Eugenia to the temple of Diana by force, but she had not even entered it, when the pagan temple collapsed with its idol. threw the holy martyr into the Tiber with a stone about her neck, but the stone became untied and she remained unharmed. She also remained unscathed in the fire. Then they cast her into a pit, where she remained for ten days. this time the Savior Himself appeared to her and said that she would enter into the heavenly Kingdom on the day He was born. this radiant Feast came, the executioner put her to death with a sword. After her death, Saint Eugenia appeared to her mother to tell her beforehand the day of her own death.

Rome, 190-202, Victor I, Roman Pope, he excommunicated over Quartodeciman Controversy, date of passover and easter
Roman Pope, 190-202, Victor I; Victor I (died 199) was the fourteenth bishop of Rome in the late second century (189-199 A.D.). He was of Berber origin.[citation needed] The dates of his tenure are uncertain, but one source states he became pope in 189 and gives the year of his death as 199.[1] He was the first bishop of Rome born in the Roman Province of Africa—probably in Leptis Magna (or Tripolitania). He was later considered a saint. His feast day was celebrated on 28 July as "St Victor I, Pope and Martyr".[2] primary sources vary over the dates assigned to Victor's episcopate, but indicate it included the last decade of the second century. Eusebius puts his accession in the tenth year of Commodus (i.e. A.D. 189), which is accepted by Lipsius as the correct date. Jerome's version of the Chronicle puts his accession in the reign of Pertinax, or the first year of Septimius Severus (i.e. 193), while the Armenian version puts it in the seventh year of Commodus (186). The Liber Pontificalis dates his accession to the consulate of Commodus and Glabrio (i.e. 186), while the Liberian Catalogue, a surviving copy of the source the Liber Pontificalis drew upon for its chronology, is damaged at this point[3] the duration of his episcopate, Eusebius, in his Ecclesiastical History, does not state directly the duration of his episcopate, but the Armenian version of Eusebius' Chronicle gives it as 12 years. The Liberian Catalogue gives his episcopate a length of nine years two months and ten days, while the Liber Pontificalis states it was ten years and the same number of months and days; the Felician Catalogue something over ten. Finally, Eusebius in his History (5.28) states Zephyrinus succeeded him "about the ninth year of Severus", (201), while the Liber Pontificalis dates it to the consulate of Laternus and Rufinus (197). Lipsius, considering Victor in connection with his successors, concludes that he held office between nine and ten years, and therefore gives as his dates 189–198 or 199. to an anonymous writer quoted by Eusebius, Victor excommunicated Theodotus of Byzantium for teaching that Christ was a mere man.[4] However, he is best known for his role in the Quartodeciman controversy. Prior to his elevation, a difference in dating the celebration of the Christian Passover/Easter between Rome and the bishops of Asia Minor had been tolerated by both the Roman and Eastern churches. churches in Asia Minor celebrated Easter on the 14th of the Jewish month of Nisan, the day before Jewish Passover, regardless of what day of the week it fell on, as the Crucifixion had occurred on the Friday before Passover, justifying this as the custom they had learned from the apostles; for this the Latins called them Quartodecimans. Synods were held on the subject in various parts—in Judea under Theophilus of Caesarea and Narcissus of Jerusalem, in Pontus under Palmas, in Gaul under Irenaeus, in Corinth under its bishop, Bachillus, at Osrhoene in Mesopotamia, and elsewhere—all of which disapproved of this practice and consequently issued by synodical letters declaring that "on the Lord's Day only the mystery of the resurrection of the Lord from the dead was accomplished, and that on that day only we keep the close of the paschal fast" (Eusebius H. E. v. 23). this disapproval, the general feeling was that this divergent tradition was not sufficient grounds for excommunication. Victor alone was intolerant of this difference, and severed ties with these ancient churches, whose bishops included Polycrates of Ephesus;[5] in response he was rebuked by Irenaeus and others, according to Eusebius. Controversy[edit] the reign of Victor I, bishop of Rome, a universal dispute arose amongst the Christians concerning the feast of the Passover. A synod was convened to discuss the issue, and those in attendance agreed that the paschal fast must end on a Sunday. In response to the ruling of the synod and the command issued by Victor I, the churches of the East, led by Polycrates, wrote a reply that is recorded by Eusebius the historian as such: observe the exact day; neither adding, nor taking away. For in Asia also great lights have fallen asleep, which shall rise again on the day of the Lord's coming, when he shall come with glory from heaven, and shall seek out all the saints. Among these are Philip, one of the twelve apostles, who fell asleep in Hierapolis; and his two aged virgin daughters, and another daughter, who lived in the Holy Spirit and now rests at Ephesus; and, moreover, John, who was both a witness and a teacher, who reclined upon the bosom of the Lord, and, being a priest, wore the sacerdotal plate. He fell asleep at Ephesus. And Polycarp in Smyrna, who was a bishop and martyr; and Thraseas, bishop and martyr from Eumenia, who fell asleep in Smyrna. Why need I mention the bishop and martyr Sagaris who fell asleep in Laodicea, or the blessed Papirius, or Melito, the Eunuch who lived altogether in the Holy Spirit, and who lies in Sardis, awaiting the episcopate from heaven, when he shall rise from the dead? All these observed the fourteenth day of the passover according to the Gospel, deviating in no respect, but following the rule of faith. And I also, Polycrates, the least of you all, do according to the tradition of my relatives, some of whom I have closely followed. For seven of my relatives were bishops; and I am the eighth. And my relatives always observed the day when the people put away the leaven. I, therefore, brethren, who have lived sixty-five years in the Lord, and have met with the brethren throughout the world, and have gone through every Holy Scripture, am not affrighted by terrifying words. For those greater than I have said 'We ought to obey God rather than man...I could mention the bishops who were present, whom I summoned at your desire; whose names, should I write them, would constitute a great multitude. And they, beholding my littleness, gave their consent to the letter, knowing that I did not bear my gray hairs in vain, but had always governed my life by the Lord Jesus."[6] events and Victor's response to Polycrates' letter are recorded by Socrates Scholasticus as such: "In Asia Minor most people kept the fourteenth day of the moon, disregarding the sabbath: yet they never separated from those who did otherwise, until Victor, bishop of Rome, influenced by too ardent a zeal, fulminated a sentence of excommunication against the Quartodecimans in Asia."[7] This led to a sharp rebuke by many prominent bishops (including the most well known, Irenaeus). Hieromartyr Irenaeus the Bishop of Lyons, Commemorated on August 23;

Rome, 193-211, Emperor, Septimius Severus, many victories east and west, Hadrian's Wall Britain, Scotland
Roman Emperor, 193-211, Septimius Severus; Septimius Severus ( 9 April 145 – 4 February 211) was a Roman emperor from 193 to 211. He was born in Leptis Magna (present day Al-Khums, Libya) in the Roman province of Africa. As a young man he advanced through the customary succession of offices under the reigns of Marcus Aurelius and Commodus. Severus seized power after the death of the emperor Pertinax in 193 during the Year of the Five Emperors. deposing and killing the incumbent emperor Didius Julianus, Severus fought his rival claimants, the Roman generals Pescennius Niger and Clodius Albinus. Niger was defeated in 194 at the Battle of Issus in Cilicia. Later that year Severus waged a short punitive campaign beyond the eastern frontier, annexing the Kingdom of Osroene (Edessa) as a new province. Severus defeated Albinus three years later at the Battle of Lugdunum in Gaul. consolidating his rule over the western provinces, Severus waged another brief, more successful war in the east against the Parthian Empire, sacking their capital Ctesiphon in 197 and expanding the eastern frontier to the Tigris. then enlarged and fortified the Limes Arabicus in Arabia Petraea. In 202, he campaigned in Africa and Mauretania against the Garamantes (Lybia), capturing their capital Garama and expanding the Limes Tripolitanus along the southern desert frontier of the empire. proclaimed as augusti (co-emperors) his elder son Caracalla in 198 and his younger son Geta in 209, both born of his second wife Julia Domna. travelled to Britain in 208, strengthening Hadrian's Wall and reoccupying the Antonine Wall. AD 209 he invaded Caledonia (modern Scotland) with an army of 50,000 men[6] his ambitions were cut short when he fell fatally ill of an infectious disease in late 210. He died in early 211 at Eboracum (today York, England), and was succeeded by his sons, who were advised by their mother and his powerful wife Julia Domna, thus founding the Severan dynasty. It was the last dynasty of the Roman Empire before the Crisis of the Third Century. Martyr Florus of Illyria, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Hermes of Rome, Commemorated on August 18; Hieromartyr Irenaeus the Bishop of Lyons, Commemorated on August 23; St Abercius the Bishop and Wonderworker of Hieropolis, Equal of the Apostles, Commemorated on October 22; Martyr Myrope of Chios, Commemorated on December 2; Hieromartyr Alexander the Bishop of Jerusalem, Commemorated on December 12; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; Martyr Perpetua, a woman of Carthage, Commemorated on February 1; Hieromartyr Charalampus the Bishop of Magnesia in Thessaly, Commemorated on February 10; Martyr Conon of Isauria, Commemorated on March 5; PERPETUA, FELICITY AND THEIR COMPANIONS, MARTYRS AT CARTHAGE (7 MAR 202); St Alexander the Archbishop of Jerusalem, Commemorated on May 16; Venerable Anastasia of Serbia, Commemorated on June 21; St Alban the Protomartyr of Britain, Commemorated on June 22;

Rome, 198-217, Emperor, Caracalla, tyranical, domestic instability, invasions, Constitution, Baths, assintd
Rome, 198-217, Emperor, Caracalla; (4 April 188 - 8 April 217), formally known as Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, was Roman emperor from 198 to 217. He was a member of the Severan dynasty, the elder son of Septimius Severus and Julia Domna. with his father from 198, he continued to rule with his brother Geta, emperor from 209, after their father's death in 211. brother was murdered by the Praetorian Guard later that year, supposedly under orders from Caracalla himself, who then reigned afterwards as sole ruler of the Roman Empire. found administration to be mundane, leaving those responsibilities to his mother, Julia Domna. Caracalla's reign featured domestic instability and external invasions by the Germanic peoples. reign became notable for the Antonine Constitution, also known as the Edict of Caracalla, which granted Roman citizenship to all free men throughout the Roman Empire. The edict gave all the enfranchised men Caracalla's adopted praenomen and nomen: "Marcus Aurelius". Domestically, Caracalla became known for the construction of the Baths of Caracalla, which became the second-largest baths in Rome; for the introduction of a new Roman currency named the antoninianus, a sort of double denarius; and for the massacres he ordered, both in Rome and elsewhere in the empire. In 216, Caracalla began a campaign against the Parthian Empire. He did not see this campaign through to completion due to his assassination by a disaffected soldier in 217. Macrinus succeeded him as emperor three days later. ancient sources portray Caracalla as a tyrant and as a cruel leader, an image that has survived into modernity. Dio Cassius (c. 155 – c. 235) and Herodian (c. 170 – c. 240) present Caracalla as a soldier first and an emperor second. In the 12th century, Geoffrey of Monmouth started the legend of Caracalla's role as the king of Britain. Later, in the 18th century, the works of French painters revived images of Caracalla due to apparent parallels between Caracalla's tyranny and that ascribed to Louis XVI of France (r. 1774–1792). Modern works continue to portray Caracalla as an evil ruler, painting him as one of the most tyrannical of all Roman emperors.

Rome, 200, 3rd Century, Folder, Roman Empire, Pagans, Goths and Diocletian

Rome, 202, Haralambos of Magnesia near Ephesus, 113 years old, monstrous tortures, miraculous conversions, great story
Ephesus, 202, Haralambos, Bishop of Magnesia (Meander River 5), near Ephesus, successful preacher, 113 years old, monstrous tortures, iron hooks, removed skin, I thank you for restoring my spirit, to pass over, Lucius forearms cut off, spat in face, head twisted around, L asked for mercy, healed, baptized, Emperor Severus ordered more tortures, saint protected, E daughter believed, S blasphemed & boasted, earthquake, imps suspended in air, H let them down, E sentenced H to beheadidng, savior and angels, H asked no famine disease, but peace, prosperity, fruit, grain, wine, and souls saved in that place, Lord promised to fulfill and ascended w H; Magnesia (Meander River); Hieromartyr Haralambos, Bishop of Magnesia in Thessaly, the Martyrs Porphyrius and Baptus, and three women Martyrs, Commemorated on February 10; Hieromartyr Haralampus, Bishop of Magnesia, the martyrs Porphyrius and Baptus and three women martyrs suffered in the year 202. Haralampus, Bishop of Magnesia (Asia Minor), successfully spread faith in Christ the Savior, guiding people on the way to salvation. News of his preaching reached Lucian, the governor of the district, and the military commander Lucius. The saint was arrested and brought to trial, where he confessed his faith in Christ and refused to offer sacrifice to idols. the bishop’s advanced age (he was 113 years old), he was subjected to monstrous tortures. They lacerated his body with iron hooks, and scraped all the skin from his body. During this the saint turned to his tormentors, “I thank you, brethren, that you have restored my spirit, which longs to pass over to a new and everlasting life!” the Elder’s endurance and his complete lack of malice, two soldiers (Porphyrius and Baptus) openly confessed Christ, for which they were immediately beheaded with a sword. Three women who were watching the sufferings of Saint Haralampus also began to glorify Christ, and were quickly martyred. enraged Lucius seized the instruments of torture and began to torture the holy martyr, but suddenly his forearms were cut off as if by a sword. The governor then spat in the face of the saint, and immediately his head was turned around so that he faced backwards. Lucius entreated the saint to show mercy on him, and both torturers were healed through the prayers of Saint Haralampus. During this a multitude of witnesses came to believe in Christ. Among them also was Lucius, who fell at the feet of the holy bishop, asking to be baptized. reported these events to the emperor Septimus Severus (193-211), who was then at Pisidian Antioch (western Asia Minor). The emperor ordered Saint Haralampus to be brought to him in Antioch. Soldiers twisted the saint’s beard into a rope, wound it around his neck, and used it to drag him along. They also drove an iron nail into his body. The emperor then ordered them to torture the bishop more intensely, and they began to burn him with fire, a little at a time. But God protected the saint, and he remained unharmed. miracles were worked through his prayer: he raised a dead youth, and healed a man tormented by devils for thirty-five years, so that many people began to believe in Christ the Savior. Even Galina, the daughter of the emperor, began to believe in Christ, and twice smashed the idols in a pagan temple. On the orders of the emperor they beat the saint about the mouth with stones. They also wanted to set his beard on fire, but the flames burned the torturer. of wickedness, Septimus Severus and an official named Crispus hurled blasphemy at the Lord, mockingly summoning Him to come down to the earth, and boasting of their own power and might. The Lord sent an earthquake, and great fear fell upon all, the impious ones were both suspended in mid-air held by invisible bonds, and only by the prayer of the saint were they put down. The dazed emperor was shaken in his former impiety, but again quickly fell into error and gave orders to torture the saint. finally, the emperor sentenced Saint Haralampus to beheading with a sword. During Saint Haralampus' final prayer, the heavens opened and the saint saw the Savior and a multitude of angels. The holy martyr asked Him to grant that the place where his relics would repose would never suffer famine or disease. He also begged that there would be peace, prosperity, and an abundance of fruit, grain, and wine in that place, and that the souls of these people would be saved. The Lord promised to fulfill his request and ascended to heaven, and the soul of the hieromartyr Haralampus followed after Him. By the mercy of God, the saint died before he could be executed. Galina buried the martyr’s body with great honor. Greek hagiography and iconography Saint Haralampus is regarded as a priest, while Russian sources seem to regard him as a bishop.

Rome, 203, Perpetua, Carthage, catechumens, baptized after arrest, visions strengthened them, amphitheatre, wild animals
Africa, North Africa, 203, Carthage, North Africa (modern Tunis), catechumens, baptized after arrest, visions from God strengthened them, amphitheatre, lion and bear, wild heifer, leopard, she guided his hand to her throat; Carthage (modern Tunis) ; Martyr Perpetua, a woman of Carthage, Commemorated February 1 ; Holy Martyrs Perpetua, Felicitas and those with them. Vibia Perpetua was from a patrician family, and lived in Carthage. She came to believe in Christ, and was baptized after her arrest as a Christian. A few days later, the twenty-two-year-old woman was taken to prison with her infant son. Arrested with her were her brother Saturus, the servants Felicitas, Revocatus, Saturninus and Secundulus, who were also catechumens. the exhortations of her father, who persistently appealed to her maternal feelings, the widowed Saint Perpetua refused to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. their execution, Saints Perpetua and Saturus had visions from God, which strengthened their souls. Saint Felicitas, who was eight months pregnant, gave birth to a baby girl while in prison. She rejoiced because now she would be permitted to die with her companions. There was a law forbidding the execution of pregnant women. martyrs were led from the prison into the amphitheatre. Saturninus and Revocatus had to face a leopard and a bear. Saints Perpetua and Felicitas were brought to the arena in nets, and they were pitted against a wild heifer. After being tossed to the ground by the heifer, the two women were led out of the arena. Saturus was bitten by a leopard, but did not die. The martyrs were then led to a certain spot to be killed by the sword. The young gladiator who was to execute Saint Perpetua was inexperienced and did not kill her with the first blow. She herself took his hand and guided it to her throat, and so she received the crown of martyrdom. This occurred in about the year 203. amphitheatre where these saints perished is located a few miles from the city of Tunis. In 1881, a room was discovered opposite the modern entrance into the arena. Some say this was a cell where the victims waited to be brought into the arena.

Rome, 204-254, Church Father Origen, but not saint
Egypt, 204-254, Church Father Origen, but not saint; St Gregory the Wonderworker of Neocaesarea, Commemorated on November 17;

Rome, 212-251, Alexander of Jerusalem, Bishop, first C Library at J, beasts refused to eat him, died in prison
Jerusalem Patriarch, 212-251, Alexander of Jerusalem; of Jerusalem (died 251 AD) was a third century bishop who is venerated as a martyr and saint by the Eastern Orthodox Church, Oriental Orthodox churches, and the Roman Catholic Church. He died during the persecution of Emperor Decius.[1] Hieromartyr Alexander, Bishop of Jerusalem, Commemorated on December 12 ; Hieromartyr Alexander, Bishop of Jerusalem, was a disciple of the great teacher and writer of the Church, Clement of Alexandria. At the beginning of the third century he was chosen bishop of Flavia, Cappadocia. He was arrested during the reign of the emperor Septimus Severus (193-211) and spent three years in prison. his release from prison he went to Jerusalem to venerate the holy places, and was told to remain there through a divine revelation. In 212 he was chosen as coadministrator with the elderly Patriarch Narcissus, an unusually rare occurrence in the ancient Church. Following the death of Saint Narcissus (August 7), Saint Alexander succeeded him and governed the Church of Jerusalem for thirty-eight years, working for the enlightenment of Christians. He also established the first library of Christian theological works at Jerusalem. Alexander was arrested during the persecution of the Church under the emperor Decius (249-251). The holy martyr was sent to Cappadocia, where he suffered many tortures. He was condemned to be eaten by wild beasts, but they did not harm him. Saint Alexander was cast into prison, where he surrendered his soul to God. hieromartyr Alexander is also commemorated on May 16. St Alexander the Archbishop of Jerusalem, Commemorated on May 16; story as above--------The Hieromartyr Alexander, Bishop of Jerusalem, was a disciple of the great teacher and writer of the Church, Clement of Alexandria. the beginning of the third century he was chosen bishop of Flavia, Cappadocia. He was arrested during the reign of the emperor Septimus Severus (193-211) and spent three years in prison. his release from prison he went to Jerusalem to venerate the holy places, and was told to remain there through a divine revelation. 212 he was chosen as coadministrator with the elderly Patriarch Narcissus, an unusually rare occurrence in the ancient Church. the death of Saint Narcissus (August 7), Saint Alexander succeeded him and governed the Church of Jerusalem for thirty-eight years, working for the enlightenment of Christians. He also established the first library of Christian theological works at Jerusalem. Alexander was arrested during the persecution of the Church under the emperor Decius (249-251). The holy martyr was sent to Cappadocia, where he suffered many tortures. He was condemned to be eaten by wild beasts, but they did not harm him. Saint Alexander was cast into prison, where he surrendered his soul to God in the year 251. The hieromartyr Alexander is also commemorated on December 12.

Rome, 217-218, Emperor, Macrinus, equestrian class not senatorial, empty coffers, 3 wars, unrest, overthrown, executed
Rome, 217-218, Emperor, Macrinus; Opellius Macrinus (c. 165 - June 218) was Roman Emperor from April 217 to June 218, reigning jointly with his young son Diadumenianus. a member of the equestrian class, he became the first emperor who did not hail from the senatorial class and also the first emperor who never visited Rome during his reign. becoming emperor, Macrinus served under Emperor Caracalla as a praetorian prefect and dealt with Rome's civil affairs. He later conspired against Caracalla and had him murdered in a bid to protect his own life, succeeding him as emperor. was proclaimed emperor of Rome by 11 April 217 while in the eastern provinces of the empire and was subsequently confirmed as such by the Senate; however, for the duration of his reign, he never had the opportunity to return to Rome. predecessor's policies had left Rome's coffers empty and the empire at war with several kingdoms, including Parthia, Armenia and Dacia. As emperor, Macrinus first attempted to enact reform to bring economic and diplomatic stability to Rome. While Macrinus' diplomatic actions brought about peace with each of the individual kingdoms, the additional monetary costs and subsequent fiscal reforms generated unrest in the Roman military. aunt Julia Maesa took advantage of the unrest and instigated a rebellion to have her fourteen-year-old grandson, Elagabalus, recognized as emperor. Macrinus was overthrown at the Battle of Antioch on 8 June 218 and Elagabalus proclaimed himself emperor with support from the rebelling Roman legions. Macrinus fled the battlefield and tried to reach Rome, but was captured in Chalcedon and later executed in Cappadocia. He sent his son to the care of Artabanus IV of Parthia, but Diadumenianus was also captured before he could reach his destination and executed. After Macrinus' death, the Senate declared him and his son enemies of Rome and had their names struck from the records and their images destroyed.

Rome, 217-269, Hieromartyr Hippolytus the Pope of Rome, an antipope 217-235, and martyr in 269, prolific writer
Rome, 217-269, Hieromartyr Hippolytus the Pope of Rome, an antipope 217-235, and martyr in 269, prolific writer; hieromartyr Hippolytus of Rome was a priest and an ecclesiastical writer of the third century. He is considered to have been antipope of the Church of Rome from about 217 to 235. He was among the most important Christian theologians of the third century, and a saint. His feast day is January 30. early life of Hippolytus is unknown. He was born about the year 170 and lived in Rome when young. Greek was his native tongue. He is believed to have been a disciple of Irenaeus of Lyons and to have met Origen. From the details of his work, Philosophoumena Hippolytus apparently was in Rome during the time Victor was the bishop of Rome. At the beginning of the third century he was a priest noted for his learning, eloquence, zeal, and moral earnestness. He was also noted to be a bishop of an unspecified city by Eusebius of Caesarea and Jerome and by the poet Prudentius as bishop of Portus, a port for Rome. Philosophoumena, that is a part of his larger work "Refutation of All Heresies", shows that he dissented from the compassionate views of Bps. Zephyrinus, whom he considered to be a weak man "unskilled the church's rule", and ‎Callistus I of Rome concerning the reception of backsliders and heretics who had repented. In the "Refutation of All Heresies" Hippolytus set out to refute the doctrines of the Gnostics and condemn heretics by showing that their views were taken from pagan philosophy and oriental theosophy. also came into conflict with the opinions of the bishops of Rome on christological issues of the day to such an extant that came to allow himself to be elected a rival bishop of Rome, the first antipope. the persecutions of emperor Maximinus Thrax Hippolytus was exiled to Sardinia in 235 where he died, reportedly a martyr. His body was returned to Rome and interred in a cemetery on the Via Tiburtina. By about 255, he was considered a martyred priest by the Church, indicating that he had been reconciled with the Church and not considered a schismatic. Rome, 217-269, Hieromartyr Hippolytus the Pope of Rome, an antipope 217-235, and martyr in 269, prolific writer; of Rome ( c. 170 - c. 235 AD) was one of the most important second-third century Christian theologians, whose provenance, identity and corpus remain elusive to scholars and historians. communities include Palestine, Egypt, Anatolia, Rome and regions of the mideast. best historians of literature in the ancient church, including Eusebius of Caesarea and Jerome, openly confess they cannot name where Hippolytus the biblical commentator and theologian served in leadership. They had read his works but did not possess evidence of his community. I of Constantinople describes him in his Bibliotheca (cod. 121) as a disciple of Irenaeus, who was said to be a disciple of Polycarp, and from the context of this passage it is supposed that he suggested that Hippolytus so styled himself.[1] This assertion is doubtful.[2] older theory asserts he came into conflict with the popes of his time and seems to have headed a schismatic group as a rival to the bishop of Rome, thus becoming an antipope. In this view, he opposed the Roman Popes who softened the penitential system to accommodate the large number of new pagan converts. However, he was reconciled to the Church before he died as a martyr.[2] in the fourth century, various legends arose about him, identifying him as a priest of the Novatianist schism or as a soldier converted by Saint Lawrence. has also been confused with another martyr of the same name.[2] Pope Pius IV identifies him as "Saint Hippolytus, Bishop of Pontus" who was martyred in the reign of Severus Alexander through his inscription on a statue found at the Church of Saint Lawrence in Rome and kept at the Vatican as photographed and published in Bunsen.[3] is known for certain about his community of origin. One Victorian theory suggested that as a presbyter of the church at Rome under Pope Zephyrinus (199–217 AD), Hippolytus was distinguished for his learning and eloquence. It was at this time that Origen, then a young man, heard him preach.[4][1] this view, Hippolytus accused Pope Zephyrinus of modalism, the heresy which held that the names Father and Son are simply different names for the same subject. Hippolytus championed the Logos doctrine of the Greek apologists, most notably Justin Martyr, which distinguished the Father from the Logos ("Word"). An ethical conservative, he was scandalized when Pope Callixtus I (217–222 AD) extended absolution to Christians who had committed grave sins, such as adultery.[5] suggest Hippolytus himself advocated a pronounced rigorism.[6] At this time, he seems to have allowed himself to be elected as a rival Bishop of Rome, and continued to attack Pope Urban I (222–230 AD) and Pope Pontian (230–235 AD).[2] G. Salmon suggests that Hippolytus was the leader of the Greek-speaking Christians of Rome.[7] Allen Brent sees the development of Roman house-churches into something akin to Greek philosophical schools gathered around a compelling teacher.[8] under this view: during the persecution at the time of Emperor Maximinus Thrax, Hippolytus and Pontian were exiled together in 235 to Sardinia,[9] likely dying in the mines.[7] It is quite probable that, before his death there, he was reconciled to the other party at Rome, for, under Pope Fabian (236–250 AD), his body and that of Pontian were brought to Rome. The so-called Chronography of 354 (more precisely, the Liberian Catalogue) reports that on August 13, probably in 236, the two bodies were interred in Rome, that of Hippolytus in a cemetery on the Via Tiburtina,[9] his funeral being conducted by Justin the Confessor. This document indicates that, by about 255, Hippolytus was considered a martyr and gives him the rank of a priest, not of a bishop, an indication that before his death the schismatic was received again into the Church.[2][1] name Hippolytus appears in various hagiographical and martyrological sources of the early Church. The facts about the life of the writer Hippolytus, as opposed to other celebrated Christians who bore the name Hippolytus, were eventually lost in the West, perhaps partly because he wrote in Hellenic Greek. Pope Damasus I dedicated to a Hippolytus one of his famous epigrams,[1] referring to a priest of the Novatianist schism, a view later forwarded by Prudentius in the 5th century in his "Passion of St Hippolytus". In the Passionals of the 7th and 8th centuries he is represented as a soldier converted by Saint Lawrence, a legend that long survived in the Roman Breviary. He was also confused with a martyr of the same name who was buried in Portus, of which city he was believed to have been a bishop,[2] who was put to death by drowning in a deep well.[9] to Prudentius' account, a martyr Hippolytus was dragged to death by wild horses,[10] a striking parallel to the story of the mythological Hippolytus, who was dragged to death by wild horses at Athens. He described the subterranean tomb of the saint and states that he saw there a picture representing Hippolytus' execution. He also confirms August 13 as the date on which a Hippolytus was celebrated but this again refers to the convert of Lawrence, as preserved in the Menaion of the Eastern Orthodox Church. latter account led to a Hippolytus being considered the patron saint of horses. During the Middle Ages, sick horses were brought to St Ippolyts, Hertfordshire, England, where a church is dedicated to him.[11] -Roman sculpture, maybe of Hippolytus, found in 1551 and used for the attribution of the Apostolic Tradition surrounds the corpus of the writer Hippolytus. In the Victorian Era, scholars claimed his principal work to be the Refutation of all Heresies.[2] Of its ten books, Book I was the most important.[5] It was long known and was printed (with the title Philosophumena) among the works of Origen. Books II and III are lost, and Books IV–X were found, without the name of the author,[1] in a monastery of Mount Athos in 1842. E. Miller published them in 1851 under the title Philosophumena, attributing them to Origen of Alexandria. Recent scholarship prefers to treat the text as the work of an unknown author, perhaps of Roman origin. 1551 a marble statue of a seated figure (originally female, perhaps personifying one of the sciences) was purportedly found in the cemetery of the Via Tiburtina and was heavily restored. On the sides of the seat was carved a paschal cycle, and on the back the titles of numerous writings by Hippolytus.[6][1] Many other works are listed by Eusebius of Caesarea and Jerome. The research of Guarducci showed the original statue was a representation of a female figure, reopening the question of its original purpose. Allen Brent analyzed the title list of the statue, questioning Hippolytan authorship of some works. voluminous writings, which for variety of subject can be compared with those of Origen, embrace the spheres of exegesis, homiletics, apologetics and polemic, chronography, and ecclesiastical law. The Apostolic Tradition, if it is the work of Hippolytus, recorded the first liturgical reference to the Virgin Mary, as part of the ordination rite of a bishop.[12] exegetical works attributed to Hippolytus, the best preserved are the Commentary on the Prophet Daniel and the Commentary on the Song of Songs.[2] This is the earliest attested Christian interpretation of the Song, covering only the first three chapters to Song 3:7. commentary on the Song of Songs survives in two Georgian manuscripts, a Greek epitome, a Paleo-Slavonic florilegium, and fragments in Armenian and Syriac as well as in many patristic quotations, especially in Ambrose of Milan's Exposition on Psalm 118 (119). It is generally regarded as an instruction relating to a post-Baptismal rite of anointing with oil as a symbol of receiving the Holy Spirit. The commentary was originally written as part of a mystagogy, an instruction for new Christians. Scholars have usually assumed the Commentary On the Song of Songs was originally composed for use during Passover, a season favored in the West for Baptism.[13] Hippolytus supplied his commentary with a fully developed introduction known as the schema isagogicum, indicating his knowledge of the rhetorical conventions for teachers discussing classical works.[14] He employs a common rhetorical trope, ekphrasis, using images on the walls or floors of Greco-Roman homes, and in the catacombs as paintings or mosaics.[15] Origen felt that the Song should be reserved for the spiritually mature and that studying it might be harmful for the novice. generally ascribe to Hippolytus[16] a work now entitled the Apostolic Tradition, which contains the earliest known ritual of ordination.[9] The influence of Hippolytus was felt chiefly through his works on chronography and ecclesiastical law.[1] His chronicle of the world, a compilation embracing the whole period from the creation of the world up to the year 234, formed a basis for many chronographical works both in the East and West.[17][1] It is from the Apostolic Tradition that the current words of episcopal ordination in the Catholic Church come from, as updated by Pope Paul VI. the great compilations of ecclesiastical law that arose in the East since the 3rd century, the Church Orders many canons were attributed to Hippolytus, for example in the Canons of Hippolytus or the Constitutions through Hippolytus. How much of this material is genuinely his, how much of it worked over, and how much of it wrongly attributed to him, can no longer be determined beyond dispute,[1] however a great deal was incorporated into the Fetha Negest, which once served as the constitutional basis of law in Ethiopia — where he is still remembered as Abulides. During the early 20th century the work known as The Egyptian Church Order was identified as the Apostolic Tradition and attributed to Hippolytus; at present this attribution is hotly contested. in style and theology lead some scholars to conclude that some of the works attributed to Hippolytus actually derive from a second author.[2] small but potentially important works, On the Twelve Apostles of Christ and On the Seventy Apostles of Christ, are often neglected because the manuscripts were lost during most of the church age and then found in Greece in the 19th century. . The two are included in an appendix to the works of Hippolytus in the voluminous collection of Early Church Fathers.[18] The work on the 70 apostles is noteworthy as a (potentially) early source. consensus of scholarship agrees on a core of authentic texts composed by the second-third century writer Hippolytus, regardless of disputes concerning his community, or the exact dates of his biography: these are the biblical commentaries, including On Daniel, On David and Goliath, On the Song of Songs (partially extant), On the Blessings of Isaac and Jacob, and On the Antichrist. These form a sound basis for exploring and understanding his theology and biblical doctrines. is an important figure in the development of Christian eschatology. In his biblical compendium and topical study On Christ and the Antichrist and in his Commentary on the Prophet Daniel Hippolytus gave his interpretation of the second advent of Christ.[19] the onset of persecutions during the reign of Septimius Severus, many early Christian writers treated topics of apocalyptic eschatology. On Christ and the Antichrist is one of the earliest works. It is thought Hippolytus was generally influenced by Irenaeus.[20] However, unlike Irenaeus, Hippolytus focuses on the meaning of prophecy for the Church in his own time. Of the dogmatic works, On Christ and the Antichrist survives in a complete state and was probably written about 202. follows the long-established usage in interpreting Daniel's seventy prophetic weeks to be weeks of literal years. Hippolytus gave an explanation of Daniel's paralleling prophecies of chapters 2 and 7, which he, as with the other fathers, specifically relates to the Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans. His interpretation of events and their significance is Christological.[21] did not subscribe to the belief that the Second Coming was imminent.[22] In his commentary on Daniel he criticizes those who predict the Second Coming in the near future, and then says that six thousand years must pass from Creation before the Second Coming. He also says that Christ was born 5500 years after Adam, so 500 years have to pass from the birth of Christ "to the consummation of the six thousand years, and in this way the end will be".[23] days[edit] the Eastern Orthodox Church, the feast day of St Hippolytus falls on August 13, which is also the Apodosis of the Feast of the Transfiguration. Because on the Apodosis the hymns of the Transfiguration are to be repeated, the feast of St. Hippolytus may be transferred to the day before or to some other convenient day. The Eastern Orthodox Church also celebrates the feast of "St Hippolytus Pope of Rome" on January 30, who may or may not be the same individual. Roman Catholic Church celebrates St Hippolytus jointly with St Pontian on August 13. The feast of Saint Hippolytus formerly celebrated on 22 August as one of the companions of Saint Timotheus was a duplicate of his 13 August feast and for that reason was deleted when the General Roman Calendar was revised in 1969.[24] Earlier editions of the Roman Martyrology referred to the 22 August Hippolytus as Bishop of Porto. The Catholic Encyclopedia sees this as "connected with the confusion regarding the Roman presbyter resulting from the Acts of the Martyrs of Porto. It has not been ascertained whether the memory of the latter was localized at Porto merely in connection with the legend in Prudentius, without further foundation, or whether a person named Hippolytus was really martyred at Porto, and afterwards confounded in legend with Hippolytus of Rome."[6] This opinion is shared by a Benedictine source.[25] editions of the Roman Martyrology also mentioned on 30 January a Hippolytus venerated at Antioch, but the details were borrowed from the story of Hippolytus of Rome.[26] Modern editions of the Martyrology omit mention of this supposed Saint Hippolytus of Antioch. Rome; Hieromartyr Hippolytus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated January 30 ; Hieromartyr Hippolytus, and the Martyrs Censorinus, Sabinus, Chryse the Virgin and 20 others suffered during the third century. Saint Hippolytus, Bishop of Rome, learned of the suffering of the martyrs, he appeared before the governor despite his advanced years and rebuked the torturers for their inhumanity. The enraged governor sentenced the holy bishop to be tortured. After long torments, they tied him hand and foot and threw him into the sea. Censorinus was a high-ranking magistrate during the reign of the Roman emperor Claudius II (268-270). He was arrested and thrown into prison for his faith in Christ. By the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ he raised up a dead man. As a result, twenty soldiers and prison guards were converted to Christ. They were beheaded with Saint Censorinus. Then the virgin Chryse was brought for interrogation. She bravely confessed herself a Christian and was subjected to torture. They lashed her sides and burned the wounds with candles. Then she was stretched out on the ground and beaten with heavy clubs. Not content with this, they broke her jaw with a rock and her back with leaden balls. Although she was covered with wounds, she confessed her faith as she was dying. So cruel was the brutality of her murderers that they tied a large stone around her neck and threw her into the sea. Chryse was thrown into the deep, but the newly-slain bride emerged from the ocean and entered the heavenly Bridal Chamber. Although her body disappeared into the water, her memory remains eternal and immortal, even more golden than her illustrious name. [FootNote: Chryse means “golden.”] Sabinus was the servant of Saint Chryse. The depraved idolaters beat him mercilessly with heavy leaden balls on his neck, then they hung him up on a tree and burned his entrails. After giving thanks to God, he surrendered his soul to Christ. Saint Chryse suffered the martyrs Ares, Felix, Maximus, Herculianus, Venerius, Stiracius, Mennas, Commodus, Hermes, Maurus, Eusebius, Rusticus, Monagrius, Amandinus, Olympius, Cyprus, Theodore the Tribune, Maximus the Presbyter, Archelaus the Deacon, and Cyriacus the Bishop. these Roman martyrs suffered in the year 269. The relics of the Hieromartyr Hippolytus were put in the church of the holy Martyrs Laurence and Pope Damasus at Rome. Saint Hippolytus was a disciple of Saint Irenaeus, Bishop of Lugdunum (Lyons in France), and he is also renowned as a Christian theologian who wrote many treatises against the heretics. Hyppolitus compiled a Paschal Canon, the famous Apostolic Tradition, “On Christ”, and a “Treatise on the Antichrist.” Saint Hippolytus also wrote many commentaries on Holy Scripture, on the Biblical Books: Genesis, Exodus, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, the Song of Songs, and on the Gospels of Matthew, Luke and John, and on the Prophets Isaiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Zechariah, on the Psalms of David and on the Apocalyse. Part of his works are preserved only in fragments. His discourses, devoted to the Theophany and the Prophet Daniel, are preserved in full. His discourses demonstrate his masterful style of preaching. He was one of the last Western Fathers to write in Greek.

Rome, 218-222, Emperor, Elagabalus, extreme eccentricity, decadence, zealotry, and sexual promiscuity, assanated at 18
Rome, 218-222, Emperor, Elagabalus; or Heliogabalus[b] (c. 204 - 11 March 222), officially known as Antoninus, was Roman emperor from 218 to 222, while he was still a teenager. His short reign was conspicuous for sex scandals and religious controversy. A close relative to the Severan dynasty, he came from a prominent Arab family in Emesa (Homs), Syria, where since his early youth he served as head priest of the sun god Elagabal. After the death of his cousin the emperor Caracalla, Elagabalus was raised to the principate at 14 years of age in an army revolt instigated by his grandmother, Julia Maesa, against Caracalla's short-lived successor, Macrinus. As a private citizen, he was probably named Varius Avitus Bassianus. Upon becoming emperor he took the name Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, and only posthumously became known by the Latinised name of his god.[c] historians suggest Elagabalus showed a disregard for Roman religious traditions and sexual taboos. He replaced the traditional head of the Roman pantheon, Jupiter, with the deity Elagabal, of whom he had been high priest. He forced leading members of Rome's government to participate in religious rites celebrating this deity, presiding over them in person. He married four women, including a Vestal Virgin, and lavished favours on male courtiers thought to have been his lovers.[4][5] He was also reported to have prostituted himself.[6] His behavior estranged the Praetorian Guard, the Senate, and the common people alike. Amidst growing opposition, at just 18 years of age he was assassinated and replaced by his cousin Severus Alexander in March 222. The assassination plot against Elagabalus was devised by his grandmother, Julia Maesa, and carried out by disaffected members of the Praetorian Guard. developed a reputation among his contemporaries for extreme eccentricity, decadence, zealotry, and sexual promiscuity. This tradition has persisted, and among writers of the early modern age he suffered one of the worst reputations among Roman emperors. Edward Gibbon, for example, wrote that Elagabalus "abandoned himself to the grossest pleasures with ungoverned fury".[7] According to Barthold Georg Niebuhr, "the name Elagabalus is branded in history above all others" because of his "unspeakably disgusting life".[8] An example of a modern historian's assessment is Adrian Goldsworthy's: "Elagabalus was not a tyrant, but he was an incompetent, probably the least able emperor Rome had ever had."[9] Despite universal condemnation of his reign, some scholars do write warmly about him, including 6th century Roman chronicler John Malalas, and Warwick Ball, a modern historian who described him as innovative and "a tragic enigma lost behind centuries of prejudice".[10]

Rome, 218-269, Censorinus, Roman Grammarian and Writer
Rome, 218-269, Roman Grammarian and Writer Censorinus; Roman Anti Pope and Saint, 217-235, Hippolytus; Martyr Concordia of Rome, Commemorated on August 13; Martyr Hippolytus of Rome, Commemorated on August 13; Hieromartyr Hippolytus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on January 30;

Rome, 220-230, Celia of Rome, Angel to guard h chasity, fine clothes, hair shirt, husband's b to see t angel, crowns of roses,
Rome, 220-230, Celia of Rome, Angel to guard her chasity, fine clothes, hair shirt, husband's baptism to see the angel, crowns of roses, hearts pure, hearts desire, brother saved, arrested, outside city, maximus the guard baptized, properth already given away, Celia hot house torture, 3 times to behead her, died 3rd day ; Rome; CECILIA OF ROME, MARTYR AT ROME, c. 280, Commemorated November 22; Cecilia is the patron saint of musicians and Church music because as she was dying she sang to God. It was long supposed that she was a noble lady of Rome who, with her husband Valerian, his brother Tiburtius, and a Roman soldier Maximus, suffered martyrdom, c. 230, under the Emperor Alexander research of Giovanni Battista de Rossi, however, appears to confirm the statement of Venantius Fortunatus, Bishop of Poitiers (d. 600), that she perished in Sicily under Emperor Marcus Aurelius between 176 and 180. martyrdom of Cecilia is said to have followed that of her husband and his brother by the prefect Turcius Almachius. officers of the prefect then sought to have Cecilia killed as well. At that time, the officials attempted to kill her by boiling her alive. However, the attempt failed, and she was to be beheaded. The executioner attempted to decapitate her three times unsuccessfully, at which time he fled. survived another three days before succumbing. In the last three days of her life, she opened her eyes, gazed at her family and friends who crowded around her cell, closed them, and never opened them again. The people by her cell knew immediately that she was to become a saint in heaven. more at Wikipedia Martyr Cecilia at Rome, Commemorated on November 22 ; Cecilia was born in Rome during the III century to wealthy and illustrious parents, who were idolaters. the Gospel preached, she came to believe in Christ, and vowed to preserve her virginity. her will, however, they betrothed her to a noble pagan named Valerian, and forced her to wear fine clothes and jewelry at all times. these rich garments, she wore a rough hair shirt. with love for her Bridegroom Christ, she entreated Him to prevent the wedding. the day of the marriage arrived, Saint Cecilia wept bitterly and prayed that the Lord would send an Angel to guard her chastity. That night, as they were led to the bridal chamber, she told her husband that an invisible Angel had been sent to defend her virginity. "If you touch me," she said, "he will slay you at once." asked to see this Angel, but she told him, "you cannot see the Angel because you do not know the true God. You will not be able to see the Angel until you are cleansed of the impurity of unbelief." “How may I be cleansed?” he asked. said that if he asked Bishop Urban to baptize him, he would be able to see the Angel. The Saint persuaded her husband to see Bishop Urban, who was hiding from the persecution in a cave along the Appian Way. The wise bishop's instructions filled Valerian's soul with joy, and after his Baptism Bishop Urban sent him home. found Cecilia praying, and saw an Angel of indescribable beauty standing beside her, holding two crowns of red roses and white lilies. Placing the wreaths on their heads he said, "Guard these wreaths by keeping your hearts pure and your bodies undefiled. I have brought them from Paradise, and no one can see them unless they, like you, are lovers of chastity. God sent me to you, Valerian, because you have agreed to preserve your purity. He wants you to have what you desire." said, "No one is dearer to me than my brother Tiburtius. I ask the Lord to deliver him from the worship of idols, and convert him, as he converted me." Angel said that this request was pleasing to God, and would be granted. He also revealed that Valerian and Tiburtius would suffer martyrdom together. Soon after this, Tiburtius came to visit his brother. When he entered the house, he noticed the fragrance of roses and lilies. Valerian told him that he was able to smell the flowers because he had prayed that Tiburtius would come to love God and become worthy of an unfading crown. I dreaming," Tiburtius exclaimed, "or are you really telling me this?" answered, "Until now, we have been living as if in a dream, worshiping false 'gods' and unclean demons. Now we walk in God's truth and grace." receiving instruction, Tiburtius was baptized by Bishop Urban. Then the brothers distributed part of their inheritance to the poor, took care of the sick, and buried the Christians who had been tortured to death by their persecutors. was reported to Almachius, the Eparch of the city, who ordered that the brothers be arrested and brought to trial. He ordered the Saints to renounce Christ and offer sacrifice to the pagan "gods," but the brothers refused. Then they scourged the brothers without mercy. Saint Valerian urged the Christians not to fear torments, but to stand firm for Christ. order to prevent the brothers from influencing the people, Almachius ordered that the martyrs be taken outside the city and executed there. soldiers accompanying the martyrs to execution were commanded by Maximus. He was amazed at the courage of the Saints, and asked them why they did not fear death. The holy brothers said that they were exchanging this temporal life for everlasting life. Maximus wanted to learn Christian teaching in detail. He took Saints Valerian and Tiburtius to his own house and conversed with them all night. she heard of this, Saint Cecilia went with a priest to Maximus. Then he and his entire family were baptized. next day, when the Martyrs Valerian and Tiburtius were beheaded, Saint Maximus confessed before everyone that he saw their holy souls being taken up to Heaven. Because of this, the holy Martyr Maximus was beaten to death. Eparch wanted to confiscate the property of those who had been executed, but when he was told that Saint Cecilia had already given her remaining wealth to the poor and had converted 400 men, he ordered her execution. three days they tormented her in an overheated bath-house, with the heat and steam, but she was helped by the grace of God. that Saint Cecilia was still alive, they decided to behead her. The executioner struck her three times with a sword, but only wounded her. The holy Martyr lived three more days in full consciousness, encouraging those around her. Finally, she surrendered her soul to God, and her body was buried with reverence. Cecilia is regarded as the patron Saint of Church music. St. John Chrysostom extols the benefits of sacred music, and shows how strongly the fire of divine love is kindled in the soul by devout psalmody. (On Psalm 41). Holy Relics of Saints Valerian and Tiburtius are in the Roman Catholic Basilica of Saints Valerian and Cecilia in Rome.

Rome, 220-258, Cyprian, Saint, writer, true life, apostles faith, virtue foundation of Love
Africa, North Africa, 220-258, Saint, Cyprian; Hieromartyr Cyprian the Bishop of Carthage, Commemorated on August 31; Saint Cyprian was finally baptized, he wrote in the Treatise To Donatus: “When the water of regeneration cleansed the impurity of my former life, a light from on high shone into my heart... and the Spirit transformed me into a new man by a second birth. Then at once, in a miraculous manner, certainty replaced doubt, mysteries were revealed, and darkness became light.... Then it was possible to acknowledge that what was born of the flesh and lived for sin was earthly, but what the Holy Spirit had vivified began to be of God.... In God and from God is all our strength.... Through Him we, while living upon the earth, have a hint of future bliss.” Hieromartyr Cyprian, Bishop of Carthage, was born in about the year 200 in the city of Carthage (Northern Africa), where all his life and work took place. Thascius Cyprianus was the son of a rich pagan senator, and received a fine secular education becoming a splendid orator, and a teacher of rhetoric and philosophy in the school of Carthage. He often appeared in the courts to defend his fellow citizens. afterwards recalled that for a long time “he remained in a deep dark mist.., far from the light of Truth.” His fortune, received from his parents and from his work, was spent on sumptuous banquets, but they were not able to quench in him the thirst for truth. He became acquainted with the writings of the Apologist Tertullian, and became convinced of the truth of Christianity. The holy bishop later wrote that he thought it was impossible for him to attain to the regeneration promised by the Savior, because of his habits. was helped by his friend and guide, the presbyter Cecilius, who assured him of the power of God’s grace. At 46 years of age the studious pagan was received into the Christian community as a catechumen. Before accepting Baptism, he distributed his property to the poor and moved into the house of the presbyter Cecilius. Saint Cyprian was finally baptized, he wrote in the Treatise To Donatus: “When the water of regeneration cleansed the impurity of my former life, a light from on high shone into my heart... and the Spirit transformed me into a new man by a second birth. Then at once, in a miraculous manner, certainty replaced doubt, mysteries were revealed, and darkness became light.... Then it was possible to acknowledge that what was born of the flesh and lived for sin was earthly, but what the Holy Spirit had vivified began to be of God.... In God and from God is all our strength.... Through Him we, while living upon the earth, have a hint of future bliss.” years after his Baptism, the saint was ordained to the priesthood. When Bishop Donatus of Carthage died, Saint Cyprian was unanimously chosen as bishop. He gave his consent, having complied with his guide’s request, and was consecrated Bishop of Carthage in the year 248. saint first of all concerned himself about the welfare of the Church and the eradication of vices among the clergy and flock. The saintly life of the archpastor evoked in everyone a desire to imitate his piety, humility and wisdom. The fruitful activity of Saint Cyprian became known beyond the bounds of his diocese. Bishops from other sees often turned to him for advice on how to deal with various matters. persecution by the emperor Decius (249-251), revealed to the saint in a vision, forced him to go into hiding. His life was necessary to his flock for the strengthening of faith and courage among the persecuted. Before his departure from his diocese, the saint distributed the church funds among all the clergy for the aid of the needy, and in addition he sent further funds. kept in constant touch with the Carthaginian Christians through his epistles, and he wrote letters to presbyters, confessors and martyrs. Some Christians, broken by torture, offered sacrifice to the pagan gods. These lapsed Christians appealed to the confessors, asking to give them what is called a letter of reconciliation, i.e. a certificate for accepting them back into the Church. Saint Cyprian wrote a general letter to all the Carthaginian Christians, stating that those who lapsed during a time of persecution might be admitted into the Church, but this must be preceded by an investigation of the circumstances under which the falling away came about. It was necessary to determine the sincerity of contrition of the lapsed. To admit them was possible only after penance, and with the permission of the bishop. Some of the lapsed insistently demanded their immediate re-admittance into the Church and caused unrest in the whole community. Saint Cyprian wrote the bishops of other dioceses asking their opinion, and from all he received full approval of his directives. his absence the saint authorized four priests to examine the lives of persons preparing for ordination to the priesthood and the deaconate. This met with resistance from the layman Felicissimus and the presbyter Novatus, roused to indignation against their bishop. Saint Cyprian excommunicated Felicissimus and six of his followers. In his letter to the flock, the saint touchingly admonished all not to separate themselves from the unity of the Church, to be subject to the lawful commands of the bishop and to await his return. This letter kept the majority of Carthaginian Christians faithful to the Church. a short while, Saint Cyprian returned to his flock. The insubordination of Felicissimus was put to an end at a local Council in the year 251. This Council decreed that it was possible to receive the lapsed back into the Church after a penance, and it affirmed the excommunication of Felicissimus. this time there occurred a new schism, led by the Roman presbyter Novatian, and joined by the Carthaginian presbyter Novatus, a former adherent of Felicissimus. Novatian asserted that those who lapsed during a time of persecution could not be readmitted, even if they repented of their sin. Besides this, Novatian with the help of Novatus convinced three Italian bishops during the lifetime of the lawful Roman bishop Celerinus to place another bishop on the Roman cathedra. Against such iniquity, Saint Cyprian wrote a series of encyclicals to the African bishops, and later a whole book, On the Unity of the Church. the discord in the Carthage church began to quiet down, a new calamity began: a pestilential plague flared up. Hundreds of people fled from the city, leaving the sick without help, and the dead without burial. Saint Cyprian, providing an example by his firmness and his courage, tended the sick and buried the dead himself, not only Christians but also pagans. The plague was accompanied by drought and famine. A horde of barbarian Numidians, taking advantage of the misfortune, fell upon the inhabitants, taking many into captivity. Saint Cyprian moved many rich Carthaginians to offer up means for feeding the starving and ransoming captives. a new persecution against Christians spread under the emperor Valerian (253-259), the Carthaginian proconsul Paternus ordered the saint to offer sacrifice to idols. He steadfastly refused to do this. He also refused to give the names and addresses of the presbyters of the church of Carthage. They sent the saint to the city of Curubis, and Deacon Pontus voluntarily followed his bishop into exile. the day the saint arrived at the place of exile he had a vision, predicting for him a quick martyr’s end. While in exile, Saint Cyprian wrote many letters and books. Desiring to suffer at Carthage, he returned there. Taken before the court, he was set at liberty until the following year. Nearly all the Christians of Carthage came to take leave of their bishop and receive his blessing. the trial, Saint Cyprian calmly and firmly refused to offer sacrifice to idols and was sentenced to beheading with a sword. Hearing the sentence, Saint Cyprian said, “Thanks be to God!” All the people cried out with one voice, “Let us also be beheaded with him!” to the place of execution, the saint again gave his blessing to all and arranged to give twenty-five gold coins to the executioner. He then tied a handkerchief over his eyes, and gave his hands to be bound to the presbyter and archdeacon standing near him and lowered his head. Christians put their cloths and napkins in front of him so as to collect the martyr’s blood. Saint Cyprian was executed in the year 258. The body of the saint was taken by night and given burial in a private crypt of the procurator Macrobius Candidianus. say that his holy relics were transferred to France in the time of King Charles the Great (i.e. Charlemagne, 771-814). Cyprian of Carthage left the Church a precious legacy: his writings and 80 letters. The works of Saint Cyprian were accepted by the Church as a model of Orthodox confession and read at two Ecumenical Councils (Ephesus and Chalcedon). the writings of Saint Cyprian the Orthodox teaching about the Church is stated: It has its foundation upon the Lord Jesus Christ, and was proclaimed and built up by the Apostles. The inner unity is expressed in an unity of faith and love, and the outer unity is actualized by the hierarchy and sacraments of the Church. the Church Christ comprises all the fulness of life and salvation. Those having separated themselves from the unity of the Church do not have true life in themselves. Christian love is shown as the bond that holds the Church together. “Love is the foundation of all the virtues, and it continues with us eternally in the Heavenly Kingdom.”

Rome, 220-258, Novatian, Theologian, Navatianism, refused readmission to communion
Roman Theologian, 220-258, Novatian ; (c. 200–258) was a scholar, priest, and theologian. He is considered by the Catholic Church to have been an antipope between 251 and 258.[1] Some Greek authors give his name as Novatus,[2] who was an African presbyter. was a noted theologian and writer, the first Roman theologian who used the Latin language, at a time when there was much debate about how to deal with Christians who had lapsed and wished to return, and the issue of penance. Consecrated as pope by three bishops in 251, he adopted a more rigorous position than the established Pope Cornelius. Novatian was shortly afterwards excommunicated: the schismatic church which he established persisted for several centuries (see Novatianism). Hieromartyr Cyprian the Bishop of Carthage, Commemorated on August 31; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13;

Rome, 220-258, Denis or Dionysius, patron saint of France
Paris, 220-258, Denis or Dionysius, patron saint of France Hieromartyr Dionysius of Paris, Bishop. Commemorated on October 9; Dionysius (or Denis) has, for many centuries, been regarded as the patron saint of France. is believed that Saint Dionysius was sent to preach the Gospel at Lutetia Parisiorum (modern Paris) in Gaul around 250. He was beheaded in 258 with the priest Rusticus and the deacon Eleutherius at Montmartre (Hill of the Martyrs). A later legend claims that Saint Dionysius carried his severed head from Montmartre to his burial place at Vicus Catulliacus, now known as Saint Denis. The abbey of Saint-Denis, where French kings were interred, was built on the site of their martyrdom. identification of this Saint Dionysius with Saint Dionysius the Areopagite (October 3) appears to be an error made by a ninth century writer.

Rome, 220-264, Saint Dionysius, Bishop of Alexandria, Cathetical School, writer
Egypt, 220-264, Saint Dionysius, Bishop of Alexandria; Egypt, 245-339, Saint Paul the Simple; Egypt, 271-356, Saint Anthony the Great; Egyptian Patriarch, 325-395, Paphnutius the Ascetic; Venerable Ammon, Commemorated on October 4; Venerable Paul the Simple of Egypt, Commemorated on October 4; Hieromartyr Dionysius the Bishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on October 5; Dionysius, Bishop of Alexandria, was the son of wealthy pagan parents. He converted to Christianity at a mature age, and became a pupil of Origen. Later, he was appointed as the head of Alexandria’s Catechetical School, and then became Bishop of Alexandria in the year 247. Dionysius devoted much effort to defend the Church from heresy, and he encouraged his flock in the firm confession of Orthodoxy during the persecution under the emperors Decius (249-251) and Valerian (253-259). holy bishop endured much suffering in his lifetime. When the Decian persecution broke out, Saint Dionysius was forced to flee Alexandria, but returned when the Emperor died. He was later exiled to Libya during the reign of Valerian. he was able to resume his duties in Alexandria in 261, Saint Dionysius had to contend with civil war, famine, plague, and other difficulties. The saint called upon his flock to tend sick Christians and pagans alike, and to bury the dead. Concerning the death of his spiritual children he wrote, “In such a manner the best of our brethren have departed this life. This generation of the dead, a deed of great piety and firm faith, is no less of a martyrdom.” Dionysius illumined his flock through his preaching, and with deeds of love and charity. An illness prevented him from attending the Council of Antioch (264- 265), and he fell asleep in the Lord while it was in session. influence of Saint Dionysius extended beyond the limits of his diocese, and his writings dealt with practical as well as theological subjects (“On Nature,” “On Temptations,” “On the Promises,” etc.). He was also familiar with Greek philosophy. Only fragments of his writings survive today, most of them preserved in Eusebius, who mentions him in his CHURCH HISTORY ( Book 7) and calls him “Dionysius the Great.” complete letters of Saint Dionysius are extant, one addressed to Novatian, and the other to Basilides. St John of Egypt,Commemorated on December 2;

Rome, 222-235, Emperor, Severus Alexander, pagan, prosperous r, rising Persians and Germans, diplomacy killed him
Roman Emperor, 222-235, Severus Alexander; Aurelius Severus Alexander (1 October 208 - 19 March 235) was Roman emperor from 222 to 235, and the last from the Severan dynasty. was the heir to his cousin, the 18-year-old Emperor Elagabalus. The latter had been murdered along with his mother Julia Soaemias, by his own guards, who, as a mark of contempt, had their remains cast into the Tiber river.[2] and his cousin were both grandsons of Julia Maesa, sister of empress Julia Domna, who had arranged for Elagabalus' acclamation as emperor by the Third Gallic Legion. was the rumor of Alexander's death that triggered the assassination of Elagabalus and his mother.[3] 13-year reign was the longest reign of a sole emperor since Antoninus Pius.[4] He was also the second-youngest ever sole legal Roman emperor during the existence of the united empire, the youngest being Gordian III. peacetime reign was prosperous. Rome was militarily confronted with the rising Sassanid Empire and growing incursions from the tribes of Germania. He managed to check the threat of the Sassanids. But when campaigning against Germanic tribes, Alexander attempted to bring peace by engaging in diplomacy and bribery. alienated many in the Roman Army, leading to a conspiracy that resulted in the assassination of Alexander, his mother Julia Avita Mamaea, and his advisors. ------------------------------------------------After their deaths, the accession of Maximinus Thrax followed. death marked the epoch event for the Crisis of the Third Century—nearly 50 years of civil wars, foreign invasion, and collapse of the monetary economy. 1 Early reign 2 Domestic achievements 3 Persian War 4 Military discipline 5 Germanic War 6 Death 7 Legacy 8 Personal life 9 Ancestry 10 See also 11 References 12 Bibliography 12.1 Primary 12.2 Secondary 13 External links reign[edit] future emperor Severus Alexander was born on 1 October 208 in Arca Caesarea, Phoenicia.[5] Of his birth name, only two cognomina are known, from literary sources: Bassianus (Greek: Î’Î±ÏƒÏƒÎ¹Î±Î½ÏŒÏ‚) according to the historian Cassius Dio, and Alexianus (Greek: Î‘Î»ÎµÎ¾Î¹Î±Î½ÏŒÏ‚) according to Herodian. It seems likely that Bassianus was his family name, since several of his relatives were also called as such, and Alexianus his actual given name, which was later converted to Alexander.[6] historian Cassius Dio thought Alexianus was the son of Marcus Julius Gessius Marcianus, but Icks disputes this, saying the latter could not have married the emperor's mother before 212 and that Alexianus must've been fathered by his mother's first husband, who is of unknown name but of certain existence.[7] Alexander became emperor when he was around 14 years old, making him the youngest emperor in Rome's history, until the ascension of Gordian III. Alexander's grandmother Maesa believed that he had more potential to rule and gain support from the Praetorian Guard than her other grandson, the increasingly unpopular emperor Elagabalus.[8] Thus, to preserve her own position, she had Elagabalus adopt the young Alexander and then arranged for Elagabalus' assassination, securing the throne for Alexander.[9] The Roman army hailed Alexander as emperor on 13 March 222, immediately conferring on him the titles of Augustus, pater patriae and pontifex maximus.[10] his life, Alexander relied heavily on guidance from his grandmother, Maesa, before her death in 224, and mother, Julia Mamaea.[11] As a young, immature, and inexperienced adolescent, Alexander knew little about government, warcraft, or the role of ruling over an empire. In time, however, the army came to admire what Jasper Burns refers to as "his simple virtues and moderate behavior, so different from [Elagabalus]".[12] achievements[edit] of Alexander Severus, Louvre. the influence of his mother, Alexander did much to improve the morals and condition of the people, and to enhance the dignity of the state.[13] He employed noted jurists, such as Ulpian, to oversee the administration of justice.[citation needed] His advisers were men like the senator and historian Cassius Dio, and it is claimed that he created a select board of 16 senators,[14] although this claim is disputed.[15] He also created a municipal council of 14 who assisted the urban prefect in administering the affairs of the 14 districts of Rome.[16] Excessive luxury and extravagance at the imperial court were diminished,[17] and he restored the Baths of Nero in 227 or 229; consequently, they are sometimes also known as the Baths of Alexander after him. his accession he reduced the silver purity of the denarius from 46.5% to 43%—the actual silver weight dropped from 1.41 grams to 1.30 grams; however, in 229 he revalued the denarius, increasing the silver purity and weight to 45% and 1.46 grams. The following year he decreased the amount of base metal in the denarius while adding more silver, raising the silver purity and weight again to 50.5% and 1.50 grams.[18] Additionally, during his reign taxes were lightened; literature, art and science were encouraged;[19] and, for the convenience of the people, loan offices were instituted for lending money at a moderate rate of interest.[20] religious matters, Alexander preserved an open mind. According to the Historia Augusta, he wished to erect a temple to Jesus but was dissuaded by the pagan priests; however, this claim is deemed unreliable due to the book's many untrustworthy information and falsifications.[21][22] He allowed a synagogue to be built in Rome, and he gave as a gift to this synagogue a scroll of the Torah known as the Severus Scroll.[23] legal matters, Alexander did much to aid the rights of his soldiers. He confirmed that soldiers could name anyone as heirs in their will, whereas civilians had strict restrictions over who could become heirs or receive a legacy.[24] He also confirmed that soldiers could free their slaves in their wills,[25] protected the rights of soldiers to their property when they were on campaign,[26] and reasserted that a soldier's property acquired in or because of military service (his castrense peculium) could be claimed by no one else, not even the soldier's father.[27] War[edit] the whole, Alexander's reign was prosperous until the rise of the Sassanids[28] under Ardashir I.[29] In 231 AD, Ardeshir invaded the Roman provinces of the east, overrunning Mesopotamia and penetrating possibly as far as Syria and Cappadocia, forcing from the young Alexander a vigorous response.[30] Of the war that followed there are various accounts. According to the most detailed authority, Herodian, the Roman armies suffered a number of humiliating setbacks and defeats,[31] while according to the Historia Augusta[32] as well as Alexander's own dispatch to the Roman Senate, he gained great victories.[33] Making Antioch his base, he organized in 233 a three-fold invasion of the Sassanian Empire; at the head of the main body he himself advanced to recapture northern Mesopotamia, while another army invaded Media through the mountains of Armenia, and a third advanced from the south in the direction of Babylon. The northernmost army gained some success, fighting in mountainous territory favorable to the Roman infantry, but the southern army was surrounded and destroyed by Ardashir's skilful horse-archers, and Alexander himself retreated after an indecisive campaign, his army wracked by indiscipline and disease.[34][35] Further losses were incurred by the retreating northern army in the inclement cold of Armenia as it retired into winter quarters, due to an incompetent failure to establish adequate supply lines.[36][37] Still, Mesopotamia was retaken, and Ardashir was not thereafter able to extend his conquests, though his son, Shapur, would obtain some success later in the century.[38] the Sassanids were checked for the time,[33] the conduct of the Roman army showed an extraordinary lack of discipline. In 232, there was a mutiny in the Syrian legion, which proclaimed Taurinus emperor.[39] Alexander managed to suppress the uprising, and Taurinus drowned while attempting to flee across the Euphrates.[40] The emperor returned to Rome and celebrated a triumph in 233.[33] discipline[edit] ALEXANDER PIVS AVG. ALEXANDER PIVS AVG. of Severus Alexander reign was also characterized by a significant breakdown of military discipline.[41] In 228, the Praetorian Guard murdered their prefect, Ulpian,[41] in Alexander's presence. Alexander could not openly punish the ringleader of the riot, and instead removed him to nominal post of honor in Egypt and then Crete, where he was "quietly put out of the way" sometime after the excitement had abated.[42] The soldiers then fought a three-day battle against the populace of Rome, and this battle ended after several parts of the city were set on fire.[43] was among those who gave a highly critical account of military discipline during the time, saying that the soldiers would rather just surrender to the enemy.[43] Different reasons are given for this issue; Campbell points to the decline in the prestige of the Severan dynasty, the feeble nature of Alexander himself, who appeared to be no soldier and to be completely dominated by his mother's advice, and lack of real military success at a time during which the empire was coming under increasing pressure."[ 43] on the other hand, was convinced that "the emperor's miserliness (partly the result of his mother's greed) and slowness to bestow donatives" were instrumental in the fall of military discipline under Alexander.[43] War[edit] the Persian war, Alexander returned to Antioch with Origen, one of the Fathers of the Christian Church. Alexander's mother, Julia Mamaea, asked for Origen to tutor Alexander in Christianity.[44] Alexander was being educated in the Christian doctrines, the northern portion of his empire was being invaded by Germanic and Sarmatian tribes. A new and menacing enemy started to emerge directly after Alexander's success in the Persian war. In 234, the barbarians crossed the Rhine and Danube in hordes that caused alarm as far as Rome. The soldiers serving under Alexander, already demoralized after their costly war against the Persians, were further discontented with their emperor when their homes were destroyed by the barbarian invaders.[45] word of the invasion spread, the emperor took the front line and went to battle against the Germanic invaders. The Romans prepared heavily for the war, building a fleet to carry the entire army across. However, at this point in Alexander's career, he still knew little about being a general. Because of this, he hoped the mere threat of his armies would be sufficient to persuade the hostile tribes to surrender.[46] Severus enforced a strict military discipline in his men that sparked a rebellion among his legions.[47] Due to incurring heavy losses against the Persians, and on the advice of his mother, Alexander attempted to buy the Germanic tribes off, so as to gain time.[48] was this decision that resulted in the legionaries looking down upon Alexander. They considered him dishonorable and feared he was unfit to be Emperor. Under these circumstances the army swiftly looked to replace Alexander.[49] Iulius Verus Maximinus was the next best option. He was a soldier from Thrace who had a golden reputation and was working hard to increase his military status.[47] He was also a man with superior personal strength, who rose to his present position from a peasant background. With the Thracian's hailing came the end of the Severan Dynasty,[50] and, with the growing animosity of Severus' army towards him, the path for his assassination was paved. was forced to face his German enemies in the early months of 235. By the time he and his mother arrived, the situation had settled, and so his mother convinced him that to avoid violence, trying to bribe the German army to surrender was the more sensible course of action.[citation needed] According to historians, it was this tactic combined with insubordination from his own men that destroyed his reputation and popularity. Pusillanimity was responsible for the revolt of Alexander's army, resulting in Severus falling victim to the swords of his own men,[51] following the nomination of Maximinus as emperor. was assassinated on 19 March 235, together with his mother, in a mutiny of the Legio XXII Primigenia at Moguntiacum (Mainz) while at a meeting with his generals.[52] These assassinations secured the throne for Maximinus.[13] documents two theories that elaborate on Severus's assassination. The first claims that the disaffection of Mamaea was the main motive behind the homicide. However, Lampridius makes it clear that he is more supportive of an alternative theory, that Alexander was murdered in Sicilia (located in Britain).[53] theory has it that, in an open tent after his lunch, Alexander was consulting with his insubordinate troops, who compared him to his cousin Elagabalus, the divisive and unpopular Emperor whose own assassination paved the way for Alexander's reign. A German servant entered the tent and initiated the call for Alexander's assassination, at which point many of the troops joined in the attack. Alexander's attendants fought against the other troops but could not hold off the combined might of those seeking the Emperor's assassination. Within minutes, Alexander was dead. His mother Julia Mamaea was in the same tent with Alexander and soon fell victim to the same group of assassins.[51] ’s body was buried together with the body of his mother Julia Manaea in a mausoleum in Rome. The actual mausoleum, called Monte di Grano, is the third in size in Rome after the ones of Hadrian and of Augustus. It is still visible in Piazza dei Tribuni, in the Quadraro area in Rome, where it resembles a large earth mound. The large sarcophagus found inside the tomb in the 16th century, and which contained the emperor’s remains, is in the Palazzo dei Conservatori Museum in Rome. According to some sources inside the same sarcophagus in 1582 a precious glass urn was found, the Portland Vase, currently on display at the British Museum in London. Martyr Pontius, Commemorated on August 5; Martyr Theodota at Nicea, Commemorated on September 17 ; St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22; CECILIA OF ROME, MARTYR AT ROME, c. 280, Commemorated November 22; Martyr Cecilia at Rome, Commemorated on November 22; Martyr Myrope of Chios, Commemorated on December 2; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; Martyr Tatiana of Rome, and those who suffered with Her, Commemorated on January 12; Martyr Babylas of Sicily, Commemorated on January 24; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; Hieromartyr Hippolytus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on January 30; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13;

Rome, 227-303, Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, great story, animals speaking and more
Syria, 227-303, Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, animals speaking and prophecising, very old, destroyed pagan temple gods, Patricius healed but thought by witchcraft, Artémon followed by six wild donkeys and two deer by Word of Christ, eagle angels throw P caldron burning pitch; Laodicea in Syria; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13; Hieromartyr Artémon was born of Christian parents in Laodίkeia, Syria in the III century. his youth, he devoted himself to the service of the Church, and was a Reader for sixteen years. For his zeal, Bishop Sisίnnius ordained him as a Deacon. Saint Artémon also carried out this service with fervor and diligence for twenty-eight years, then he was ordained to the priesthood. In that position, Saint Artémon served the Church of God for another thirty-three years, preaching Christianity among pagans. Emperor Diocletian (reigned 284-305) began his fierce persecution of the Church, issuing an edict ordering Christians to offer sacrifice to the idols, Saint Artémon was already quite old. of the impending arrival of the military commander Patricius at Laodίkeia, Saint Sisίnnius went with the priest Artémon and some other Christians into the temple of the "goddess" Artemis. There they smashed and burned the idols, reducing them all to dust. Saint Sisίnnius and Saint Artémon gathered the flock into the church and fervently exhorted the Christians to remain firm in the Faith, and not to fear the threats of torturers. he arrived in Laodίkeia, Patricius celebrated a five-day festival in honor of the pagan "gods," and then entered the temple of Artemis to offer sacrifice. When he was told who had destroyed the temple, he went with a detachment of soldiers to the church where the Christians were praying. he approached the church, Patricius suddenly felt a chill, and then developed a fever, which left him scarcely alive. He was carried him home and put to bed. “The Christians have put a curse on me, and their God torments me,” he said to those around him. Although Patricius prayed to the idols, they did not relieve his sufferings. sent a messenger to Bishop Sisίnnius, asking for his help, and promised to set up a gold statue of that Hierarch in the middle of the city. The Saint replied, “Keep your gold, but if you believe in Christ, He will heal you.” was afraid of death, so he declared that he believed in Christ, and the affliction left him. But even this miracle did not affect the obdurate pagan's soul. Although he did not raise a hand against Bishop Sisίnnius, he did enforce the imperial edict against other Christians in the city of Caesarea. the way he encountered Saint Artémon, who was followed by six wild donkeys and two deer. Patricius asked how he was able to control these wild beasts, Saint Artémon replied that he held them with the Word of Christ. learned from the idolaters that it was Artémon who had destroyed the pagan temple of Artemis, so he ordered that Artémon be arrested and taken to the city of Caesarea. The Saint went with the soldiers without fear, but he told the animals to go to Saint Sisίnnius. Seeing the animals, Bishop Sisίnnius asked, “Why have these animals come here?” doe received the gift of speech from God and said, “The servant of God Artémon is being held by the impious Patricius, and is being brought to Caesarea in chains. He commanded us to come here to give you this news.” not be astonished that the Lord, Who opened the mouth of Balaam’s ass (Numbers 22:28), also permitted the doe to speak. The Bishop sent Deacon Phileas to Caesarea to verify what he had been told. Caesarea, Patricius brought Saint Artémon to trial and tried to force him to offer sacrifice in the temple of Asclepius. In that pagan temple there were many poisonous vipers. The pagan priest never opened the doors, nor did he place the sacrifice before the idol. Saint Artémon, calling on the Name of Jesus Christ, went into the temple and drove the snakes out. The pagans fled, but the Saint stopped them and killed the snakes by his breath. Vitalius, one of the pagan priests, believed in Christ and asked Saint Artémon to baptize him. thought that Saint Artémon killed the snakes by sorcery, and again he interrogated and tortured him. the doe which had spoken arrived at Caesarea. She lay down at the Martyr's feet, licking his wounds. By God’s command the doe spoke again, denouncing the impious pagans. Addressing Patricius, the doe predicted that he would be seized by two birds of prey, and dropped into a cauldron of burning pitch. was enraged because he had been censured by a wild beast. He commanded his soldiers to shoot the doe with arrows, but she escaped. that the miracles performed by Saint Artémon would attract more people to him, Patricius ordered his execution. enormous cauldron was filled with boiling pitch, and the soldiers intended to throw Saint Artémon into it. But when Patricius rode up to the cauldron on horseback to see if the pitch was indeed boiling, two Angels in the form of eagles seized him and dropped him into the cauldron. His body was consumed so that not a single bone remained, but Saint Artémon survived. this miracle, everyone ran away except Saint Artémon, who blessed and glorified God. When the Saint finished his prayer, a spring of water gushed forth from the ground. Saint Artémon baptized the pagan priest Vitalius and many pagans, who had come to believe in Christ. On the following morning, Saint Artémon communed the newly-baptized with the Holy Mysteries. Many of the baptized were ordained to the diaconate and the priesthood, and Vitalius was made Bishop of Palestine. Bishop of Caesarea came to visit Saint Artémon, noting the place where he had suffered. Subsequently, a church was built on that site. by God's voice, Saint Artémon preached the Gospel in Asia Minor. Then an Angel appeared and transported him to the place which had been revealed to him, and there he converted many to Christ. The pagans arrested the Saint and beheaded him († 303). the Roman Martyrology, Saint Artémon is listed under October 8, while in Greek usage he is commemorated on April 12. Artémon the Presbyter of Laodίkeia should not be confused with Saint Artémon the Bishop of Seleukeia (March 24).

Rome, 233-270, Gregory Thaumaturgus, the Wonderworker of Cappadocia, not the illuminator
Cappadocia, 233-270, Gregory Thaumaturgus, the Wonderworker ; St. Gregory the Wonderworker of Neocaesarea, Commemorated on November 17; St. Basil the Great, Archbishop of Casarea in Cappadocia, Commemorated on January 1;

Rome, 233-270, St Gregory the Wonderworker of Neocaesarea, from John the Thelogian, Symbol of Faith Mystery, Foundational
Armenia, 233-270, St Gregory the Wonderworker of Neocaesarea, Alexandrian Catechetical School, where the presbyter Origen taught, demonic woman story, back to N, wilderness, gifts, L willed otherwise, absent ordination, acceptance, heresy, John t T, Symbol of Faith Mystery, Foundational Neocaesarea; St Gregory the Wonderworker of Neocaesarea, Commemorated on November 17; Gregory the Wonderworker, Bishop of Neocaesarea, was born in the city of Neocaesarea (northern Asia Minor) into a pagan family. received a fine education, from his youth he strived for Truth, but the thinkers of antiquity were not able to quench his thirst for knowledge. Truth was revealed to him only in the Holy Gospel, and the youth became a Christian. the continuation of his studies Saint Gregory went to Alexandria, known then as a center for pagan and Christian learning. The youth, eager for knowledge, went to the Alexandrian Catechetical School, where the presbyter Origen taught. Origen was a famous teacher, possessing a great strength of mind and profound knowledge. Saint Gregory became a student of Origen. Afterwards, the saint wrote about his mentor: “This man received from God a sublime gift, to be an interpreter of the Word of God for people, to apprehend the Word of God, as God Himself did use it, and to explain it to people, insofar as they were able to understand it.” Saint Gregory studied for eight years with Origen, and was baptized by him. ascetic life of Saint Gregory, his continence, purity and lack of covetousness aroused envy among his conceited and sin-loving peers, pagans that they were, and they decided to slander Saint Gregory. when he was conversing with philosophers and teachers in the city square, a notorious harlot came up to him and demanded payment for the sin he had supposedly committed with her. At first Saint Gregory gently remonstrated with her, saying that she perhaps mistook him for someone else. But the profligate woman would not be quieted. He then asked a friend to give her the money. as the woman took the unjust payment, she immediately fell to the ground in a demonic fit, and the fraud became evident. Saint Gregory said a prayer over her, and the devil left her. This was the beginning of Saint Gregory’s miracles. returned to Neocaesarea, the saint fled from the worldly affairs into which influential townsmen persistently sought to push him. He went into the desert, where by fasting and prayer he attained to high spiritual accomplishment and the gifts of clairvoyance and prophecy. Saint Gregory loved life in the wilderness and wanted to remain in solitude until the end of his days, but the Lord willed otherwise. bishop of the Cappadocian city of Amasea, Thedimos, having learned of Saint Gregory’s ascetic life, decided to have him made Bishop of Neocaesarea. having foreseen in spirit the intent of Bishop Thedimos, the saint hid himself from the messengers of the bishop who were entrusted to find him. Then Bishop Thedimos ordained the absent saint as Bishop of Neocaesarea, beseeching the Lord that He Himself would sanctify the unusual ordination. Gregory perceived the extraordinary event as a manifestation of the will of God and he did not dare to protest. This episode in the life of Saint Gregory was recorded by Saint Gregory of Nyssa (January 10). He relates that Saint Gregory of Neocaesarea received the episcopal dignity only after Bishop Thedimos of Amasea performed all the canonical rites over him. this time, the heresy of Sabellius and Paul of Samosata began to spread. They taught falsely concerning the Holy Trinity. Saint Gregory prayed fervently and diligently imploring God and His most pure Mother to reveal to him the true faith. All-Holy Virgin Mary appeared to him, radiant like the sun, and with Her was the Apostle John the Theologian dressed in archepiscopal vestments. the command of the Mother of God, the Apostle John taught the saint how to correctly and properly confess the Mystery of the Most Holy Trinity. Gregory wrote down everything that Saint John the Theologian revealed to him. Mystery of the Symbol of the Faith, written down by Saint Gregory of Neocaesarea, is a great divine revelation in the history of the Church. teaching about the Holy Trinity in Orthodox Theology is based on it. it was used by the holy Fathers of the Church: Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and Gregory of Nyssa. Symbol of Saint Gregory of Neocaesarea was later examined and affirmed in the year 325 by the First Ecumenical Council, showing his enduring significance for Orthodoxy. become a bishop, Saint Gregory set off to Neocaesarea. Along the way from Amasea he expelled devils from a pagan temple, the priest of which he converted to Christ. The convert was witness to still another miracle of the saint, at his word a large stone shifted from its place. preaching of the saint was direct, lively and fruitful. He taught and worked miracles in the name of Christ: he healed the sick, he helped the needy, he settled quarrels and complaints. Two brothers sharing an inheritance were not able to agree over the property of their dead father. There was a large lake over which they argued, for each of the brothers wanted the lake for himself. They both gathered their friends together, and were ready to come to blows. Saint Gregory persuaded them to delay their fight until the following day, and he himself prayed all night long at the shore of the lake which sparked the quarrel. When dawn broke, everyone saw that the lake had dried up or gone underground. Through the intense prayer of the saint, now there was only a stream, and its course defined the boundary line. Another time, during the construction of a church, he commanded a hill to move and make room at the place of the foundation. a persecution against Christians began under the emperor Decius (249-251), Saint Gregory led his flock to a faraway mountain. A certain pagan, knowing about the hiding place of the Christians, informed the persecutors. Soldiers surrounded the mountain. The saint went out into an open place, raised up his hands to heaven and ordered to his deacon to do the same. The soldiers searched the whole mountain, and they went several times right past those praying, but not seeing them, they gave up and went away. In the city they reported that there was nowhere to hide on the mountain: no one was there, and only two trees stood beside each other. The informer was struck with amazement, he repented of his ways and became a fervent Christian. Gregory returned to Neocaesarea after the end of the persecution. By his blessing church Feasts were established in honor of the martyrs who had suffered for Christ. his saintly life, his effective preaching, working of miracles and graced guiding of his flock, the saint steadily increased the number of converts to Christ. When Saint Gregory first ascended his cathedra, there were only seventeen Christians in Neocaesarea. At his death, only seventeen pagans remained in the city.

Rome, 235-238, Emperor, Maximinus Thrax, impious Maximnus, barracs emperor, year of 6 emperors
Roman Emperor, 235-238, Maximinus Thrax; Hieromartyr Antherus (Antheros) Pope of Rome, Commemorated on August 5; Martyr Pontius, Commemorated on August 5; St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22; Martyr Myrope of Chios, Commemorated on December 2; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; FABIAN, BISHOP AND MARTYR (20 JANUARY 250); Martyr Babylas of Sicily, Commemorated on January 24; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13;

Rome, 235-236, Hieromartyr Antherus (Antheros) Pope of Rome, martyr
Roman Pope, 235-236, Hieromartyr Antherus (Antheros) Pope of Rome; Hieromartyr Antherus (Antheros) Pope of Rome, Commemorated on August 5; Antherus was elected Bishop of Rome in place of Saint Pontian, and he too soon accepted suffering and death for Christ in the year 236. FABIAN, BISHOP AND MARTYR (20 JANUARY 250);

Rome, 235-305, Hieromartyr Cyril, Bishop of Gortyna, commanded by visions, doors open, idols destroyed, beheaded at 95
Crete, 235-305, Hieromartyr Cyril the Bishop of Gortyna, Crete, in prison heard voice commanding go to Rome, doors open, idols destroyed, vision on road, Philoxenos said two crowns, hierarch and martyr, preached in Rome until persecution, to Jerusalem, vision to crete, bishop at C at age 60, age 95 beheaded; Crete, 174-251, Hieromartyr Cyril the Bishop of Gortyna, Crete, Chief City of Crete, 50 yr, refused idol w, flames did not touch, set free, continued preaching, sought & rejoiced martyrdom; Gortyna; Hieromartyr Cyril the Bishop of Gortyna in Crete, Commemorated on July 9 ; Hieromartyr Cyril, Bishop of Gortyna, was bishop at Gortyna on the island of Crete for 50 years. He suffered either under the emperor Decius (249-251), or according to other historical sources, the emperor Maximian (284-305). to trial before a governor named Lucius, who demanded that he offer sacrifice to idols, the holy Elder steadfastly confessed his faith in Christ and refused to fulfill the soul-destroying command. The governor sentenced Saint Cyril to burning, but the flames did not touch him. Seeing this miracle, many pagans came to believe in Christ. Lucius himself offered up praise to the Christian God and set the saint free. Cyril continued with his preaching and led many pagans to Christ, but also he grieved that he had not been allowed to suffer for the Savior. It was reported to the governor that Saint Cyril would not cease his preaching, and that he continued to convert people from the darkness of paganism to the light of Christ. Hearing the sentence against him, Saint Cyril rejoiced that he was to be granted a martyr’s death for Truth, and the 84-year-old Elder willingly placed his head beneath the sword. Hieromartyr Cyril the Bishop of Gortyna, Commemorated September 6 ; Hieromartyr Cyril, Bishop of Gortyna, lived during the time of the emperor Diocletian and his co-emperor Maximian (284-305). As a Christian he was brought to trial before the governor Agrippina and after interrogation he was thrown into prison. One night the saint heard a voice commanding him to go to Rome. the morning the doors of the prison were open, and the idols overthrown and destroyed. On the road to Rome Saint Cyril had a vision: Saint Philoxenos appeared and said that he would receive two crowns, one of a hierarch and the other of a martyr. Rome, Saint Cyril rendered great help to the Church by his preaching. When a persecution against Christians started up, Saint Cyril went to Jerusalem to encourage the Christians living there. Along the way he had a vision and received a command not to neglect Crete. he arrived there, Saint Cyril was chosen bishop of the city of Gortyna. He was then 60 years of age. Still on the episcopal throne of Gortyna at age 95, Saint Cyril was brought to trial at the start of a new persecution against Christians and sentenced to death. He was beheaded with the sword in the vicinity of Raukos at the beginning of the fourth century. Cyril is commemorated on June 14 on the Greek calendar.

Rome, 236-250, Pope and Saint Fabian, chosen by a dove, good choice, first Decius martyrs
Rome, 236-250, Pope and Saint Fabian, chosen by a dove, good choice, first Decius martyrs; Fabian was the bishop of Rome from 10 January 236 to his death on 20 January 250,[4] succeeding Anterus. A dove is said to have descended on his head to mark him as the Holy Spirit's unexpected choice to become the next pope.[5] He was succeeded by Cornelius. of his papacy was characterized by amicable relations with the imperial government, and the schism between the Roman congregations of Pontian and Hippolytus was ended. He divided Rome into diaconates and appointed secretaries to collect the records of the martyrs. He sent out seven "apostles to the Gauls" as missionaries, but probably did not baptize Emperor Philip the Arab as is alleged. He died a martyr at the beginning of the Decian persecution and is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church.[4][5] FABIAN, BISHOP AND MARTYR (20 JANUARY 250); was Bishop of Rome for 14 years. He organized the city of Rome into parishes and appointed scribes to record the lives of the martyrs for posterity. the Emperor Decius began a persecution of Christians, probably the first one to be waged simultaneously in all parts of the Empire, Fabian was one of the first to be put to death, setting a courageous example for others. His tombstone, with the inscription dimly visible, can still be seen at Rome. by James Kiefer the death of Pope Saint Antherus in 236, a council was convened in Rome to elect his successor. the crowd was Fabian (Fabianus), a layman from another part of Italy (it is not known where). to the historian Eusebius, a dove flew into the building and landed on Fabian's head. The people immediately interpreted this to be an omen, and unanimously acclaimed Fabian their new pope. He turned out to be an excellent leader. He organized the parochial (parish) structure of the Church that is in use to this day. He developed the custom and rites of veneration of the martyrs buried in the catacombs, and appointed fourteen scholars to record the lives of the martyrs, so that they would not be forgotten in future years. In 239 the Emperor Decius instituted a persecution of Christians. This was the first persecution to be waged throughout the entire Empire instead of just locally. Fabian was captured and brutally executed. The courage with which he went to his death was an inspiration to thousands who followed him in martyrdom. His broken tombstone in Rome still exists, and three words on it are still barely legible; "Fabian ... bishop ... martyr." by Fr. Rick Losch

Rome, 238-244, Emperor, Gordian III, Christian, because Tryphon delivered his daughter
Roman Emperor, 238-244, Gordian III ; Hieromartyr Polychronius the Bishop of Babylon, Commemorated on July 30; Hieromartyr Antherus (Antheros) Pope of Rome, Commemorated on August 5 ; St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22; Martyr Eutropia of Alexandria, Commemorated on October 30; Martyr Myrope of Chios, Commemorated on December 2; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; FABIAN, BISHOP AND MARTYR (20 JANUARY 250); Martyr Babylas of Sicily, Commemorated on January 24; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; Martyr Tryphon of Campsada Near Apamea in Syria, Commemorated on February 1; Martyr Nikon in Sicily, Commemorated on March 23; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13; Martyr Heliconis of Thessalonica, Commemorated on May 28 ;

Rome, 238-250, Tryphon, Lampsakos, Troy, deliverence power, healing, plague of locusts, evil spirit Emperor Gordian's daughter
Troy, 238-250, Tryphon, Lampsakos, Troy, deliverence power, healing, plague of locusts, evil spirit Emperor Gordian's daughter, confessed, tortures, clubs, iron hooks, fire, foot nails, no complaints, died right before beheading; Lampsakos; Lampsacus ; Martyr Tryphon of Campsada Near Apamea in Syria, Commemorated on February 1 ; Martyr Tryphon was born in Phrygia, one of the districts of Asia Minor, in the village of Lampsacus. From his early years the Lord granted him the power to cast out demons and to heal various maladies. He once saved the inhabitants of his native city from starvation. Saint Tryphon, by the power of his prayer, turned back a plague of locusts that were devouring the grain and devastating the fields. Tryphon gained particular fame by casting out an evil spirit from the daughter of the Roman emperor Gordian (238-244). Helping everyone in distress, he asked only one thing from them: faith in Jesus Christ, by Whose grace he healed them. the emperor Decius (249-251) assumed the imperial throne, he began a fierce persecution of Christians. Someone reported to the commander Aquilinus that Saint Tryphon was boldly preaching faith in Christ, and that he led many to Baptism. The saint was arrested and subjected to interrogation, during which he fearlessly confessed his faith. was subjected to harsh tortures: they beat him with clubs, raked his body with iron hooks, they scorched his flesh with fire, and led him through the city, after iron nails were hammered into his feet. Saint Tryphon bravely endured all the torments without complaint. he was condemned to beheading with a sword. The holy martyr prayed before his execution, thanking God for strengthening him in his sufferings. He also asked the Lord to bless those who should call upon his name for help. Just as the soldiers raised the sword over the head of the holy martyr, he surrendered his soul into the hands of God. This event occurred in the city of Nicea in the year 250. wrapped the holy body of the martyr in a clean shroud and wanted to bury him in the city of Nicea, where he suffered, but Saint Tryphon in a vision commanded them to take his body to his native land to the village of Lampsacus. Later on, the relics of Saint Tryphon were transferred to Constantinople, and then to Rome. Russia, Saint Tryphon is regarded as the patron saint of birds. There is a story that when Tsar Ivan the Terrible was out hunting, his falconer carelessly allowed the Tsar’s favorite falcon to fly away. The Tsar ordered the falconer Tryphon Patrikeiev to find the bird within three days, or else he would be put to death. Tryphon searched all through the forest, but without luck. the third day, exhausted by long searching, he returned to Moscow to the place called Marinaya Grove. Overcome with weariness, he lay down to rest, fervently praying to his patron saint, the Martyr Tryphon, for help. a dream he saw a youth on a white horse, holding the Tsar’s falcon on his hand. The youth said, “Take the lost bird, go to the Tsar and do not grieve.” When he awakened, the falconer actually spotted the falcon on a pine tree. He took it to the Tsar and told him about the miraculous help he received from the holy Martyr Tryphon. Grateful to Saint Tryphon for saving his life, Tryphon Patrikeiev built a chapel on the spot where the saint appeared. Later on, he also built a church dedicated to the holy Martyr Tryphon in Moscow. holy martyr is greatly venerated in the Russian Orthodox Church as the heavenly protector of Moscow. Many Russian icons depict the saint holding a falcon on his arm.

Rome, 243, Battle of Resaena, Romans defeat Persians, take Babylon
Rome, 243, Battle of Resaena, Romans defeat Persians; Hieromartyr Polychronius the Bishop of Babylon, Commemorated on July 30;

Rome, 244-249, Emperor, Philip the Arab, Christian
Roman Emperor, 244-249, Philip the Arab; Hieromartyr Polychronius the Bishop of Babylon, Commemorated on July 30; Hieromartyr Antherus (Antheros) Pope of Rome, Commemorated on August 5; Hieromartyr Cyprian the Bishop of Carthage, Commemorated on August 31; St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22; Martyr Eutropia of Alexandria, Commemorated on October 30; Apostle Epimachus of Alexandria, Commemorated on October 31; Martyr Myrope of Chios, Commemorated on December 2; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; FABIAN, BISHOP AND MARTYR (20 JANUARY 250); Martyr Babylas of Sicily, Commemorated on January 24; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; Martyr Tryphon of Campsada Near Apamea in Syria, Commemorated on February 1; Martyr Nikon in Sicily, Commemorated on March 23; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13; Martyr Heliconis of Thessalonica, Commemorated on May 28 ;

Rome, 249-250, Saint Christopher, miracles, strength, vow serve greatest king, served Satan, he feared Christ, sought Christ
Lycia, 249-250, Saint Christopher, miracles, worldwide veneration, Italy, contagious diseases, cannanites or dogheads of thessaly, stature, strength, hansome, Lord gave him uasttractive face, named Reprobate, denounced christian persecution, beaten endured humbly, 200 soldiers assigned to bring him, submitted, along the way dry stick blossomed, loaves of bread multiplied, soldiers astonished, vow to serve greatest king, local king feared devis, served Satan, devil feared Christ, sought Christ, by task best suited, ferryman, child across stream, heavy, sins of world, Christ, 2 profligrate women converted to Christ, martyred, 200 martyred, red hot metal box, unharmed, beheaded, 250, 50,000 pagans converted, relics to spain and france; Martyr Christopher of Lycia, and, with him, the Martyrs Callinika and Aquilina, Commemorated on May 9; Holy Martyr Christopher lived during the third century and suffered about the year 250, during the reign of the emperor Decius (249-251). There are various accounts of his life and miracles, and he is widely venerated throughout the world. Saint Christopher is especially venerated in Italy, where people pray to him in times of contagious diseases. are various suggestions about his descent. Some historians believe that he was descended from the Canaanites, while others say from the “Cynoscephalai” [literally “dog-heads”] of Thessaly. Christopher was a man of great stature and unusual strength. According to tradition, Saint Christopher was very handsome, but wishing to avoid temptation for himself and others, he asked the Lord to give him an unattractive face, which was done. Before Baptism he was named Reprebus [Reprobate] because his disfigured appearance. Even before Baptism, Reprebus confessed his faith in Christ and denounced those who persecuted Christians. Consequently, a certain Bacchus gave him a beating, which he endured with humility. of his renowned strength, 200 soldiers were assigned to bring him before the emperor Decius. Reprebus submitted without resistance. Several miracles occurred along the way; a dry stick blossomed in the saint’s hand, loaves of bread were multiplied through his prayers, and the travellers had no lack thereof. This is similar to the multiplication of loaves in the wilderness by the Savior. The soldiers surrounding Reprebus were astonished at these miracles. They came to believe in Christ and they were baptized along with Reprebus by Saint Babylus of Antioch (September 4). once made a vow to serve the greatest king in the world, so he first offered to serve the local king. Seeing that the king feared the devil, Christopher thought he would leave the king to serve Satan. Learning that the devil feared Christ, Christopher went in search of Him. Saint Babylas of Antioch told him that he could best serve Christ by doing well the task for which he was best suited. Therefore, he became a ferryman, carrying people across a river on his shoulders. One stormy night, Christopher carried a Child Who insisted on being taken across at that very moment. With every step Christopher took, the Child seemed to become heavier. Halfway across the stream, Christopher felt that his strength would give out, and that he and the Child would be drowned in the river. As they reached the other side, the Child told him that he had just carried all the sins of the world on his shoulders. Then He ordered Christopher to plant his walking stick in the ground. As he did so, the stick grew into a giant tree. Then he recognized Christ, the King Whom he had vowed to serve. Christopher was brought before the emperor, who tried to make him renounce Christ, not by force but by cunning. He summoned two profligate women, Callinika and Aquilina, and commanded them to persuade Christopher to deny Christ, and to offer sacrifice to idols. Instead, the women were converted to Christ by Saint Christopher. When they returned to the emperor, they declared themselves to be Christians. Therefore, they were subjected to fierce beatings, and so they received the crown of martyrdom. also sentenced to execution the soldiers who had been sent after Saint Christopher, but who now believed in Christ. The emperor ordered that the martyr be thrown into a red-hot metal box. Saint Christopher, however, did not experience any suffering and he remained unharmed. After many fierce torments they finally beheaded the martyr with a sword. This occurred in the year 250 in Lycia. By his miracles the holy Martyr Christopher converted as many as 50,000 pagans to Christ, as Saint Ambrose of Milan testifies. The relics of Saint Christopher were later transferred to Toledo (Spain), and still later to the abbey of Saint Denis in France. Greece, many churches place the icon of Saint Christopher at the entrance so that people can see it as they enter and leave the building. There is a rhyming couplet in Greek which says, “When you see Christopher, you can walk in safety.” This reflects the belief that whoever gazes upon the icon of Saint Christopher will not meet with sudden or accidental death that day. name Christopher means “Christ-bearer.” This can refer to the saint carrying the Savior across the river, and it may also refer to Saint Christopher bearing Christ within himself (Galatians 2:20).

Rome, 249-251, Emperor, Decius, Pagan, revered by troups, k by goths
Roman Emperor, 249-251, Decius ; Decius (atin: Gaius Messius Quintus Traianus Decius; c. 201 -June 251) was Roman emperor from 249 to 251. A distinguished politician during the reign of Philip the Arab, Decius was proclaimed emperor by his troops after putting down a rebellion in Moesia. In 249, he defeated and killed Philip near Verona and was recognized as emperor by the Senate afterwards. During his reign, he attempted to strengthen the Roman state and its religion, leading to the Decian persecution, where a number of prominent Christians (including Pope Fabian) were put to death. In the last year of his reign, Decius co-ruled with his son Herennius Etruscus, until they were both killed by the Goths in the Battle of Abritus. Martyr Apollonius of Sardis, Commemorated on July 10; Hieromartyr Polychronius the Bishop of Babylon, Commemorated July 30 ; 7 Holy Youths "Seven Sleepers" of Ephesus, Commemorated August 4; Hieromartyr Antherus (Antheros) Pope of Rome, Commemorated on August 5 ; Hieromartyr Alexander the Bishop of Comana, Commemorated on August 12; Martyr Hippolytus of Rome, Commemorated on August 13; Martyr Myron the Presbyter of Cyzicus, Commemorated on August 17; Martyr Thyrsus at Caesarea, in Bithynia, Commemorated August 17 ; Hieromartyr Cyprian the Bishop of Carthage, Commemorated on August 31 ; Martyr Cyriacus and 11 others at Alexandria, Commemorated September 6 ; St Coronatus the Bishop of Nicomedia, Commemorated September 12 ; Uncovering of the relics St Acacius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on September 15; CYPRIAN OF CARTHAGE, BISHOP AND MARTYR (15 SEP 258) ; Venerable Paul the Simple of Egypt, Commemorated on October 4; Hieromartyr Dionysius the Bishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on October 5 ; Hieromartyr Dionysius of Paris, Bishop, Commemorated on October 9; Martyr Carpus at Pergamum, Commemorated on October 13 ; 7 Holy Youths "œSeven Sleepers"Â of Ephesus, Commemorated on October 22; St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22; Greatmartyr Parasceva of Iconium, Commemorated on October 28; Martyr Anastasia the Roman, Commemorated on October 29; Martyr Anastasia of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 30; Martyr Eutropia of Alexandria, Commemorated on October 30; Apostle Epimachus of Alexandria, Commemorated on October 31; St Gregory the Wonderworker of Neocaesarea, Commemorated on November 17; Martyr Menignus at Parium, Commemorated on November 22; Greatmartyr Mercurius of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on November 24; Martyr Paramon in Bithynia, Commemorated on November 29; Martyr Myrope of Chios, Commemorated on December 2; Hieromartyr Alexander the Bishop of Jerusalem, Commemorated on December 12; Martyr Thyrsus of Apollonia, Commemorated on December 14; Martyr Themistocles of Myra in Lycia, Commemorated on December 21; 10 Holy Martyrs of Crete, Commemorated on December 23; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; Martyr Polyeuctus of Melitene, in Armenia, Commemorated on January 9; Venerable Pansophius of Alexandria, the Martyr, Commemorated on January 15; Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15; FABIAN, BISHOP AND MARTYR (20 JANUARY 250); St Fructuosis of Tarragona, Spain, Commemorated on January 21; Martyr Babylas of Sicily, Commemorated on January 24; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; Martyr Victorinus of Egypt, Commemorated on January 31; Martyr Tryphon of Campsada Near Apamea in Syria, Commemorated on February 1; Martyr Blaise of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on February 3; Martyr Agatha of Palermo in Sicily, Commemorated on February 5; Martyr Agatha of Palermo in Sicily, Commemorated on February 5; Virginmartyr Apollonia, Commemorated on February 9; Martyr Julian of Alexandria, Commemorated on February 27 ; Hieromartyr Nestor the Bishop of Magydos in Pamphylia, Commemorated on February 28; Martyr Julian of Alexandria, Commemorated on February 27 ; Hieromartyr Nestor the Bishop of Magydos in Pamphylia, Commemorated on February 28 ; Martyr Nestor, Commemorated on March 1 ; Martyr Troadius of Neocaesarea, Commemorated on March 2 ; Virginmartyr Euthalia of Sicily, Commemorated on March 2 ; Martyr Conon the Gardener of Pamphylia, Commemorated on March 5; Martyr Quadratus and the rest of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 10; Martyr Quadratus and the rest of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 10; Hieromartyr Pionius of Smyrna and those with him, Commemorated on March 11; Translation of the relics of the Martyr Epimachus of Pelusium, Commemorated on March 11; Martyr Nikon in Sicily, Commemorated on March 23; St Acacius the Confessor, Commemorated on March 31; Martyr Terence and 40 others beheaded at Carthage, Commemorated on April 10; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13; Martyr Adrian of Corinth, Commemorated on April 17; Martyr Callinike of Lycia, Commemorated on May 9; Martyr Christopher of Lycia, Commemorated on May 9; Martyr Philadelphus and 18 others in Sicily, Commemorated on May 10; Martyr Peter of Ancyra, who suffered under Decius, Commemorated on May 18; Martyr Theodotus of Ancyra, who suffered under Decius, Commemorated on May 18; Virginmartyr Christina of Ancyra, who suffered under Decius, Commemorated on May 18; Martyr Philosophus at Alexandria, Commemorated on May 31 ; Martyrs of Niculitsel, Commemorated on June 4; Venerable Anubius the Confessor and Anchorite of Egypt, Commemorated on June 5; St Alban the Protomartyr of Britain, Commemorated on June 22; Hieromartyr Cyril the Bishop of Gortyna in Crete, Commemorated on July 9 ;

Rome, 249-251, 10 Martyrs of Crete, refused to worship idols, with god, persevered cruel tortures, beheaded
Crete, 249-251, 10 Martyrs of Crete, refused to worship idols, with god, persevered cruel tortures, beheaded; Crete; 10 Holy Martyrs of Crete, Commemorated on December 23 ; Ten Holy Martyrs of Crete: Theodulus, Saturninus, Euporus, Gelasius, Eunician, Zoticus, Pompius, Agathopus, Basilides and Evaristus suffered for Christ during the third century under the emperor Decius (249-251). governor of Crete, also named Decius, fiercely persecuted the Church, and arrested anyone who believed in Christ. Once, ten Christians were brought before him from various cities of Crete, who at the trial steadfastly confessed their faith in Christ and refused to worship idols. thirty days they were subjected to cruel tortures, and with the help of God they all persevered, glorifying God. their death they prayed that the Lord would enlighten their torturers with the light of the true Faith. Since pain did not influence them, the saints were beheaded. Paul of Constantinople (November 6) visited Crete about a hundred years later. He took the relics of the holy martyrs to Constantinople to serve as a protection for the city, and a source of blessings for the faithful.

Rome, 249-251, Thyrsus, Leucius and Callinicus, Apollonia, Bithynia, ridiculed those who worship wood, toppled Apollo
Bithynia, 249-251, Thyrsus, Leucius and Callinicus, Apollonia, Bithynia, ridiculed those who worship wood, toppled Apollo; Martyr Thyrsus of Apollonia, Commemorated December 14 ; Holy Martyrs Thyrsus, Leucius and Callinicus suffered for Christ under the emperor Decius (249-251) at Caesarea in Bithynia. Leucius, having reproached the prefect Cumbricius for his unjust persecution of Christians, was executed after being tortured. Thyrsus, who was still a catechumen, was nonetheless eager for martyrdom. He was sentenced to cruel tortures and torments after refusing to offer sacrifice to the idols. Citing the words of the Prophet Jeremiah (Jer. 2:27), he ridiculed those who worshiped wood and stone. saint’s arms and legs were pulled out of their sockets, his eyes were plucked out, and his teeth were shattered with a hammer. was taken to a heathen temple, where, by his prayers, he toppled a statue of Apollo. was enraged by this, and he ordered that greater torments be devised for the athlete of Christ. He endured them all and died peacefully after making the Sign of the Cross. pagan priest Callinicus, seeing the bravery and the miracle involving Saint Thyrsus, believed in Christ and boldly confessed the true Faith, for which he was beheaded.

Rome, 249-251, Myrope of Chios, Myrrhr f Hermione's grave in Ephesus, r Isidore's body, midnight prayer, d light, I w angels
Ephesus, 249-251, Myrope of Chios, Myrrhr f Hermione's grave in Ephesus, r Isidore's body, guards sentenced, her confession, fierce beating, midnight prayer, d light, I w angels, M d, sweet fragrance, guard's report to priest confession and martyrdom; City of Chios; Martyr Myrope of Chios, Commemorated on December 2 ; Holy Martyr Myrope was born in the city of Ephesus at the beginning of the third century. She lost her father at an early age, and her mother raised her in the Christian Faith. Myrope frequently visited the grave of the Martyr Hermione (September 4), daughter of the holy Apostle Philip, took myrrh from her relics, and healed the sick with it. the persecution by Decius (249-251), Myrope went with her mother to the island of Chios, where they spent their time in fasting and prayer. by order of the cruel governor of the island, the soldier Isidore (May 14), a man of deep faith and great piety, was martyred. Saint Myrope secretly removed the body of the martyr and buried it. soldiers, who had been ordered not to allow the Christians to take Isidore’s body, were sentenced to death. Myrope took pity on the condemned, and she told the soldiers and then the governor what she had done. the trial she confessed herself a Christian. For this they gave her a fierce beating and then threw her in prison. midnight, while she was praying, a light shone in the prison. Saint Isidore appeared surrounded by angels, and Saint Myrope surrendered her soul to God. The prison was immediately filled with a sweet fragrance. pagan guard, trembling at the vision, told this to a priest. Later, he accepted Baptism and a martyric death for his confession of Christ.

Rome, 249-251, Monastic Martyr Anastasia, great ascetic, very beautiful, horrible tortures, Angel, animals
Rome, 249-251, Monastic Martyr Anastasia; Roman Emperor, 249-251, Decius ; Martyr Anastasia the Roman, Commemorated on October 29; Monastic Martyr Anastasia the Roman lost her parents when she was three years old, was taken to be raised by the Igoumeness of a women’s monastery, whose name was Sophia, a nun who had attained a high degree of spiritual perfection. She raised Anastasia in fervent faith, in the fear of God, and obedience. After seventeen years, Anastasia became known as a great ascetic, and she was very beautiful. Emperor Decius (249-251) began his persecution of Christians at that time. The city administrator, Probus, following the Emperor's orders, commanded that Anastasia be brought to him. by her Igoumeness to suffer for Christ, the young martyr Anastasia went out to meet the armed soldiers. Seeing her youth and beauty, Probus first tried flattery to make her deny Christ. “Why do you waste your youth deprived of pleasure?" he asked. "What is to be gained by enduring tortures and death for the Crucified? Worship our gods, marry a handsome husband, and live with glory and honor.” Saint Anastasia stood before the ruler, her mind stood before Christ, and with her spiritual eyes, she beheld the comeliness of her Bridegroom. Saint replied, “My spouse, my riches, my life and my happiness are my Lord Jesus Christ, and you cannot turn me away from Him by your deceit!” had her stripped of her clothing, in order to humiliate her. She told him, "You can have me whipped, beaten, and cut to pieces, and then my nakedness will be hidden by my wounds, and my blood will cover my shame." subjected Anastasia to horrible tortures. The holy martyr bravely endured all of them, glorifying and praising God. When she became thirsty she asked for some water, and a Christian named Cyril gave her a drink. She thanked him, but Probus had him beheaded. her tormentors cut off her breasts and ripped out her tongue, while an Angel held her upright. When the people witnessed the inhuman and disgusting treatment the Saint received, they became indignant, and Probus was forced to end the tortures by having her beheaded. In this manner, Saint Anastasia received the unfading crown of martyrdom. Anastasia's body was thrown outside the city limits to be eaten by wild animals, but the Lord did not permit her holy relics to be dishonored. By the instructions of a holy Angel, Igoumeness Sophia found Saint Anastasia’s mutilated body. With the help of two Christians, she buried it in the earth. Anastasia the Roman should not be confused with Saint Anastasia Pharmakolytria, who is commemorated on December 22.

Rome, 249-259, Polyeuktos1, first Melitene martyr, Armenia, tore up Decius' edict, trampled idols, baptized in his blood
Armenia, 249-259, Polyeuktos1, Melitene, Armenia, first martyred there, tore up Decius' edict, trampled idols underfoot, baptized in his blood; Malatya; Martyr Polyeuctus of Melitene, in Armenia, Commemorated on January 9 ; Polyeuktos1 was the first to be martyred for Christ in the Armenian city of Melitene. was a soldier during the reign of Emperor Decius (249-251), and he later suffered martyrdom in the reign of Valerian (253-259). was a friend of Nearkhos a fellow-soldier and a firm Christian. Polyeuktos, however, although he led a virtuous life, he remained a pagan. the persecution against Christians began, Nearkhos said to Polyeuktos, Friend, soon we shall be separated, for they will take me to torture, and you, alas, will renounce your friendship with me. told him that he had seen Christ in a dream. The Savior took his soiled military cloak from him and dressed him in a radiant garment. Now, he said, I am prepared to serve the Lord Jesus Christ. with zeal, Saint Polyeuktos went to the city square, and tore up the edict of Decius which required everyone to worship the idols. few moments later, he met a procession carrying twelve idols through the streets of the city. Dashing the idols to the ground, he trampled them underfoot. father-in-law, the magistrate Felix, who was responsible for enforcing the imperial edict, was horrified at what Saint Polyeuktos had done and advised him to obey the imperial edict. told him that we must obey God rather than men. declared that Polyeuktos must die for this. Go then, bid farewell to your wife and children, he said. Paulina wept and urged her husband to renounce Christ. Felix also wept, but Saint Polyeuktos remained steadfast in his resolve to suffer for Christ. his head beneath the executioner's sword, he was baptized in his own blood. the reign of Saint Constantine the Great, when the Church of Christ had triumphed throughout the Roman Empire, a church was built at Melitene in honor of Saint Polyeuktos. Many miracles were worked through his intercession. In that same church, the parents of Saint Euthymios the Great (January 20) prayed fervently for a son. The birth of this great luminary of Orthodoxy occurred in the year 376, through the prayers of the Holy Martyr Polyeuktos. Polyeuktos was also venerated by Saint Akakios, the Bishop of Melitene (March 31), who participated in the Third Ecumenical Council, and was a great proponent of Orthodoxy. In the East, as well as in the West, the Holy Martyr Polyeuktos is venerated as the patron Saint of vows and treaties. Polyeucte Overture of French composer Paul Dukas is only one of many pieces of classical music inspired by the Saints. It premiered in January of 1892. The French dramatist Pierre Corneille has also written a play, Polyeucte (1642), based on the Martyr’s life. The name Polyeuktos means much-desired.

Rome, 249 & 449, Seven Sleepers of Ephesus , Lord revealed resurection of dead through 7 Sleepers 200 yr in cave, no decay
Ephesus, 249 & 449, Seven Sleepers of Ephesus (Ephesus River Mouth and Great Road Ephesus to the Euphrates), Lord revealed resurection of dead through 7 Sleepers 200 yr in cave, no decay; Ephesus; Revelation 2: 1-7, The Message to Ephesus; 7 Holy Youths "Seven Sleepers" of Ephesus, Commemorated August 4; Seven Youths of Ephesus: Maximilian, Iamblicus, Martinian, John, Dionysius, Exacustodianus (Constantine) and Antoninus, in the third century. Maximilian was the son of the Ephesus city administrator, and the other six youths were sons of illustrious citizens of Ephesus. youths were friends from childhood, and all were in military service together. the emperor Decius (249-251) arrived in Ephesus, he commanded all the citizens to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. Torture and death awaited anyone who disobeyed. seven youths were denounced by informants, and were summoned to reply to the charges. Appearing before the emperor, the young men confessed their faith in Christ. military belts and insignia were quickly taken from them. permitted them to go free, however, hoping that they would change their minds while he was off on a military campaign. The youths fled from the city and hid in a cave on Mount Ochlon, where they passed their time in prayer, preparing for martyrdom. youngest of them, Saint Iamblicus, dressed as a beggar and went into the city to buy bread. On one of his excursions into the city, he heard that the emperor had returned and was looking for them. Saint Maximilian urged his companions to come out of the cave and present themselves for trial. where the young men were hidden, the emperor ordered that the entrance of the cave be sealed with stones so that the saints would perish from hunger and thirst. of the dignitaries at the blocked entrance to the cave were secret Christians. to preserve the memory of the saints, they placed in the cave a sealed container containing two metal plaques. On them were inscribed the names of the seven youths and the details of their suffering and death. Lord placed the youths into a miraculous sleep lasting almost two centuries. In the meantime, the persecutions against Christians had ceased. the reign of the holy emperor Theodosius the Younger (408-450) there were heretics who denied that there would be a general resurrection of the dead at the Second Coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. of them said, “How can there be a resurrection of the dead when there will be neither soul nor body, since they are disintegrated?” affirmed, “The souls alone will have a restoration, since it would be impossible for bodies to arise and live after a thousand years, when even their dust would not remain.” the Lord revealed the mystery of the Resurrection of the Dead and of the future life through His seven saints. owner of the land on which Mount Ochlon was situated, discovered the stone construction, and his workers opened up the entrance to the cave. Lord had kept the youths alive, and they awoke from their sleep, unaware that almost two hundred years had passed. Their bodies and clothing were completely undecayed. to accept torture, the youths once again asked Saint Iamblicus to buy bread for them in the city. Going toward the city, the youth was astonished to see a cross on the gates. Hearing the name of Jesus Christ freely spoken, he began to doubt that he was approaching his own city. he paid for the bread, Iamblicus gave the merchant coins with the image of the emperor Decius on it. He was detained, as someone who might be concealing a horde of old money. took Saint Iamblicus to the city administrator, who also happened to be the Bishop of Ephesus. Hearing the bewildering answers of the young man, the bishop perceived that God was revealing some sort of mystery through him, and went with other people to the cave. the entrance to the cave the bishop found the sealed container and opened it. He read upon the metal plaques the names of the seven youths and the details of the sealing of the cave on the orders of the emperor Decius. into the cave and seeing the saints alive, everyone rejoiced and perceived that the Lord, by waking them from their long sleep, was demonstrating to the Church the mystery of the Resurrection of the Dead. the emperor himself arrived in Ephesus and spoke with the young men in the cave. Then the holy youths, in sight of everyone, lay their heads upon the ground and fell asleep again, this time until the General Resurrection. emperor wanted to place each of the youths into a jeweled coffin, but they appeared to him in a dream and said that their bodies were to be left upon the ground in the cave. In the twelfth century the Russian pilgrim Igumen Daniel saw the holy relics of the seven youths in the cave. is a second commemoration of the seven youths on October 22. According to one tradition, which entered into the Russian Prologue (of Saints’ Lives), the youths fell asleep for the second time on this day. The Greek Menaion of 1870 says that they first fell asleep on August 4, and woke up on October 22. is a prayer of the Seven Sleepers of Ephesus in the Great Book of Needs (Trebnik) for those who are ill and cannot sleep. The Seven Sleepers are also mentioned in the service for the Church New Year, September 1.

Rome, 249&449, Seven Sleepers, wealthy, m belts, hid in cave, entrance sealed, sleep, owner resurection
Ephesus, 249&449, Seven Sleepers; 7 Holy Youths œSeven Sleepers of Ephesus, Commemorated on August 4; Seven Youths of Ephesus: Maximilian, Iamblicus, Martinian, John, Dionysius, Exacustodianus (Constantine) and Antoninus, lived in the third century. Saint Maximilian was the son of the Ephesus city administrator, and the other six youths were sons of illustrious citizens of Ephesus. The youths were friends from childhood, and all were in military service together. the emperor Decius (249-251) arrived in Ephesus, he commanded all the citizens to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. Torture and death awaited anyone who disobeyed. The seven youths were denounced by informants, and were summoned to reply to the charges. Appearing before the emperor, the young men confessed their faith in Christ. military belts and insignia were quickly taken from them. Decius permitted them to go free, however, hoping that they would change their minds while he was off on a military campaign. The youths fled from the city and hid in a cave on Mount Ochlon, where they passed their time in prayer, preparing for martyrdom. youngest of them, Saint Iamblicus, dressed as a beggar and went into the city to buy bread. On one of his excursions into the city, he heard that the emperor had returned and was looking for them. Saint Maximilian urged his companions to come out of the cave and present themselves for trial. where the young men were hidden, the emperor ordered that the entrance of the cave be sealed with stones so that the saints would perish from hunger and thirst. Two of the dignitaries at the blocked entrance to the cave were secret Christians. Desiring to preserve the memory of the saints, they placed in the cave a sealed container containing two metal plaques. On them were inscribed the names of the seven youths and the details of their suffering and death. Lord placed the youths into a miraculous sleep lasting almost two centuries. In the meantime, the persecutions against Christians had ceased. During the reign of the holy emperor Theodosius the Younger (408-450) there were heretics who denied that there would be a general resurrection of the dead at the Second Coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Some of them said, “How can there be a resurrection of the dead when there will be neither soul nor body, since they are disintegrated?” Others affirmed, “The souls alone will have a restoration, since it would be impossible for bodies to arise and live after a thousand years, when even their dust would not remain.” Therefore, the Lord revealed the mystery of the Resurrection of the Dead and of the future life through His seven saints. owner of the land on which Mount Ochlon was situated, discovered the stone construction, and his workers opened up the entrance to the cave. The Lord had kept the youths alive, and they awoke from their sleep, unaware that almost two hundred years had passed. Their bodies and clothing were completely undecayed. to accept torture, the youths once again asked Saint Iamblicus to buy bread for them in the city. Going toward the city, the youth was astonished to see a cross on the gates. Hearing the name of Jesus Christ freely spoken, he began to doubt that he was approaching his own city. he paid for the bread, Iamblicus gave the merchant coins with the image of the emperor Decius on it. He was detained, as someone who might be concealing a horde of old money. They took Saint Iamblicus to the city administrator, who also happened to be the Bishop of Ephesus. Hearing the bewildering answers of the young man, the bishop perceived that God was revealing some sort of mystery through him, and went with other people to the cave. the entrance to the cave the bishop found the sealed container and opened it. He read upon the metal plaques the names of the seven youths and the details of the sealing of the cave on the orders of the emperor Decius. Going into the cave and seeing the saints alive, everyone rejoiced and perceived that the Lord, by waking them from their long sleep, was demonstrating to the Church the mystery of the Resurrection of the Dead. the emperor himself arrived in Ephesus and spoke with the young men in the cave. Then the holy youths, in sight of everyone, lay their heads upon the ground and fell asleep again, this time until the General Resurrection. emperor wanted to place each of the youths into a jeweled coffin, but they appeared to him in a dream and said that their bodies were to be left upon the ground in the cave. In the twelfth century the Russian pilgrim Igumen Daniel saw the holy relics of the seven youths in the cave. is a second commemoration of the seven youths on October 22. According to one tradition, which entered into the Russian Prologue (of Saints’ Lives), the youths fell asleep for the second time on this day. The Greek Menaion of 1870 says that they first fell asleep on August 4, and woke up on October 22. is a prayer of the Seven Sleepers of Ephesus in the Great Book of Needs (Trebnik) for those who are ill and cannot sleep. The Seven Sleepers are also mentioned in the service for the Church New Year, September 1.

Rome, 250, Epimachus of Pelusium, Apostle Epimachus of Alexandria, drop of his blood healed woman's eye
Egypt, 250, Epimachus of Pelusium, Apostle Epimachus of Alexandria; Pelusium; Venerable Isidore of Pelusium, Commemorated February 4 ; Apostle Epimachus of Alexandria, Commemorated on October 31 ; Holy Martyr Epimachus of Alexandria was a native of Egypt. For a long time he lived in seclusion on Mount Peleusium. During a persecution against Christians at Alexandria (about the year 250), Saint Epimachus in his fervent zeal came into the city, destroyed pagan idols, and fearlessly confessed Christ. For this the saint was put to torture. Among the people watching the torture was a woman who was blind in one eye. A drop of blood from the martyr healed her infirmity. fierce tortures, the saint was beheaded by the sword. Epimachus is also commemorated on March 11. Translation of the relics of the Martyr Epimachus of Pelusium, Commemorated on March 11; Venerable Bessarion the Wonderworker of Egypt, Commemorated on June 6; Venerable Paisius the Great, Commemorated on June 19;

Rome, 250, Apostle Epimachus of Alexandria, Mt Peleusium, came to city, destroyed idols and confessed
Egypt, 30-1st Century, Apostle Epimachus of Alexandria; Alexandria; Apostle Epimachus of Alexandria, Commemorated on October 31 ; Holy Martyr Epimachus of Alexandria was a native of Egypt. For a long time he lived in seclusion on Mount Peleusium. a persecution against Christians at Alexandria (about the year 250), Saint Epimachus in his fervent zeal came into the city, destroyed pagan idols, and fearlessly confessed Christ. this the saint was put to torture. Among the people watching the torture was a woman who was blind in one eye. A drop of blood from the martyr healed her infirmity. fierce tortures, the saint was beheaded by the sword. Epimachus is also commemorated on March 11.

Rome, 250 3rd Century, Marinus of Rome, Martyr, soldier, being promoted to centurion, refused to sacrifice to idols
Palestine, 250 3rd Century, Marinus of Rome, Martyr, soldier, being promoted to centurion, refused to sacrifice to idols; Caesarea, Palestine ; Martyr Marinus of Rome, Commemorated December 16 ; Martyr Marinus was a soldier who suffered in Caesarea of Palestine in the third century. he was about to be promoted to centurion, he refused to swear the customary oath invoking the pagan gods, or to offer sacrifice to idols. Saint Marinus was beheaded after cruel tortures, and buried by Saint Asterius (August 7).

Rome, 250 3rd Century, Greatmartyr Parasceva of Iconium, celibate, confessor, torment, to the bone, miraculously healed, martyr
Lyconia, 250, Greatmartyr Parasceva of Iconium; Iconium; Greatmartyr Parasceva of Iconium, Commemorated on October 28 ; Great Martyr Paraskeva of Iconium, lived during the third century in a rich and pious family. The parents of the saint especially reverenced Friday, the day of the Passion of the Lord, and therefore they called their daughter Paraskeva. This name, Paraskeva, also means Friday. Paraskeva with all her heart loved purity and the loftiness of the virginal life, and she took a vow of celibacy. She wanted to devote all her life to God and to enlighten pagans with the light of Christ. of her confession of the Orthodox Faith, the pagans in a frenzy seized her and brought her to the city prefect. They demanded that she offer unholy sacrifice to the pagan idols. With a steady heart, and trusting on God, the saint refused this demand. For this she underwent great torments: after stripping her, they tied her to a tree and beat her with rods. Then the torturers raked her pure body with iron claws. Finally, they threw her into prison, exhausted by the torture and lacerated to the bone. But God did not forsake the holy sufferer, and miraculously healed her wounds. Not heeding this divine miracle, the executioners continued with their torture of Saint Paraskevḗ, and finally, they cut off her head. Paraskeva has always enjoyed a special love and veneration among the Orthodox people. Many pious customs and observances are associated with her. In the ancient Russian accounts of the Saints’ Lives, the name of the Great Martyr is inscribed as: Saint Paraskeva, also called Piatnitsa (in Russian: Friday). Churches dedicated to Saint Paraskeva in antiquity were given the name Piatnitsa. Small wayside chapels in Rus received the name Piatnitsa. The simple Russian people called the Martyr Paraskeva variously Piatnitsa, Piatina, Petka. of Saint Paraskeva were especially venerated and embellished by the faithful. Russian iconographers usually depicted the martyr as an austere ascetic, tall of stature, with a radiant crown upon her head. Icons of the saint guard pious and happy households. By Church belief, Saint Paraskevḗ is protectress of fields and cattle. Therefore, on her Feastday it was the custom to bring fruit to church to be blessed. These blessed objects were kept until the following year. Moreover, Saint Paraskeva is invoked for protection of cattle from disease. She is also a healer of people from grievous illness of both body and soul.

Rome, 250 3rd Century, Dorostolum, chosen to imitate and die as Saturn, he rejected indulgence, and confessed Christ
Bulgaria, 250 or 3rd Century, Dorostolum, Bulgaria, chosen to imitate and die as Saturn, he rejected the indulgence, immoral pleasures, and confessed Christ, many saved, he tortured cruelly and beheaded; Dorostolum (Dorostorum); Martyr Dasius of Dorostorum, Commemorated November 20 ; Holy Martyr Dasius lived during the third century in the city of Dorostorum on the Danube River. inhabitants of the city were preparing for a festival in honor of the pagan god Saturn. custom, thirty days before the celebration they selected a handsome youth, dressed him in fine clothing, accorded him royal honors, and he would go forth in public made up like Saturn. thirty days, he would indulge in wicked deeds and immoral pleasures. On the day of the feast he was brought before the idols and put to the sword as a sacrifice to Saturn. choice of his compatriots fell upon Saint Dasius, since in the city there was not a more handsome youth. of this, the saint said, “If I am fated to die, then it’s better to die for Christ as a Christian.” He openly confessed his faith in Christ before his fellow citizens and refused to take part in the shameful ritual. He denounced the impiety and error of the idolaters and converted many of them to Christ. on the orders of the emperors Diocletian (284-305) and Maximian (305-311), he was beheaded after cruel tortures.

Rome, 250 3rd Century, Barbara and Juliana at Heliopolis, B's Bathhouse, trinity of light, traced cross miraculously etched
Syria, 250 3rd Century, Barbara and Juliana at Heliopolis, in Syria, tower, pagan teachers, beauty, first cause questions, idols human hands w, not able to make, desire to know god life' goal, virginity, fame her beauty, refused marriage, warned father of split, permitted freedom, christian maidens, priest disguised merchant, baptism, Barbara's bathhouse, trinity of light, traced cross, miraculously etched, footprints too, healing water, many B miracles, father's rage, escape, hill opens up, crevice, shepherds, torture, Jesus, Juliana's sympathetic loud voice, torture, angel c nakedness w robe, beheaded by f and perfect, both killed by lightning; Barbara, known in the Eastern Orthodox Church as the Great Martyr Barbara, was an early Christian Lebanese and Greek saint and martyr. Accounts place her in the 3rd century in Heliopolis Phoenicia, present-day Baalbek, Lebanon.[1][2] There is no reference to her in the authentic early Christian writings nor in the original recension of Saint Jerome's martyrology. Despite the legends detailing her story, the earliest references to her supposed 3rd-century life do not appear until the 7th century, and veneration of her was common, especially in the East, from the 9th century.[3] of doubts about the historicity of her legend,[4] she was removed from the General Roman Calendar in the 1969 revision, though not from the Catholic Church's list of saints.[5] Barbara is often portrayed with miniature chains and a tower. As one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers, Barbara continues to be a popular saint in modern times, perhaps best known as the patron saint of armourers, artillerymen, military engineers, miners and others who work with explosives because of her legend's association with lightning, and also of mathematicians. A 15th-century French version of her story credits her with thirteen miracles, many of which reflect the security she offered that her devotees would not die before getting to make confession and receiving extreme unction.[3] Heliopolis, in Syria (Baalbeck, Lebanon); Greatmartyr Barbara at Heliopolis, in Syria, Commemorated December 4 ; Holy Great Martyr Barbara lived and suffered during the reign of the emperor Maximian (305-311). Her father, the pagan Dioscorus, was a rich and illustrious man in the Syrian city of Heliopolis. After the death of his wife, he devoted himself to his only daughter. Barbara’s extraordinary beauty, Dioscorus decided to hide her from the eyes of strangers. Therefore, he built a tower for Barbara, where only her pagan teachers were allowed to see her. From the tower there was a view of hills stretching into the distance. By day she was able to gaze upon the wooded hills, the swiftly flowing rivers, and the meadows covered with a mottled blanket of flowers; by night the harmonious and majestic vault of the heavens twinkled and provided a spectacle of inexpressible beauty. the virgin began to ask herself questions about the First Cause and Creator of so harmonious and splendid a world. she became convinced that the souless idols were merely the work of human hands. her father and teachers offered them worship, she realized that the idols could not have made the surrounding world. desire to know the true God so consumed her soul that Barbara decided to devote all her life to this goal, to spend her life in virginity. fame of her beauty spread throughout the city, and many sought her hand in marriage. But despite the entreaties of her father, she refused all of them. warned her father that his persistence might end tragically and separate them forever. Dioscorus decided that the temperament of his daughter had been affected by her life of seclusion. therefore permitted her to leave the tower and gave her full freedom in her choice of friends and acquaintances. Barbara met young Christian maidens in the city, and they taught her about the Creator of the world, about the Trinity, and about the Divine Logos. the Providence of God, a priest arrived in Heliopolis from Alexandria disguised as a merchant. After instructing her in the mysteries of the Christian Faith, he baptized Barbara, then returned to his own country. this time a luxurious bathhouse was being built at the house of Dioscorus. By his orders the workers prepared to put two windows on the south side. But Barbara, taking advantage of her father’s absence, asked them to make a third window, thereby forming a Trinity of light. one of the walls of the bath-house Barbara traced a cross with her finger. The cross was deeply etched into the marble, as if by an iron instrument. her footprints were imprinted on the stone steps of the bathhouse. water of the bathhouse had great healing power. Simeon Metaphrastes (November 9) compared the bathhouse to the stream of Jordan and the Pool of Siloam, because by God’s power, many miracles took place there. Dioscorus returned and expressed dissatisfaction about the change in his building plans, his daughter told him about how she had come to know the Triune God, about the saving power of the Son of God, and about the futility of worshipping idols. went into a rage, grabbed a sword and was on the point of striking her with it. The holy virgin fled from her father, and he rushed after her in pursuit. His way became blocked by a hill, which opened up and concealed the saint in a crevice. the other side of the crevice was an entrance leading upwards. Saint Barbara managed then to conceal herself in a cave on the opposite slope of the hill. a long and fruitless search for his daughter, Dioscorus saw two shepherds on the hill. One of them showed him the cave where the saint had hidden. Dioscorus beat his daughter terribly, and then placed her under guard and tried to wear her down with hunger. he handed her over to the prefect of the city, named Martianus. They beat Saint Barbara fiercely: they struck her with rawhide, and rubbed her wounds with a hair cloth to increase her pain. By night Saint Barbara prayed fervently to her Heavenly Bridegroom, and the Savior Himself appeared and healed her wounds. Then they subjected the saint to new, and even more frightful torments. the crowd where the martyr was tortured was the virtuous Christian woman Juliana, an inhabitant of Heliopolis. Her heart was filled with sympathy for the voluntary martyrdom of the beautiful and illustrious maiden. Juliana also wanted to suffer for Christ. She began to denounce the torturers in a loud voice, and they seized her. martyrs were tortured for a long time. Their bodies were raked and wounded with hooks, and then they were led naked through the city amidst derision and jeers. Through the prayers of Saint Barbara the Lord sent an angel who covered the nakedness of the holy martyrs with a splendid robe. Then the steadfast confessors of Christ, Saints Barbara and Juliana, were beheaded. Dioscorus himself executed Saint Barbara. The wrath of God was not slow to punish both torturers, Martianus and Dioscorus. They were killed after being struck by lightning. the sixth century the relics of the holy Great Martyr Barbara were transferred to Constantinople. Six hundred years later, they were transferred to Kiev (July 11) by Barbara, the daughter of the Byzantine Emperor Alexius Comnenos, Barbara, wife of the Russian prince Michael Izyaslavich. They rest even now at Kiev’s Saint Vladimir cathedral, where an Akathist to the saint is served each Tuesday. pious Orthodox Christians are in the habit of chanting the Troparion of Saint Barbara each day, recalling the Savior’s promise to her that those who remembered her and her sufferings would be preserved from a sudden, unexpected death, and would not depart this life without benefit of the Holy Mysteries of Christ.

Rome, 250 3rd Century, Babylas of Sicily, Southern Italy, fasting prayer silence, converted many, arested, tortured, died
Sicily, 250, 3rd Century, Babylas of Sicily, Southern Italy, fasting prayer silence, converted many, arested, tortured, died; Sicily; Martyr Babylas of Sicily, Commemorated January 24 ; Holy Martyrs Babylas of Sicily and his two disciples Timothy and Agapius lived during the third century on the outskirts of Rome. Saint Babylas was born in the city of Reupolium into a rich family, and he was raised by his parents in the Christian Faith. still in his youth he abandoned the world, secretly going from the house of his parents to a mountain, where he spent all his time in fasting, prayer and silence. two disciples, Timothy and Agapius, labored with him. Fleeing a persecution by the pagans, he went with his disciples to the island of Sicily, where they converted many unbelievers to Christ. governor of the island, angered by the missionary activity of Saint Babylas, ordered that he and his disciples be arrested, and he also had them tortured. The saints patiently endured their sufferings, and all three died by the sword. Their bodies were thrown into a fire, but the flames did not harm the warriors of Christ. They were buried on the island of Sicily by local Christians.

Rome, 251, Thermistocles of Myra, Lycia, a shepherd who concealed Dioskorides and went out to persuers. Tortured and Martyed
Lycia, 251, Thermistocles of Myra, Lycia, a shepherd who concealed Dioskorides and went out to persuers. Tortured and Martyed; Myra, Lycia; Martyr Themistocles of Myra in Lycia, Commemorated December 21 ; Holy Martyr Themistocles lived in the city of Myra of Lycia during the reign of the persecutor of Christians, Decius (249-251) was a shepherd. During the persecution he concealed within his home a certain Christian named Dioskorides, while he himself went out to the pursuers. They tortured him cruelly, and he received a martyr’s crown for Christ in the year 251

Rome, 251-253, Pope, Cornelius, supported lapsed members return to communion, martyred
Roman Pope, 251-253, Cornelius; CYPRIAN OF CARTHAGE, BISHOP AND MARTYR (15 SEP 258) ; Venerable Paul the Simple of Egypt, Commemorated on October 4;

Rome, 251-253, Emperor, Volusian, Pagan, b died in plague, k by troups w f
Roman Emperor, 251-253, Volusian; Vibius Volusianus (died August 253) was a Roman emperor from November 251 to August 253, ruling with his father Trebonianus Gallus. Emperor Decius and his son and co-ruler Herennius Etruscus died in battle in June 251, Trebonianus Gallus was elected emperor in the field by the legion. raised Hostilian, the younger son of Decius, to augustus (co-emperor) and elevated Volusianus to caesar. After the death of Hostilian in November 251, Volusianus was raised to augustus. short reign of Gallus and Volusianus was notable for the outbreak of a plague, which is said by some to be the reason for Hostilian's death, the invasion of the Sasanian Empire, and the raids of the Goths. was killed alongside his father in August 253 by their own soldiers, who were terrified of the forces of the usurper Aemilian which were marching towards Rome. Hieromartyr Cyprian the Bishop of Carthage, Commemorated on August 31; St Coronatus the Bishop of Nicomedia, Commemorated September 12 ; Hieromartyr Dionysius the Bishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on October 5; Hieromartyr Dionysius of Paris, Bishop, Commemorated on October 9; St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22; Martyr Anastasia of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 30; Apostle Epimachus of Alexandria, Commemorated on October 31; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15; St Fructuosis of Tarragona, Spain, Commemorated on January 21; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; Martyr Quadratus and the rest of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 10; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13; Martyr Apollonius of Sardis, Commemorated on July 10; Martyr Aquilina of Byblos in Syria, Commemorated on June 13 ;

Rome, 253-257, Pope, Stephen, anti novatian, converted many, martyrdom destroyed pagan temple
Roman Pope, 253-257, St Stephen of Rome; Hieromartyr Stephen the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on August 2 ; Hieromartyr Stephen, Pope of Rome, suffered in the year 257 during the reign of the emperor Valerian (253-259). Stephen, occupying the throne (253-257) of the holy First Bishop of Rome, zealously contended against the heresy of Novatus, which taught that it is not proper to receive back those returning from heresy. hiding during a persecution against Christians, Saint Stephen baptized many pagans, including the military tribune Nemesius. He converted to Christ after the saint healed his daughter Lucilla. Nemesius, who was ordained as a deacon, was beheaded along with his daughter. steward Symphronius was brought by the tribune Olympius into the temple of Mars for torture. His prayer shattered the golden idol, after which the tribune with his wife Exuperia and his son Theodolus believed and were baptized. They were all burned alive, and their remains were buried by holy Pope Stephen. twelve of his clergy were beheaded: Bonus, Faustus, Maurus, Primitivus, Calumniosus, John, Exuperantus, Cyril, Theodore, Basil, Castelus, Honoratus and Tertullinus, all converted by Saint Stephen. Finally, Saint Stephen himself was led before the emperor Valerian (253-259) , who condemned him to beheading with a sword in the temple of Mars. the prayers of the saint, a large part of the pagan temple was destroyed, and the soldiers fled. The saint concealed himself in the catacombs (the resting place of Saint Lucina or Lucy), where he was later killed by soldiers while he was teaching Christians. Martyr and Archdeacon Laurence of Rome, Commemorated on August 10;

Rome, 253-259, Emperor, Valerian the Elder, Christian suppoter, then Pagan
Roman Emperor, 253-259, Valerian the Elder ; Martyr Apollonius of Sardis, Commemorated on July 10; Martyr Marcian of Iconium, Commemorated on July 13 ; Hieromartyr Stephen the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on August 2 ; Hieromartyr Antherus (Antheros) Pope of Rome, Commemorated on August 5; Martyr Marinus the Soldier at Caesarea in Palestine, Commemorated on August 7; Martyr Hippolytus of Rome, Commemorated on August 13; LAURENCE, DEACON AND MARTYR (10 AUGUST 258); Martyr and Archdeacon Laurence of Rome, Commemorated on August 10; Hieromartyr Cyprian the Bishop of Carthage, Commemorated on August 31 ; St Coronatus the Bishop of Nicomedia, Commemorated September 12 ; CYPRIAN OF CARTHAGE, BISHOP AND MARTYR (15 SEP 258) ; Hieromartyr Dionysius the Bishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on October 5 ; Hieromartyr Dionysius of Paris, Bishop, Commemorated on October 9; Martyr Anastasia of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 30; Martyr Quadratus and the rest of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 10 ; St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22; Greatmartyr Mercurius of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on November 24; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; Martyr Polyeuctus of Melitene, in Armenia, Commemorated on January 9; Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15; St Fructuosis of Tarragona, Spain, Commemorated on January 21; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; Martyr Nicephorus of Antioch, in Syria, Commemorated on February 9; Martyr Quadratus and the rest of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 10; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13; Martyr Leonidas of Corinth, Commemorated on April 16; St Alban the Protomartyr of Britain, Commemorated on June 22; Martyr Agrippina of Rome, Commemorated on June 23;

Rome, 253-259, Agrippina of Rome, virgin, went bravely before court, tortured, bones broke, chains, angel freed her, d tortures
Rome, 253-259, Agrippina of Rome (Aniene River, Tiber River 5), virgin, went bravely before court, tortured, bones broke, chains, angel freed her, died from tortures; Rome; Martyr Agrippina of Rome, Commemorated on June 23; Holy Martyr Agrippina, was by birth a Roman. did not wish to enter into marriage, and totally dedicated her life to God. the time of persecution against Christians under the emperor Valerian (253-259) the saint went before the court and bravely confessed her faith in Christ, for which she was given over to torture. beat the holy virgin with sticks so severely that her bones broke. Afterwards they put Saint Agrippina in chains, but an angel freed her from her bonds. holy confessor died from the tortures she endured. Christians Bassa, Paula and Agathonike secretly took the body of the holy martyr and transported it to Sicily, many miracles were worked at her grave. the eleventh century the relics of the holy Martyr Agrippina were transferred to Constantinople.

Rome, 253-268, Nikephoros of Antioch, friends Sapricius and N b enemies, N a forgiveness, S s no, after apostacy N dies for S
Syria, 253-268, Nikephoros of Antioch, Syria (Orontes River 7) friends Sapricius and N become enemies, N asks forgiveness, but S says no, N dies for S after S apostacy; Antioch (Orontes River 7); Martyr Nikephoros of Antioch, in Syria, Commemorated on February 9; Holy Martyr Nikephoros lived in the city of Syrian Antioch. In this city lived also the presbyter Sapricius, with whom Nikephoros was very friendly, so that they were considered as brothers. They quarreled because of some disagreement, and their former love changed into enmity and hate. a certain time Nikephoros came to his senses, repented of his sin and more than once asked Sapricius, through mutual friends, to forgive him. Sapricius, however, did not wish to forgive him. Nikephoros then went to his former friend and fervently asked forgiveness, but Sapricius was adamant. this time the emperors Valerian (253-259) and Gallius (260-268) began to persecute Christians, and one of the first brought before the court was the priest Sapricius. He firmly confessed himself a Christian, underwent tortures for his faith and was condemned to death by beheading with a sword. As they led Sapricius to execution, Nikephoros tearfully implored his forgiveness saying, “O martyr of Christ, forgive me if I have sinned against you in any way.” priest Sapricius remained stubborn, and even as he approached death he refused to forgive his fellow Christian. Seeing the hardness of his heart, the Lord withdrew His blessing from Sapricius, and would not let him receive the crown of martyrdom. At the last moment, he suddenly became afraid of death and agreed to offer sacrifice to idols. In vain did Saint Nikephoros urge Sapricius not to lose his reward through apostasy, since he already stood on the threshold of the heavenly Kingdom. Nikephoros then said to the executioner, “I am a Christian, and I believe in our Lord Jesus Christ. Execute me in place of Sapricius.” The executioners reported this to the governor. He decided to free Sapricius, and to behead Nikephoros in his place. Thus did Saint Nikephoros inherit the Kingdom and receive a martyr’s crown.

Rome, 253-300, Martyr Evangelicus the Bishop of Tomis, Apostle Andrew's disciple, but martyred Diocletian persecution
Romania, 253-300, Martyr Evangelicus the Bishop of Tomis, Romania (Constantsa, near Lalomita River Mouth, Danube River 16), Apostle Andrew's disciple, but active end of 3rd C, converted many pagans of Dacia Pontica, martyred Diocletian persecution; Tomis (Constantsa); Martyr Evangelicus the Bishop of Tomis, Constanta in Romania, Commemorated July 7 ; Evangelicus, a follower of the holy Apostle Andrew (November 30), the first known bishop of the diocese of Tomis (Constanța, pronounced: Constantsa) in Dacia Pontica (Lesser Scythia, or Dobrogea). was active around the mouths of the Danube toward the end of the third century. Evangelicus converted many pagans of Dacia Pontica to Christianity. is mentioned in the account of the martyrdom of Saints Epictetus and Astion (July 8), where he is described as the founder of churches in the province. parents of these holy martyrs were baptized by Saint Evangelicus after being converted by the priest Bonosus. is believed that Saint Evangelicus suffered martyrdom during the persecution of Diocletian (284-305).

Rome, 257-258, Pope Sixtus II, martyred by Valerian
Roman Pope, 257-258, Pope Sixtus II; Sixtus II was bishop of Rome from 31 August 257 until his death on 6 August 258. He was martyred along with seven deacons, including Lawrence of Rome, during the persecution of Christians by the Emperor Valerian.[1] Hieromartyr Stephen the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on August 2 ; Martyr and Archdeacon Laurence of Rome, Commemorated on August 10;

Rome, 257-258, LAURENCE, Roman DEACON, to bishop Sixtus, take me with you, in 3 days, church treasures, distribute to poor
Rome, 257-258, LAURENCE, Roman DEACON AND MARTYR (Aniene River, Tiber River 5), to bishop Sixtus, take me with you, in 3 days, church treasures, distribute to poor, temple of Mars, prayer, earthquake destroys idols, reveal treasures need 3 days, jailer Hippolytos family baptized, soldier Romanus sees radiant youth and baptised, L on rack, iron whip, hot gridiron, I'm done on that side; Rome; LAURENCE, DEACON AND MARTYR (10 AUGUST 258); (or Lawrence) was chief of the seven deacons of the congregation at Rome, the seven men who, like Stephen and his companions (Acts 6:1-6), were in charge of administering the church budget, particularly with regard to the care of the poor. 257, the emperor Valerian began a persecution aimed chiefly at the clergy and the laity of the upper classes. Church property was confiscated and meetings of Christians were forbidden. bishop of Rome, Sixtus II, and most of his clergy were executed on 7 August 258, and Laurence on the 10th. This much from the near-contemporary records of the Church. The accounts recorded about a century later by Ambrose (see 7 Dec) and the poet Prudentius say that, as Sixtus was being led to his death, Laurence followed him, saying, "Will you go to heaven and leave me behind?" and that the bishop replied, "Be comforted, you will follow me in three days." go on to say that the Roman prefect, knowing that Laurence was the principal financial officer, promised to set him free if he would surrender the wealth of the Church. agreed, but said that it would take him three days to gather it. those three days, he placed all the money at his disposal in the hands of trustworthy stewards, and then assembled the sick, the aged, and the poor, the widows and orphans of the congregation, presented them to the prefect, and said, "These are the treasures of the Church." enraged prefect ordered him to be roasted alive on a gridiron. Laurence bore the torture with great calmness, saying to his executioners at one time, "You may turn me over; I am done on this side." spectacle of his courage made a great impression on the people of Rome, and made many converts, while greatly reducing among pagans the belief that Christianity was a socially undesirable movement that should be stamped out. The details of these later accounts have been disputed, on the grounds that a Roman citizen would have been beheaded. it is not certain that Laurence was a citizen, or that the prefect could be counted on to observe the law if he were. serious objections are these: The detailed accounts of the martyrdom of Laurence confuse the persecution under Decius with the persecution under Valerian, describing the latter, not as an emperor, but as the prefect of Rome under the emperor Decius. We have early testimony that Bishop Sixtus and his deacons were not led away to execution, but were summarily beheaded on the scene of their arrest. St. Laurence these reasons, the Bollandist Pere Delahaye and others believe that Laurence was simply beheaded in 258 with his bishop and fellow deacons. this theory, it remains unexplained how he became so prominent and acquired so elaborate an account of his martyrdom. emblem in art is (naturally) a gridiron. by James Kiefer Martyr and Archdeacon Laurence of Rome, Commemorated on August 10; Martyrs Archdeacon Laurence, Pope Sixtus, Deacons Felicissimus and Agapitus, and the soldier Romanus were citizens of Rome, and suffered in the year 258 during the reign of Emperor Valerian (253-260). Sixtus was born in the city of Athens, and at first he was a philosopher, but later he became a follower of Christ. he arrived in Rome, he showed himself to be a wise and devout member of the Church. Over a period of time, he passed through the various ranks of the clergy, and became the Bishop of Rome following the martyric death of Saint Stephen (August 2). Roman Hierarchs preferred to die rather than offer sacrifice to idols. Soon, Saint Sixtus was also arrested and imprisoned together with his deacons Felicissimus and Agapitus. Archdeacon Laurence visited Saint Sixtus in prison, he cried out with tears, "Where are you going, Father, without your son? Where do you hasten without your Archdeacon? Never have you offered the Bloodless Sacrifice without me. Take me with you, so that I may join you in shedding our blood for Christ!” Sixtus teplied, "I am not forsaking you, my son. I am old and I accept the lesser battle, but greater suffering awaits you. You must achieve the greater victory and triumph over your tormentors. Three days after my death, you shall follow after me." he entrusted Archdeacon Laurence with the Church's treasures and sacred vessels, telling him to distribute these to the poor. gathered them up and went around the city on foot, to the clergy and impoverished Christians who were in hiding, helping them according to their needs. he heard that Saint Sixtus had been brought to trial with his deacons, Saint Laurence went there in order to witness the outcome. that the martyrs were obstinate in their refusal to offer sacrifice to the idols, Valerian ordered them to be taken to the temple of Mars outside the city walls, and put to death if they did not offer incense to the idols. he saw the pagan temple, Saint Sixtus prayed for it to be destroyed. There was an earthquake which caused part of the temple to collapse, and the statue of Mars was shattered to pieces. Saint Laurence cried out, “Father, I have fulfilled your command, and have distributed the treasures of the Church which you entrusted to me." hearing about treasure, the soldiers placed him under guard. Saint Sixtus and the other martyrs were beheaded in front of the temple on August 6, 258. the soldiers brought Saint Laurence to the Emperor, informing him that they had heard the Archdeacon mention something about the Church's hidden treasures. Emperor ordered him to reveal where the treasures were, and the Archdeacon asked for three days in order to collect them. Then Saint Laurence gathered all the poor and the needy, and brought them to the Prefect, saying, "Behold the treasures of the Church." ruler became very angry at this and ordered Hippolytos (Iππόλυτος) who was in charge of the prison, to throw the Archdeacon into the dungeon with other prisoners. the Saint restored the sight of a man named Lucillus. was amazed at this, and asked to see the Church's treasures. Saint Laurence told him that if he believed in Christ and was baptized, he would find true wealth and everlasting life. Hippolytos said that if this was true, he would do as he asked. took Saint Laurence to his home, where he instructed and baptized the jailer and all his household, consisting of nineteen persons. afterward, Hippolytos was ordered to bring the Archdeacon to Emperor Valerian. Seeing that the Saint had not agreed to offer sacrifice, he ordered that Saint Laurence be tortured. Still, the Archdeacon refused to sacrifice to the idols. the Martyr endured these torments, a soldier named Romanus cried, "Laurence, I see a radiant youth standing by you, and wiping your wounds. Entreat Christ, Who has sent His Angel to you, not to abandon me." Valerian commanded Hippolytos to return the Saint to prison. brought a pitcher of water and asked the Martyr to baptize him. Immediately after the soldier was baptized, he was seized by other soldiers and taken to the Emperor. Before anyone could question him, Romanus shouted, "I am a Christian." Emperor ordered him to be taken outside the city and beheaded on August 9. next day, Saint Laurence was placed on a rack, scourged with whips with sharp iron points attached to them, and then was stretched out naked on a red-hot iron gridiron with burning coals underneath it. Holy Martyr glanced at the ruler and said, “You have already roasted one side of my body, now turn me over turn over the other side so you may taste what you have roasted." he glorified God, saying, “I thank You, Lord Jesus Christ, that You have found me worthy to enter Your gates." Laurence received the unfading crown of martyrdom on August 10, 258. night, Saint Hippolytos took the Saint's body he wrapped it in a shroud with spices. he and the priest Justin brought the relics to the home of a widow named Kyriake, where it remained until evening. many Christians escorted the Saint's body to a cave on the widow's property. After praying all night, they buried the Martyr there with honor. Then Father Justin served the Divine Liturgy, and everyone partook of the Holy Mysteries. Hippolytos and the other Christians suffered martyrdom three days after the death of Saint Laurence, on August 13. large part of Saint Laurence's relics are located in the church of Saint Laurence "outside the walls" in Rome. Other pieces of the holy relics are to be found in the Monasteries of Saint Panteleimon on Mount Athos, and at Kykkos, Cyprus.

Rome, 257-275, Synetus, Reader, Rome (Aniene River, Tiber River 5), Tortured and beheaded for his confession
Rome, 257-275, Synetus, Reader, Rome (Aniene River, Tiber River 5), Tortured and beheaded for his confession; Rome; Martyr Synetus of Rome, Commemorated on December 12; Holy Martyr Synetus (the name is derived from the Greek word meaning “man of reason”) was a Roman by birth, and was a reader in the Roman Church under Pope Sixtus (257-258). He was subjected to torture, and was beheaded for his brave confession of faith in the time of the emperor Aurelian (270-275).

Rome, 259-268, Emperor, Gallienus, C Supporter then Pagan, Third Century Crisis, successions, k in conspiracy
Roman Emperor, 259-268, Gallienus ; ( c. 218 -“ September 268) was Roman emperor with his father Valerian from 22 October 253 to spring 260 and alone from spring 260 to September 268. He ruled during the Crisis of the Third Century that nearly caused the collapse of the empire. While he won a number of military victories, he was unable to prevent the secession of important provinces. His 15-year reign was the longest in half a century. into a wealthy and traditional senatorial family, Gallienus was the son of Valerian and Mariniana. Valerian became Emperor on 22 October 253 and had the Roman senate elevate Gallienus to the ranks of Caesar and Augustus. Valerian divided the empire between him and his son, with Valerian ruling the east and his son the west. Gallienus defeated the usurper Ingenuus in 258 and destroyed an Alemanni army at Mediolanum in 259. defeat and capture of Valerian at Edessa in 260 by the Sasanian Empire threw the Roman Empire into the chaos of civil war. Control of the whole empire passed to Gallienus. He defeated the eastern usurpers Macrianus Major and Lucius Mussius Aemilianus in 261-“262 but failed to stop the formation of the breakaway Gallic Empire under general Postumus. Aureolus, another usurper, proclaimed himself emperor in Mediolanum in 268 but was defeated outside the city by Gallienus and besieged inside. While the siege was ongoing, Gallienus was stabbed to death by the officer Cecropius as part of a conspiracy. Martyr Marinus the Soldier at Caesarea in Palestine, Commemorated on August 7; St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22; Martyr Anastasia of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 30; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; Nun-Martyr Eugenia of Rome, Commemorated on December 24; Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15 ; Martyr Nicephorus of Antioch, in Syria, Commemorated on February 9; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13;

Rome, 268-270, Emperor, Claudius II, Pagan, success against Goths and Alemanni Germans, died from Cyprian Plague
Roman Emperor, 268-270, Claudius Gothicus; Aurelius Claudius 'Gothicus' (10 May 214 -January 270), also known as Claudius II, was Roman emperor from 268 to 270. his reign he fought successfully against the Alemanni and decisively defeated the Goths at the Battle of Naissus. He died after succumbing to "pestilence", possibly the Plague of Cyprian that had ravaged the provinces of the Empire. Martyr Marinus and his wife and children and those with them at Rome, Commemorated on July 6; Hieromartyr Valentine the Bishop of Interamna, Terni in Italy, Commemorated on July 30; Venerable Ammon, Commemorated on October 4; St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22; Martyr Anastasia of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 30; Martyr Marinus of Rome, Commemorated on December 16; Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15 ; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13;

Rome, 269, Saint Valentine of Terni, healed child's contorted spine
Roman Saint, 269, Saint Valentine of Terni; Hieromartyr Valentine the Bishop of Interamna, Terni in Italy, Commemorated on July 30; Hieromartyr Bishop Valentine and his three disciples, Proculus, Ephebus and Apollonius, and the righteous Abundius lived during the third century. Saint Valentine was a bishop in Umbria (Italy), in the city of Interamna. He received from God the gift of healing various maladies. this time three pagan youths, Proculus, Ephebus and Apollonius, came from Athens to Rome to study.They found a tutor named Craton, and lived in his home. Craton’s son Cherimon fell grievously ill, and his spine was so contorted that his head was bent down to his knees. Craton asked Bishop Valentine to help his sick son. holy bishop went into the sick child’s room and prayed fervently all night. When day came, the happy parents saw their son had been healed. They believed in Christ and were baptized with all their household. ’s students, Proculus, Ephebus and Apollonius were also baptized and became devoted disciples of Saint Valentine. The bishop’s fame quickly spread, and many were converted to Christ. Among them was the city prefect’s son, Abundius, who openly confessed himself a Christian. This was a bold thing to do, since paganism prevailed in the world, and Christianity was persecuted. wrath of the prefect and other city leaders fell upon Bishop Valentine, the teacher of the youths. They demanded that he renounce Christ and worship the idols. much torture they threw him into prison, where his followers visited him. Learning of this, the prefect gave orders to take Valentine out of the prison and behead him. Saint Valentine’s students Proculus, Ephebus, and Apollonius took the body of their teacher and carried it to the city of Interamnum, where they buried it. believers and pagans were drawn to them, and they converted many idolaters to the true Faith. When the authorities heard about this, they arrested the youths and threw them in prison. Fearing that people might break the sufferers out of prison, the executioners beheaded them by night. learning that his friends had been locked in prison, hastened to see them, but found that they had already been executed. He buried their bodies near the grave of holy Bishop Valentine.

Rome, 269, Hieromartyr Hippolytus, and the Martyrs Censorinus, Sabinus, Chryse the Virgin and 20 others suffered in 269
Rome, 217-269, Hieromartyr Hippolytus the Pope of Rome, an antipope 217-235, and martyr in 269, prolific writer; hieromartyr Hippolytus of Rome was a priest and an ecclesiastical writer of the third century. He is considered to have been antipope of the Church of Rome from about 217 to 235. He was among the most important Christian theologians of the third century, and a saint. His feast day is January 30. early life of Hippolytus is unknown. He was born about the year 170 and lived in Rome when young. Greek was his native tongue. He is believed to have been a disciple of Irenaeus of Lyons and to have met Origen. From the details of his work, Philosophoumena Hippolytus apparently was in Rome during the time Victor was the bishop of Rome. At the beginning of the third century he was a priest noted for his learning, eloquence, zeal, and moral earnestness. He was also noted to be a bishop of an unspecified city by Eusebius of Caesarea and Jerome and by the poet Prudentius as bishop of Portus, a port for Rome. Philosophoumena, that is a part of his larger work "Refutation of All Heresies", shows that he dissented from the compassionate views of Bps. Zephyrinus, whom he considered to be a weak man "unskilled the church's rule", and ‎Callistus I of Rome concerning the reception of backsliders and heretics who had repented. In the "Refutation of All Heresies" Hippolytus set out to refute the doctrines of the Gnostics and condemn heretics by showing that their views were taken from pagan philosophy and oriental theosophy. also came into conflict with the opinions of the bishops of Rome on christological issues of the day to such an extant that came to allow himself to be elected a rival bishop of Rome, the first antipope. the persecutions of emperor Maximinus Thrax Hippolytus was exiled to Sardinia in 235 where he died, reportedly a martyr. His body was returned to Rome and interred in a cemetery on the Via Tiburtina. By about 255, he was considered a martyred priest by the Church, indicating that he had been reconciled with the Church and not considered a schismatic. Rome, 217-269, Hieromartyr Hippolytus the Pope of Rome, an antipope 217-235, and martyr in 269, prolific writer; of Rome ( c. 170 - c. 235 AD) was one of the most important second-third century Christian theologians, whose provenance, identity and corpus remain elusive to scholars and historians. communities include Palestine, Egypt, Anatolia, Rome and regions of the mideast. best historians of literature in the ancient church, including Eusebius of Caesarea and Jerome, openly confess they cannot name where Hippolytus the biblical commentator and theologian served in leadership. They had read his works but did not possess evidence of his community. I of Constantinople describes him in his Bibliotheca (cod. 121) as a disciple of Irenaeus, who was said to be a disciple of Polycarp, and from the context of this passage it is supposed that he suggested that Hippolytus so styled himself.[1] This assertion is doubtful.[2] older theory asserts he came into conflict with the popes of his time and seems to have headed a schismatic group as a rival to the bishop of Rome, thus becoming an antipope. In this view, he opposed the Roman Popes who softened the penitential system to accommodate the large number of new pagan converts. However, he was reconciled to the Church before he died as a martyr.[2] in the fourth century, various legends arose about him, identifying him as a priest of the Novatianist schism or as a soldier converted by Saint Lawrence. has also been confused with another martyr of the same name.[2] Pope Pius IV identifies him as "Saint Hippolytus, Bishop of Pontus" who was martyred in the reign of Severus Alexander through his inscription on a statue found at the Church of Saint Lawrence in Rome and kept at the Vatican as photographed and published in Bunsen.[3] is known for certain about his community of origin. One Victorian theory suggested that as a presbyter of the church at Rome under Pope Zephyrinus (199–217 AD), Hippolytus was distinguished for his learning and eloquence. It was at this time that Origen, then a young man, heard him preach.[4][1] this view, Hippolytus accused Pope Zephyrinus of modalism, the heresy which held that the names Father and Son are simply different names for the same subject. Hippolytus championed the Logos doctrine of the Greek apologists, most notably Justin Martyr, which distinguished the Father from the Logos ("Word"). An ethical conservative, he was scandalized when Pope Callixtus I (217–222 AD) extended absolution to Christians who had committed grave sins, such as adultery.[5] suggest Hippolytus himself advocated a pronounced rigorism.[6] At this time, he seems to have allowed himself to be elected as a rival Bishop of Rome, and continued to attack Pope Urban I (222–230 AD) and Pope Pontian (230–235 AD).[2] G. Salmon suggests that Hippolytus was the leader of the Greek-speaking Christians of Rome.[7] Allen Brent sees the development of Roman house-churches into something akin to Greek philosophical schools gathered around a compelling teacher.[8] under this view: during the persecution at the time of Emperor Maximinus Thrax, Hippolytus and Pontian were exiled together in 235 to Sardinia,[9] likely dying in the mines.[7] It is quite probable that, before his death there, he was reconciled to the other party at Rome, for, under Pope Fabian (236–250 AD), his body and that of Pontian were brought to Rome. The so-called Chronography of 354 (more precisely, the Liberian Catalogue) reports that on August 13, probably in 236, the two bodies were interred in Rome, that of Hippolytus in a cemetery on the Via Tiburtina,[9] his funeral being conducted by Justin the Confessor. This document indicates that, by about 255, Hippolytus was considered a martyr and gives him the rank of a priest, not of a bishop, an indication that before his death the schismatic was received again into the Church.[2][1] name Hippolytus appears in various hagiographical and martyrological sources of the early Church. The facts about the life of the writer Hippolytus, as opposed to other celebrated Christians who bore the name Hippolytus, were eventually lost in the West, perhaps partly because he wrote in Hellenic Greek. Pope Damasus I dedicated to a Hippolytus one of his famous epigrams,[1] referring to a priest of the Novatianist schism, a view later forwarded by Prudentius in the 5th century in his "Passion of St Hippolytus". In the Passionals of the 7th and 8th centuries he is represented as a soldier converted by Saint Lawrence, a legend that long survived in the Roman Breviary. He was also confused with a martyr of the same name who was buried in Portus, of which city he was believed to have been a bishop,[2] who was put to death by drowning in a deep well.[9] to Prudentius' account, a martyr Hippolytus was dragged to death by wild horses,[10] a striking parallel to the story of the mythological Hippolytus, who was dragged to death by wild horses at Athens. He described the subterranean tomb of the saint and states that he saw there a picture representing Hippolytus' execution. He also confirms August 13 as the date on which a Hippolytus was celebrated but this again refers to the convert of Lawrence, as preserved in the Menaion of the Eastern Orthodox Church. latter account led to a Hippolytus being considered the patron saint of horses. During the Middle Ages, sick horses were brought to St Ippolyts, Hertfordshire, England, where a church is dedicated to him.[11] -Roman sculpture, maybe of Hippolytus, found in 1551 and used for the attribution of the Apostolic Tradition surrounds the corpus of the writer Hippolytus. In the Victorian Era, scholars claimed his principal work to be the Refutation of all Heresies.[2] Of its ten books, Book I was the most important.[5] It was long known and was printed (with the title Philosophumena) among the works of Origen. Books II and III are lost, and Books IV–X were found, without the name of the author,[1] in a monastery of Mount Athos in 1842. E. Miller published them in 1851 under the title Philosophumena, attributing them to Origen of Alexandria. Recent scholarship prefers to treat the text as the work of an unknown author, perhaps of Roman origin. 1551 a marble statue of a seated figure (originally female, perhaps personifying one of the sciences) was purportedly found in the cemetery of the Via Tiburtina and was heavily restored. On the sides of the seat was carved a paschal cycle, and on the back the titles of numerous writings by Hippolytus.[6][1] Many other works are listed by Eusebius of Caesarea and Jerome. The research of Guarducci showed the original statue was a representation of a female figure, reopening the question of its original purpose. Allen Brent analyzed the title list of the statue, questioning Hippolytan authorship of some works. voluminous writings, which for variety of subject can be compared with those of Origen, embrace the spheres of exegesis, homiletics, apologetics and polemic, chronography, and ecclesiastical law. The Apostolic Tradition, if it is the work of Hippolytus, recorded the first liturgical reference to the Virgin Mary, as part of the ordination rite of a bishop.[12] exegetical works attributed to Hippolytus, the best preserved are the Commentary on the Prophet Daniel and the Commentary on the Song of Songs.[2] This is the earliest attested Christian interpretation of the Song, covering only the first three chapters to Song 3:7. commentary on the Song of Songs survives in two Georgian manuscripts, a Greek epitome, a Paleo-Slavonic florilegium, and fragments in Armenian and Syriac as well as in many patristic quotations, especially in Ambrose of Milan's Exposition on Psalm 118 (119). It is generally regarded as an instruction relating to a post-Baptismal rite of anointing with oil as a symbol of receiving the Holy Spirit. The commentary was originally written as part of a mystagogy, an instruction for new Christians. Scholars have usually assumed the Commentary On the Song of Songs was originally composed for use during Passover, a season favored in the West for Baptism.[13] Hippolytus supplied his commentary with a fully developed introduction known as the schema isagogicum, indicating his knowledge of the rhetorical conventions for teachers discussing classical works.[14] He employs a common rhetorical trope, ekphrasis, using images on the walls or floors of Greco-Roman homes, and in the catacombs as paintings or mosaics.[15] Origen felt that the Song should be reserved for the spiritually mature and that studying it might be harmful for the novice. generally ascribe to Hippolytus[16] a work now entitled the Apostolic Tradition, which contains the earliest known ritual of ordination.[9] The influence of Hippolytus was felt chiefly through his works on chronography and ecclesiastical law.[1] His chronicle of the world, a compilation embracing the whole period from the creation of the world up to the year 234, formed a basis for many chronographical works both in the East and West.[17][1] It is from the Apostolic Tradition that the current words of episcopal ordination in the Catholic Church come from, as updated by Pope Paul VI. the great compilations of ecclesiastical law that arose in the East since the 3rd century, the Church Orders many canons were attributed to Hippolytus, for example in the Canons of Hippolytus or the Constitutions through Hippolytus. How much of this material is genuinely his, how much of it worked over, and how much of it wrongly attributed to him, can no longer be determined beyond dispute,[1] however a great deal was incorporated into the Fetha Negest, which once served as the constitutional basis of law in Ethiopia — where he is still remembered as Abulides. During the early 20th century the work known as The Egyptian Church Order was identified as the Apostolic Tradition and attributed to Hippolytus; at present this attribution is hotly contested. in style and theology lead some scholars to conclude that some of the works attributed to Hippolytus actually derive from a second author.[2] small but potentially important works, On the Twelve Apostles of Christ and On the Seventy Apostles of Christ, are often neglected because the manuscripts were lost during most of the church age and then found in Greece in the 19th century. . The two are included in an appendix to the works of Hippolytus in the voluminous collection of Early Church Fathers.[18] The work on the 70 apostles is noteworthy as a (potentially) early source. consensus of scholarship agrees on a core of authentic texts composed by the second-third century writer Hippolytus, regardless of disputes concerning his community, or the exact dates of his biography: these are the biblical commentaries, including On Daniel, On David and Goliath, On the Song of Songs (partially extant), On the Blessings of Isaac and Jacob, and On the Antichrist. These form a sound basis for exploring and understanding his theology and biblical doctrines. is an important figure in the development of Christian eschatology. In his biblical compendium and topical study On Christ and the Antichrist and in his Commentary on the Prophet Daniel Hippolytus gave his interpretation of the second advent of Christ.[19] the onset of persecutions during the reign of Septimius Severus, many early Christian writers treated topics of apocalyptic eschatology. On Christ and the Antichrist is one of the earliest works. It is thought Hippolytus was generally influenced by Irenaeus.[20] However, unlike Irenaeus, Hippolytus focuses on the meaning of prophecy for the Church in his own time. Of the dogmatic works, On Christ and the Antichrist survives in a complete state and was probably written about 202. follows the long-established usage in interpreting Daniel's seventy prophetic weeks to be weeks of literal years. Hippolytus gave an explanation of Daniel's paralleling prophecies of chapters 2 and 7, which he, as with the other fathers, specifically relates to the Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans. His interpretation of events and their significance is Christological.[21] did not subscribe to the belief that the Second Coming was imminent.[22] In his commentary on Daniel he criticizes those who predict the Second Coming in the near future, and then says that six thousand years must pass from Creation before the Second Coming. He also says that Christ was born 5500 years after Adam, so 500 years have to pass from the birth of Christ "to the consummation of the six thousand years, and in this way the end will be".[23] days[edit] the Eastern Orthodox Church, the feast day of St Hippolytus falls on August 13, which is also the Apodosis of the Feast of the Transfiguration. Because on the Apodosis the hymns of the Transfiguration are to be repeated, the feast of St. Hippolytus may be transferred to the day before or to some other convenient day. The Eastern Orthodox Church also celebrates the feast of "St Hippolytus Pope of Rome" on January 30, who may or may not be the same individual. Roman Catholic Church celebrates St Hippolytus jointly with St Pontian on August 13. The feast of Saint Hippolytus formerly celebrated on 22 August as one of the companions of Saint Timotheus was a duplicate of his 13 August feast and for that reason was deleted when the General Roman Calendar was revised in 1969.[24] Earlier editions of the Roman Martyrology referred to the 22 August Hippolytus as Bishop of Porto. The Catholic Encyclopedia sees this as "connected with the confusion regarding the Roman presbyter resulting from the Acts of the Martyrs of Porto. It has not been ascertained whether the memory of the latter was localized at Porto merely in connection with the legend in Prudentius, without further foundation, or whether a person named Hippolytus was really martyred at Porto, and afterwards confounded in legend with Hippolytus of Rome."[6] This opinion is shared by a Benedictine source.[25] editions of the Roman Martyrology also mentioned on 30 January a Hippolytus venerated at Antioch, but the details were borrowed from the story of Hippolytus of Rome.[26] Modern editions of the Martyrology omit mention of this supposed Saint Hippolytus of Antioch. Rome; Hieromartyr Hippolytus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated January 30 ; Hieromartyr Hippolytus, and the Martyrs Censorinus, Sabinus, Chryse the Virgin and 20 others suffered during the third century. Saint Hippolytus, Bishop of Rome, learned of the suffering of the martyrs, he appeared before the governor despite his advanced years and rebuked the torturers for their inhumanity. The enraged governor sentenced the holy bishop to be tortured. After long torments, they tied him hand and foot and threw him into the sea. Censorinus was a high-ranking magistrate during the reign of the Roman emperor Claudius II (268-270). He was arrested and thrown into prison for his faith in Christ. By the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ he raised up a dead man. As a result, twenty soldiers and prison guards were converted to Christ. They were beheaded with Saint Censorinus. Then the virgin Chryse was brought for interrogation. She bravely confessed herself a Christian and was subjected to torture. They lashed her sides and burned the wounds with candles. Then she was stretched out on the ground and beaten with heavy clubs. Not content with this, they broke her jaw with a rock and her back with leaden balls. Although she was covered with wounds, she confessed her faith as she was dying. So cruel was the brutality of her murderers that they tied a large stone around her neck and threw her into the sea. Chryse was thrown into the deep, but the newly-slain bride emerged from the ocean and entered the heavenly Bridal Chamber. Although her body disappeared into the water, her memory remains eternal and immortal, even more golden than her illustrious name. [FootNote: Chryse means “golden.”] Sabinus was the servant of Saint Chryse. The depraved idolaters beat him mercilessly with heavy leaden balls on his neck, then they hung him up on a tree and burned his entrails. After giving thanks to God, he surrendered his soul to Christ. Saint Chryse suffered the martyrs Ares, Felix, Maximus, Herculianus, Venerius, Stiracius, Mennas, Commodus, Hermes, Maurus, Eusebius, Rusticus, Monagrius, Amandinus, Olympius, Cyprus, Theodore the Tribune, Maximus the Presbyter, Archelaus the Deacon, and Cyriacus the Bishop. these Roman martyrs suffered in the year 269. The relics of the Hieromartyr Hippolytus were put in the church of the holy Martyrs Laurence and Pope Damasus at Rome. Saint Hippolytus was a disciple of Saint Irenaeus, Bishop of Lugdunum (Lyons in France), and he is also renowned as a Christian theologian who wrote many treatises against the heretics. Hyppolitus compiled a Paschal Canon, the famous Apostolic Tradition, “On Christ”, and a “Treatise on the Antichrist.” Saint Hippolytus also wrote many commentaries on Holy Scripture, on the Biblical Books: Genesis, Exodus, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, the Song of Songs, and on the Gospels of Matthew, Luke and John, and on the Prophets Isaiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Zechariah, on the Psalms of David and on the Apocalyse. Part of his works are preserved only in fragments. His discourses, devoted to the Theophany and the Prophet Daniel, are preserved in full. His discourses demonstrate his masterful style of preaching. He was one of the last Western Fathers to write in Greek.

Rome, 270-275, Emperor, Aurelian, unprecedntd series of v, reunited E, Restorer of World
Roman Emperor, 270-275, Aurelian ; Martyr Patroclus of Troyes, Commemorated August 17 ; Martyr Paul of Syria, Commemorated August 17 ; Hieromartyr Athanasius the Bishop of Tarsus in Cilicia, Commemorated on August 22 ; Venerable Anthusa the Nun, Commemorated August 22 ; Martyr Mamas of Caesarea in Cappadocia, Commemorated on September 2 ; Martyr Theodotus of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on September 2 ; St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22; Martyr Anastasia of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 30; Martyr Heliodorus in Pamphylia, Commemorated on November 19; Martyr Philoumenus of Ancyra, Commemorated on November 29; Martyr Synetus of Rome, Commemorated on December 12; Martyr Boniface at Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on December 19; Righteous Aglaida (Aglae) of Rome, Commemorated on December 19; Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15; Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17; Martyr Paul and his sister, Commemorated on March 4 ; Martyr Paul and his sister, Commemorated on March 4 ; Monkmartyr Conon and his son of Iconium, Commemorated on March 6; Hieromartyr Alexander of Side, in Pamphylia, Commemorated on March 15; Hieromartyr Alexander of Side, in Pamphylia, Commemorated on March 15; GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332); Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13; Martyr Sava Stratelates œthe GeneralÂ of Rome, Commemorated on April 24; Martyr Lucillian and those who suffered with him at Byzantium Commemorated on June 3;

Rome, 270-275, Heliodorus in Magidum, Pamphylia, Lykaonia, Martyr, fierce tortures, beheaded
Lykaonia, 270-275, Heliodorus in Magidum, Pamphylia, Lykaonia; Magydos, half way between Perge and Antalya; Martyr Heliodorus in Pamphylia, Commemorated on November 19 ; Holy Martyr Heliodorus lived during the reign of the emperor Aurelian (270-275) in the city of Magidum (Pamphylia). ruler of the city, Aetius, subjected the saint to fierce tortures for his faith in Christ and had him beheaded. Hieromartyr Nestor the Bishop of Magydos in Pamphylia, Commemorated on February 28 ;

Rome, 270-275, Ptolemais, Galilee (Acre) Phoenicia, executed under Aurelian, iron hooks, burned, red hot grates
Galilee, 270-275, Ptolemais, Galilee (Acre) Phoenicia, executed under Aurelian, iron hooks, burned, hot grates, soldiers believed executed, J preserved at brothel, touch lose sight, to execcution singing ; Ptolemais, Acre, 1 Maccabees Ch 9; Martyr Paul and his sister, Commemorated on March 4; Holy Martyr Paul and his sister Juliana were executed under the emperor Aurelian (270-275) in the Phoenician city of Ptolemais. emperor happened to visit Ptolemais, and among those who met him was Paul, who made the Sign of the Cross. They arrested him and threw him in prison. the following day, when they brought him to trial, he openly and boldly confessed his faith in Christ, for which he was subjected to fierce tortures. Juliana, seeing the suffering of her brother, began to denounce the emperor for his injustice and cruelty, for which she was also subjected to torture. beat the martyrs, tore their bodies with iron hooks, burned them over red-hot grates, but they were not able to break the wondrous endurance of the Lord’s confessors. Three soldiers torturing the saints were struck by the courageous spirit of the martyrs, and they in turn believed in Christ. These newly chosen of God were named Quadratus, Acacius and Stratonicus, and they were immediately executed. tormentor tried to seduce Saint Juliana with a promise to marry her, if she were to renounce Christ, but the saint refused the offer and remained steadfast. By order of the emperor they sent her to a brothel to be defiled. The Lord also preserved her there, and anyone who tried to touch the saint lost his sight. the enraged emperor commanded that they again burn the bodies of the saints. Those who saw the suffering of the saints began to murmur loudly, and Aurelian gave orders to behead the martyrs. gladdened face the brother and sister went to execution singing, “For Thou hast saved us from those who afflicted us and hast shamed those who hated us” (Ps. 43/44:7).

Rome, 271-356, ANTHONY, the great, father of monasticism, protection of Cross, lived to 105, John Chrys says read his bio
Egypt, 271-356, ANTHONY, father of monasticism, first monastic rule, temptations, eternal punishment, granted a vision, angel, prayer and work, food at sunset, praying till dawn, sleep every 3rd day, monsterous phantoms, protection of the Cross, beaten devil hypocrit, vanquished w prayer, moved into graveyard, shut in tomb, friend deliver bread, devils pounced, as if dead, prepared for burial, regained consciousness, back to tombs, form of ferocious beasts, defeated by trusting, roof opening ray of light, where have you been Jesus? Why? Wanted to see you struggle, now I will always help and make you famous, to Thebaid alone, ignored silver and gold, abandoned fort w water other side of river, friend's bread twice a year, perfect calm after 20 yrs struggle, friends besought his guidance, soon surrounded by several monasteries, don't fear demonic assaults, repel them by Cross, Maximian persecution in 311, A goes to p in Alexandria to suffer, but preserved , back to Thebaid, gifts wonderworking, deliverance, healing, great crowds, deeper into desert but asked to visit monasteries, Manichaean Arian heresies in Alexandria misrepresented him, but he publically denounced them, he lived to 105, John Chrysostom says everyone should read his biography by Athanasius ; Alexandria; Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17 ; Anthony the Great is known as the Father of monasticism, and the long ascetical sermon in The Life of Saint Anthony by Saint Athanasius (Sections 16-34), could be called the first monastic Rule. was born in Egypt in the village of Coma, near the desert of the Thebaid, in the year 251. His parents were pious Christians of illustrious lineage. Anthony was a serious child and was respectful and obedient to his parents. He loved to attend church services, and he listened to the Holy Scripture so attentively, that he remembered what he heard all his life. Saint Anthony was about twenty years old, he lost his parents, but he was responsible for the care of his younger sister. Going to church about six months later, the youth reflected on how the faithful,in the Acts of the Apostles (4:35), sold their possessions and gave the proceeds to the Apostles for the needy. he entered the church and heard the Gospel passage where Christ speaks to the rich young man: “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give it to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come follow Me” (Mt.19:21). Anthony felt that these words applied to him. Therefore, he sold the property that he received after the death of his parents, then distributed the money to the poor, and left his sister in the care of pious virgins in a convent. his parental home, Saint Anthony began his ascetical life in a hut not far from his village. By working with his hands, he was able to earn his livelihood and also alms for the poor. Sometimes, the holy youth also visited other ascetics living in the area, and from each he sought direction and benefit. He turned to one particular ascetic for guidance in the spiritual life. this period of his life Saint Anthony endured terrible temptations from the devil. The Enemy of the race of man troubled the young ascetic with thoughts of his former life, doubts about his chosen path, concern for his sister, and he tempted Anthony with lewd thoughts and carnal feelings. But the saint extinguished that fire by meditating on Christ and by thinking of eternal punishment, thereby overcoming the devil. that the devil would undoubtedly attack him in another manner, Saint Anthony prayed and intensified his efforts. Anthony prayed that the Lord would show him the path of salvation. And he was granted a vision. The ascetic beheld a man, who by turns alternately finished a prayer, and then began to work. This was an angel, which the Lord had sent to instruct His chosen one. Anthony tried to accustom himself to a stricter way of life. He partook of food only after sunset, he spent all night praying until dawn. Soon he slept only every third day. But the devil would not cease his tricks, and trying to scare the monk, he appeared under the guise of monstrous phantoms. The saint however protected himself with the Life-Creating Cross. Finally the Enemy appeared to him in the guise of a frightful looking small dark figure, and hypocritically declaring himself beaten, he thought he could tempt the saint into vanity and pride. The saint, however, vanquished the Enemy with prayer. even greater solitude, Saint Anthony moved farther away from the village, into a graveyard. He asked a friend to bring him a little bread on designated days, then shut himself in a tomb. Then the devils pounced upon the saint intending to kill him, and inflicted terrible wounds upon him. By the providence of the Lord, Anthony’s friend arrived the next day to bring him his food. Seeing him lying on the ground as if dead, he took him back to the village. They thought the saint was dead and prepared for his burial. At midnight, Saint Anthony regained consciousness and told his friend to carry him back to the tombs. Anthony’s staunchness was greater than the wiles of the Enemy. Taking the form of ferocious beasts, the devils tried to force the saint to leave that place, but he defeated them by trusting in the Lord. Looking up, the saint saw the roof opening, as it were, and a ray of light coming down toward him. The demons disappeared and he cried out, “Where have You been, O Merciful Jesus? Why didn’t You appear from the very beginning to end my pain?” Lord replied, “I was here, Anthony, but wanted to see your struggle. Now, since you have not yielded, I shall always help you and make your name known throughout all the world.” After this vision Saint Anthony was healed of his wounds and felt stronger than before. He was then thirty-five years of age. gained spiritual experience in his struggle with the devil, Saint Anthony considered going into the Thebaid desert to serve the Lord. He asked the Elder (to whom he had turned for guidance at the beginning of his monastic journey) to go into the desert with him. The Elder, while blessing him in the then as yet unheard of exploit of being a hermit, decided not to accompany him because of his age. Anthony went into the desert alone. The devil tried to hinder him, by placing a large silver disc in his path, then gold, but the saint ignored it and passed by. He found an abandoned fort on the other side of the river and settled there, barricading the entrance with stones. His faithful friend brought him bread twice a year, and there was water inside the fort. Anthony spent twenty years in complete isolation and constant struggle with the demons, and he finally achieved perfect calm. saint’s friends removed the stones from the entrance , and they went to Saint Anthony and besought him to take them under his guidance. Soon Saint Anthony’s cell was surrounded by several monasteries, and the saint acted as a father and guide to their inhabitants, giving spiritual instruction to all who came into the desert seeking salvation. increased the zeal of those who were already monks, and inspired others with a love for the ascetical life. He told them to strive to please the Lord, and not to become faint-hearted in their labors. He also urged them not to fear demonic assaults, but to repel the Enemy by the power of the Life-Creating Cross of the Lord. the year 311 there was a fierce persecution against Christians, in the reign of the emperor Maximian. Wishing to suffer with the holy martyrs, Saint Anthony left the desert and went to Alexandria. He openly ministered to those in prison, he was present at the trial and interrogations of the confessors, and accompanying the martyrs to the place of execution. It pleased the Lord to preserve him, however, for the benefit of Christians. the close of the persecution, the saint returned to the desert and continued his exploits. The Lord granted the saint the gift of wonderworking, casting out demons and healing the sick by the power of his prayer. great crowds of people coming to him disrupted his solitude, and he went off still farther, into the inner desert where he settled atop a high elevation. But the brethren of the monasteries sought him out and asked him to visit their communities. time Saint Anthony left the desert and arrived in Alexandria to defend the Orthodox Faith against the Manichaean and Arian heresies. that the name of Saint Anthony was venerated by all the Church, the Arians said that he adhered to their heretical teaching. Saint Anthony publicly denounced Arianism in front of everyone and in the presence of the bishop. During his brief stay at Alexandria, he converted a great multitude of pagans to Christ. from all walks of life loved the saint and sought his advice. philosophers once came to Abba Anthony intending to mock him for his lack of education, but by his words he reduced them to silence. Constantine the Great (May 21) and his sons wrote to Saint Anthony and asked him for a reply. He praised the emperor for his belief in Christ, and advised him to remember the future judgment, and to know that Christ is the true King. Anthony spent eighty-five years in the solitary desert. Shortly before his death, he told the brethren that soon he would be taken from them. He instructed them to preserve the Orthodox Faith in its purity, to avoid any association with heretics, and not to be negligent in their monastic struggles. “Strive to be united first with the Lord, and then with the saints, so that after death they may receive you as familiar friends into the everlasting dwellings.” saint instructed two of his disciples, who had attended him in the final fifteen years of his life, to bury him in the desert and not in Alexandria. left one of his monastic mantles to Saint Athanasius of Alexandria (January 18), and the other to Saint Serapion of Thmuis (March 21). Anthony died peacefully in the year 356, at age 105, and he was buried in the desert by his disciples. Life of the famed ascetic Saint Anthony the Great was written by Saint Athanasius of Alexandria. This is the first biography of a saint who was not a martyr, and is considered to be one of the finest of Saint Athanasius’ writings. Saint John Chrysostom recommends that this Life be read by every Christian. “These things are insignificant compared with Anthony’s virtues,” writes Saint Athanasius, “but judge from them what the man of God Anthony was like. From his youth until his old age, he kept his zeal for asceticism, he did not give in to the desire for costly foods because of his age, nor did he alter his clothing because of the infirmity of his body. He did not even wash his feet with water. He remained very healthy, and he could see well because his eyes were sound and undimmed. Not one of his teeth fell out, but near the gums they had become worn due to his advanced age. He remained strong in his hands and feet.... He was spoken of everywhere, and was admired by everyone, and was sought even by those who had not seen him, which is evidence of his virtue and of a soul dear to God.” following works of Saint Anthony have come down to us: Twenty Sermons on the virtues, primarily monastic (probably spurious). Seven Letters to various Egyptian monasteries concerning moral perfection, and the monastic life as a spiritual struggle. A Rule for monastics (not regarded as an authentic work of Saint Anthony). the year 544 the relics of Saint Anthony the Great were transferred to Alexandria, and after the conquest of Egypt by the Saracens in the seventh century, they were transferred to Constantinople. The holy relics were transferred from Constantinople in the tenth-eleventh centuries to a diocese outside Vienna. In the fifteenth century they were brought to Arles (in France), to the church of Saint Julian. ANTONY, ABBOT IN EGYPT (17 JAN 356) ; the conversion of the Emperor Constantine in 312 AD, back in the days when Christianity was still a persecuted religion, the act of becoming a Christian involved turning one's back on the pursuit of security, of fashionable prestige and popularity, of success as the term is widely understood. the Emperor had changed Christianity from a persecuted religion into a fashionable one, many earnest Christians felt the need to make such a renunciation in the service of Christ, and did not see mere Church membership as any longer enough to constitute such a renunciation. Accordingly, many of them sought Christian commitment by fleeing from society into the desert, and becoming hermits, devoting themselves to solitude, fasting, and prayer. this trend was much accelerated and reinforced by the conversion of Constantine and attendant changes, it had already begun earlier. An outstanding early example is Antony of Egypt, often reckoned as the founder of Christian monasticism. of Egypt, the son of Christian parents, inherited a large estate. On his way to church one day, he found himself meditating on the text, "Sell all that you have, and give to the poor, and come follow me." he got to church, he heard the preacher speaking on that very text. He took this as a message for him, and, having provided for the care of his sister, he gave his land to the tenants who lived on it, and gave his other wealth to the poor, and became a hermit, living alone for twenty years, praying and reading, and doing manual labor. 305, he gave up his solitude to become the head of a group of monks, living in a cluster of huts or cells, devoting themselves to communal singing and worship, to prayer and study and manual labor under Antony's direction. They did not simply renounce the world, but were diligent in prayer for their fellow Christians, worked with their hands to earn money that they might distribute it as alms, and preached and gave personal counseling to those who sought them out. 321, Christians in Alexandria were being persecuted by the Emperor Maximinus (the rule of Constantine was not yet universal), and Antony visited Alexandria to encourage those facing the possibility of martyrdom. visited again in 335, when Arianism was strong in the city, and converted many, by his preaching and testimony, and by prayer and the working of miracles. His biography was written by Athanasius, who said of him: "Who ever met him grieving and failed to go away rejoicing?" by James Kiefer Egyptian Patriarch, 325-395, Paphnutius the Ascetic; Venerable Ammon, Commemorated on October 4; Venerable Paul the Simple of Egypt, Commemorated on October 4; St John of Egypt,Commemorated on December 2;

Rome, 274-327, Equal of the Apostles and Emperor Constantine with his Mother Helen, Nish, Serbia, Constantine's Birthplace 274
Rome, 294, Equal of the Apostles and Emperor Constantine with his Mother Helen, Nish, Serbia, Constantine's Birthplace (South Morava River 5), she a christian commoner, in 294 her husband Constantius Chlorus Western Roman Caesar (Gaul and Britain) divorced her to marry a noble, father did not persecute christians, Constantine succeeded father in 306, 313 by Sign of Cross he defeated Maximian Galerius in the East and the fierce tyrant Maxentius in the West, 313 Edict of Milan made Christianity legal, 323 defeated Licinius to be sole ruler, 330 moved capital to Brizantium, B renamed Constantinople, 326 sent Helen to J to find Cross, 316 rise of Arianism, Donatism, Novatism, 325 first E council at Nicea; Nish, Serbia; Equal of the Apostles and Emperor Constantine with his Mother Helen, Commemorated on May 21; Church calls Saint Constantine (306-337) “the Equal of the Apostles,” and historians call him “the Great.” He was the son of the Caesar Constantius Chlorus (305-306), who governed the lands of Gaul and Britain. His mother was Saint Helen, a Christian of humble birth. this time the immense Roman Empire was divided into Western and Eastern halves, governed by two independent emperors and their corulers called “Caesars.” Constantius Chlorus was Caesar in the Western Roman Empire. Saint Constantine was born in 274, possibly at Nish in Serbia. In 294, Constantius divorced Helen in order to further his political ambition by marrying a woman of noble rank. After he became emperor, Constantine showed his mother great honor and respect, granting her the imperial title “Augusta.” the future ruler of all the whole Roman Empire, was raised to respect Christianity. His father did not persecute Christians in the lands he governed. This was at a time when Christians were persecuted throughout the Roman Empire by the emperors Diocletian (284-305) and his corulers Maximian Galerius (305-311) in the East, and the emperor Maximian Hercules (284-305) in the West. the death of Constantius Chlorus in 306, Constantine was acclaimed by the army at York as emperor of Gaul and Britain. The first act of the new emperor was to grant the freedom to practice Christianity in the lands subject to him. The pagan Maximian Galerius in the East and the fierce tyrant Maxentius in the West hated Constantine and they plotted to overthrow and kill him, but Constantine bested them in a series of battles, defeating his opponents with the help of God. He prayed to God to give him a sign which would inspire his army to fight valiantly, and the Lord showed him a radiant Sign of the Cross in the heavens with the inscription “In this Sign, conquer.” Constantine became the sole ruler of the Western Roman Empire, he issued the Edict of Milan in 313 which guaranteed religious tolerance for Christians. Saint Helen, who was a Christian, may have influenced him in this decision. In 323, when he became the sole ruler of the entire Roman Empire, he extended the provisions of the Edict of Milan to the Eastern half of the Empire. After three hundred years of persecution, Christians could finally practice their faith without fear. paganism, the Emperor did not let his capital remain in ancient Rome, the former center of the pagan realm. He transferred his capital to the East, to the city of Byzantium, which was renamed Constantinople, the city of Constantine (May 11). Constantine was deeply convinced that only Christianity could unify the immense Roman Empire with its diverse peoples. He supported the Church in every way. He recalled Christian confessors from banishment, he built churches, and he showed concern for the clergy. emperor deeply revered the victory-bearing Sign of the Cross of the Lord, and also wanted to find the actual Cross upon which our Lord Jesus Christ was crucified. For this purpose he sent his own mother, the holy Empress Helen, to Jerusalem, granting her both power and money. Patriarch Macarius of Jerusalem and Saint Helen began the search, and through the will of God, the Life-Creating Cross was miraculously discovered in 326. (The account of the finding of the Cross of the Lord is found under the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross, September 14). The Orthodox Church commemorates the Uncovering of the Precious Cross and the Precious Nails by the Holy Empress Helen on March 6. in Palestine, the holy empress did much of benefit for the Church. She ordered that all places connected with the earthly life of the Lord and His All-Pure Mother, should be freed of all traces of paganism, and she commanded that churches should be built at these places. emperor Constantine ordered a magnificent church in honor of Christ’s Resurrection to be built over His tomb. Saint Helen gave the Life-Creating Cross to the Patriarch for safe-keeping, and took part of the Cross with her for the emperor. After distributing generous alms at Jerusalem and feeding the needy (at times she even served them herself), the holy Empress Helen returned to Constantinople, where she died in the year 327. of her great services to the Church and her efforts in finding the Life-Creating Cross, the empress Helen is called “the Equal of the Apostles.” peaceful state of the Christian Church was disturbed by quarrels, dissensions and heresies which had appeared within the Church. Already at the beginning of Saint Constantine’s reign the heresies of the Donatists and the Novatians had arisen in the West. They demanded a second baptism for those who lapsed during the persecutions against Christians. These heresies, repudiated by two local Church councils, were finally condemned at the Council of Milan in 316. ruinous for the Church was the rise of the Arian heresy in the East, which denied the Divine Nature of the Son of God, and taught that Jesus Christ was a mere creature. By order of the emperor, the First Ecumenical Council was convened in the city of Nicea in 325. bishops attended this Council. Among its participants were confessor-bishops from the period of the persecutions and many other luminaries of the Church, among whom was Saint Nicholas of Myra in Lycia. (The account about the Council is found under May 29). The emperor was present at the sessions of the Council. The heresy of Arius was condemned and a Symbol of Faith (Creed) composed, in which was included the term “consubstantial with the Father,” at the insistence of the Emperor, confirming the truth of the divinity of Jesus Christ, Who assumed human nature for the redemption of all the human race. the Council of Nicea, Saint Constantine continued with his active role in the welfare of the Church. He accepted holy Baptism on his deathbed, having prepared for it all his whole life. Saint Constantine died on the day of Pentecost in the year 337 and was buried in the church of the Holy Apostles, in a crypt he had prepared for himself.

Rome, 276-282, Emperor, Marcus Aurelius Probus, Pagan, successful g, prosperity, Senate facade, d Germans, re fort
Roman Emperor, 276-282, Probus, Marcus Aurelius Probus; Aurelius Probus (19 August 232 -September 282) was Roman emperor from 276 to 282. Probus was an active and successful general as well as a conscientious administrator, and in his reign of six years he secured prosperity for the inner provinces while withstanding repeated invasions of barbarian tribes on almost every sector of the frontier.[6] repelling the foreign enemies of the empire Probus was forced to handle several internal revolts, but demonstrated leniency and moderation to the vanquished wherever possible.[7] In his reign the facade of the constitutional authority of the Roman Senate was fastidiously maintained, and the conqueror, who had carried his army to victory over the Rhine, professed himself dependent on the sanction of the Senate.[8] defeating the Germans, Probus re-erected the ancient fortifications of emperor Hadrian between the Rhine and Danube rivers, protecting the Agri Decumates,[9] and exacted from the vanquished a tribute of manpower to resettle depopulated provinces within the empire and provide for adequate defense of the frontiers.[10] Despite his widespread popularity, Probus was killed in a mutiny of the soldiers while in the middle of preparations for the Persian war, which would be carried out under his successor Carus.[11] St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22; Martyr Anastasia of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 30; Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15; Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17; GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332); Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13; St Metrophanes the first Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on June 4;

Rome, 277-331, Gregory the Illuminator, Bishop of Greater Armenia
Armenia, 277-331, Gregory the Illuminator, Bishop of Greater Armenia; Hieromartyr Gregory the Bishop of Greater Armenia, Equal of the Apostles and Enlightener of Armenia, Commemorated on September 30;

Rome, 278-312, Clement and Agathangelus, Ancyra, Galatia, revelation 28 yr suffering, many places
Phrygia, 278-312, Clement and Agathangelus, Ancyra, Galatia, Phrygia (Ankara River 2), mother predicted martyr's death for him, raised by Sophia, famine, fed, clothed, taught unfortunates, many later martyrs, priest at 18, bishop at 20, 303 Diocletian P, preserved and healed, to rome and D, prison transformed to church, to nicomedia and M, joined by Agathangelus, to Agrippa, pagans stoned torturers, set free, multitudes, sent home to Ancrya, to Amasea, hot lime whole day unharmed, to Tarsus, revelation 28 yrs suffer, A beheaded, C freed, cave church service beheading ; Ancyra; Phrygia, 278-312, Saint Clement of Ancyra; Clement, Bishop of Ancyra or simply Clement of Ancyra (c. 258-312) (born in Ancyra present-day Turkey) a bishop who served during the rule of Roman emperor Diocletian. He was arrested by Roman authorities and tried by Diocletian. Emperor Diocletian attempted to convert Clement to Paganism but Clement refused and withstood tremendous torture. was eventually beheaded by a Roman soldier whilst he was celebrating the Divine Liturgy in the year 312.[1] He is venerated on 23 January according to the Gregorian calendar and on 5 February according to the Julian calendar in some Eastern Orthodox countries together with his disciple Agathangelus of Rome. relics are in the saint's altar in the basilica of Our Lady of Trapani in Trapani.[2] Saint Clement Church is the only structure survived from the Byzantine era in Ankara.[3] Hieromartyr Clement the Bishop of Ancyra, Commemorated on January 23 ; Hieromartyr Clement was born in the Galatian city of Ancyra in the year 258, of a pagan father and a Christian mother. He lost his father when he was an infant, and his mother when he was twelve. She predicted a martyr’s death for him because of his belief in Christ. woman named Sophia adopted him and raised him in the fear of God. During a terrible famine in Galatia several pagans turned out their own children, not having the means to feed them. Sophia took in these unfortunates, and fed and clothed them. Saint Clement assisted her in this. He taught the children and prepared them for Baptism. Many of them died as martyrs for Christ. Clement was made a reader, and later a deacon. When he was eighteen he was ordained to the holy priesthood, and at age twenty he was consecrated Bishop of Ancyra. Soon afterwards the persecution against Christians under Diocletian (284-305) broke out. Clement was denounced as a Christian and arrested. Dometian, the governor of Galatia, tried to make the saint worship the pagan gods, but Saint Clement firmly confessed his faith and valiantly withstood all the tortures. suspended him on a tree, and raked his body with sharp iron instruments so that his entrails could be seen. They smashed his mouth with stones, and they turned him on a wheel and burned him over a low fire. The Lord preserved His sufferer and healed his lacerated body. Dometian sent the saint to Rome to the emperor Diocletian himself, with a report that Bishop Clement had been fiercely tortured, but had proven unyielding. Diocletian, seeing the martyr completely healthy, did not believe the report and subjected him to even crueler tortures, and then had him locked up in prison. of the pagans, seeing the bravery of the saint and the miraculous healing of his wounds, believed in Christ. People flocked to Saint Clement in prison for guidance, healing and Baptism, so that the prison was literally transformed into a church. When word of this reached the emperor, many of these new Christians were executed. struck by the amazing endurance of Saint Clement, sent him to Nicomedia to his co-emperor Maximian. On the ship, the saint was joined by his disciple Agathangelus, who had avoided being executed with the other confessors, and who now wanted to suffer and die for Christ with Bishop Clement. emperor Maximian in turn sent Saints Clement and Agathangelus to the governor Agrippina, who subjected them to such inhuman torments, that even the pagan on-lookers felt pity for the martyrs and they began to pelt the torturers with stones. been set free, the saints healed an inhabitant of the city through the laying on of hands and they baptized and instructed people, thronging to them in multitudes. Arrested again on orders of Maximian, they were sent home to Ancyra, where the ruler Cyrenius had them tortured. Then they were sent to the city of Amasea to the proconsul Dometius, known for his great cruelty. Amasea, the martyrs were thrown into hot lime. They spent a whole day in it and remained unharmed. They flayed them, beat them with iron rods, set them on red-hot beds, and poured sulfur on their bodies. All this failed to harm the saints, and they were sent to Tarsus for new tortures. In the wilderness along the way Saint Clement had a revelation that he would suffer a total of twenty-eight years for Christ. Then having endured a multitude of tortures, the saints were locked up in prison. Agathangelus was beheaded with the sword on November 5. The Christians of Ancyra freed Saint Clement from prison and took him to a cave church. There, after celebrating Liturgy, the saint announced to the faithful the impending end of the persecution and his own martyrdom. On January 23, the holy hierarch was killed by soldiers from the city, who stormed the church. The saint was beheaded as he stood before the altar and offered the Bloodless Sacrifice. Two deacons, Christopher and Chariton, were beheaded with him, but no one else was harmed.

Rome, 280-290, Rhipsime or Hripsime, beautiful and modest, wanted by diocledian&tridates, she suffered for virginity
Armenia, 280-290, Rhipsime orHripsime; Martyr Rhipsime of Armenia, Commemorated on September 30; Ripsimia suffered martyrdom in the year 292, during the reign of Diocletian (284-304). was very beautiful in terms of her outward appearance, and modest in her In those days, Diocletian sent men throughout the Empire to find a maiden fairer than all others for him to marry. They found Saint Ripsimia, who had consecrated her virginity to Christ, and was living in a community of women in Asia Minor, of which Saint Gaiane was the Superior. The messengers had a portrait of Ripsimia made and sent it to Diocletian. Emperor was captivated by her beauty, and he sent her a letter, asking her to be his wife. Ripsimia, who had Christ as her heavenly Bridegroom, did not want to marry anyone else. Therefore, the nuns decided to take refuge in Arnenia. On the way, they endured hunger, thirst, and many other trials. settled in a vineyard on the slopes of Mount Ararat, and the stronger women would go into the city to work for people in order to earn money to purchase food and other necessities. All the women were willing to endure exile, and to bear every burden and sorrow for the sake of purity. Diocletian was informed that Ripsimia had fled to Armenia, he wrote to his friend King Tiridates saying, "If you find her, send her to me, or, if you wish, marry her yourself." sent his men to search for Ripsimia, and when they found her they surrounded the area so that she could not escape. When he learned how beautiful she was, Tiridates sent her presents and raiment worthy of a queen, so that she might appear before him in a suitable fashion. however, acting in accordance with the instructions of Saint Gaiane, who had raised her from childhood, rejected these gifts and refused to go to the King. Saint Gaiane told the messengers that these virgins were already betrothed to Christ, and that it was impossible for them to enter into an earthly marriage. the messengers told Tiridates what had happened, he became very angry. He sent one of his princes and an army of soldiers to kill all the virgins and to bring Ripsimia to him by force. she saw the soldiers approach the virgins with drawn swords, Saint Ripsimia told the Prince, "Take me to your King, but do not harm these virgins." Ripsimia was taken to the royal bedchamber, weeping and praying that God would preserve her virginity. Recalling how He had helped His servants in the past, how He saved Israel from Pharoah's hands, keeping Jonah in the belly of the whale for three days, and how He protected the Three Holy Youths in the fiery furnace, she believed that He would also rescue her from Tiridates. the King entered the chamber he attempted to rape her, but with God's help she became stronger than Tiridates, and he was not able to harm her. the chamber, the King commanded that Saint Gaiane be brought to him, since he had discovered that she had raised Ripsimia. The King told her to persuade Ripsimia to submit to him, but when the Eldress spoke to her she counseled her to preserve her virginity, which she had dedicated to Christ, and to remember the crown which her Bridegroom had prepared for her. Finally, she said that if the King should put her to death, she would enjoy even greater favor from Christ. that he had accomplished nothing, even though he had struggled with Ripsimia for a long time, the King began to tremble and roll around on the floor. night, Saint Ripsimia escaped and fled from the city. She found the sisters and told them how she had remained undefiled. next morning some soldiers found Ripsimia and arranged a cruel death for her. First they cut out her tongue, stripped her, tied her hands and feet to columns, and burned her with candles. Then they tore her stomach open with a sharp stone, so that her entrails fell out. Finally, they plucked her eyes out and cut off her members. Having completed her contest, she departed to Christ, the bestower of crowns. Eldress Gaiane and two other virgins suffered even greater torments. The pagans drilled through their legs, suspended them upside down, and skinned them alive. Cutting their necks from behind, they pulled their tongues out and cut them off. Next, their stomachs were cut with sharp stones so that their entrails fell to the ground. Finally, they were beheaded. other Virgin Martyrs (some sources say there were thirty-five) suffered horrible tortures, and died by the sword, then their bodies were thrown to the wild animals. addition to these holy women, seventy men who were hiding in that area also suffered martyrdom. St Nino (Nina), Equal of the Apostles and Enlightener of Georgia, Commemorated on January 14;

Rome, 282-283, Emperor, Carus, success against Germans and Sarmatians, Lightning strike while against Sassanids
Roman Emperor, 282-283, Carus ; Aurelius Carus (c. 222 – July or August 283) was Roman emperor from 282 to 283, and was 60 at ascension. During his short reign, Carus fought the Germanic tribes and Sarmatians along the Danube frontier with success. died while campaigning against the Sassanid Empire and is believed to have died of unnatural causes, as it was reported that he had been struck by lightning.[3] He was succeeded by his sons Carinus and Numerian, creating a dynasty which, though short-lived, provided further stability to the resurgent empire. Martyr Andrew Stratelates in Cilicia, Commemorated on August 19; St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22; Martyr Anastasia of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 30; Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15; Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17; GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332) ; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13;

Rome, 283-284, Emperor, Carinus, Pagan then Christian after healing
Roman Emperor, 282-284, Carinus ; St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22; Martyr Anastasia of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 30; Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15; Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17; GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332); Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13; Holy Wonderworking Unmercenary Physicians Cosmas and Damian at Rome, Commemorated on July 1 ;

Rome, 284-305, Marina of Antioch, Pisidia, daughter of Pagan Priest, burns, water, divine light, healed, 15,000 martyred
Lykaonia, Pisidai, 284-305, Greatmartyr Marina of Antioch, Pisidia, Turkish Lakes, Major Intersection, daughter of Pagan Priest, Christian nurse, tortured beaten nails tridents, heavenly aid, burns, water of baptism, divine light, dove, golden crown, fetters removed, completely healed, 15,000 martyred; Antioch in Pisidia; Greatmartyr Marina (Margaret) of Antioch in Pisidia, Commemorated July 17 ; Holy Great Martyr Marina was born in Asia Minor, in the city of Antioch of Pisidia (southern Asia Minor), into the family of a pagan priest. infancy she lost her mother, and her father gave her into the care of a nursemaid, who raised Marina in the Orthodox Faith. learning that his daughter had become a Christian, the father angrily disowned her. the time of the persecution against Christians under the emperor Diocletian (284-305), when she was fifteen years old, Saint Marina was arrested and locked up in prison. firm trust in the will of God and His help, the young prisoner prepared for her impending fate. governor Olymbrios, charmed with the beautiful girl, tried to persuade her to renounce the Christian Faith and become his wife. the saint, unswayed, refused his offers. vexed governor gave the holy martyr over to torture. Having beaten her fiercely, they fastened the saint with nails to a board and tore at her body with tridents. governor himself, unable to bear the horror of these tortures, hid his face in his hands. the holy martyr remained unyielding. for the night into prison, she was granted heavenly aid and healed of her wounds. stripped her and tied her to a tree, then burned the martyr with fire. alive, the martyr prayed: “Lord, You have granted me to go through fire for Your Name, grant me also to go through the water of holy Baptism.” the word “water”, the governor gave orders to drown the saint in a large cauldron. The martyr besought the Lord that this manner of execution should become for her holy Baptism. they plunged her into the water, there suddenly shone a light, and a snow-white dove came down from Heaven, bearing in its beak a golden crown. fetters put upon Saint Marina came apart by themselves. martyr stood up in the fount of Baptism glorifying the Holy Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Marina emerged from the fount completely healed, without any trace of burns. at this miracle, the people glorified the True God, and many came to believe. brought the governor into a rage, and he gave orders to kill anyone who might confess the Name of Christ. Christians perished there, and the holy Martyr Marina was beheaded. sufferings of the Great Martyr Marina were described by an eyewitness of the event, named Theotimos. until the taking of Constantinople by Western crusaders in the year 1204, the relics of the Great Martyr Marina were in the Panteponteia monastery. to other sources, they were located in Antioch until the year 908 and from there transferred to Italy. they are in Athens, in a church dedicated to the holy Virgin Martyr. venerable hand was transferred to Mount Athos, to the Batopedi monastery.

Rome, 284-305, Orentios, Thrace, Bulgaria, Orentios killed Hun leader, honors, refused w, brothers exiled Georgia, died on trip
Bulgaria, 284-305, Thrace, Bulgaria (Via Militarius, Via Egnatia, Maritza River 8), Orentios killed Scythian (Hun) leader, honors but asked to sac to idols, refused, brothers detained, exiled to Caucasus, all died on trip ; Thrace; Seven Martyred Brothers: Orentius, Pharnacius, Eros, Firmus, Firminus, Cyriacus, and Longinus, in Georgia, Commemorated on June 24; Orentios, Pharnakios, Erotas, Phirmos, Phirminos, Kyriakos, and Longinus were brothers, who were known for their courage and served as soldiers in Thrace during the reign of Emperor Diocletian. a battle with the Scythians, Saint Orentios killed their fierce and intrepid leader, Mararon. He received many honors for this achievement, but then he was asked to participate in a sacrifice that was being offered to the idols in thanksgiving for his victory. The Christian hero absolutely refused to do this, declaring that he had defeated his foe by the power of Jesus Christ, whom he worshiped as the one true God. They did not punish him right away, because of his bravery, but he and his brothers were detained. some time, they were questioned. All seven declared, as with one mouth, that they would remain faithful to Christ until their last breath, and that the Savior would judge them on the Last Day. After saying this, they were sentenced to exile in the Caucasus. after another, the seven brothers died on the journey from their hardships and suffering. but they endured their afflictions without complaint. Erotas was the first to depart this life; he perished at Parembol on June 22. Next, Orentios was thrown into the sea with a stone tied around his neck. Pharnakios reposed on July 3 at Kordila. Phirmos and Phirminos received their heavenly crowns on July 7 at Aspara on the eastern shores of the Black Sea. Kyriakos went to the Lord on July 14 at Ziganeia, and Longinus gave his soul into God's hands on July 28 while on board a ship. The storm-tossed vessel went aground at Pitinda (Pitsnda), and so the last holy martyr was buried there. pray to these holy martyrs to protect us from our enemies. In Greek usage these saints are commemorated on June 25.

Rome, 284-305, Athanasia and her three young daughters, Edessa, Armenia, Saints Cyrus and John gave them courage to endure
Armenia, 284-305, Athanasia and her three young daughters. Theoctiste was fifteen; Theodota, was thirteen; and Eudoxia, was eleven, Edessa, Armenia (Intersection and Euphrates River 3), Saints Cyrus and John gave them courage to endure what lay before them; Edessa, Syria; Wonderworker and Unmercenary Cyrus, Commemorated on January 31 ; the city of Edessa at this time lived the soldier John, a pious Christian. When the persecution started, he went to Jerusalem and there he heard about Saint Cyrus. He began to search for him, going first to Alexandria and then to Arabia. When Saint John finally found Saint Cyrus, he remained with him and became his faithful follower. learned of the arrest of the Christian woman Athanasia and her three young daughters. Theoctiste was fifteen; Theodota, was thirteen; and Eudoxia, was eleven. Saints Cyrus and John hastened to the prison to help them. They were concerned that faced with torture, the women might renounce Christ. Cyrus and John gave them courage to endure what lay before them. Learning of this, the ruler of the city arrested Saints Cyrus and John, and seeing their steadfast and fearless confession of faith in Christ, he brought Athanasia and her daughters to witness their torture. The tyrant did not refrain from any form of torture against the holy martyrs. The women were not frightened by the sufferings of Saints Cyrus and John, but courageously continued to confess Christ. They were flogged and then beheaded, receiving their crowns of martyrdom.

Rome, 283-284, Emperor, Numerian, died after sharing power with his brother Carinus
Roman Emperor, 283-284, Numerian ; (3] died 20 November 284) was Roman emperor from 283 to 284 with his older brother Carinus. They were sons of Carus, a general raised to the office of praetorian prefect under Emperor Probus in 282.[4] 1 Early life and Carus' reign 1.1 Numerian and Carinus as Augusti 1.2 After Numerian's death 2 Character 3 Family tree 4 Citations 5 References 5.1 Primary sources 5.2 Secondary sources 6 External links life and Carus' reign[edit] was the younger son of Carus.[4] In 282, the legions of the upper Danube in Raetia and Noricum proclaimed as emperor Numerian's father, the praetorian prefect Marcus Aurelius Carus, after a mutiny against the emperor Probus, in which the latter was killed.[5][6] By one account, Carus had himself rebelled against the emperor, and Probus' army, stationed in Sirmium (Sremska Mitrovica, Serbia), decided they did not wish to fight Carus and assassinated their emperor instead.[7] According to the Historia Augusta and the view accepted by Gibbon, Carus was not responsible for Probus's death, and inflicted severe punishment upon the murderers.[8] Carus, already sixty, wished to establish a dynasty[9] and immediately elevated Carinus and Numerian to the rank of Caesar.[10] 283, Carus left Carinus in charge of the West and moved with Numerian and his praetorian prefect Arrius Aper to the East to wage war against the Sassanid Empire. The Sassanids had been embroiled in a succession dispute since the death of Shapur and were in no position to oppose Carus' advance.[11][12] to Zonaras, Eutropius, and Festus, Carus won a major victory against the Persians, taking Seleucia and the Sassanid capital of Ctesiphon (near modern Al-Mada'in, Iraq), cities on opposite banks of the Tigris.[13] In celebration, Numerian, Carus, and Carinus all took the title Persici maximi.[14] Carus died in July or early August of 283,[4] allegedly due to a strike of lightning.[15] and Carinus as Augusti[edit] death of Carus left Numerian and Carinus as the new Augusti. Carinus quickly made his way to Rome from Gaul, arriving in January 284, while Numerian lingered in the East.[16] The Roman retreat from Persia was orderly and unopposed, for the Persian King, Bahram II, was still struggling to establish his authority.[17] March 284, Numerian had only reached Emesa (Homs) in Syria; by November, only Asia Minor.[18] In Emesa he was apparently still alive and in good health, as he issued the only extant rescript in his name there.[19] Coins were issued in his name in Cyzicus at some time before the end of 284, but it is impossible to know whether he was still in the public eye by that point.[20] Emesa, Numerian's staff, including the prefect Aper, reported that Numerian suffered from an inflammation of the eyes and had to travel in a closed coach.[21] When the army reached Bithynia,[16] or Thrace,[22] some of Numerian's soldiers smelled an odor reminiscent of a decaying corpse emanating from the coach.[17] They opened its curtains and found Numerian dead.[23] Gibbon, however, dismisses with derision the report of the stench of Numerian's decay: "Could no aromatics be found in the Imperial house-hold?"[24] Numerian's death[edit] officially broke the news of Numerian's death in Nicomedia (Ä°zmit) in November 284,[25] though Gibbon represents the occurrence of this event at Heraclea, in Thrace, and the discovery, which the prefect attempted to conceal, as due to the forwardness of the soldiery, who forced open the Imperial tent to investigate for themselves the situation of their invisible monarch.[26] Numerian's generals and tribunes called a council for the succession, which met at Chalcedon across the Bosphorus, where they chose as emperor Diocletian, commander of the cavalry arm of the imperial bodyguard,[27] despite Aper's attempts to garner support.[25] The army of the east unanimously saluted their new Augustus. Diocletian accepted the purple imperial vestments and raised his sword to the light of the sun, swearing an oath denying responsibility for Numerian's death. He asserted that Aper had killed Numerian and concealed the deed. In full view of the army, Diocletian then turned and killed Aper, who had been hauled bound before the assembly.[28][29] to the Historia Augusta, Numerian was a man of considerable literary attainments, remarkably amiable, and known as a great orator and poet. Allegedly, the senate raised him a statue, inscribed To the most powerful of orators.[30] St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22; Martyr Anastasia of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 30; Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15; Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17; Martyr Chrysanthus and those with him at Rome, Commemorated on March 19; GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332); Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13; Martyr Thallelaeus at Aegae in Cilicia, Commemorated on May 20; ALBAN, FIRST MARTYR OF BRITAIN (22 JUNE 304); Holy Wonderworking Unmercenary Physicians Cosmas and Damian at Rome, Commemorated on July 1; Martyr Felix of Apollonia in Macedonia, Commemorated July 6 ;

Rome, 284-305, Emperor, Maximian Hercules, Western Half
Roman Emperor, 284-305, Maximian ; Martyr Bianor of Pisidia, Commemorated on July 10; Greatmartyr Euphemia the All-praised, Commemorated on July 11 ; Greatmartyr Marina (Margaret) of Antioch in Pisidia, Commemorated July 17 ; Hieromartyr Hermolaus at Nicomedia, Commemorated July 26 ; Greatmartyr and Healer Panteleimon, Commemorated July 27 ; Martyr Eusignius of Antioch, Commemorated on August 5; Martyr and Archdeacon Euplus of Catania, Commemorated on August 11; Hieromartyr Emilian, Commemorated on August 18 ; Martyr Andrew Stratelates in Cilicia, Commemorated on August 19; Martyr Timothy of Palestine, Commemorated on August 19; Martyr Agathonicus of Nicomedia, and others who suffered under Maximian, Commemorated on August 22; Martyr Lupus the Slave of St Demetrius of Thessalonica, Commemorated on August 23 ; Martyr Tation (Tatio) of Claudiopolis, Commemorated on August 24; Hieromartyr Anthimus the Bishop of Nicomedia, Commemorated on September 3; Martyr Basilissa of Nicomedia, Commemorated on September 3; Martyr Theophilus the Deacon of Nicomedia, Commemorated September 3 ; Martyr Theodore of Nicomedia, Commemorated September 4 ; Hieromartyr Cyril the Bishop of Gortyna, Commemorated September 6 ; Martyr Sozon of Cilicia, Commemorated September 7 ; Hieromartyr Autonomus the Bishop in Italy, Commemorated September 12 ; Greatmartyr Euphemia the All-praised, Commemorated on September 16 ; Martyr Epicharis of Rome, Commemorated on September 27; Martyr Rhipsime of Armenia, Commemorated on September 30 ; Martyr Dasius at Nicomedia, Commemorated on October 2; Hieromartyr Cyprian of Nicomedia, Commemorated on October 2 ; Martyr Sergius in Syria, Commemorated on October 7; Venerable Thais of Egypt, Commemorated on October 8; Martyr Eulampius at Nicomedia, Commemorated on October 10 ; Martyr Domnina of Anazarbus, Commemorated on October 12 ; Martyr Tarachus at Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on October 12; Hieromartyr Silvanus of Gaza, Commemorated on October 14; Martyr Lucian the Presbyter of Antioch, Commemorated on October 15; Martyr Marinus the Elder at Anazarbus, Commemorated on October 18; Blessed Cleopatra with her son in Egypt, Commemorated on October 19; Martyr Varus, Commemorated on October 19; Venerable Hilarion the Great, Commemorated on October 21; St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22; Martyr Anastasius the Fuller at Salona in Dalmatia, Commemorated on October 25; Holy, Glorious Demetrius the Myrrh-gusher of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 26; Martyr Lupus, Commemorated on October 26; Martyr Nestor of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 27; Martyr Anastasia of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 30; Hieromartyr Zenobius of Aegae in Cilicia, Commemorated on October 30; 33 Holy Martyrs of Melitene, Commemorated on November 7; Martyr Alexander of Thessalonica, Commemorated on November 9; Martyr Onesiphorus of Ephesus, Commemorated on November 9; Martyr Orestes of Cappadocia, Commemorated on November 10; Martyr Menas of Egypt, Commemorated on November 11; Martyr Vincent of Spain, Commemorated on November 11; Martyr Antoninus of Caesarea in Palestine, Commemorated on November 13 ; Martyr and Confessor Gurias of Edessa, Commemorated on November 15; Martyr Zacchaeus the Deacon of Caesarea in Palestine, Commemorated on November 18; Martyr Azes of Isauria, Commemorated on November 19; Martyr Dasius of Dorostorum, Commemorated on November 20; Martyr Eustathius of Nicea, Commemorated on November 20; Martyr Sisinius the Bishop of Cyzicus, Commemorated on November 23; Hieromartyr Peter the Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on November 25; Martyr Irenarchus at Sebaste, Commemorated on November 28; Martyr Anastasius the Fuller of Salona in Dalmatia, Commemorated on December 5 ; St Crispina, Commemorated on December 5; NICHOLAS OF MYRA, FRIEND OF CHILDREN, GIVER OF GIFTS, CLIMBER OF CHIMNEYS, ETC. (6 DEC 326) ; St Nicholas the Wonderworker and Archbishop of Myra in Lycia, Commemorated on December 6; Martyr Athenodorus of Mesopotamia, Commemorated on December 7; LUCY, VIRGIN AND MARTYR, abt. 304, Commemorated December 13; Martyr Eustratius at Sebaste, Commemorated on December 13; Virginmartyr Lucy of Syracuse, Commemorated on December 13; Martyr Apollonius of Alexandria, Commemorated on December 14; Martyr Sebastian at Rome, and his companions, Commemorated on December 18; Martyr Boniface at Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on December 19; Righteous Aglaida (Aglae) of Rome, Commemorated on December 19; St Philogonius the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20; Virginmartyr Juliana of Nicomedia, Commemorated on December 21; Greatmartyr Anastasia the œDeliverer from PotionsÂ, Commemorated on December 22; Martyr Chrysogonus the Teacher of the Greatmartyr Anastasia, Commemorated on December 22; Martyr Theodota who suffered under Diocletian, Commemorated on December 22; 20,000 Martyrs of Nicomedia, Commemorated on December 28; Martyr Philetairus of Nicomedia, Commemorated on December 30; Virginmartyr Anysia at Thessalonica, Commemorated on December 30; St. Basil the Great, Archbishop of Caesarea in Cappadocia, Commemorated on January 1; Zisimus of Martyrs Zosimus the Hermit and Athanasius the Commentarisius (Superintendent of Prisoners), Anchorites, of Cilicia, Commemorated on January 4; Hieromartyr Theopemptus the Bishop of Nicomedia, Commemorated on January 5; Martyr Julian at Antinoe in Egypt, Commemorated on January 8; St Carterius of Caesarea in Cappadocia, Commemorated on January 8; Martyr Mertius of Mauretania, Commemorated on January 12; Martyr Peter Apselamus of Palestine, Commemorated on January 12; St James the Bishop of Nisibis, Commemorated on January 13; St Nino (Nina), Equal of the Apostles and Enlightener of Georgia, Commemorated on January 14; Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15; Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17; Virginmartyr Euphrasia of Nicomedia, Commemorated on January 19; Martyr Bassus at Nicomedia, Commemorated on January 20; AGNES OF ROME, MARTYR (21 JAN 304) ; Martyr Neophytus of Nicea, Commemorated on January 21; Virginmartyr Agnes of Rome, Commemorated on January 21; VINCENT OF SARAGOSSA, DEACON AND MARTYR (22 JAN 304); Hieromartyr Clement the Bishop of Ancyra, Commemorated on January 23; Martyr Agathangelus, Commemorated on January 23 ; Presbyter Ananias in Phoenicia, Commemorated on January 26; Martyr Romanus at Samosata, Commemorated on January 29; Martyr Athanasia and her daughters at Canopus in Egypt, Commemorated on January 31 ; Wonderworker and Unmercenary Cyrus, Commemorated on January 31; Martyr Helladius in Cilicia, Commemorated on February 5; Martyr Helladius in Cilicia, Commemorated on February 5; Martyr Theodula of Anazarbus in Cilicia, Commemorated on February 5; Virginmarty Fausta at Cyzicus, Commemorated on February 6 ; Virginmartyr Dorothy at Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on February 6; 1,003 Martyrs of Nicomedia, Commemorated on February 7 ; Martyr Aule, Commemorated on February 7; Hieromartyr Blaise the Bishop of Sebaste, Commemorated on February 11; Venerable Paphnutius of Alexandria, Commemorated on February 15; Martyr Pamphilius the Presbyter at Caesarea, in Palestine, Commemorated on February 16 ; Martyr Victor of Phrygia, Commemorated on February 18 ; St Agapitus the Confessor the Bishop of Synnada in Phrygia, Commemorated on February 18; Martyr Antonina of Nicea, in Bithynia, Commemorated on March 1; Martyr Eudokia of Heliopolis, Commemorated on March 1; Martyr Agapius at Caesarea, in Palestine, Commemorated on March 15; Martyr Nicander of Egypt, Commemorated on March 15 ; Hieromartyr Trophimus of Laodicea, Commemorated on March 16 ; Martyr Sabinus of Egypt, Commemorated on March 16; Martyr Trophimus of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 18 ; GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332); Hieromartyr Irenaeus the Bishop of Sirmium in Hungary, Commemorated on March 26; Martyr Manuel, Commemorated on March 27; Martyr Matrona of Thessalonica, Commemorated on March 27; Martyr Agathopodes the Deacon, and those with him, at Thessalonica, Commemorated on April 5; St Platonida (Platonis) of Nisibis, Syria, Commemorated on April 6; Martyr Calliopius at Pompeiopolis in Cilicia, Commemorated on April 7 ; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13; Virginmartyr Agape in Thessalonica, Commemorated on April 16 ; Martyr Victor of Nicomedia, Commemorated on April 18; Hieromartyr Paphnutius of Jerusalem, Commemorated on April 19; Martyr Christopher at Nicomedia, Commemorated on April 19; Hieromartyr Januarius the Bishop of Benevento, and his companions, at Pozzuoli, Commemorated on April 21; Martyr Isaac of Nicomedia, Commemorated on April 21; GEORGE, SOLDIER and MARTYR, 23 APRIL 303; Greatmartyr, Victory-bearer and Wonderworker George, Commemorated on April 23; Martyr Eusebius and Others, at Nicomedia, Commemorated on April 24; Martyr Pasikrates in Moesia, Bulgaria, Commemorated on April 24; Martyr Dada at Dorostolum, Commemorated on April 28 ; Martyr Diodorus the Deacon at Aphrodisias in Anatolia, Commemorated on April 29; Martyr Theognes at Cyzicus, Commemorated on April 29; Hieromartyr Albian the Bishop of Anaea in Asia Minor, Commemorated on May 4; Hieromartyr Erasmus the Bishop of Formia in Campania, Commemorated on May 4; Martyr Acacius the Centurion at Byzantium, Commemorated on May 7; Martyr Alexander of Rome, Commemorated on May 13; Martyr Solochon at Chalcedon, Commemorated on May 17 ; Martyr Caluf of Egypt, Commemorated on May 19; Martyr Asclas of Egypt, Commemorated on May 20; Martyrs of Niculitsel, Commemorated on June 4; Hieromartyr Theodotus the Bishop of Ancyra, Commemorated on June 7; Martyr Eustochius of Ancyra, Commemorated on June 23; Martyr Orentius, one of the seven martyred brothers in Georgia, Commemorated on June 24; Virginmartyr Febronia of Nisibis, Commemorated on June 25; Greatmartyr Procopius of Caesarea, in Palestine, Commemorated on July 8; Martyr Epictetus the Presbyter at Halmyris, Commemorated on July 8; Hieromartyr Cyril the Bishop of Gortyna in Crete, Commemorated on July 9 ;

Rome, 284-305, Emperor, Diocletian, Eastern Half
Rome, 284-305, Emperor Diocletian ; Martyr Bianor of Pisidia, Commemorated on July 10; Greatmartyr Euphemia the All-praised, Commemorated on July 11 ; Hieromartyr Cindeus the Presbyter of Pamphylia, Commemorated on July 11; Martyr Julita (Ulita) of Tarsus, Commemorated on July 15 ; Greatmartyr Marina (Margaret) of Antioch in Pisidia, Commemorated July 17 ; Martyr Trophimus and 14 Others in Lycia, Commemorated on July 23; Hieromartyr Hermolaus at Nicomedia, Commemorated July 26 ; Greatmartyr and Healer Panteleimon, Commemorated July 27 ; Martyr Theodota in Bithynia, Commemorated on July 29; Martyr Julitta at Caesarea, Commemorated July 31 ; Martyr Leontius of Perge in Pamphylia, Commemorated on August 1; Martyr Eusignius of Antioch, Commemorated on August 5; Martyr and Archdeacon Euplus of Catania, Commemorated on August 11; Martyr Anicetus of Nicomedia, Commemorated on August 12 ; Martyr Diomedes the Physician of Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on August 16; Hieromartyr Emilian, Commemorated on August 18 ; Martyr Andrew Stratelates in Cilicia, Commemorated on August 19; Martyr Timothy of Palestine, Commemorated on August 19; Martyr Severus and 38 Soldiers in Thrace, Commemorated on August 20; Martyr Agathonicus of Nicomedia, and others who suffered under Maximian, Commemorated on August 22; St Felix of Spain, Commemorated August 22 ; Virginmartyr Eulalia of Barcelona, Commemorated on August 22; Martyr Lupus the Slave of St Demetrius of Thessalonica, Commemorated on August 23 ; Martyr Tation (Tatio) of Claudiopolis, Commemorated on August 24; 3,628 Martyrs who suffered at Nicomedia, Commemorated on September 2 ; Hieromartyr Anthimus the Bishop of Nicomedia, Commemorated on September 3; Martyr Basilissa of Nicomedia, Commemorated on September 3; Martyr Theophilus the Deacon of Nicomedia, Commemorated September 3 ; Martyr Theodore of Nicomedia, Commemorated September 4 ; Hieromartyr Cyril the Bishop of Gortyna, Commemorated September 6 ; Martyr Sozon of Cilicia, Commemorated September 7 ; Hieromartyr Autonomus the Bishop in Italy, Commemorated September 12 ; Greatmartyr Euphemia the All-praised, Commemorated on September 16 ; Martyr Epicharis of Rome, Commemorated on September 27; Martyr Rhipsime of Armenia, Commemorated on September 30 ; Martyr Dasius at Nicomedia, Commemorated on October 2 ; Hieromartyr Cyprian of Nicomedia, Commemorated on October 2 ; Martyr Charitina of Amisus, Commemorated on October 5; Martyr Sergius in Syria, Commemorated on October 7; Martyr Pelagia of Tarsus, Commemorated on October 7; Venerable Thais of Egypt, Commemorated on October 8; Virginmartyr Pelagia of Antioch, Commemorated on October 8; Martyr Eulampius at Nicomedia, Commemorated on October 10 ; Martyr Tarachus at Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on October 12; Hieromartyr Silvanus of Gaza, Commemorated on October 14; Martyr Lucian the Presbyter of Antioch, Commemorated on October 15; Martyr Marinus the Elder at Anazarbus, Commemorated on October 18; Blessed Cleopatra with her son in Egypt, Commemorated on October 19; Martyr Varus, Commemorated on October 19; Venerable Hilarion the Great, Commemorated on October 21; St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22; Martyr Anastasius the Fuller at Salona in Dalmatia, Commemorated on October 25; Holy, Glorious Demetrius the Myrrh-gusher of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 26; Martyr Lupus, Commemorated on October 26; Greatmartyr Parasceva of Iconium, Commemorated on October 28; Martyr Anastasia of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 30; Hieromartyr Zenobius of Aegae in Cilicia, Commemorated on October 30; 33 Holy Martyrs of Melitene, Commemorated on November 7; Martyr Alexander of Thessalonica, Commemorated on November 9; Martyr Onesiphorus of Ephesus, Commemorated on November 9; Martyr Orestes of Cappadocia, Commemorated on November 10; Martyr Menas of Egypt, Commemorated on November 11; Martyr Vincent of Spain, Commemorated on November 11; Martyr Antoninus of Casarea in Palestine, Commemorated on November 13 ; Martyr and Confessor Gurias of Edessa, Commemorated on November 15; Martyr Zacchaeus the Deacon of Caesarea in Palestine, Commemorated on November 18; Martyr Azes of Isauria, Commemorated on November 19; Martyr Dasius of Dorostorum, Commemorated on November 20; Martyr Eustathius of Nicea, Commemorated on November 20; Martyr Sisinius the Bishop of Cyzicus, Commemorated on November 23; Hieromartyr Peter the Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on November 25; Martyr Irenarchus at Sebaste, Commemorated on November 28; Martyr Anastasius the Fuller of Salona in Dalmatia, Commemorated on December 5 ; St Crispina, Commemorated on December 5; NICHOLAS OF MYRA, FRIEND OF CHILDREN, GIVER OF GIFTS, CLIMBER OF CHIMNEYS, ETC. (6 DEC 326) ; St Nicholas the Wonderworker and Archbishop of Myra in Lycia, Commemorated on December 6; Martyr Athenodorus of Mesopotamia, Commemorated on December 7; LUCY, VIRGIN AND MARTYR, abt. 304, Commemorated December 13; Martyr Eustratius at Sebaste, Commemorated on December 13; Virginmartyr Lucy of Syracuse, Commemorated on December 13; Martyr Apollonius of Alexandria, Commemorated on December 14; Martyr Sebastian at Rome, and his companions, Commemorated on December 18; Martyr Boniface at Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on December 19; Righteous Aglaida (Aglae) of Rome, Commemorated on December 19; St Philogonius the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20; Virginmartyr Juliana of Nicomedia, Commemorated on December 21; Greatmartyr Anastasia the œDeliverer from Potions, Commemorated on December 22; Martyr Chrysogonus the Teacher of the Greatmartyr Anastasia, Commemorated on December 22; Martyr Theodota who suffered under Diocletian, Commemorated on December 22; 20,000 Martyrs of Nicomedia, Commemorated on December 28; Martyr Philetairus of Nicomedia, Commemorated on December 30; Virginmartyr Anysia at Thessalonica, Commemorated on December 30; St. Basil the Great, Archbishop of Casarea in Cappadocia, Commemorated on January 1; Zisimus of Martyrs Zosimus the Hermit and Athanasius the Commentarisius (Superintendent of Prisoners), Anchorites, of Cilicia, Commemorated on January 4; Hieromartyr Theopemptus the Bishop of Nicomedia, Commemorated on January 5; Martyr Julian at Antinoe in Egypt, Commemorated on January 8; St Carterius of Caesarea in Cappadocia, Commemorated on January 8; Martyr Mertius of Mauretania, Commemorated on January 12; Martyr Peter Apselamus of Palestine, Commemorated on January 12; St James the Bishop of Nisibis, Commemorated on January 13; St Nino (Nina), Equal of the Apostles and Enlightener of Georgia, Commemorated on January 14; Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15; Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17; Virginmartyr Euphrasia of Nicomedia, Commemorated on January 19; Martyr Bassus at Nicomedia, Commemorated on January 20; AGNES OF ROME, MARTYR (21 JAN 304) ; Virginmartyr Agnes of Rome, Commemorated on January 21; Martyr Neophytus of Nicea, Commemorated on January 21; VINCENT OF SARAGOSSA, DEACON AND MARTYR (22 JAN 304); Hieromartyr Clement the Bishop of Ancyra, Commemorated on January 23; Martyr Agathangelus, Commemorated on January 23 ; Martyr Theodotion of Egypt, Commemorated on January 24; Presbyter Ananias in Phoenicia, Commemorated on January 26; Martyr Romanus at Samosata, Commemorated on January 29; Martyr Athanasia and her daughters at Canopus in Egypt, Commemorated on January 31 ; Wonderworker and Unmercenary Cyrus, Commemorated on January 31; Martyr Helladius in Cilicia, Commemorated on February 5 ; Martyr Theodula of Anazarbus in Cilicia, Commemorated on February 5; Virginmarty Fausta at Cyzicus, Commemorated on February 6; Virginmartyr Dorothy at Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on February 6; 1,003 Martyrs of Nicomedia, Commemorated on February 7 ; Martyr Aule, Commemorated on February 7; Hieromartyr Blaise the Bishop of Sebaste, Commemorated on February 11; Venerable Paphnutius of Alexandria, Commemorated on February 15; Martyr Pamphilius the Presbyter at Caesarea, in Palestine, Commemorated on February 16 ; Martyr Victor of Phrygia, Commemorated on February 18 ; St Agapitus the Confessor the Bishop of Synnada in Phrygia, Commemorated on February 18; Martyr Antonina of Nicea, in Bithynia, Commemorated on March 1; Hieromartyr Capiton of Cherson, Commemorated on March 7; Martyr Agapius at Caesarea, in Palestine, Commemorated on March 15; Martyr Nicander of Egypt, Commemorated on March 15 ; Hieromartyr Trophimus of Laodicea, Commemorated on March 16 ; Martyr Sabinus of Egypt, Commemorated on March 16; Martyr Trophimus of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 18 ; Martyr Pancharius at Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 19; GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332); Hieromartyr Irenaeus the Bishop of Sirmium in Hungary, Commemorated on March 26; Martyr Manuel, Commemorated on March 27; Martyr Matrona of Thessalonica, Commemorated on March 27; Martyr Agathopodes the Deacon, and those with him, at Thessalonica, Commemorated on April 5; St Platonida (Platonis) of Nisibis, Syria, Commemorated on April 6; Martyr Calliopius at Pompeiopolis in Cilicia, Commemorated on April 7 ; Martyr Crescens of Myra in Lycia, Commemorated on April 13; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13; Virginmartyr Agape in Thessalonica, Commemorated on April 16 ; Martyr Victor of Nicomedia, Commemorated on April 18; Hieromartyr Paphnutius of Jerusalem, Commemorated on April 19; Martyr Anthony at Rome, Commemorated on April 19; Martyr Christopher at Nicomedia, Commemorated on April 19; Hieromartyr Januarius the Bishop of Benevento, and his companions, at Pozzuoli, Commemorated on April 21; Martyr Isaac of Nicomedia, Commemorated on April 21; GEORGE, SOLDIER and MARTYR, 23 APRIL 303; Greatmartyr, Victory-bearer and Wonderworker George, Commemorated on April 23; Martyr Eusebius and Others, at Nicomedia, Commemorated on April 24; Martyr Pasikrates in Moesia, Bulgaria, Commemorated on April 24; Martyr Dada at Dorostolum, Commemorated on April 28 ; Martyr Diodorus the Deacon at Aphrodisias in Anatolia, Commemorated on April 29; Martyr Theognes at Cyzicus, Commemorated on April 29; Martyr Timothy the Reader and his wife in Egypt, Commemorated on May 3; Hieromartyr Albian the Bishop of Anaea in Asia Minor, Commemorated on May 4; Hieromartyr Erasmus the Bishop of Formia in Campania, Commemorated on May 4; Hieromartyr Silvanus the Bishop of Gaza, and with him 40 Martyrs, Commemorated on May 4 ; Virginmartyr Pelagia of Tarsus, in Asia Minor, Commemorated on May 4; Hieromartyr Mocius the Presbyter of Amphipolis in Macedonia, Commemorated on May 11; Martyr Pancratius, Commemorated on May 12; Martyr Vitus at Lucania, Commemorated on May 16; Martyr Caluf of Egypt, Commemorated on May 19; Glorification of the Venerable Zabulon, the father of St Nino Enlightener of Georgia, Commemorated on May 20; Martyr Asclas of Egypt, Commemorated on May 20; Hieromartyr Therapon the Bishop of Cyprus, Commemorated on May 25; Virginmartyr Theodora of Alexandria, Commemorated on May 27 ; Hieromartyr Dorotheus the Bishop of Tyre, Commemorated on June 5; Virginmartyr Archelais Beheaded at Salerno, Commemorated on June 6; Hieromartyr Marcellinus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; Hieromartyr Sisinius the Deacon of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; Hieromartyr Theodotus the Bishop of Ancyra, Commemorated on June 7; Martyr Kyriake of Caesarea, in Palestine, Commemorated on June 7; Martyr Priscilla of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; Venerable Onuphrius the Great, Commemorated on June 12; Martyr Antonina of Nicea, Commemorated on June 13; Martyr Aquilina of Byblos in Syria, Commemorated on June 13 ; Martyr Modestus at Lucania, Commemorated on June 15; Hieromartyr Methodius the Bishop of Patara, Commemorated on June 20; Martyr Julian of Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on June 21 ; ALBAN, FIRST MARTYR OF BRITAIN (22 JUNE 304); Martyr Zeno of Philadelphia, Commemorated on June 22 ; Virginmartyr Febronia of Nisibis, Commemorated on June 25; Hieromartyr Theodore the Bishop of Cyrene in Libya, Commemorated July 4 ; Martyr Lucy at Rome, Commemorated on July 6; Martyrs at Rome, Commemorated on July 6; Martyr Evangelicus the Bishop of Tomis, Constanta in Romania, Commemorated on July 7 ; Martyr Kyriake of Nicomedia, Commemorated on July 7; Greatmartyr Procopius of Caesarea, in Palestine, Commemorated on July 8; Martyr Epictetus the Presbyter at Halmyris, Commemorated on July 8; Hieromartyr Cyril the Bishop of Gortyna in Crete, Commemorated on July 9 ;

Rome, 284-305, Antonina of Nicea, Diocletian Persecution, Angels scared excutnrs, unharmed by hot metal bed, in lake in sack
Bithynia, 284-305, Antonina of Nicea, Bithynia (on Lake Ascanius in Lower Sakarya), Diocletian Persecution, Angels scared executioners, unharmed by hot metal bed, into lake in sack; Nicea (Nicaea); Martyr Antonina of Nicea, in Bithynia, Commemorated on March 1; Holy Martyr Antonina suffered at Nicea during a persecution under the emperor Maximian (284-305). After fierce tortures, Saint Antonina was thrown into prison, but Maximian could not force the saint to renounce Christ and offer sacrifice to idols. of God appeared to the holy martyr and the executioners took fright. Even when they placed her on a red-hot metal bed, Saint Antonina remained unharmed, by the power of God. Finally, after long torture they sewed the saint into a sack and sank it in a lake.

Rome, 284-305, Antonina of Nicea, Bithynia, survived fire, red hot plate, red hot rods into hands & feet
Bithynia, 284-305, Antonina of Nicea, Bithynia (on Lake Ascanius in Lower Sakarya), survived various tortures, burned, red hot plate, red hot rods bored into hands and feet; Nicea (Nicaea); Martyr Antonina of Nicea, Commemorated on June 13; Holy Martyr Antonina suffered during the third century under Diocletian (284-305) in the city of Nicea. tortured her in various ways: they burned her with fire, they put her on a red-hot plate, they bored into her hands and feet with red-hot rods and they threw her in prison, where she languished for two days. torments did not break Saint Antonina’s spirit, and to her very death she confessed her faith in Christ. They threw the holy martyr into the sea.

Rome, 284-305, Boniface, slave, cohabitation, wanted relics from East, grace radiant faces, church on his relics, miracles
Cilicia, 284-305, Boniface, Tarsus, Cilicia (Seyhan River Mouth), slave of rich roman woman, cohabitation, conscience, wanted relics in home for salvation, relics diminish sin, virtue prevails, bring back relics from east, to Tarsus, christians being tortured,with grace radiant faces, B asked to suffer with them, stripped, hung upside down, beat flesh from body, molten tar down throat, remained unharmed, caldron boiling tar, no harm, bedewed by an angel, tar burned torturers, beheaded, relics back to Rome, Aglaida build church on his relics, miracles there, she distrib wealth and went to monastery, she buried by Boniface; Tarsus; Martyr Boniface at Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on December 19 ; Holy Martyr Boniface was the slave of a rich young Roman woman named Aglaida (Aglae) and he dwelt with her in an iniquitous cohabitation. But they both felt the sting of conscience and they wanted somehow to be cleansed of their sin. And the Lord granted them the possibility to wash away their sin with their blood and to finish their life in repentance. learned that whoever keeps relics of the holy martyrs in the home and venerates them receives great help in gaining salvation. Under their influence, sin is diminished and virtue prevails. She arranged for Boniface to go to the East, where there was a fierce persecution against Christians, and she asked him to bring back the relics of some martyr, who would become a guide and protector for them. he was leaving, Boniface laughed and asked, “My lady, if I do not find any relics, and if I myself suffer for Christ, will you accept my body with reverence?” Aglaida scolded him, saying that he was setting off on a sacred mission, but he was not taking it seriously. Boniface pondered her words, and during the whole journey he thought that he was unworthy of touching the bodies of the martyrs. at Tarsus in Cilicia, Boniface left his companions at the inn and proceeded to the city square, where they were torturing Christians. Struck by the beastly horrible torments, and seeing the faces of the holy martyrs radiant with the grace of the Lord, Boniface marveled at their courage. He embraced them and kissed their feet, asking them to pray that he might be found worthy to suffer with them. judge asked Boniface who he was. He replied, “I am a Christian,” and then refused to offer sacrifice to idols. They stripped him and hung him upside down, beating him so hard that the flesh fell from his body, exposing the bone. They stuck needles under his nails, and finally they poured molten tin down his throat, but by the power of the Lord he remained unharmed. The people who witnessed this miracle shouted, “Great is the God of the Christians!” Then they began to throw stones at the judge, and then they headed for the pagan temple, in order to cast down the idols. the following morning, when things had quieted down somewhat, the judge directed that the holy martyr be thrown into a cauldron of boiling tar, but this also caused the sufferer no harm. An angel come down from Heaven and bedewed him as he stepped into the cauldron. The tar overflowed the cauldron, splattering and burning the torturers themselves. Saint Boniface was then sentenced to beheading by the sword. Blood and a milky fluid flowed from his wounds. Beholding such a miracle, about 550 men believed in Christ. Boniface’s companions, waiting for two days at the inn for him in vain, began searching for him, thinking that he had gotten drunk somewhere. At first their search was without success, but finally they came across a man who had been an eyewitness to the martyr’s death. The man also led them to the place where the decapitated body lay. Saint Boniface’s companions tearfully begged his forgiveness for their unseemly thoughts about him. After they ransomed the martyr’s remains, they brought them back to Rome. the eve of their arrival an angel appeared to Aglaida in her sleep and told her to prepare herself to receive her former slave, now the brother and fellow-servant of the angels. summoned the clergy, and she received the holy relics with great reverence. Then she built a church on the site of his grave and dedicated it to the holy martyr. There she enshrined his relics, glorified by numerous miracles. distributing all her wealth to the poor, she withdrew to a monastery, where she spent fifteen years in repentance, then fell asleep in the Lord. She was buried beside Saint Boniface. The sins of the one were washed away by his blood, the other was purified by her tears and asceticism. Both were found worthy to appear unsullied before our Lord Jesus Christ, Who desires not the death of a sinner, but that he should turn from his wickedness and live (Ezek. 33:11). pray to Saint Boniface for deliverance from drunkenness.

Rome, 284-305, Sebastian at Rome, shot with arrows, survived, clubbed to death, thrown into sewer, appeared
Gaul, 284-305, Sebastian at Rome, from Narbonum, Gaul, head imperial guards, brave, wise, honest, secret christian, converted healed many, shot with arrows, survived, clubbed to death, thrown into sewer, appeared to woman to have his body put in catacombs; Narbonum; Martyr Sebastian at Rome, and his companions, Commemorated December 18; Holy Martyr Sebastian was born in the city of Narbonum in Gaul (modern France), and he received his education at Mediolanum (now Milan). the co-reigning emperors Diocletian and Maximian (284-305) he occupied the position of head of the imperial guards. Sebastian was respected for his authority, and was loved by the soldiers and those at court. was a brave man filled with wisdom; his word was honest, his judgment just. He was insightful in advice and faithful in his service and in everything entrusted to him. was a secret Christian, not out of fear, but so that he could provide help to the brethren in a time of persecution. noble Christian brothers Marcellinus and Mark had been locked up in prison, and at first they firmly confessed the true Faith. under the influence of the tearful entreaties of their pagan parents (Tranquillinus and Marcia), and also their own wives and children, they began to waver in their intent to suffer for Christ. Sebastian went to the imperial treasurer, at whose house Marcellinus and Mark were held in confinement, and addressed the brothers who were on the verge of yielding to the entreaties of their family. “O valiant warriors of Christ! Do not cast away your everlasting crowns of victory because of the tears of your relatives. not remove your feet from the necks of your enemies who lie prostrate before you, lest they regain their strength and attack you more fiercely than before. your banner high over every earthly attachment. those whom you see weeping knew that there is another life where there is neither sickness nor death, where there is unceasing gladness and everything is beautiful, then assuredly they would wish to enter it with you. who fears to exchange this brief earthly life for the unending joys of the heavenly Kingdom is foolish indeed. For he who rejects eternity wastes the brief time of his existence, and will be delivered to everlasting torment in Hades.” Saint Sebastian said that if necessary, he would be willing to endure torment and death in order to show them how to give their lives for Christ. Saint Sebastian persuaded the brothers to go through with their act of martyrdom, and his speech stirred everyone present. They saw how his face shone like that of an angel, and they saw how seven angels clothed him in a radiant garment, and heard a fair Youth say, “You shall be with Me always.” the wife of the jailer Nicostratus, had lost her ability to speak six years previously. She fell down at the feet of Saint Sebastian, by her gestures imploring him to heal her. The saint made the Sign of the Cross over the woman, and she immediately began to speak and she glorified the Lord Jesus Christ. said that she had seen an angel holding an open book in which everything Saint Sebastian said was written. Then all who saw the miracle also came to believe in the Savior of the world. Nicostratus removed the chains from Marcellinus and Mark and offered to hide them, but the brothers refused. said, “Let them tear the flesh from our bodies with cruel torments. They can kill the body, but they cannot conquer the soul which contends for the Faith.” Nicostratus and his wife asked for Baptism, and Saint advised Nicostratus to serve Christ rather than the Eparch. He also told him to assemble the prisoners so that those who believed in Christ could be baptized. Nicostratus then requested his clerk Claudius to send all the prisoners to his house. Sebastian spoke to them of Christ, and became convinced that they were all inclined to be baptized. He summoned the priest Polycarp, who prepared them for the Mystery, instructing them to fast in preparation for Baptism that evening. Claudius informed Nicostratus that the Roman eparch Arestius Chromatus wanted to know why the prisoners were gathered at his house. told Claudius about the healing of his wife, and Claudius brought his own sick sons, Symphorian and Felix to Saint Sebastian. the evening the priest Polycarp baptized Tranquillinus with his relatives and friends, and Nicostratus and all his family, Claudius and his sons, and also sixteen condemned prisoners. The newly-baptized numbered 64 in all. before the eparch Chromatus, Nicostratus told him how Saint Sebastian had converted them to Christianity and healed many from sickness. The words of Nicostratus persuaded the eparch. summoned Saint Sebastian and the presbyter Polycarp, and was enlightened by them, and became a believer in Christ. Nicostratus and Chromatus, his son Tiburtius and all his household accepted holy Baptism. The number of the newly-enlightened increased to 1400. Upon becoming a Christian, Chromatus resigned his office of eparch. this time the Bishop of Rome was Saint Gaius (August 11). He blessed Chromatus to go to his estates in southern Italy with the priest Polycarp. Christians unable to endure martyrdom also went with them. Father Polycarp went to strengthen the newly-converted in the Faith. the son of Chromatus, desired to accept martyrdom and he remained in Rome with Saint Sebastian. Of those remaining, Saint Gaius ordained Tranquillinus as a presbyter, and his sons Marcellinus and Mark were ordained deacons. Nicostratus, his wife Zoe and brother Castorius, and Claudius, his son Symphorian and brother Victorinus also remained in Rome. They gathered for divine services at the court of the emperor together with a secret Christian named Castulus, but soon the time came for them to suffer for the Faith. pagans arrested Saint Zoe first, praying at the grave of the Apostle Peter. At the trial she bravely confessed her faith in Christ. She died, hung by her hair over the foul smoke from a great fire of dung. Her body then was thrown into the River Tiber. Appearing in a vision to Saint Sebastian, she told him about her death. priest Tranquillinus was the next to suffer: pagans pelted him with stones at the grave of the holy Apostle Peter, and his body was also thrown into the Tiber. Nicostratus, Castorius, Claudius, Victorinus, and Symphorian were seized at the riverbank, when they were searching for the bodies of the martyrs. They were led to the eparch, and the saints refused his command to offer sacrifice to idols. They tied stones to the necks of the martyrs and then drowned them in the sea. false Christian Torquatus betrayed Saint Tiburtius. When the saint refused to sacrifice to the idols, the judge ordered Tiburtius to walk barefoot on red-hot coals, but the Lord preserved him. Tiburtius walked through the burning coals without feeling the heat. The torturers then beheaded Saint Tiburtius, and his body was buried by unknown Christians. also betrayed the holy Deacons Marcellinus and Mark, and Saint Castulus (March 26). After torture, they threw Castulus into a pit and buried him alive, but Marcellinus and Mark had their feet nailed to the same tree stump. They stood all night in prayer, and in the morning they were stabbed with spears. Sebastian was the last one to be tortured. The emperor Diocletian personally interrogated him, and seeing the determination of the holy martyr, he ordered him taken out of the city, tied to a tree and shot with arrows. Irene, the wife of Saint Castulus, went at night in order to bury Saint Sebastian, but found him alive and took him to her home. Sebastian soon recovered from his wounds. Christians urged him to leave Rome, but he refused. Coming near a pagan temple, the saint saw the emperors approaching and he publicly denounced them for their impiety. ordered the holy martyr to be taken to the Circus Maximus to be executed. They clubbed Saint Sebastian to death, and cast his body into the sewer. holy martyr appeared to a pious woman named Lucina in a vision, and told her to take his body and bury it in the catacombs. This she did with the help of her slaves. Today his basilica stands on the site of his tomb.

Rome, 284-305, Azes of Isauria, Lykaonia, 150 Arresting Soldiers baptised after water sprung forth
Lykaonia, 284-305, Azes of Isauria, Lykaonia, 150 Arresting Soldiers baptised after water sprung forth; Isauria; Martyr Azes of Isauria, Commemorated November 19 ; Holy Martyr Azes and with him 150 Soldiers suffered at Isauria, in Asia Minor, under the emperor Diocletian (284-305). his confession of the Christian Faith, the saint was arrested and brought to trial before the eparch, Aquilinus. hundred and fifty soldiers had been sent to arrest the saint, but they were converted to the path of salvation and they accepted holy Baptism with water that sprang forth through the prayer of Saint Azes. martyr persuaded them to fulfill the commandment to obey those in authority, and therefore to bring him before the eparch. soldiers and the saint confessed their Christian faith before Aquilinus, and for this they were all beheaded. With them the eparch executed his own wife and daughter, who had come to believe in Christ, seeing the steadfastness of Saint Azes under torture.

Rome, 284-305, Eustratius at Sebaste, Armenia, Commander, historian, openly confessed, iron nail sandals, forced march
Armenia, 284-305, Eustratius at Sebaste, Armenia (Iris River Source, Kizilirmak River 1) Auxentius of Arabia, Commander Eustratius witnessed, historian, openly confessed, iron nail sandals, forced march, Mardarius, holes drilled in ankles, ropes, upside down, heated nails hammered, third hour prayer, Eugene, ripped out tongue, off hands & feet, beheaded, Orestes, red hot bead, frightened, encouraged, sign of cross, got in, died, Eustratius, burned alive, prayer for Sat. Midnight Office; Sebaste, Armenia ; Martyr Eustratius at Sebaste, Commemorated December 13 ; Holy Martyrs Eustratius, Auxentius, Eugene, Mardarius, and Orestes (the Five Companions) suffered for Christ under the emperor Diocletian (284-305) at Sebaste, in Armenia. the first Christians imprisoned and undergoing torture at that time was Saint Auxentius, a presbyter of the Arabian Church. of those who witnessed the steadfastness of the Christians was the noble military commander Saint Eusthoratius, the city prefect of Satalios, and archivist of the province. He was secretly a Christian, and when he openly confessed his faith, he was subjected to torture. They beat him, and put iron sandals studded with sharp nails on his feet, then forced him to march to the city of Arabrak. the arrival of Saint Eustratius in Arabrak, one of the common people, Saint Mardarius, confessed that he was also a Christian like Saint Eustratius. He was arrested and cast into prison. Holes were drilled in his ankles, and ropes were passed them. He was suspended upside down, then heated nails were hammered into his body. He died a short time later. To him is attributed the prayer “O Master Lord God, Father Almighty ...” (which is read at the end of the Third Hour). for Saint Eugene, they ripped out his tongue, they cut off his hands and feet, and then they beheaded him with a sword. Saint Auxentius was also arrested and beheaded. The young soldier Saint Orestes confessed himself a Christian and stood trial for this “crime.” He was sentenced to be stretched out upon a red-hot iron bed, and became frightened when he approached it. Encouraged by Saint Eustratius, he made the Sign of the Cross and got onto the heated bed, where he surrendered his soul to God. Eustratius was sentenced to be burned alive on December 13. As he was being led to his death, he prayed aloud (“I magnify Thee exceedingly, O Lord, for Thou hast regarded my lowliness...”). This prayer is still read at the Saturday Midnight Office.

Rome, 284-305, Zacchaeus of Caesarea, Palestine, tortured with Alphaeus, Diocletian Persecution
Martyr Zacchaeus the Deacon of Caesarea in Palestine, Commemorated on November 18 ; Caesarea, Palestine ; Martyr Martyr Zacchaeus the Deacon of Caesarea in Palestine, Commemorated on November 18 ; Holy Martyrs Zacchaeus, Deacon of Gadara, and Alphaeus, Reader of Caesarea, suffered under the emperor Diocletian (284-305). those arrested during the most fierce persecution against Christians was Saint Zacchaeus, a deacon of the Gadara church, who openly confessed his faith and did not renounce Christ under torture. Diocletian persecution was so fierce that many did not endure, and frightened of the tortures, they agreed to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. Alphaeus, a reader of the church of Caesarea, zealous for the glory of God, approached a crowd of those fallen away from Christ on their way to offer pagan sacrifice. He urged them not to defile themselves with the impious sacrifices. arrested Saint Alphaeus and after tortures and torments they shackled him together with Saint Zacchaeus. They threw the martyrs into prison for the night, where they prayed continually, supporting one another in their resolve to endure all the sufferings for the name of Christ and thereby gain eternal life. The next morning, the holy Martyrs Zacchaeus and Alphaeus were beheaded for confessing Christ. The youth Barulus, Commemorated on November 18; Martyr Procopius the Reader at Caesarea, in Palestine, Commemorated on November 22 ;

Rome, 284-305, Onesiphorus and Porphyrius, Ephesus martyrs during Diocletian Persecution, beat, burned, dragged over stones
Rome, 284-305, Onesiphorus and Porphyrius, Ephesus Martyrs ; Ephesus; Martyr Onesiphorus of Ephesus, Commemorated on November 9 ; Holy Martyrs Onesiphorus and Porphyrius of Ephesus suffered during the persecution against Christians by the emperor Diocletian (284-305). They beat them and burned them. After this, they tied the saints to wild horses, which dragged them over the stones, after which the Martyrs Onesiphorus and Porphyrius died. Believers gathered the remains of the saints and reverently buried them.

Rome, 284-305, Martyr Alexander of Thessalonica, when told to offer he overturned idols, Angel came forth
Greece, 284-305, Martyr Alexander of Thessalonica; Thessalonica; Martyr Alexander of Thessalonica, Commemorated on November 9 ; Martyr Alexander of Thessalonica was arrested by pagans for confessing the Christian Faith. Under the emperor Maximian (284-305) he not only admitted being a Christian, but when told to offer sacrifice to the gods, he overturned the idolatrous sacrifice in indignation. The emperor gave orders to behead the saint. the execution was done, the emperor and the executioner saw how an angel came forth bearing the soul of the holy Martyr Alexander up to the heavens. The emperor permitted Christians to bury the body of the saint with honor in the city of Thessalonica, which they did with joy.

Rome, 284-305, Hieron, M Melitene, pious, conscripted, physical strength, dexterity, resist, not r, beheaded, incorrupt r
Armenia, 284-305, Hieron and Martyrs of Melitene, Armenia; Malatya; 33 Holy Martyrs of Melitene, Commemorated on November 7; holy martyr Hieron was born in the city of Tiana in great Cappadocia. Raised by a pious mother, he was a kindly and good Christian. co-ruling emperors Diocletian (284-305) and Maximian (284-305) sent a large military detachment headed by Lysias to Cappadocia to eradicate Christianity there, and also to conscript healthy and strong men into the imperial army. Among those pressed into service, Lysias also ordered his men to draft Hieron, who was distinguished by his great physical strength and dexterity. But Hieron refused to servebe emperors who persecuted Christians. When they attempted to seize him by force and bring him to Lysias, he took a stick and started beating the soldiers who had been sent to bring him. The soldiers scattered, ashamed of being defeated by a single man. Hieron then hid himself in a cave with eighteen other Christians. Lysias would not risk losing his soldiers by storming the cave. the advice of Cyriacus, one of Hieron’s friends, Lysias lifted the siege of the cave and withdrew his detachment. Then Cyriacus persuaded Hieron not to offer resistance to the authorities. He and the other new conscripts and accompanying soldiers were sent to the nearby city of Melitene. Hieron had a vision in his sleep, in which his impending martyrdom was foretold. Lysias told the soldiers gathered at Melitene to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. Hieron and another thirty-two soldiers refused to do this, and openly confessed their faith in Christ. Then the persecutor gave orders to beat the martyrs, and to cut off Hieron’s arm at the elbow. After cruel tortures they threw the martyrs into prison barely alive, and they beheaded them four days later. certain rich and illustrious Christian by the name of Chrysanthus ransomed Hieron’s head from Lysias. When the persecutions finally ceased, he built a church on the place where they executed the holy martyrs, and he placed the venerable head in it. The bodies of all the executed saints were secretly buried by Christians. In reign of the emperor Justinian, during the construction of the church of Hagia Eirene (Holy Peace), the venerable relics were uncovered and found incorrupt. other martyrs are: Hesychius, Nicander, Athanasius, Mamas, Barachius, Callinicus, Theogenes, Nikon, Longinus, Theodore, Valerius, Xanthius, Theodoulus, Callimachus, Eugene, Theodochus, Ostrychius, Epiphanius, Maximian, Ducitius, Claudian, Theophilus, Gigantius, Dorotheus, Theodotus, Castrichius, Anicletus, Themelius, Eutychius, Hilarion, Diodotus and Amonitus.

Rome, 284-304, Saints, Cyprian and Justina, Pagan Priest Magician, Virgin bridegroom of Christ
Bithynia, 284-304, Saints, Cyprian and Justina; Cyprian and Justina are honored in the Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church and Oriental Orthodoxy as Christians of Antioch, who in 304, during the persecution of Diocletian, suffered martyrdom at Nicomedia (modern-day İzmit, Turkey) on September 26. According to Roman Catholic sources, no Bishop of Antioch bore the name of Cyprian.[1] story must have arisen as early as the 4th century, as it is mentioned by both St. Gregory Nazianzen and Prudentius; both, nevertheless, have conflated Cyprian with St. Cyprian of Carthage, a mistake often repeated. The attempt has been made to find in Cyprian a mystical prototype of the Faustian legend. The legend is given in Greek and Latin in Acta SS. September, VII. Ancient Syriac and Ethiopic versions of it have been published.[1] Their story is told in the Golden Legend. outline of the legend or allegory is found with diffuse descriptions and dialogues in the unreliable "Symeon Metaphrastes" and was made the subject of a poem by Empress Aelia Eudocia.[1] Saint Cyprian and the demon, 14th-century manuscript of the Golden Legend. known by the title of "the Magician", to distinguish him from Cyprian, Bishop of Carthage, received a liberal education in his youth, and particularly applied himself to astrology; after which he traveled for improvement through Greece, Egypt, India, etc.[2] Cyprian was a magician in Antioch and dealt in sorcery. is known for converting Cyprian,[3] and is said to have been a young woman who took private vows of chastity. She was killed during the persecutions of the Roman emperor Diocletian in the year 304 AD. would-be suitor sought the aid of Cyprian's magic to induce Justina into marrying him. The charms and spells had no effect on Justina, who spent her time in prayer and fasting. Brought to despair, Cyprian made the Sign of the cross himself and in this way was freed from the toils of Satan. He was received into the Church, was made pre-eminent by miraculous gifts, and became in succession deacon, priest and, finally, bishop, while Justina became abbess of a convent.[4] the Diocletian Persecution, both were seized and taken to Damascus, where they were tortured. As their faith never wavered, they were brought before Diocletian at Nicomedia, where at his command they were beheaded[4] on the bank of the Gallus River, a tributary of the Sakarya River. The same fate befell a man named Theoctistus, who upon observing Cyprian's faith, declared himself a Christian.[4] After the bodies of the saints had lain unburied for six days, they were taken by Christian sailors to Rome, where they were interred on the estate of a noble lady named Rufina and later entombed in Constantine's basilica. is mentioned in Foxe's Book of Martyrs. It was under the 10th Persecution in 303 AD while Diocletian was Emperor of Rome. It says: " In the course of time he [Cyprian] became acquainted with Justina, a young lady of Antioch, whose birth, beauty, and accomplishments, rendered her the admiration of all who knew her. A pagan gentleman applied to Cyprian, to promote his suit with the beautiful Justina; this he undertook, but soon himself converted, burnt his books of astrology and magic, received baptism, and felt animated with a powerful spirit of grace. The conversion of Cyprian had a great effect on the pagan gentleman who paid his addresses to Justina, and he in a short time embraced Christianity. During the persecutions of Diocletian, Cyprian and Justina were seized upon as Christians, the former was torn with pincers, and the latter chastised; and, after suffering other torments, both were beheaded."[citation needed] and liturgical celebration feast day appeared in the General Roman Calendar of Roman Rite from the thirteenth century until it was deleted in 1969 because of the lack of historical evidence of their existence.[5] Their names were also removed from the 2001 revision of the Roman Martyrology, the official but professedly incomplete list of saints recognized by the Roman Catholic Church. The Roman Martyrology, however, includes five other saints called Cyprian and two named Justina. Some traditionalist Catholics continue to observe their feast based on pre-1970 versions of the Roman Calendar. popular culture Spanish author, Pedro Calderón de la Barca, took the story as the basis of a drama: El mágico prodigioso. In 2005, American author Tono Rondone published a novel, The Martyrs, which is a continuation of this tradition. [6] Great Book of Saint Cyprian is full of prayers and spells, and is widely sold in the Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking world. is a popular name for a grimoire in Scandinavian folklore. Nicomedia; Hieromartyr Cyprian, Virgin Martyr Justina, and Martyr Theoctistus, of Nicomedia, Commemorated on October 2; Cyprian was a pagan and a native of Antioch. From his early childhood his misguided parents dedicated him to the service of the pagan gods. From the age seven until he was thirty, Cyprian studied at the leading centers of paganism: on Mount Olympus; in the cities of Argos and Tauropolis; in the Egyptian city of Memphis; and at Babylon. Once he attained eminent wisdom in pagan philosophy and the sorcerer’s craft, he was initiated into the pagan priesthood on Mount Olympus. Having discovered great power by summoning unclean spirits, he beheld the Prince of Darkness himself, speaking with him and receiving from him a host of demons to serve him. returning to Antioch, Cyprian was revered by the pagans as a prominent pagan priest, amazing people with his ability to cast spells, to summon pestilence and plagues, and to conjure up the dead. He brought many people to ruin, teaching them to serve the demons, and how to cast magic spells. holy virgin Justina lived in Antioch. After turning her own father and mother away from the error of paganism and leading them to faith in Christ, she dedicated herself to the Heavenly Bridegroom and spent her time in fasting and prayer. When the young man Aglaidas proposed marriage to her, the saint refused, for she wished to remain a virgin. sought Cyprian’s help. He said that he would arrange for Justina's heart to become filled with lust for the young man. No matter what Cyprian tried, he accomplished nothing, since the Saint overcame all the wiles of the devil by prayer and fasting. sent an unclean spirit to attack the holy virgin, and to arouse carnal passions in her, but she overcame them by the power of the Sign of the Cross, and by fervent prayer to the Lord. though one of the demons, and Cyprian himself, assumed various guises by the power of sorcery, they were unable to influence Saint Justina, who was guarded by her firm faith in Christ. All the spells were dissipated, and the demons fled at the mention of Justina's name. in his rage, sent down pestilence and plague upon Justina’s family and upon the entire city, but this was thwarted by her prayer. The sorcerer brought tribulation not only upon Justina and her family, but upon the entire city as well. Rumors spread that the city was being punished because Justina would not wed Aglaias. Several people went to her and demanded that she marry Aglaias so that Cyprian would not punish them with more afflictions. Justina calmed them and assured them that soon the misfortunes which Cyprian caused with the help of the demons would end. Saint Justina prayed to God, the power of the demons was destroyed, and everyone was healed of their illnesses and afflictions. began to praise Christ, and to mock Cyprian and his sorcery. Convinced that the devil was powerless against the Sign of the Cross, and trembled at the name of Christ, Cyprian came to his senses and realized that he had been corrupted by becoming a sorcerer, and participating in every sort of wickedness, doing harm to others and deceiving them. He killed many with his spells and potions, and he murdered many men and women as sacrificial offerings to the demons. He was already a partaker of the portion of the demons, and if he had died at that moment, he would have been cast into the depths of Hell. The Lord, however, in His infinite compassion, saved him from the abyss. Cyprian saw that the devil whom he served was afraid of Christ. The Evil One admitted that he was unable to conquer the maiden because he was afraid of "a certain sign" upon her. “If you take fright at even the mere shadow of the Cross and if the mere name of Christ makes you tremble,” said Cyprian, “then what will you do when Christ Himself stands before you?” devil then threw himself upon the pagan priest and attempted to beat and strangle him. For the first time, Saint Cyrian tested the power of the Sign of the Cross and the name of Christ, guarding himself from the fury of the Enemy. Afterward, he went to the local bishop Anthimos in profound repentance, and threw all of his books into the flames. The very next day, he went into the church, and did not want to leave it, even though he had not yet been baptized. his efforts to follow after righteousness, Saint Cyprian understood the great power of faith in Christ, making up for more than thirty years of service to Satan. Seven days after his Baptism he was tonsured as a reader, on the twelfth day, subdeacon, on the thirtieth, deacon. After a year, he was ordained as a priest. Shortly after this, Saint Cyprian was elevated to the rank of bishop. Cyprian converted so many pagans to Christ that in his diocese no one was left to offer sacrifice to idols, and the pagan temples fell into disuse. Saint Justina withdrew to a monastery and was chosen as its Superior. the persecution against Christians under Enperor Diocletian, Bishop Cyprian and Saint Justina were arrested and brought to Nicomedia, where after horrible tortures they were beheaded with the sword. Saint Cyprian, fearful that the holy virgin’s courage might falter if she saw him put to death, asked for time to pray. Saint Justina inclined her neck and was beheaded first. seeing the torments of Saint Justina, a soldier named Theoktistos fell at Cyprian’s feet and declared himself a Christian, and he was beheaded with them. Hieromartyr Cyprian, the Virgin Martyr Justina, and the Martyr Theoktistos suffered for Christ at Nicomedia in the year 304. relics of Saints Cyprian and Justina are to be found in various places around the world. One of Saint Cyprian's feet is at Iviron Monastery on Mount Athos. A piece of Saint Cyprian's skull is in the church named for these Saints at Menikos Nicosia. A small piece of Saint Justina's skull is there as well. Fragments of the Holy Relics of Saints Cyprian and Justina are in the Monastery which is dedicated to them at Phylḗ, Attica. The head of Saint Justina is located in the Monastery of Panagia Panachrantou (the All-Holy Theotokos) on the Greek island if Andros. Part of the hand of Saint Cyprian is located in the Zlătari church (Calea Victoriei 14, Bucharest Romania)

Rome, 284-305, Pelagia, Tarsus, beautiful, holy, virgin, Problem w Diocletian&son, visions, baptism, 3 crowns, Myhrr, Lions
Cilicia, 284-305, Martyr Pelagia of Tarsus; Tarsus; Martyr Pelagia of Tarsus, Commemorated October 7 ; Pelagia of Tarsus in Cilicia (southeastern Asia Minor) lived in the third century, during the reign of Diocletian (284-305), and was the daughter of illustrious pagans. When she heard about Jesus Christ from her Christian friends, she believed in Him and desired to preserve her virginity, dedicating her whole life to the Lord. Diocletian’s heir (a boy he adopted), saw the maiden Pelagia, was captivated by her beauty and wanted her to be his wife. The holy virgin told the youth that she was betrothed to Christ the Immortal Bridegroom, and had renounced earthly marriage. ’s reply greatly angered the young man, but he decided to leave her in peace for awhile, hoping that she would change her mind. At the same time, Pelagia convinced her mother to let her visit the nurse who had raised her in childhood. She secretly hoped to find Bishop Linus of Tarsus, who had fled to a mountain during a persecution against Christians, and to be baptized by him. She had seen the face of Bishop Linus in a dream, which made a profound impression upon her. The holy bishop told her to be baptized. Saint Pelagia traveled in a chariot to visit her nurse, dressed in rich clothes and accompanied by a whole retinue of servants, as her mother wished. the way Saint Pelagia, by the grace of God, met Bishop Linus. Pelagia immediately recognized the bishop who had appeared to her in the dream. She fell at his feet, requesting Baptism. At the bishop’s prayer a spring of water flowed from the ground. Linus made the Sign of the Cross over Saint Pelagia, and during the Mystery of Baptism, angels appeared and covered the chosen one of God with a bright mantle. After giving the pious virgin Holy Communion, Bishop Linus offered a prayer of thanksgiving to the Lord with her, and then sent her to continue her journey. She then exchanged her expensive clothing for a simple white garment, and distributed her possessions to the poor. Returning to her servants, Saint Pelagia told them about Christ, and many of them were converted and believed. tried to convert her own mother to Christ, but the obdurate woman sent a message to Diocletian’s son that Pelagia was a Christian and did not wish to be his wife. The youth realized that Pelagia was lost to him, and he fell upon his sword in his despair. Pelagia’s mother feared the emperor’s wrath, so she tied her daughter up and led her to Diocletian’s court as a Christian who was also responsible for the death of the heir to the throne. The emperor was captivated by the unusual beauty of the virgin and tried to turn her from her faith in Christ, promising her every earthly blessing if she would become his wife. holy virgin refused the emperor’s offer with contempt and said, “You are insane, Emperor, saying such things to me. I will not do your bidding, and I loathe your vile marriage, since I have Christ, the King of Heaven, as my Bridegroom. I do not desire your worldly crowns which last only a short while. The Lord in His heavenly Kingdom has prepared three imperishable crowns for me. The first is for faith, since I have believed in the true God with all my heart; the second is for purity, because I have dedicated my virginity to Him; the third is for martyrdom, since I want to accept every suffering for Him and offer up my soul because of my love for Him.” sentenced Pelagia to be burned in a red-hot bronze bull. Not permitting the executioners to touch her body, the holy martyr signed herself with the Sign of the Cross, and went into the brazen bull and her flesh melted like myrrh, filling the whole city with fragrance. Saint Pelagia’s bones remained unharmed and were removed by the pagans to a place outside the city. Four lions then came out of the wilderness and sat around the bones letting neither bird nor wild beast get at them. The lions protected the relics of the saint until Bishop Linus came to that place. He gathered them up and buried them with honor. Later, a church was built over her holy relics. Service to the holy Virgin Martyr Pelagia of Tarsus says that she was “deemed worthy of most strange and divine visions.” She is also commemorated on May 4. Virginmartyr Pelagia of Tarsus, in Asia Minor, Commemorated on May 4; story as Oct 7th

Rome, 284-305 , Martyr Anastasius the Fuller at Salona in Dalmatia, boldly confessed Christ, even painted Cross on door
Croatia, 284-305 , Martyr Anastasius the Fuller at Salona in Dalmatia; Salona in Dalmatia; Martyr Anastasius the Fuller at Salona in Dalmatia, Commemorated on October 25 ; Martyr Anastasius the Fuller lived at Salona in Dalmatia during the third century. He was arrested and brought to trial because of his missionary activity in Salona. Saint Anastasius, boldly and without fear, confessed Christ as the true God and Creator of all. He even painted a cross on his door during the persecution of Diocletian (284-311). Anastasius was sentenced to death by the decision of the court, and the pagans tied a stone around his neck and threw his body into the sea. A righteous Christian, the rich matron Ascalopia, found the body of Saint Anastasius and reverently buried him in her estate church. The relics of the holy martyr were glorified by many miracles. Saint Anastasius the Fuller is also commemorated on December 5. Definition of Fuller; Martyr Anastasius the Fuller of Salona in Dalmatia, Commemorated December 5 ; Story

Rome, 284-303, Italian and Bithynian Saint Autonomus, chruch builder, martyr, incorrupt relics
Bithynia, 284-303, Italian and Bithynian Saint Autonomus; Hieromartyr Autonomus the Bishop in Italy, Commemorated on September 12; Hieromartyr Autonomus was a bishop in Italy. During the time of the persecution against Christians under the emperor Diocletian (284-305), Autonomus left his own country and resettled in Bithynia, in the locality of Soreus with a man named Cornelius. Saint Autonomus did his apostolic duty with zeal and converted to Christ so many pagans, that a large Church was formed, for which he consecrated a temple in the name of the Archangel Michael. For this church, the saint at first ordained Cornelius as deacon, and then presbyter. Preaching about Christ, Saint Autonomus visited also Lykaonia and Isauria. emperor Diocletian gave orders to arrest Saint Autonomus, but the saint withdrew to Claudiopolis on the Black Sea. In returning to Soreus, he had the priest Cornelius ordained bishop. Saint Autonomus then went to Asia, and when he had returned from there, he began to preach in the vicinity of Limna, near Soreus. the newly-converted destroyed a pagan temple. The pagans decided to take revenge on the Christians. Seizing their chance, the pagans rushed upon the church of the Archangel Michael when Saint Autonomus was serving Divine Liturgy there. After torturing Saint Autonomus they killed him, reddening the altar of the church with his martyr’s blood. The deaconess Maria removed the body of the holy martyr from beneath a pile of stones and buried it. the reign of Saint Constantine the Great, a church was built over the tomb of the saint. In the year 430, a certain priest had the old church pulled down. Not realizing that the martyr’s body had been buried beneath the church, he rebuilt the church in a new spot. But after another 60 years the relics of the saint were found incorrupt, and a church was then built in the name of the Hieromartyr Autonomus.

Rome, 284-303, Roman Saint, Autonomus the Bishop in Italy and Bithynia, martyred by Diocletian, because large church
Roman Saint, 284-303, Autonomus the Bishop in Italy and Bithynia; Hieromartyr Autonomus the Bishop in Italy, Commemorated on September 12; Hieromartyr Autonomus was a bishop in Italy. During the time of the persecution against Christians under the emperor Diocletian (284-305), Saint Autonomus left his own country and resettled in Bithynia, in the locality of Soreus with a man named Cornelius. Saint Autonomus did his apostolic duty with zeal and converted to Christ so many pagans, that a large Church was formed, for which he consecrated a temple in the name of the Archangel Michael. For this church, the saint at first ordained Cornelius as deacon, and then presbyter. Preaching about Christ, Saint Autonomus visited also Lykaonia and Isauria. emperor Diocletian gave orders to arrest Saint Autonomus, but the saint withdrew to Claudiopolis on the Black Sea. In returning to Soreus, he had the priest Cornelius ordained bishop. Saint Autonomus then went to Asia, and when he had returned from there, he began to preach in the vicinity of Limna, near Soreus. the newly-converted destroyed a pagan temple. The pagans decided to take revenge on the Christians. Seizing their chance, the pagans rushed upon the church of the Archangel Michael when Saint Autonomus was serving Divine Liturgy there. After torturing Saint Autonomus they killed him, reddening the altar of the church with his martyr’s blood. The deaconess Maria removed the body of the holy martyr from beneath a pile of stones and buried it. the reign of Saint Constantine the Great, a church was built over the tomb of the saint. In the year 430, a certain priest had the old church pulled down. Not realizing that the martyr’s body had been buried beneath the church, he rebuilt the church in a new spot. But after another 60 years the relics of the saint were found incorrupt, and a church was then built in the name of the Hieromartyr Autonomus.

Rome, 284-314, Empress, Alexandra, Prisca, Christian Saint, killed w daughter Valeria by Licinius
Rome, 284-314, Emperess Alexandra, Prisca Rome, 284-305, Emperor Diocletian ; Martyr Alexandra the Empress, wife of Diocletian, Commemorated on April 23; Holy Empress Alexandra was the wife of Diocletian (284-305). Her supposed death was described in the Martyrdom of Saint George, which was written immediately after his death. The empress, however, received the crown of martyrdom several years later, in 314. events occurred during these years. In 305 the emperor Diocletian resigned the throne and power passed to his co-ruler Maximian Galerius (305-311), a fanatic pagan, as well as a coarse and fierce soldier. His wife was Saint Valeria, the daughter of the holy Empress Alexandra, whom Diocletian had given in marriage against her will. Alexandra raised her daughter in Christian piety. When Galerius died, the emperor Maximinus sought her hand in marriage. When he was refused, he banished Saint Valeria to Syria, where she lived with her mother. the death of Maximinus in 311 the mother and daughter arrived in Nicomedia, trusting in the mercy of the emperor Licinius (311-324). Together with Saint Constantine, he had subscribed to the Edict of Milan, which gave Christians the freedom of religion, but secretly he remained an enemy of Christianity. Licinius gave orders to execute the holy Empress Alexandra and her daughter Valeria. They were beheaded, and their bodies thrown into the sea. Great Martyr Catherine of Alexandria, Commemorated on November 24;

Rome, 285-323, Agapitus of Synnada, Phrygia, gift of miracles, p killed dragon, recruited military, Consantine discharged him
Phrygia, 285-323, Agapitus of Synnada, Phrygia (Intersection and Akarcay River Source), young monk from Cappadocia, Armenia, gift of working miracles, over 100, prayers killed dragon, recruited military, wanted to join martyrs but preserved for saving souls, Consantine discharged him, priesthood, bishop ; Synnada, Synnada is on a small plain near the Akarcay River; St Agapitus the Confessor the Bishop of Synnada in Phrygia, Commemorated on February 18; Agapitos came from Cappadocia and was the son of pious and God-loving parents. lived during the time of the emperors Diocletian (284-305) and Maximian (285-305). a young age he departed for a monastery near Synnada in Phrygia, where he became a monk. was loved by the Igumen because of his virtuous life and so he was taught how to read and write. also received from God the gift of working miracles, performing over a hundred of them. his prayers he killed a great dragon, which had appeared near the monastery, carrying off both people and animals. This was a great benefit for those who had turned to him for help. on, during the reign of Licinius (308-323) Saint Agapitos was recruited into the army against his will. There he saw the victorious Martyrs Victor, Dorotheos, Theodoulos, Agrippa and many others, being tortured for their faith in Christ. Right away he wanted to join them in their martyrdom. they were perfected in Christ by the sword, he was preserved and, by God's providence, he suffered no harm, even though they wounded him with a spear. His life was spared so that he might lead many to salvation. holy Emperor Constantine the Great (May 21) heard that Saint Agapitos could heal people by his prayers. The emperor sent him a sick servant, and he was cured. Constantine wished to reward Saint Agapitos, but he asked only that he be discharged from military service and be permitted to return to his monastery. His request was granted, and so he went back to the monastery. Agapitos devoted himself to the study of the Holy Gospel, and the Bishop of Synnada ordained him to the holy priesthood. After the bishop reposed, Saint Agapitos was chosen to succeed him in this position by the common consent of the clergy and the people. governing his flock in a God-pleasing manner, instructing them in the Orthodox Faith, and in virtuous living, Saint Agapitos reposed in peace

Rome, 286-287, Apollonius of Alexandria, Goshen, Egypt, change clothes with me, but he confessed, arrow destroys eye, healed
Egypt, 286-287, Apollonius of Alexandria, Goshen, Egypt, change clothes with me, but he confessed, arrow destroys eye, healed, accepted torture and death; Alexandria; Martyr Apollonius of Alexandria, Commemorated December 14 ; Holy Martyrs Philemon, Apollonius, Arianus and Theotychus suffered for the Faith in Egypt, the city of Antinoe, the emperor Diocletian (284-305). Arrian up until his conversion to Christ was a persecutor of Christians, among whom were the martyrs Apollonius and Philemon. Apollonius, at first fearing to face the sufferings, asked the pagan musician Philemon to change clothes with him and offer sacrifice to the idols for him. But unexpectedly Saint Philemon confessed himself a Christian in front of the pagans. Apollonius repented and also confessed Christ. After torture, both martyrs were executed. Saint Philemon’s body was hung upon an olive tree, arrows were shot at him. One struck prefect Arianus in the eye, destroying it. Arianus’ injured eye was healed by when he applied dirt taken from Philemon’s grave. He repented and was converted to the Christian Faith and baptized together with all his household and bodyguards. Out of love for Christ they voluntarily went to torture and were sentenced to death. Martyr Theotychus was the eldest of the guards, and is remembered with the other saints. The Martyrs Philemon and Apollonius died on March 16, 286, and the Martyrs Arrian and Theotychus on March 4, 287.

Rome, 292-303, Great Martyr George of Cappadocia, Armenia, Nino's Kin, Wonderworker, imperial guard commander, spoke Truth
Armenia, 292-303, Great Martyr George of Cappadocia, Armenia, Nino's Kin, Victory Bearer, Wonderworker, Diocletian' imperial guard commander, spoke Truth (Jesus Christ) in the Senate, pushing spears became soft, you will grow tired before I will, intense tortures, wheel sharp iron, assumed dead, dark thunder, Lord's voice fear not, youthful angel, rejoice, healed, pagan temple w emperor, many believed, incl Emperess Alexandra, more tortures deep pit w lime, unharmed and cheerful, red hot iron sandals w nails, ox thongs, concluded magic, poisoned unharmed, not human understanding but power of God, believers no regard for tortures, do things Christ did, D asks what C did, “He gave sight to the blind, cleansed the lepers, healed the lame, gave hearing to the deaf, cast out demons, and raised the dead.”, D had him raise a dead man, Sorcerer confessed, beheaded w raised man, to prison, healings, Glycerius ox to life, G beheaded, Court of Apollo, deamons confessed, idols destroyed, George beheaded, Dragon slaying story, Many saints named george or yuri; Cappadocia, 290-303, Great Martyr George of Cappadocia; Greatmartyr, Victory-bearer and Wonderworker George, Commemorated on April 23; Holy Great Martyr George the Victory-Bearer, was a native of Cappadocia (a district in Asia Minor), and he grew up in a deeply believing Christian family. His father was martyred for Christ when George was still a child. His mother, owning lands in Palestine, moved there with her son and raised him in strict piety. he became a man, Saint George entered into the service of the Roman army. He was handsome, brave and valiant in battle, and he came to the notice of the emperor Diocletian (284-305) and joined the imperial guard with the rank of comites, or military commander. pagan emperor, who did much for the restoration of Roman might, was clearly concerned with the danger presented to pagan civilization by the triumph of the Crucified Savior, and intensified his persecution against the Christians in the final years of his reign. the advice of the Senate at Nicomedia, Diocletian gave all his governors full freedom in their court proceedings against Christians, and he promised them his full support. George, when he heard the decision of the emperor, distributed all his wealth to the poor, freed his servants, and then appeared in the Senate. brave soldier of Christ spoke out openly against the emperor’s designs. He confessed himself a Christian, and appealed to all to acknowledge Christ: “I am a servant of Christ, my God, and trusting in Him, I have come among you voluntarily, to bear witness concerning the Truth.” “What is Truth?” one of the dignitaries asked, echoing the question of Pontius Pilate. The saint replied, “Christ Himself, Whom you persecuted, is Truth.” by the bold speech of the valiant warrior, the emperor, who had loved and promoted George, attempted to persuade him not to throw away his youth and glory and honors, but rather to offer sacrifice to the gods as was the Roman custom. The confessor replied, “Nothing in this inconstant life can weaken my resolve to serve God.” by order of the enraged emperor the armed guards began to push Saint George out of the assembly hall with their spears, and they then led him off to prison. the deadly steel became soft and it bent, just as the spears touched the saint’s body, and it caused him no harm. In prison they put the martyr’s feet in stocks and placed a heavy stone on his chest. next day at the interrogation, powerless but firm of spirit, Saint George again answered the emperor, “You will grow tired of tormenting me sooner than I will tire of being tormented by you.” Diocletian gave orders to subject Saint George to some very intense tortures. They tied the Great Martyr to a wheel, beneath which were boards pierced with sharp pieces of iron. As the wheel turned, the sharp edges slashed the saint’s naked body. first the sufferer loudly cried out to the Lord, but soon he quieted down, and did not utter even a single groan. Diocletian decided that the tortured one was already dead, and he gave orders to remove the battered body from the wheel, and then went to a pagan temple to offer thanks. this very moment it got dark, thunder boomed, and a voice was heard: “Fear not, George, for I am with you.” Then a wondrous light shone, and at the wheel an angel of the Lord appeared in the form of a radiant youth. He placed his hand upon the martyr, saying to him, “Rejoice!” Saint George stood up healed. the soldiers led him to the pagan temple where the emperor was, the emperor could not believe his own eyes and he thought that he saw before him some other man or even a ghost. confusion and in terror the pagans looked Saint George over carefully, and they became convinced that a miracle had occurred. Many then came to believe in the Life-Creating God of the Christians. illustrious officials, Saints Anatolius and Protoleon, who were secretly Christians, openly confessed Christ. Immediately, without a trial, they were beheaded with the sword by order of the emperor. present in the pagan temple was Empress Alexandra, the wife of Diocletian, and she also knew the truth. She was on the point of glorifying Christ, but one of the servants of the emperor took her and led her off to the palace. emperor became even more furious. He had not lost all hope of influencing Saint George, so he gave him over to new and fiercesome torments. After throwing him into a deep pit, they covered it over with lime. days later they dug him out, but found him cheerful and unharmed. They shod the saint in iron sandals with red-hot nails, and then drove him back to the prison with whips. the morning, they led him back to the interrogation, cheerful and with healed feet, and the emperor asked if he liked his shoes. The saint said that the sandals had been just his size. Then they beat him with ox thongs until pieces of his flesh came off and his blood soaked the ground, but the brave sufferer, strengthened by the power of God, remained unyielding. emperor concluded that the saint was being helped by magic, so he summoned the sorcerer Athanasius to deprive the saint of his miraculous powers, or else poison him. The sorcerer gave Saint George two goblets containing drugs. One of them would have quieted him, and the other would kill him. The drugs had no effect, and the saint continued to denounce the pagan superstitions and glorify God as before. the emperor asked what sort of power was helping him, Saint George said, “Do not imagine that it is any human learning which keeps me from being harmed by these torments. I am saved only by calling upon Christ and His Power. believes in Him has no regard for tortures and is able to do the things that Christ did” (John 14:12). asked what sort of things Christ had done. Martyr replied, “He gave sight to the blind, cleansed the lepers, healed the lame, gave hearing to the deaf, cast out demons, and raised the dead.” that they had never been able to resurrect the dead through sorcery, nor by any of the gods known to him, and wanting to test the saint, the emperor commanded him to raise up a dead person before his eyes. The saint retorted, “You wish to tempt me, but my God will work this sign for the salvation of the people who shall see the power of Christ.” they led Saint George down to the graveyard, he cried out, “O Lord! Show to those here present, that You are the only God in all the world. Let them know You as the Almighty Lord.” Then the earth quaked, a grave opened, the dead one emerged from it alive. Having seen with their own eyes the Power of Christ, the people wept and glorified the true God. sorcerer Athanasius, falling down at the feet of Saint George, confessed Christ as the All-Powerful God and asked forgiveness for his sins, committed in ignorance. The obdurate emperor in his impiety thought otherwise. In a rage, he commanded both Athanasius and the man raised from the dead to be beheaded, and he had Saint George again locked up in prison. people, weighed down with their infirmities, began to visit the prison and they there received healing and help from the saint. A certain farmer named Glycerius, whose ox had collapsed, also visited him. The saint consoled him and assured him that God would restore his ox to life. When he saw the ox alive, the farmer began to glorify the God of the Christians throughout all the city. By order of the emperor, Saint Glycerius was arrested and beheaded. exploits and the miracles of the Great Martyr George had increased the number of the Christians, therefore Diocletian made a final attempt to compel the saint to offer sacrifice to the idols. They set up a court at the pagan temple of Apollo. On the final night the holy martyr prayed fervently, and as he slept, he saw the Lord, Who raised him up with His hand, and embraced him. The Savior placed a crown on Saint George’s head and said, “Fear not, but have courage, and you will soon come to Me and receive what has been prepared for you.” the morning, the emperor offered to make Saint George his co-administrator, second only to himself. The holy martyr with a feigned willingness answered, “Caesar, you should have shown me this mercy from the very beginning, instead of torturing me. Let us go now to the temple and see the gods you worship.” believed that the martyr was accepting his offer, and he followed him to the pagan temple with his retinue and all the people. Everyone was certain that Saint George would offer sacrifice to the gods. The saint went up to the idol, made the Sign of the Cross and addressed it as if it were alive: “Are you the one who wants to receive from me sacrifice befitting God?” demon inhabiting the idol cried out, “I am not a god and none of those like me is a god, either. The only God is He Whom you preach. We are fallen angels, and we deceive people because we are jealous.” George cried out, “How dare you remain here, when I, the servant of the true God, have entered?” Then noises and wailing were heard from the idols, and they fell to the ground and were shattered. was general confusion. In a frenzy, pagan priests and many of the crowd seized the holy martyr, tied him up, and began to beat him. They also called for his immediate execution. holy empress Alexandra tried to reach him. Pushing her way through the crowd, she cried out, “O God of George, help me, for You Alone are All-Powerful.” At the feet of the Great Martyr the holy empress confessed Christ, Who had humiliated the idols and those who worshipped them. immediately pronounced the death sentence on the Great Martyr George and the holy Empress Alexandra, who followed Saint George to execution without resisting. Along the way she felt faint and slumped against a wall. There she surrendered her soul to God. George gave thanks to God and prayed that he would also end his life in a worthy manner. At the place of execution the saint prayed that the Lord would forgive the torturers who acted in ignorance, and that He would lead them to the knowledge of Truth. Calmly and bravely, the holy Great Martyr George bent his neck beneath the sword, receiving the crown of martyrdom on April 23, 303. pagan era was coming to an end, and Christianity was about to triumph. Within ten years, Saint Constantine (May 21) would issue the Edict of Milan, granting religious freedom to Christians. the many miracles worked by the holy Great Martyr George, the most famous are depicted in iconography. In the saint’s native city of Beirut were many idol-worshippers. Outside the city, near Mount Lebanon, was a large lake, inhabited by an enormous dragon-like serpent. Coming out of the lake, it devoured people, and there was nothing anyone could do, since the breath from its nostrils poisoned the very air. the advice of the demons inhabiting the idols, the local ruler came to a decision. Each day the people would draw lots to feed their own children to the serpent, and he promised to sacrifice his only daughter when his turn came. That time did come, and the ruler dressed her in her finest attire, then sent her off to the lake. The girl wept bitterly, awaiting her death. Unexpectedly for her, Saint George rode up on his horse with spear in hand. The girl implored him not to leave her, lest she perish. saint signed himself with the Sign of the Cross. He rushed at the serpent saying, “In the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Saint George pierced the throat of the serpent with his spear and trampled it with his horse. Then he told the girl to bind the serpent with her sash, and lead it into the city like a dog on a leash. people fled in terror, but the saint halted them with the words: “Don’t be afraid, but trust in the Lord Jesus Christ and believe in Him, since it is He Who sent me to save you.” Then the saint killed the serpent with a sword, and the people burned it outside the city. Twenty-five thousand men, not counting women and children, were then baptized. Later, a church was built and dedicated to the Most Holy Theotokos and the Great Martyr George. George went on to become a talented officer and to amaze the world by his military exploits. He died before he was thirty years old. He is known as Victory Bearer, not only for his military achievements, but for successfully enduring martyrdom. As we know, the martyrs are commemorated in the dismissal at the end of Church services as “the holy, right victorious martyr....” George was the patron saint and protector of several of the great builders of the Russian state. Saint Vladimir’s son, Yaroslav the Wise (in holy Baptism George), advanced the veneration of the saint in the Russian Church. He built the city of Yuriev [i.e., “of Yurii.” “Yurii” is the diminutive of “George”, as “Ivan” is of “John”], he also founded the Yuriev monastery at Novgorod, and he built a church of Saint George the Victory Bearer at Kiev. day of the consecration of Saint George’s Church in Kiev, November 26, 1051 by Saint Hilarion, Metropolitan of Kiev and All Rus, has entered into the liturgical treasury of the Church as a special church feastday. Yuriev Day is beloved by the Russian people as an “autumn Feast of Saint George.” name of Saint George was also borne by the founder of Moscow, Yurii Dolgoruky (+ 1157), who was the builder of many churches dedicated to Saint George, and the builder of the city of Yuriev-Polsk. In the year 1238 the heroic fight of the Russian nation against the Mongol Horde was led by the Great Prince Yurii (George) Vsevolodovich of Vladimir (February 4), who fell at the Battle at the Sita River. His memory, like that of Igor the Brave, and defender of his land, was celebrated in Russian spiritual poems and ballads. first Great Prince of Moscow, when Moscow had become the center of the Russian Land, was Yurii Danilovich (+ 1325), the son of Saint Daniel of Moscow, and grandson of Saint Alexander Nevsky. From that time Saint George the Victory Bearer, depicted as a horseman slaying the serpent, appeared on Moscow’s coat of arms, and became an emblem of the Russian state. This has strengthened Russia’s connections with Christian nations, and especially with Iberia (Georgia, the Land of Saint George). GEORGE, SOLDIER and MARTYR, 23 APRIL 303; is a soldier and martyr who suffered around 303 at Lydda (Diospolis) in Palestine. The earliest surviving record of him is a church inscription in Syria, dated about 346. Commemorations of him are numerous, early, and widespread. However, no details of his life are known. In 495 his name appears on a list of "good men, justly remembered, whose good deeds are known only to God." The best-known story about him is that he rescued a beautiful princess in Libya by killing a dragon. It should be noted that this story is unknown before the appearance in 1265 of a romance called the Golden Legend (Legendum Aureum), translated into English in 1483. the soldiers of the First Crusade were besieging Antioch in 1098, they had a vision of George and Demetrius (a deacon of Sirmium in Serbia, martyred under Maximian, and referred to as a "soldier of Christ," from which he was often understood to be a literal soldier) encouraging them to maintain the siege, which ultimately proved successful. I ("the Lion-Heart") of England, who fought in the Holy Land in 1191-1192, placed himself and his army under George's protection, and with the return home of the Crusaders, the popularity of George in England increased greatly. III founded the Order of the Garter in 1348 under his patronage, his banner (a red cross on a white field) began to be used as the English national flag in 1284, and in 1415 Henry V spoke of him to rally the troops before the battle of Agincourt ("Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more, or close the wall up with our English dead. ... cry God for Harry, England, and St George!"), in the years following George was regarded as the special patron of England, of soldiers, and of the Boy Scouts, as well as of Venice, Genoa, Portugal, and Catalonia. is also remembered with enthusiasm in many parts of the East Orthodox Church. is a principal character in Edmund Spenser's allegorical poem The Faerie Queene, written in the late 1500's. — by James Kiefer

Rome, 293-343, Nicholas, St Nick, Lycian Saint, Bishop of Myra, Wonderworker
Lycian Saint, 293-343, Saint Nicholas, Bishop of Myra; Translation of the relics of St Nicholas the Wonderworker from Myra to Bari, Commemorated on May 9 ; Icon of the Mother of God œthe ConverserÂ, Commemorated on August 14;

Rome, 293-343, NICHOLAS of Myra, childless parents dedicate, d light early, d inheritance, saved 3 daughters, myrrh relics
Lycia, 293-343, NICHOLAS of Myra, Bishop, from Patara, wealthy childless parents dedicate him, d light revealed in youth, mother healed, stood 3 hours, fasting from birth, r scripptures, d inheritance to poor, saved daughters from prostitution w 3 sacks of gold, to holy land, saw devil on ship, calmed the waves, restored sailor from mast fall, divine voice to return, monastery, divine voice return to world, chosen bishop by God, at 1st E council, slapped Arius, under guard, restored by same vision to several Fathers, angel face, face relieves opression, grabbed executioners sword for 3 men unjustly condemned by Gov, who repented, appeared to merchant to bring grain for 3 gold pieces, myrrh from his relics; Saint Nicholas of Myra[a] (traditionally 15 March 270 – 6 December 343),[3][4][b] also known as Nicholas of Bari, was an early Christian bishop of Greek descent from the maritime city of Myra in Asia Minor during the time of the Roman Empire.[7][8] of the many miracles attributed to his intercession, he is also known as Nicholas the Wonderworker.[c] Nicholas is the patron saint of sailors, merchants, archers, repentant thieves, prostitutes, children, brewers, pawnbrokers, unmarried people, and students in various cities and countries around Europe. reputation evolved among the pious, as was common for early Christian saints, and his legendary habit of secret gift-giving gave rise to the traditional model of Santa Claus ("Saint Nick") through Sinterklaas. little is known about the historical Saint Nicholas. The earliest accounts of his life were written centuries after his death and contain many legendary elaborations. He is said to have been born in the Greek seaport of Patara, Lycia in Asia Minor to wealthy Christian parents.[9] In one of the earliest attested and most famous incidents from his life, he is said to have rescued three girls from being forced into prostitution by dropping a sack of gold coins through the window of their house each night for three nights so their father could pay a dowry for each of them. early stories tell of him calming a storm at sea, saving three innocent soldiers from wrongful execution, and chopping down a tree possessed by a demon. his youth, he is said to have made a pilgrimage to Egypt and Palestine. after his return, he became Bishop of Myra. He was later cast into prison during the persecution of Diocletian, but was released after the accession of Constantine. early list makes him an attendee at the First Council of Nicaea in 325, but he is never mentioned in any writings by people who were actually at the council. unsubstantiated legends claim that he was temporarily defrocked and imprisoned during the council for slapping the heretic Arius. famous late legend tells how he resurrected three children, who had been murdered and pickled in brine by a butcher planning to sell them as pork during a famine. than 200 years after Nicholas's death, the St. Nicholas Church was built in Myra under the orders of Theodosius II over the site of the church where he had served as bishop, and his remains were moved to a sarcophagus in that church. In 1087, while the Greek Christian inhabitants of the region were subjugated by the newly arrived Muslim Seljuk Turks, and soon after their church was declared to be in schism by the Catholic church, a group of merchants from the Italian city of Bari removed the major bones of Nicholas's skeleton from his sarcophagus in the church without authorization and brought them to their hometown, where they are now enshrined in the Basilica di San Nicola. remaining bone fragments from the sarcophagus were later removed by Venetian sailors and taken to Venice during the First Crusade. Icon of the Mother of God œthe Converser, Commemorated on August 14; Converser Icon of the Mother of God is so named since it depicts the Mother of God and Saint Nicholas of Myra conversing with the sacristan George. event occurred soon after the appearance of the Tikhvin Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos in 1383, when the Most Holy Theotokos Herself commanded sacristan George to say that they should replace the metal cross on the newly-constructed temple in Her honor at Tikhvin with a wooden one. the place of this vision a chapel was built in honor of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker. The chapel burned several times (the first time was in 1390 at the same time as the church of the Tikhvin Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos). In 1515, a wooden church was built and a monastery founded in honor of this holy icon. Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker, Archbishop of Myra in Lycia, Commemorated on December 6; Nicholas, the Wonderworker, Archbishop of Myra in Lycia is famed as a great saint pleasing unto God. was born in the city of Patara in the region of Lycia (on the south coast of the Asia Minor peninsula), and was the only son of pious parents Theophanes and Nonna, who had vowed to dedicate him to God. the fruit of the prayer of his childless parents, the infant Nicholas from the very day of his birth revealed to people the light of his future glory as a wonderworker. mother, Nonna, after giving birth was immediately healed from illness. The newborn infant, while still in the baptismal font, stood on his feet three hours, without support from anyone, thereby honoring the Most Holy Trinity. Saint Nicholas from his infancy began a life of fasting, and on Wednesdays and Fridays he would not accept milk from his mother until after his parents had finished their evening prayers. his childhood Nicholas thrived on the study of Divine Scripture; by day he would not leave church, and by night he prayed and read books, making himself a worthy dwelling place for the Holy Spirit. Nicholas of Patara rejoiced at the spiritual success and deep piety of his nephew. He ordained him a reader, and then elevated Nicholas to the priesthood, making him his assistant and entrusting him to instruct the flock. serving the Lord the youth was fervent of spirit, and in his proficiency with questions of faith he was like an Elder, who aroused the wonder and deep respect of believers. Constantly at work and vivacious, in unceasing prayer, the priest Nicholas displayed great kind-heartedness towards the flock, and towards the afflicted who came to him for help, and he distributed all his inheritance to the poor. was a certain formerly rich inhabitant of Patara, whom Saint Nicholas saved from great sin. The man had three grown daughters, and in desperation he planned to sell their bodies so they would have money for food. The saint, learning of the man'™s poverty and of his wicked intention, secretly visited him one night and threw a sack of gold through the window. With the money the man arranged an honorable marriage for his daughter. Saint Nicholas also provided gold for the other daughters, thereby saving the family from falling into spiritual destruction. In bestowing charity, Saint Nicholas always strove to do this secretly and to conceal his good deeds. Bishop of Patara decided to go on pilgrimage to the holy places at Jerusalem, and entrusted the guidance of his flock to Saint Nicholas, who fulfilled this obedience carefully and with love. the bishop returned, Nicholas asked his blessing for a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Along the way the saint predicted a storm would arise and threaten the ship. Saint Nicholas saw the devil get on the ship, intending to sink it and kill all the passengers. At the entreaty of the despairing pilgrims, he calmed the waves of the sea by his prayers. his prayer a certain sailor of the ship, who had fallen from the mast and was mortally injured, was also restored to health. he reached the ancient city of Jerusalem and came to Golgotha, Saint Nicholas gave thanks to the Savior. He went to all the holy places, worshiping at each one. One night on Mount Sion, the closed doors of the church opened by themselves for the great pilgrim. Going round the holy places connected with the earthly service of the Son of God, Saint Nicholas decided to withdraw into the desert, but he was stopped by a divine voice urging him to return to his native country. returned to Lycia, and yearning for a life of quietude, the saint entered into the brotherhood of a monastery named Holy Sion, which had been founded by his uncle. But the Lord again indicated another path for him, œNicholas, this is not the vineyard where you shall bear fruit for Me. Return to the world, and glorify My Name there. So he left Patara and went to Myra in Lycia. Upon the death of Archbishop John, Nicholas was chosen as Bishop of Myra after one of the bishops of the Council said that a new archbishop should be revealed by God, not chosen by men. of the elder bishops had a vision of a radiant Man, Who told him that the one who came to the church that night and was first to enter should be made archbishop. He would be named Nicholas. The bishop went to the church at night to await Nicholas. The saint, always the first to arrive at church, was stopped by the bishop. œWhat is your name, child? he asked. God'™s chosen one replied, œMy name is Nicholas, Master, and I am your servant. his consecration as archbishop, Saint Nicholas remained a great ascetic, appearing to his flock as an image of gentleness, kindness and love for people. was particularly precious for the Lycian Church during the persecution of Christians under the emperor Diocletian (284-305). Nicholas, locked up in prison together with other Christians for refusing to worship idols, sustained them and exhorted them to endure the fetters, punishment and torture. The Lord preserved him unharmed. Upon the accession of Saint Constantine (May 21) as emperor, Saint Nicholas was restored to his flock, which joyfully received their guide and intercessor. his great gentleness of spirit and purity of heart, Saint Nicholas was a zealous and ardent warrior of the Church of Christ. Fighting evil spirits, the saint made the rounds of the pagan temples and shrines in the city of Myra and its surroundings, shattering the idols and turning the temples to dust. the year 325 Saint Nicholas was a participant in the First Ecumenical Council. This Council proclaimed the Nicean Symbol of Faith, and he stood up against the heretic Arius with the likes of Saints Sylvester the Bishop of Rome (January 2), Alexander of Alexandria (May 29), Spyridon of Trimythontos (December 12) and other Fathers of the Council. Nicholas, fired with zeal for the Lord, assailed the heretic Arius with his words, and also struck him upon the face. For this reason, he was deprived of the emblems of his episcopal rank and placed under guard. But several of the holy Fathers had the same vision, seeing the Lord Himself and the Mother of God returning to him the Gospel and omophorion. The Fathers of the Council agreed that the audacity of the saint was pleasing to God, and restored the saint to the office of bishop. returned to his own diocese, the saint brought it peace and blessings, sowing the word of Truth, uprooting heresy, nourishing his flock with sound doctrine, and also providing food for their bodies. face of Saint Nicholas resembled that of an Angel, resplendent with divine grace. A brilliant ray shone from his face, like that which shone from the face of Moses (Exodus 34:29), so that those who looked at him were astonished. was oppressed by some affliction or passion of the soul had only to behold the Saint, and his sorrow was eased at once. for those who conversed with him, they soon found themselves advancing on the path of virtue. Not only were the faithful moved to compassion, but unbelievers as well, and they directed their steps on the path of salvation when they heard him speak. The evil of unbelief which had been implanted in their hearts since childhood was uprooted, and in its place, the word of truth was sown. during his life the saint worked many miracles. One of the greatest was the deliverance from death of three men unjustly condemned by the Governor, who had been bribed. saint boldly went up to the executioner and took his sword, already suspended over the heads of the condemned. The Governor, denounced by Saint Nicholas for his wrong doing, repented and begged for forgiveness. this remarkable event were three military officers, who were sent to Phrygia by the emperor Constantine to put down a rebellion. They did not suspect that soon they would also be compelled to seek the intercession of Saint Nicholas. Evil men slandered them before the emperor, and the officers were sentenced to death. Appearing to Saint Constantine in a dream, Saint Nicholas called on him to overturn the unjust sentence of the military officers. worked many other miracles, and struggled many long years at his labor. Through the prayers of the saint, the city of Myra was rescued from a terrible famine. He appeared to a certain Italian merchant and left him three gold pieces as a pledge of payment. He requested him to sail to Myra and deliver grain there. More than once, the saint saved those drowning in the sea, and provided release from captivity and imprisonment. reached old age, Saint Nicholas peacefully fell asleep in the Lord. His venerable relics were preserved incorrupt in the local cathedral church and flowed with curative myrrh, from which many received healing. In the year 1087, his relics were transferred to the Italian city of Bari, where they rest even now (See May 9). name of the great saint of God, the hierarch and wonderworker Nicholas, a speedy helper and suppliant for all hastening to him, is famed in every corner of the earth, in many lands and among many peoples. In Russia there are a multitude of cathedrals, monasteries and churches consecrated in his name. There is, perhaps, not a single city without a church dedicated to him. first Russian Christian prince Askold (+ 882) was baptized in 866 by Patriarch Photius (February 6) with the name Nicholas. Over the grave of Askold, Saint Olga (July 11) built the first temple of Saint Nicholas in the Russian Church at Kiev. Primary cathedrals were dedicated to Saint Nicholas at Izborsk, Ostrov, Mozhaisk, and Zaraisk. At Novgorod the Great, one of the main churches of the city, the Nikolo-Dvorischensk church, later became a cathedral. and venerable churches and monasteries dedicated to Saint Nicholas are found at Kiev, Smolensk, Pskov, Toropetsa, Galich, Archangelsk, Great Ustiug, Tobolsk. Moscow had dozens of churches named for the saint, and also three monasteries in the Moscow diocese: the Nikolo-Greek (Staryi) in the Chinese-quarter, the Nikolo-Perervinsk and the Nikolo-Ugreshsk. One of the chief towers of the Kremlin was named the Nikolsk. of the churches devoted to the saint were those established at market squares by Russian merchants, sea-farers and those who traveled by land, venerating the wonderworker Nicholas as a protector of all those journeying on dry land and sea. They sometimes received the name among the people of “Nicholas soaked.â€ village churches in Russia were dedicated to the wonderworker Nicholas, venerated by peasants as a merciful intercessor before the Lord for all the people in their work. And in the Russian land Saint Nicholas did not cease his intercession. Ancient Kiev preserves the memory about the miraculous rescue of a drowning infant by the saint. The great wonderworker, hearing the grief-filled prayers of the parents for the loss of their only child, took the infant from the waters, revived him and placed him in the choir-loft of the church of Holy Wisdom (Hagia Sophia) before his wonderworking icon. In the morning the infant was found safe by his thrilled parents, praising Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker. wonderworking icons of Saint Nicholas appeared in Russia and came also from other lands. There is the ancient Byzantine embroidered image of the saint, brought to Moscow from Novgorod, and the large icon painted in the thirteenth century by a Novgorod master. depictions of the wonderworker are especially numerous in the Russian Church: Saint Nicholas of Zaraisk, portrayed in full-length, with his right hand raised in blessing and with a Gospel (this image was brought to Ryazan in 1225 by the future wife of Prince Theodore, the Byzantine Princess Eupraxia, who perished in 1237 with her husband and infant son during the incursion of Batu); and Saint Nicholas of Mozhaisk, also in full stature, with a sword in his right hand and a city in his left. This recalls the miraculous rescue of the city of Mozhaisk from an invasion of enemies, through the prayers of the saint. It is impossible to list all the grace-filled icons of Saint Nicholas, or to enumerate all his miracles. Nicholas is the patron of travelers, and we pray to him for deliverance from floods, poverty, or any misfortunes. He has promised to help those who remember his parents, Theophanes and Nonna. Nicholas is also commemorated on May 9 (The transfer of his relics) and on July 29 (his nativity). Italy, the relics of Saint Nicholas are in the Roman Catholic Basilica of Saint Nicholas in Bari; and his left arm is in Saint Nicholas Roman Catholic Church of Rimini. Russia, relics of Saint Nicholas are to be found in Christ the Savior Cathedral in Moscow, and in the Saint Alexander Nevsky Lavra in St. Petersburg. right hand of Saint Nicholas is in the church of Saint George the New in Bucharest, Romania. Greece, portions of the Saint's relics are in the Monasteries of Saint Nicholas Apo Bathia in Euboia, and PhaneromenÄ“ in Salaminos. A piece of the Saint's left arm is in the Metropolitan church of Volos. One of the Saint's teeth is at Kalabryta Monastery in the PeloponnÄ“sos. NICHOLAS OF MYRA, FRIEND OF CHILDREN, GIVER OF GIFTS, CLIMBER OF CHIMNEYS, ETC. (6 DEC 326) , Commemorated December 6; story of St. Nicholas offers a possible way of dealing with the "Santa Claus" problem, to parents who do not want to lie to their children, even in fun, but do not want to say simply: "Bah, humbug! There is no such thing as Santa. Forget about him." was a native of the western part of what is now Asiatic Turkey. He became Bishop of Myra in the fourth century, and there are many stories of his love for God and for his neighbor. best-known story involves a man with three unmarried daughters, and not enough money to provide them with suitable dowries. This meant that they could not marry, and were likely to end up as prostitutes. Nicholas walked by the man's house on three successive nights, and each time threw a bag of gold in through a window (or, when the story came to be told in colder climates, down the chimney). Thus, the daughters were saved from a life of shame, and all got married and lived happily ever after. of this and similar stories, Nicholas became a symbol of anonymous gift-giving. Hence, if we give a gift to someone today without saying whom it is from, it can be called "a present from Saint Nicholas (or Santa Claus)." Some parents explain this to their children and invite the child to join them in wrapping a toy (either something purchased for that purpose, at least partly with the child's allowance, or else a toy that the child has outgrown but that is still serviceable) or an outgrown but not shabby item of the child's clothing, or a package of food, and then going along to donate it to a suitable shelter that will give it to someone who will welcome it. This gift is then called "a present from Santa," so that the child understands that this is another name for an anonymous gift given to someone whom we do not know, but whom we love anyway because God does. (Presents within the family can be "From Santa" or "From Santa and...") fresco of St. NicholasPictures of Nicholas often show three bags of gold next to him, and often these bags have become simply three disks or balls. Nicholas became the patron of an Italian city (I think Bari, which is where his body is now buried) that was a center of the pawnbroking business, and hence a pawnbroking shop traditionally advertises by displaying three gold balls over its front. It is thought that some persons looking at pictures of Nicholas confused the three round objects with human heads. Hence there is a story of a wicked innkeeper who murdered three boys and salted their bodies to serve to his guests, to save on the butcher's bill. Nicholas visited the inn and confronted the innkeeper, who confessed his crime, whereupon Nicholas prayed over the brine-tub and the three boys leaped out unharmed. Other stories have him saving the lives of three innocent men who had been condemned to death. Still other stories have him coming to the rescue of drowning sailors (could this be related to the brine-tub incident?). Nicholas has always been popular with children, mariners, pawnbrokers, the Dutch, the Russians, and recently, the department-store owners. (American readers may remember the story of the brine-tub through reading it as children in the book The Dutch Twins, by Lucy Fitch Perkins, author of The Spanish Twins, The Italian Twins, and many similar books, all children's favorites in the middle of this century. They may now be banned as politically incorrect -- I have no idea. If your children know the brine-tub story, from this book or elsewhere, they may be interested to know how it may have originated.) many countries, Nicholas visits children on his feast day, 6 December, and brings them gifts then. In these countries, there is usually no exchange of Christmas presents, but there may be gifts again on January 6, the feast of the coming of the Wise Men, who brought gifts to the Holy Child of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. In America, it may be thought necessary to yield to outside pressure and let Nicholas distribute gifts on December 25. you want to show your children (or yourself) how Nicholas is remembered by Christians with a background different from your own (unless, of course, this IS your background), you might want to attend an East Orthodox service at this time. Many Eastern Orthodox congregations have services on the evening before 6 December that feature "visits from Saint Nicholas." He appears as a bishop, with no red suit. The faithful leave their shoes outside the church door, and find in them afterwards gold coins (actually chocolate wrapped in gold foil) representing the gold dowries of the three daughters. To find a service and inquire what it is likely to be like, look up CHURCHES, ORTHODOX in the Yellow Pages. For an English-language service, "Orthodox Church in America" or "Antiochan Orthodox" parishes are likely choices, but do not overlook other possibilities. are told, but it is uncertain, that Nicholas was imprisoned for his faith before the accession of Constantine, and that he was present at the Council of Nicea in 325. We may note in passing that the picture of him as roly-poly is a late development. Early stories indicate that he was generous to others, but not given to self-indulgence. Indeed, even as an unweaned infant, he fasted regularly on Wednesdays and Fridays. by James Kiefer

Rome, 293-306, Emperor, Constantius Chlorus, Caesar in 293 then Emperor in 305, Constantine's father
Roman Emperor, 293-306, Constantius Chlorus; Valerius Constantius "Chlorus" (c. 250 - 25 July 306), also called Constantius I, was a Roman emperor as one of the four original members the "Tetrarchy" established by Diocletian in 293. He was a junior-ranking emperor, or Caesar, from 293 to 305, and senior emperor, Augustus, from 305 to 306. Constantius was also the father of Constantine the Great, the first Christian emperor of Rome. The nickname Chlorus (Greek: Î§Î»Ï‰ÏÏŒÏ‚, lit. "the Green") was first popularized by Byzantine-era historians and was not used during the emperor's lifetime.[2] Illyrian and probably humble origin, Constantius had a distinguished military career and rose to the top ranks of the army. Around 289 he set aside Helena, Constantine's mother, to marry a daughter of Emperor Maximian, and in 293 was added to the imperial college by Maximian's colleague, Diocletian. Assigned to rule Gaul, Constantius defeated the usurper Carausius there and his successor Allectus in Britain, and campaigned extensively along the Rhine frontier, defeating the Alamanni and Franks. When the Diocletianic Persecution was announced in 303, Constantius ordered the demolition of churches but did not actively hunt down Christians in his domain.[2] Upon becoming senior emperor in May 305, Constantius launched a successful punitive campaign against the Picts beyond the Antonine Wall.[3] He died suddenly at Eboracum (York) in July the following year. Constantius's death, the army, perhaps at his own instigation, immediately acclaimed his son Constantine as emperor. This act contributed to the collapse of the Diocletianic tetrarchy, sparking a series civil wars which only ended when Constantine finally united the whole Roman Empire under his rule in 324. According to the Oxford Classical Dictionary, "Constantinian propaganda bedevils assessment of Constantius, yet he appears to have been an able general and a generous ruler".[4] His descendants, the Constantinian dynasty, ruled the Empire until the death of his grandson Julian in 363. Martyr Eusignius of Antioch, Commemorated on August 5; The Universal Exaltation of the Precious and Life-Giving Cross, Commemorated on September 14; Hieromartyr Cyprian of Nicomedia, Commemorated on October 2 ; Martyr Tarachus at Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on October 12; Blessed Cleopatra with her son in Egypt, Commemorated on October 19; Martyr Varus, Commemorated on October 19; St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22; St Crispina, Commemorated on December 5; NICHOLAS OF MYRA, FRIEND OF CHILDREN, GIVER OF GIFTS, CLIMBER OF CHIMNEYS, ETC. (6 DEC 326) ; St Nicholas the Wonderworker and Archbishop of Myra in Lycia, Commemorated on December 6; LUCY, VIRGIN AND MARTYR, abt. 304, Commemorated December 13; Venerable Syncletica of Alexandria, Commemorated on January 5; Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15; Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17; Virginmartyr Euphrasia of Nicomedia, Commemorated on January 19; AGNES OF ROME, MARTYR (21 JAN 304) ; Virginmartyr Agnes of Rome, Commemorated on January 21; VINCENT OF SARAGOSSA, DEACON AND MARTYR (22 JAN 304); Presbyter Ananias in Phoenicia, Commemorated on January 26; Martyr Neophytus of Nicea, Commemorated on January 21; GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332); Martyr Manuel, Commemorated on March 27; Martyr Matrona of Thessalonica, Commemorated on March 27; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13; Martyr Victor of Nicomedia, Commemorated on April 18 ;

Rome, 293-306, Constantius Chlorus, Roman Britain and Gaul Caesar, Father of Constantine the Great
England, 293-306, Roman Britain and Gaul Caesar, Constantius Chlorus, Father of Constantine the Great; Equal of the Apostles and Emperor Constantine with his Mother Helen, Commemorated on May 21;

Rome, 295, Phoenicia, refused idol w, beaten w hammers, burnt, prayers destroyed temple and idols
Palestine, 295, Phoenicia, refused idol worship, beaten w hammers, burnt, salt, his prayers destroyed temple and idols, guards believed, all drowned; Phoenicia was an ancient Semitic civilization situated on the western, coastal part of the Fertile Crescent and centered on the coastline of modern Lebanon.; Presbyter Ananias in Phoenicia, Commemorated January 26 ; Holy Martyrs Ananias the Presbyter, Peter the prison guard, and seven soldiers suffered in Phoenicia in the year 295. a persecution of Christians under the emperor Diocletian (284-305), Saint Ananias was brought before Maximus the governor of Phoenicia. He had been arrested for confessing Christ and refusal to worship idols. was beaten with hammers, burnt with fire, and salt was sprinkled on his scorched body. After his terrible sufferings, a temple and the idols standing in it were destroyed through the prayers of Saint Ananias. and seven other soldiers who were stationed to guard Ananias and witnessed his suffering came to believe in Christ. They were drowned in the sea after lengthy torture.

Rome, 296-304, Pope Marcellinus, cowardice, humbled himself, repented, martyred
Roman Pope, 296-304, Pope Marcellinus; Greatmartyr Euphemia the All-praised, Commemorated on July 11 ; Hieromartyr Marcellinus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; Marcellinus was Pope of Rome during the height of the persecution against Christians under Diocletian and Maximian (284-305), when 17,000 men were martyred a single month. During this time Saint Marcellinus was also arrested. Afraid of the fierce tortures, he burned incense and offered sacrifice to idols. The emperor called him his friend and clothed him in splendid robes. Although he had encouraged others to undergo torture for Christ, he gave in to cowardice. He wept bitterly, filled with remorse. this time, a Synod of 180 bishops and presbyters met at the city of Sinuessa (in Campania). Saint Marcellinus appeared at the assembly in penitential sackcloth, his head sprinkled with ashes. He confessed his sin before the delegates and asked them to judge him. The Fathers of the Council said, “Judge yourself! From your lips this sin came forth, from your lips let judgment be pronounced. We know that even Saint Peter denied Christ out of fear, but he wept bitterly for his sin, and received forgiveness from the Lord.â€ Marcellinus pronounced sentence upon himself, “I strip myself of the priestly dignity, of which I am unworthy. After death, do not bury my body, but instead throw it to the dogs. Cursed be the one who dares to bury it.â€ his return to Rome Marcellinus went to the emperor, threw down the fine clothing given him, and said that he regretted his renunciation of Christ. The enraged emperor had him tortured, and sentenced him to death. Marcellinus prayed to the Lord Jesus Christ, Who mercifully receives sinners who repent, then willingly placed his head beneath the sword. The holy martyrs Claudius, Cyrinus and Antoninus were beheaded with him. body of Saint Marcellinus lay for thirty-six days along the wayside. Appearing in a vision to the new bishop Marcellus, the holy Apostle Peter said, “Why have you not buried the body of Marcellinus?â€ “I fear his curse,â€ replied Saint Marcellus. “Perhaps you do not remember,â€ said the Apostle Peter, “that it is written: ‘He that humbles himself shall be exalted.’ Therefore, go bury his body with reverence.â€ the command of the Apostle Peter, Saint Marcellus buried the body of Saint Marcellinus in a crypt, built for the burial of the bodies of martyrs by the illustrious Priscilla, along the Via Salaria. Martyr Priscilla of Rome, Commemorated on June 7;

Rome, 300, 4th Century, Folder, R. Empire, Diocletian then Constantine and Legal Christianity

Rome, 301-316, Blaise, Sebaste, Armenia , blessed&healed wild beasts, wolf returns small pig, walked on lake, 68 died trying
Armenia, 300-316, Blaise, Bishop o Sebaste, Armenia (Kizilirmak River 1, Iris River Source), righteous life, Diocletian and Licinius persecution, hid on mt in cave, wild beasts to him, blessed and healed them,looking for wild beasts to torture, they arested him, along the way he worked miracles, wolf returns small pig, he called gods devils, 7 holy women threw idols to deep lake, ordered to be thrown in lake he walked on it, 68 died trying it with gods help; Sebaste, Cappadocia, Armenia; Hieromartyr Blaise, Bishop of Sebaste, Commemorated on February 11; Hieromartyr Blaise (Blasius), Bishop of Sebaste, was known for his righteous and devout life. chosen by the people, he was consecrated Bishop of Sebaste. occurred during the reign of the Roman emperors Diocletian (284-305) and Licinius (307-324), fierce persecutors of Christians. Blaise encouraged his flock, visited the imprisoned, and gave support to the martyrs. hid themselves from the persecutors by going off to desolate and solitary places. Saint Blaise also hid himself away on Mount Argeos, where he lived in a cave. Wild beasts came up to him and meekly waited until the saint finished his prayer and blessed them. The saint also healed sick animals by laying his hands upon them. refuge of the saint was discovered by servants of the governor Agrilaus, who had come to capture wild beasts to loose on the Christian martyrs. servants reported to their master that Christians were hiding on the mountain, and he gave orders to arrest them. But those sent out found there only the Bishop of Sebaste. Glorifying God Who had summoned him to this exploit, Saint Blaise followed the soldiers. the way the saint healed the sick and worked other miracles. a destitute widow complained to him of her misfortune. A wolf had carried off a small pig, her only possession. The bishop smiled and said to her, “Do not weep, your pig will be returned to you...” To the astonishment of everyone, the wolf came running back and returned his prey unharmed. greeting the bishop with words of deceit, called him a companion of the gods. The saint answer6ed the greeting, but he called the gods devils. Then they beat him and led him off to prison. the next day, they subjected the saint to tortures again. When they led him back to the prison, seven women followed behind and gathered up the drops of blood. They arrested them and tried to compel them to worship the idols. The women pretended to consent to this and said that first they needed to wash the idols in the waters of a lake. They took the idols and threw them in a very deep part of the lake, and after this the Christians were fiercely tortured. The saints stoically endured the torments, strengthened by the grace of God, their bodies were transformed and became white as snow. One of the women had two young sons, who implored their mother to help them attain the Kingdom of Heaven, and she entrusted them to the care of Saint Blaise. The seven holy women were beheaded. Blaise was again brought before Agrilaus, and again he unflinchingly confessed his faith in Christ. The governor ordered that the martyr be thrown into a lake. The saint, going down to the water, signed himself with the Sign of the Cross, and he walked on it as though on dry land. the pagans standing about on shore, he challenged them to come to him while calling on the help of their gods. Sixty-eight men of the governor’s retinue entered the water, and immediately drowned. The saint, however, heeding the angel who had appeared to him, returned to shore. was in a rage over losing his finest servants, and he gave orders to behead Saint Blaise, and the two sons of the woman martyr entrusted to him. Before his death, the martyr prayed for the whole world, and especially for those honoring his memory. This occurred in about the year 316. relics of the Hieromartyr Blaise were brought to the West during the time of the Crusades, and portions of the relics are preserved in many of the lands of Europe [and his memory traditionally honored there on February 3]. pray to Saint Blaise for the health of domestic animals, and for protection from wild beasts.

Rome, 301-311, Peter of Alexandria, Archbishop, A School, lenient to fallen c, but excommunicated Arius, unusual martyrdom
Egypt, 300-311, Peter of Alexandria, Archbishop, School of Alexandria, lenient to fallen c, but excommunicated Arius, unusual martyrdom, avoided the crowd, voice from heaven, vision of Jesus as a child, Arius warning from J, profound theologian; Peter I of Alexandria (Coptic: Ⲡⲁⲡⲁ Ⲁⲃⲃⲁ ⲡⲉⲧⲣⲟⲥ ⲁ̅, ⲡⲓⲁⲅⲓⲟⲥ ⲡⲉⲧⲣⲟⲥ ⲓⲉⲣⲟⲙⲁⲣⲧⲩⲣⲟⲥ ⲡⲓⲁⲣⲭⲏⲉⲣⲉⲩⲥ[1]) was the 17th Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria. He is revered as a saint by the Coptic Orthodox Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and the Catholic Church.[2] was born and raised in Alexandria. Coptic Orthodox Church believes that Peter was given by his parents to Theonas to be brought up as a priest, similarly to the story of Samuel in the Old Testament. rose through the ranks of holy orders, first becoming a reader, then a deacon, then a priest. Highly educated, Peter became head of the school of Alexandria.[3] early 300, while on his death bed, Theonas advised the church leaders to choose Peter as his successor, which they did. time as bishop included the Diocletianic Persecution, which began in 303, and continued intermittently over the next ten years. into exile from the city during the anti-Christian persecutions, Peter traveled through many lands, encouraging his flock by letter, before returning to his city to guide the Alexandrian Church personally during this period. He secretly visited those imprisoned, assisted widows and orphans, and conducted clandestine services.[3] of Peter's position during the persecution vary,[4] but one states that he was imprisoned for a time with bishop Meletius of Lycopolis and they fell into an argument over the treatment of Christians who had either offered pagan sacrifice or surrendered scriptures to the authorities to save their lives during the persecution. urged leniency while Meletius held firmly that the lapsed had abandoned their faith and needed to be rebaptised. Their argument became heated, and was ended when Peter hung a curtain between him and Meletius. of Meletius' followers was a priest named Arius (modern scholarship differs on whether this was the same Arius as became involved with the Arian controversy a few years later).[5][6] According to Severus of Ashmumeen, Arius tried in vain to receive absolution from the Patriarch before Peter was executed, and before dying Peter anathematized Arius as a heretic and excommunicated him.[3] execution of the patriarch Peter of Alexandria under the emperor Maximinus Daia, depicted in the Menologion of Basil II, an illuminated manuscript prepared for the emperor Basil II in c. 1000. tenth-century historian Severus of Ashmumeen gives us an account of how during the Diocletianic Persecution the Patriarch was seized and thrown in prison. When the emperor was informed about this, he ordered Peter to be beheaded. This was hindered by a large number of Christians who gathered at the prison willing to die for their Patriarch. The soldiers delayed the execution because they neither wanted to massacre the crowd nor create a riot. Patriarch, fearing for the life of his people, advised the soldiers with a plan to smuggle him out of jail by breaking a hole in a certain wall which he would point out. He could then be smuggled out and receive his sentence. of Ashmumeen describes the moment when the Patriarch was martyred: he took off his omophorion, and bared his neck, which was pure before the Lord, and said to them: «Do as you have been commanded». the soldiers feared that trouble would befall them because of him. So they looked one at another, and not one of them dared to cut off his head, because of the dread which had fallen upon them. they took counsel together and said: «To him that cuts off his head each one of us will give five denarii». Now they were six persons; and one of them had some money; so he took out five and twenty denarii from among the coins and said : «He that will go up to him, and cut off his head, shall receive this money from me and from the four others». So one of the men went forward, and summoned up his courage, and cut off the head of the holy martyr and patriarch Peter; that day being the 29th of Hatur.[6] is a month in the Coptic calendar, corresponding roughly to November. Saint Peter's martyrdom occurred in the year AD 311. day[edit] in Christianity, the day of a saint's death is the day on which his feast day is celebrated. 29 Hatur corresponds to 25 November in the Julian calendar (to 26 November if the following Julian year is a leap year). Thus 29 Hatur corresponds at present to the Gregorian Calendar 8 December or 9 December (see Old Style and New Style dates). Alexandria; Hieromartyr Peter the Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on November 25 ; Holy Hieromartyr Peter, Archbishop of Alexandria, was born and raised at Alexandria. He was a highly educated man, and was head of the school of Alexandria. In the year 300 he became the archpastor of the Alexandrian Church, succeeding his teacher and spiritual guide, the holy Bishop Theonas. into exile from the city during the anti-Christian persecutions under the emperors Diocletian and Maximian, Saint Peter traveled through many lands, encouraging his flock by letter. Again returned to his city, in order to guide the Alexandrian Church personally during this dangerous period. The saint secretly visited Christians locked up in prison, encouraging them to be steadfast in faith, assisting the widows and orphans, preaching the Word of God, constantly praying and officiating at the divine services. And the Lord kept him safe from the hands of the persecutors. this time of unrest the iniquitous heretic Arius, who denied the divinity of Jesus Christ, sowed the tares of his impious teaching. When Arius refused to be corrected and submit to the truth, Saint Peter anathematized the heretic and excommunicated him from the Church. Arius then sent two of Saint Peter’s priests to beg the saint to lift the excommunication from him, pretending that he had repented and given up his false teachings. This was not true, for Arius hoped to succeed Saint Peter as Archbishop of Alexandria. Saint Peter, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, saw through the wickedness and deceit of Arius, and so he instructed his flock not to believe Arius nor to accept him into communion. the wise nurturing of Saint Peter the Church of Alexandria strengthened and grew in spite of the persecutions. But finally, on orders from the emperor Maximian (305-311), the saint was arrested and sentenced to death. A multitude of people gathered at the entrance of the prison, expressing their outrage. to avoid bloodshed and a riot by the people, the saint sent a message to the authorities, in which he suggested that they make an opening in the back wall of the prison, so that he might be taken away secretly to execution. the dark of the night Saint Peter went with the executioners, who took him beyond the city walls and beheaded him at the same spot where formerly Saint Mark had been executed. night a certain pious virgin heard a Voice from heaven saying, “Peter was first among the Apostles; Peter is the last of the Alexandrian Martyrs.” took place in the year 311. the morning, when people learned of the death of their bishop, a crowd gathered at the place of execution. They took up the body and head of the martyr and went to the church, dressing him in his bishop’s vestments, they sat him in his throne at the high place in the altar. During his life Saint Peter never sat on it, but sat on a footstool instead. saint once explained that whenever he approached his throne he beheld a heavenly light shining on it, and he sensed the presence of a divine power. Therefore, he didn’t dare to sit there. Lord Jesus Christ once appeared to Saint Peter as a twelve-year-old child wearing a robe that was torn from top to bottom. Saint Peter asked the Savior who had torn his garment, He replied, “That madman Arius has torn it by dividing the people whom I have redeemed by My blood. Do not receive him into Communion with the Church, for he has worked evil against Me and My flock.” Peter, a great champion of Orthodoxy, is known also as a profound theologian. Passages from his book, “On the Divinity (of Jesus Christ)”, were consulted at the Councils of Ephesus and Chalcedon. Of all his works, the most widely known and highly esteemed by the Church are his “Penitential Canons”.

Rome, 301-306, Gurias of Edessa, Armenia, Confessors, Samonas prayer, Habibus burned, unharmed body, Goth Soldier story
301-306, Gurias of Edessa, Armenia, Confessors, Martyrs, Samonas prayer, then years, Licinius, Habibus burned, unharmed body, Goth Soldier and pious virgin Euphemia, deception witness, slavery, miraculous return; Edessa, Syria; Holy Martyrs and Confessors Gurias, Samonas, and Abibus, of Edessa, Commemorated on November 15; Holy Martyrs and Confessors Gurias, Samonas and Habibus: during the persecution against Christians under the emperors Diocletian (284-305) and Maximian (305-311). The two friends Gurias and Samonas, preachers of the Word of God, were arrested in the city of Edessa. saints refused to offer sacrifice to the gods, and boldly confessed their faith in Christ. For this they were subjected to cruel tortures: they were beaten, hung up by their hands, heavy weights were tied to their feet, and they were cast into a stifling prison. martyrs endured everything with firmness and Samonas uttered a prayer to the Lord, which one of the witnesses to their death wrote down: “O Lord my God, against Whose will not a single sparrow falls into the snare. It was You Who made room for David in his sorrow (Ps. 4:1), Who proved the Prophet David stronger than lions (Dan. 6:16-24), and granted a child of Abraham to be victor over torture and flames (Dan. ch. 3, ch. 14). You know also, Lord, the infirmity of our nature, You see the struggle set before us. Our foe strives to snatch us, the work of Your right hand, away from You and to deprive us of the glory which is in You. With Your compassionate eye watching over us, preserve in us the inextinguishable light of Your Commandments. Guide our steps by Your light, and make us worthy of Your Kingdom, for You are blessed unto ages of ages.” night, they took the martyrs out beyond the city and beheaded them (+ 299-306). Christians buried their holy bodies with reverence. some years, the last pagan emperor, Licinius (311-324), began a persecution against Christians. a deacon of the Church of Edessa whom the emperor ordered to be arrested for his zealous spreading of the true Faith, presented himself before the executioners when he learned they were searching for him. The saint confessed his faith in Christ and was sentenced to be burned alive. The martyr went willingly into the fire and with a prayer surrendered his soul to the Lord. When the fire went out, the mother and relatives of the saint found his body unharmed. They buried the martyr next to Saints Gurias and Samonas. the death of the saints, numerous miracles were wrought by them for those who entreated their help with faith and love. a certain Gothic soldier, sent to serve at Edessa, took the pious virgin Euphemia as his wife. Before this the barbarian vowed to her mother Sophia at the graves of the Martyrs Gurias, Samonas and Habibus that he would do his spouse no harm, and would never insult her, but would always love and cherish her. the completion of his service in Edessa, he took Euphemia with him back to his native land. It turned out that he had deceived her, for he already had a wife at home, and Euphemia became her slave. Her evil husband threatened to kill her if she revealed to anyone that they were married. Euphemia suffered much abuse and humiliation. When she gave birth to a son, the jealous Gothic woman poisoned him. Euphemia turned with prayer to the holy Martyrs Gurias, Samonas and Habibus, the witnesses to the perjurer’s oath, and the Lord delivered Euphemia from her suffering and miraculously returned her to Edessa, where she was welcomed by her mother. a certain while the Goth was again sent to serve in Edessa. The whole city learned of his misdeeds after he was denounced by Sophia. The Goth was executed by order of the prefect of the city. an Akathist, the Holy Church addresses the martyrs: “Rejoice, Gurias, Samonas and Habibus, Heavenly Patrons of honorable marriage.” We pray to them for deliverance from family turmoil, and from marital difficulties, especially where one spouse hates the other without cause.

Rome, 301-307, Varus, commander, secret christian, assistance, fiercely beaten to d, holy relics in Galilee
Egypt, 307, Egyptian Saint, Varus; Martyr Varus, and seven Monastic Martyrs with him, Commemorated on October 19; Varus lived in Egypt during the period of several persecutions against Christians (late third to early fourth century). (Ouaros) was a military commander and secretly a Christian. He gave assistance to many of the persecuted and imprisoned Christians, and he visited the prisoners at night. He also brought food to the prisoners, dressed their wounds, and gave them encouragement. Varus spent a whole night talking with seven imprisoned monks. These men were Christian teachers who had been beaten and starved. Varus marched with the teachers when they were led to their execution. judge, seeing Varus’ strong faith, had him fiercely beaten. Varus died during the beating. After his death, the monks were beheaded.

Rome, 301-311, Martyrs Menodora, Metrodora, and Nymphodora, Bithynia, special piety, healings, martyrdom, fire, rain
Bithynia, 300-311, Martyrs Menodora, Metrodora, and Nymphodora; Great Martyr George, died in Nicomedia, 303; Martyr Menodora at Nicomedia, Commemorated on September 10; Holy Virgins Menodora, Nymphodora, and Metrodora (305-311), were sisters from Bithynia (Asia Minor). Distinguished for their special piety, they wanted to preserve their virginity and avoid worldly associations. They chose a solitary place for themselves in the wilderness and spent their lives in deeds of fasting and prayer. of the holy life of the virgins soon spread, since healings of the sick began to occur through their prayers. The Bithynia region was governed at that time by a man named Frontonus, who ordered that the sisters be arrested and brought before him. first he tried to persuade them to renounce Christ, promising great honors and rewards. But the holy sisters steadfastly confessed their faith before him, rejecting all his suggestions. They told him that they did not value the temporal things of this world, and that they were prepared to die for their Heavenly Bridegroom, for death would be their gateway to eternal life. into a rage, the governor took out his wrath on Saint Menodora, the eldest sister. She was stripped of her clothes and beaten by four men, while a herald urged her to offer sacrifice to the gods. The saint bravely endured the torments and cried out, “Sacrifice? Can’t you see that I am offering myself as a sacrifice to my God?” Then they renewed their torments with even greater severity. Then the martyr cried out, “ Lord Jesus Christ, joy of my heart, my hope, receive my soul in peace.” With these words she gave up her soul to God, and went to her Heavenly Bridegroom. days later, they brought the two younger sisters Metrodora and Nymphodora to the court. They showed them the battered body of their older sister to frighten them. The virgins wept over her, but remained steadfast. Saint Metrodora was tortured. She died, crying out to her beloved Lord Jesus Christ with her last breath. Then they turned to the third sister, Nymphodora. Before her lay the bruised bodies of her sisters. Frontonus hoped that this sight would intimidate the young virgin. that he was charmed by her youth and beauty, he urged her to worship the pagan gods, promising great rewards and honors. Saint Nymphodora scoffed at his words, and shared the fate of her older sisters. She was tortured and beaten to death with iron rods. bodies of the holy martyrs were to be burned in a fire, but a heavy rain extinguished the blazing fire, and lightning struck down Frontonus and his servant. Christians took up the bodies of the holy sisters and reverently buried them at the so-called Warm Springs at Pythias (Bithynia). of the relics of the holy martyrs are preserved on Mt. Athos in the Protection cathedral of the Saint Panteleimon Russian monastery, and the hand of Saint Metrodora is on the Holy Mountain in the monastery of the Pantocrator. St Theodore the Sykeote the Bishop of Anastasiopolis, Commemorated on April 22 ;

Rome, 301-327, Cleopatra, witnessed Varus martyrdom, son died, in heaven w V, comforted, built Galilee church over r
Egypt, 307-327, Egyptian Saint, Cleopatra; Cleopatra (died 319 or 327) was a Christian saint who lived between the 3rd century and 4th century. She is venerated in the Catholic Church,[1] Oriental Orthodoxy[citation needed] and Eastern Orthodoxy[2]. originally came from a village called Edra near Mount Tabor in Lower Galilee.[3] was a contemporary of the holy martyr Saint Varus and had witnessed his suffering and execution. After Varus' death, Cleopatra had his remains taken to her home in Daraa, Syria where she had them buried with reverence. was a widow, whose only child, was a son named John. By 319, John had attained the officer rank of centurion, but to her great sorrow, had died suddenly. in grief, turned to the relics of Saint Varus, begging the saint to return her son. She dreamt that Varus and John appeared to her as radiant in bright attire with crowns upon their heads and took this to mean that the Lord had received John into the Heavenly Kingdom, and was comforted.[3] moved to live by the church that she had built was over the relics of Saint Varus and her son. Miracles were reported by people who had come to pray at the church. Cleopatra spent her remaining years in the service of God. She gave her property to the poor and spent her time praying and fasting.[3] She died in 327. from Cleopatra, her son John is also recognised as a saint in Orthodox Christianity. The feast day of Saints Cleopatra and John is 19 October. Egypt, 307, Egyptian Saint, Varus; Blessed Cleopatra with her son John, in Egypt, Commemorated on October 19; Cleopatra and her son John came from the village of Edra near Mount Tabor in Palestine. She was a contemporary of the holy Martyr Varus and witnessed his voluntary suffering. the execution, Saint Cleopatra brought the body of the holy martyr to her own country and buried him with reverence. had one beloved son, John, who had attained the honorable rank of officer. To the great sorrow of his mother, John suddenly died. Cleopatra with tears of grief turned to the relics of the holy Martyr Varus, begging him for the return of her son. and her son appeared to Cleopatra in a dream, radiant in bright attire with crowns upon their heads. She realized that the Lord had received her son into the heavenly Kingdom, and was comforted. this vision blessed Cleopatra started to live by a church she built over the relics of the holy martyr Varus and her son John, and performed many good deeds. She distributed her property to the poor and spent her time in prayer and fasting. After seven years she fell asleep in the Lord. Martyr Varus, and seven Monastic Martyrs with him, Commemorated on October 19;

Rome, 301-306, Demetrius of Thessaloniki, myrrh-gusher, secret christian appointed to kill c, converted many
Macedonian Saint, 290-306, Demetrius of Thessaloniki; (or Demetrios) of Thessaloniki (Greek: Ἅγιος Δημήτριος τῆς Θεσσαλονίκης, Hágios Dēmḗtrios tēs Thessaloníkēs[a]), also known as the Holy Great-Martyr Demetrius the Myroblyte (meaning 'the Myrrh-Gusher' or 'Myrrh-Streamer';[b] 3rd century – 306), was a Christian martyr of the early 4th century AD. the Middle Ages, he came to be revered as one of the most important Orthodox military saints, often paired with George of Lydda. His feast day is 26 October for Eastern Orthodox Christians, which falls on 8 November [NS] for those following the old calendar. In the Roman Catholic church he is most commonly called "Demetrius of Sermium" and his memorial falls on 8 October. Martyr Lupus, slave of Saint Demetrius of Thessalonica, Commemorated on August 23; Martyr Lupus lived at the end of the third century and beginning of the fourth century, and was a faithful servant of the holy Great Martyr Demetrius of Thessalonica (October 26). Being present at the death of his master, he soaked his own clothing with his blood and took a ring from his hand. With this clothing, and with the ring and the name of the Great Martyr Demetrius, Saint Lupus worked many miracles at Thessalonica. He destroyed pagan idols, for which he was subjected to persecution by the pagans, but he was preserved unharmed by the power of God. Lupus voluntarily delivered himself into the hands of the torturers, and by order of the emperor Maximian Galerius, he was beheaded by the sword. Holy, Glorious Demetrius the Myrrh-gusher of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 26; Great Martyr Demetrios the Myrrh-gusher of Thessaloniki was the son of a Roman proconsul in Thessaloniki. Three centuries had elapsed and Roman paganism, spiritually shattered and defeated by the multitude of martyrs and confessors of the Savior, intensified its persecutions. parents of Saint Demetrios were secret Christians, and he was baptized and raised in the Christian Faith in a secret church in his father’s home. the time Demetrios had reached maturity and his father had died, Emperor Galerius Maximian had ascended the throne (305). Maximian, confident in Demetrios's education as well as his administrative and military abilities, appointed him to his father’s position as proconsul of the Thessaloniki district. The young commander's principal duties were to defend the city from barbarians and to eradicate Christianity. The Emperor's policy regarding Christians was expressed simply: “Put to death anyone who calls on the name of Christ.” The Emperor did not suspect that by appointing Demetrios he had provided him with the opportunity to bring many people to Christ. the appointment, Demetrios returned to Thessaloniki and confessed and glorified our Lord Jesus Christ. Instead of persecuting and executing Christians, he began to teach the Christian Faith openly to the inhabitants of the city and to overthrow pagan customs and the worship of idols. The compiler of his Life, Saint Simeon Metaphrastes (November 9), says that because of his teaching zeal he became “a second Apostle Paul” for Thessaloniki, particularly since “the Apostle to the Gentiles” founded the first community of believers in the city (1 Thess. and 2 Thess.). Lord also destined Saint Demetrios to follow Saint Paul on the path to martyrdom. When Maximian learned that the newly-appointed proconsul was a Christian, and that he had converted many Roman subjects to Christianity, the Emperor's rage knew no bounds. Returning from a campaign in the area of the Black Sea, the Emperor decided to lead his army through Thessaloniki, determined to massacre the Christians. of this, Saint Demetrios ordered his faithful servant Lupus to give his wealth to the poor saying, “Distribute my earthly riches among them, for we shall seek heavenly riches for ourselves.” He began to pray and fast, preparing himself for martyrdom. the Emperor came into the city, he summoned Demetrios, who boldly confessed himself a Christian and denounced the falsehood and futility of Roman polytheism. Maximian ordered Demetrios to be thrown into prison. An Angel appeared to him, comforting and encouraging him. the Emperor amused himself by staging games in the circus. His champion was a German by the name of Lyaeos. He challenged Christians to wrestle with him on a platform built over the upturned spears of the victorious soldiers. A brave Christian named Nestor went to the prison to Saint Dēmḗtrios, his instructor in the Faith, asking for his blessing to fight the barbarian. With the blessing and prayers of Saint Demetrios, Nestor defeated the fierce German and hurled him from the platform onto the spears of the soldiers, just as the murderous pagan would have done with the Christian. The enraged commander ordered the execution of the holy Martyr Nestor (October 27) and sent a guard to the prison to kill Saint Demetrios. At dawn on October 26, 306 soldiers appeared in the Saint's underground prison and ran him through with lances. His faithful servant, Saint Lupus, gathered up the blood-soaked garment of Saint Dēmḗtrios he took the imperial ring from his finger, a symbol of his high status, and dipped it in the blood. With the ring and other holy things sanctified the blood of Saint Demetrios, Saint Lupus began to heal the infirm. The Emperor ordered his soldiers to arrest and kill him. body of the holy Great Martyr Demetrios was cast out for wild animals to devour, but the Christians took it and secretly buried it in the earth. the reign of Saint Constantine (306-337), a church was built over the grave of Saint Demetrios. A hundred years later, during the construction of a majestic new church on the old spot, the incorrupt relics of the holy martyr were uncovered. Since the seventh century a miraculous flow of fragrant myrrh has been found beneath the crypt of the Great Martyr Demetrios, so he is called “the Myrrh-gusher.” times, those venerating the holy wonderworker tried to bring his holy relics, or a part of them, to Constantinople. Invariably, Saint Demetrios made it clear that he would not permit anyone to remove even a portion of his relics. is interesting that among the barbarians threatening the Romans, Slavs occupied an important place, in particular those settling upon the Thessalonian peninsula. Some even believe that the parents of Saint Dēmḗtrios were of Slavic descent. While advancing towards the city, pagan Slavs were repeatedly turned away by the apparition of a threatening radiant youth, going around on the walls and inspiring terror in the enemy soldiers. Perhaps this is why the name of Saint Demetrios was particularly venerated among the Slavic nations after they were enlightened by the Gospel. On the other hand, Greeks dismiss the idea that Saint Demetrios was a Slavic saint. very first pages of the Russian Primary Chronicle, as foreordained by God, is bound up with the name of the holy Great Martyr Demetrios of Thessaloniki. The Chronicle relates that when Oleg the Wise threatened the Greeks at Constantinople (907), the Greeks became terrified and said, “This is not Oleg, but rather Saint Demetrios sent upon us from God.” Russian soldiers always believed that they were under the special protection of the holy Great Martyr Dēmḗtrios. Moreover, in the old Russian barracks the Great Martyr Demetrios was always depicted as Russian. Thus this image entered the soul of the Russian nation. veneration of the holy Great Martyr Demetrios in Russia began shortly after the Baptism of Rus. Toward the beginning of the 1070s the Dimitriev monastery at Kiev, known afterwards as the Mikhailov-Zlatoverkh monastery, was founded, The monastery was built by the son of Yaroslav the Wise, Great Prince Izyaslav, Demetrios in Baptism (+ 1078). The mosaic icon of Saint Dēmḗtrios of Thessaloniki from the cathedral of the Dimitriev monastery has been preserved up to the present day, and is in the Tretiakov Gallery. the years 1194-1197 the Great Prince of Vladimir, Vsevolod III the Great-Nest (Demetrios in Baptism) “built at his court a beautiful church of the holy martyr Dēmḗtrios, and adorned it wondrously with icons and frescoes.” The Dimitriev cathedral also reveals the embellishment of ancient Vladimir. The wonderworking icon of Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki from the cathedral iconostasis is located even now in Moscow, at the Tretiakov gallery. It was painted on a piece of wood from the grave of the holy Great Martyr Dēmḗtrios, brought from Thessaloniki to Vladimir in 1197. of the most precious depictions of the saint, a fresco on a column of the Vladimir Dormition cathedral, was painted by the holy Iconographer Andrew Rublev (July 4). family of Saint Alexander Nevsky (November 23 also venerated Saint Demetrios. Saint Alexander named his eldest son in honor of the holy Great Martyr. His younger son, Prince Daniel of Moscow (March 4), built a church dedicated to the holy Great Martyr Demetrios in the 1280s. This was the first stone church in the Moscow Kremlin. Later in 1326, under Ivan Kalita, it was taken down and the Dormition cathedral was built in its place. memory of Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki is historically associated in Rus with the military, patriotism and the defense of the country. This is apparent by the saint’s depiction on icons as a soldier in plumed armor, with a spear and sword in hand. There is a scroll (in later depictions) on which is written the prayer of Saint Dēmḗtrios for the salvation of the people of Thessaloniki, “Lord, do not permit the city or the people to perish. If You save the city and the people, I shall be saved with them. If they perish, I will perish with them.” the particular spiritual experience of the Russian Church, veneration of the holy Great Martyr Demetrios of Thessaloniki is closely linked with the memory of the defense of the nation and Church by the Great Prince of Moscow, Demetrios of the Don (May 19). “An Account of the Life and Repose of the Great Prince Dēmḗtrios of the Don, Tsar of Russia,” written in the year 1393, already regards the Great Prince as a Saint, as other old Russian histories do. Great Prince Demetrios was a spiritual son and disciple of Saint Alexis, Metropolitan of Moscow (February 12), and a disciple and associate of other great figures of prayer in the Russian Land: Saint Sergius of Radonezh (September 25), Demetrios of Priluki (February 11), Saint Theodore of Rostov (November 28). The Account states: [Great Prince Demetrios] worried a great deal about the churches of God, and he held the territory of the Russian land by his bravery: he conquered many enemies who had risen against us, and he protected his glorious city Moscow with wondrous walls. ...The land of Russia prospered during the years of his reign. the time of the building of the white-walled Kremlin (1366) by Great Prince Demetrios, Moscow was called “White-Stoned.” the prayers of his Heavenly patron, the holy warrior Dēmḗtrios of Thessaloniki, Great Prince Demetrios, in addition to his brilliant military victories, also gained the further prominence of Russia. He repelled the onslaught of the Lithuanian armies of Olgerd, he routed the Tatar army of Begich at the River Vozha (1378), and he smashed the military might of all the Golden Horde at the Battle of Kulikovo Field on September 8, 1380 (the Feast of the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos), set between the Rivers Don and Nepryadva. The Battle of Kulikovo, for which the nation calls him Dēmḗtrios of the Don, became the first Russian national exploit, rallying the spiritual power of the Russian nation around Moscow. The “Zadonschina,” an inspiring historic poem written by the priest Sophronios of Ryazem (1381) is devoted to this event. Demetrios of the Don had a great reverence for the holy Great Martyr Demetrios. In 1380, on the eve of the Battle of Kulikovo, he solemnly transferred from Vladimir to Moscow the most holy object in the Vladimir Dimitriev cathedral: the icon of the Great Martyr Dēmḗtrios of Thessaloniki, painted on a board from the grave of the saint. A chapel dedicated to the Great Martyr Dēmḗtrios was built at Moscow’s Dormition Cathedral. Saint Demetrios Memorial Saturday was established for church-wide remembrance of the soldiers who fell in the Battle of Kulikovo. This memorial service was held for the first time at the Trinity-Saint Sergius monastery on October 20, 1380 by Saint Sergius of Radonezh, in the presence of Great Prince Demetrios of the Don. It is an annual remembrance of the heroes of the Battle of Kulikovo, among whom are the Schema-monks Alexander (Peresvet) and Andrew (Oslyab). Dēmḗtrios is regarded as a protector of the young, and is also invoked by those struggling with lustful temptations. Martyr Nestor of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 27;

Rome, 301-307, Lupus, slave of Demetrius of T, soaked with D's blood, took ring, worked miracles, destroyed idols
Martyr Lupus, slave of Saint Demetrius of Thessalonica, Commemorated on August 23; Martyr Lupus lived at the end of the third century and beginning of the fourth century, and was a faithful servant of the holy Great Martyr Demetrius of Thessalonica (October 26). Being present at the death of his master, he soaked his own clothing with his blood and took a ring from his hand. With this clothing, and with the ring and the name of the Great Martyr Demetrius, Saint Lupus worked many miracles at Thessalonica. He destroyed pagan idols, for which he was subjected to persecution by the pagans, but he was preserved unharmed by the power of God. Lupus voluntarily delivered himself into the hands of the torturers, and by order of the emperor Maximian Galerius, he was beheaded by the sword. Holy, Glorious Demetrius the Myrrh-gusher of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 26; Great Martyr Demetrios the Myrrh-gusher of Thessaloniki was the son of a Roman proconsul in Thessaloniki. Three centuries had elapsed and Roman paganism, spiritually shattered and defeated by the multitude of martyrs and confessors of the Savior, intensified its persecutions. parents of Saint Demetrios were secret Christians, and he was baptized and raised in the Christian Faith in a secret church in his father’s home. the time Demetrios had reached maturity and his father had died, Emperor Galerius Maximian had ascended the throne (305). Maximian, confident in Demetrios's education as well as his administrative and military abilities, appointed him to his father’s position as proconsul of the Thessaloniki district. The young commander's principal duties were to defend the city from barbarians and to eradicate Christianity. The Emperor's policy regarding Christians was expressed simply: “Put to death anyone who calls on the name of Christ.” The Emperor did not suspect that by appointing Demetrios he had provided him with the opportunity to bring many people to Christ. the appointment, Demetrios returned to Thessaloniki and confessed and glorified our Lord Jesus Christ. Instead of persecuting and executing Christians, he began to teach the Christian Faith openly to the inhabitants of the city and to overthrow pagan customs and the worship of idols. The compiler of his Life, Saint Simeon Metaphrastes (November 9), says that because of his teaching zeal he became “a second Apostle Paul” for Thessaloniki, particularly since “the Apostle to the Gentiles” founded the first community of believers in the city (1 Thess. and 2 Thess.). Lord also destined Saint Demetrios to follow Saint Paul on the path to martyrdom. When Maximian learned that the newly-appointed proconsul was a Christian, and that he had converted many Roman subjects to Christianity, the Emperor's rage knew no bounds. Returning from a campaign in the area of the Black Sea, the Emperor decided to lead his army through Thessaloniki, determined to massacre the Christians. of this, Saint Demetrios ordered his faithful servant Lupus to give his wealth to the poor saying, “Distribute my earthly riches among them, for we shall seek heavenly riches for ourselves.” He began to pray and fast, preparing himself for martyrdom. the Emperor came into the city, he summoned Demetrios, who boldly confessed himself a Christian and denounced the falsehood and futility of Roman polytheism. Maximian ordered Demetrios to be thrown into prison. An Angel appeared to him, comforting and encouraging him. the Emperor amused himself by staging games in the circus. His champion was a German by the name of Lyaeos. He challenged Christians to wrestle with him on a platform built over the upturned spears of the victorious soldiers. A brave Christian named Nestor went to the prison to Saint Dēmḗtrios, his instructor in the Faith, asking for his blessing to fight the barbarian. With the blessing and prayers of Saint Demetrios, Nestor defeated the fierce German and hurled him from the platform onto the spears of the soldiers, just as the murderous pagan would have done with the Christian. The enraged commander ordered the execution of the holy Martyr Nestor (October 27) and sent a guard to the prison to kill Saint Demetrios. At dawn on October 26, 306 soldiers appeared in the Saint's underground prison and ran him through with lances. His faithful servant, Saint Lupus, gathered up the blood-soaked garment of Saint Dēmḗtrios he took the imperial ring from his finger, a symbol of his high status, and dipped it in the blood. With the ring and other holy things sanctified the blood of Saint Demetrios, Saint Lupus began to heal the infirm. The Emperor ordered his soldiers to arrest and kill him. body of the holy Great Martyr Demetrios was cast out for wild animals to devour, but the Christians took it and secretly buried it in the earth. the reign of Saint Constantine (306-337), a church was built over the grave of Saint Demetrios. A hundred years later, during the construction of a majestic new church on the old spot, the incorrupt relics of the holy martyr were uncovered. Since the seventh century a miraculous flow of fragrant myrrh has been found beneath the crypt of the Great Martyr Demetrios, so he is called “the Myrrh-gusher.” times, those venerating the holy wonderworker tried to bring his holy relics, or a part of them, to Constantinople. Invariably, Saint Demetrios made it clear that he would not permit anyone to remove even a portion of his relics. is interesting that among the barbarians threatening the Romans, Slavs occupied an important place, in particular those settling upon the Thessalonian peninsula. Some even believe that the parents of Saint Dēmḗtrios were of Slavic descent. While advancing towards the city, pagan Slavs were repeatedly turned away by the apparition of a threatening radiant youth, going around on the walls and inspiring terror in the enemy soldiers. Perhaps this is why the name of Saint Demetrios was particularly venerated among the Slavic nations after they were enlightened by the Gospel. On the other hand, Greeks dismiss the idea that Saint Demetrios was a Slavic saint. very first pages of the Russian Primary Chronicle, as foreordained by God, is bound up with the name of the holy Great Martyr Demetrios of Thessaloniki. The Chronicle relates that when Oleg the Wise threatened the Greeks at Constantinople (907), the Greeks became terrified and said, “This is not Oleg, but rather Saint Demetrios sent upon us from God.” Russian soldiers always believed that they were under the special protection of the holy Great Martyr Dēmḗtrios. Moreover, in the old Russian barracks the Great Martyr Demetrios was always depicted as Russian. Thus this image entered the soul of the Russian nation. veneration of the holy Great Martyr Demetrios in Russia began shortly after the Baptism of Rus. Toward the beginning of the 1070s the Dimitriev monastery at Kiev, known afterwards as the Mikhailov-Zlatoverkh monastery, was founded, The monastery was built by the son of Yaroslav the Wise, Great Prince Izyaslav, Demetrios in Baptism (+ 1078). The mosaic icon of Saint Dēmḗtrios of Thessaloniki from the cathedral of the Dimitriev monastery has been preserved up to the present day, and is in the Tretiakov Gallery. the years 1194-1197 the Great Prince of Vladimir, Vsevolod III the Great-Nest (Demetrios in Baptism) “built at his court a beautiful church of the holy martyr Dēmḗtrios, and adorned it wondrously with icons and frescoes.” The Dimitriev cathedral also reveals the embellishment of ancient Vladimir. The wonderworking icon of Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki from the cathedral iconostasis is located even now in Moscow, at the Tretiakov gallery. It was painted on a piece of wood from the grave of the holy Great Martyr Dēmḗtrios, brought from Thessaloniki to Vladimir in 1197. of the most precious depictions of the saint, a fresco on a column of the Vladimir Dormition cathedral, was painted by the holy Iconographer Andrew Rublev (July 4). family of Saint Alexander Nevsky (November 23 also venerated Saint Demetrios. Saint Alexander named his eldest son in honor of the holy Great Martyr. His younger son, Prince Daniel of Moscow (March 4), built a church dedicated to the holy Great Martyr Demetrios in the 1280s. This was the first stone church in the Moscow Kremlin. Later in 1326, under Ivan Kalita, it was taken down and the Dormition cathedral was built in its place. memory of Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki is historically associated in Rus with the military, patriotism and the defense of the country. This is apparent by the saint’s depiction on icons as a soldier in plumed armor, with a spear and sword in hand. There is a scroll (in later depictions) on which is written the prayer of Saint Dēmḗtrios for the salvation of the people of Thessaloniki, “Lord, do not permit the city or the people to perish. If You save the city and the people, I shall be saved with them. If they perish, I will perish with them.” the particular spiritual experience of the Russian Church, veneration of the holy Great Martyr Demetrios of Thessaloniki is closely linked with the memory of the defense of the nation and Church by the Great Prince of Moscow, Demetrios of the Don (May 19). “An Account of the Life and Repose of the Great Prince Dēmḗtrios of the Don, Tsar of Russia,” written in the year 1393, already regards the Great Prince as a Saint, as other old Russian histories do. Great Prince Demetrios was a spiritual son and disciple of Saint Alexis, Metropolitan of Moscow (February 12), and a disciple and associate of other great figures of prayer in the Russian Land: Saint Sergius of Radonezh (September 25), Demetrios of Priluki (February 11), Saint Theodore of Rostov (November 28). The Account states: [Great Prince Demetrios] worried a great deal about the churches of God, and he held the territory of the Russian land by his bravery: he conquered many enemies who had risen against us, and he protected his glorious city Moscow with wondrous walls. ...The land of Russia prospered during the years of his reign. the time of the building of the white-walled Kremlin (1366) by Great Prince Demetrios, Moscow was called “White-Stoned.” the prayers of his Heavenly patron, the holy warrior Dēmḗtrios of Thessaloniki, Great Prince Demetrios, in addition to his brilliant military victories, also gained the further prominence of Russia. He repelled the onslaught of the Lithuanian armies of Olgerd, he routed the Tatar army of Begich at the River Vozha (1378), and he smashed the military might of all the Golden Horde at the Battle of Kulikovo Field on September 8, 1380 (the Feast of the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos), set between the Rivers Don and Nepryadva. The Battle of Kulikovo, for which the nation calls him Dēmḗtrios of the Don, became the first Russian national exploit, rallying the spiritual power of the Russian nation around Moscow. The “Zadonschina,” an inspiring historic poem written by the priest Sophronios of Ryazem (1381) is devoted to this event. Demetrios of the Don had a great reverence for the holy Great Martyr Demetrios. In 1380, on the eve of the Battle of Kulikovo, he solemnly transferred from Vladimir to Moscow the most holy object in the Vladimir Dimitriev cathedral: the icon of the Great Martyr Dēmḗtrios of Thessaloniki, painted on a board from the grave of the saint. A chapel dedicated to the Great Martyr Dēmḗtrios was built at Moscow’s Dormition Cathedral. Saint Demetrios Memorial Saturday was established for church-wide remembrance of the soldiers who fell in the Battle of Kulikovo. This memorial service was held for the first time at the Trinity-Saint Sergius monastery on October 20, 1380 by Saint Sergius of Radonezh, in the presence of Great Prince Demetrios of the Don. It is an annual remembrance of the heroes of the Battle of Kulikovo, among whom are the Schema-monks Alexander (Peresvet) and Andrew (Oslyab). Dēmḗtrios is regarded as a protector of the young, and is also invoked by those struggling with lustful temptations. Martyr Nestor of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 27;

Rome, 301-306, Nestor, Macedonian of Thessaloniki, Demetrios' protege, defeated giant Lyaios
Macedonian Saint, 306, Nestor of Thessaloniki; Holy, Glorious Demetrius the Myrrh-gusher of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 26; Martyr Nestor of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 27; holy Martyr Nestor was very young in age, handsome in appearance, and he was known to the holy Great Martyr Demetrios (October 26), for he had instructed Nestor in the faith. Emperor was visiting Thessaloniki, and he built a high platform in the midst of the city so that a gigantic barbarian named Lyaios could wrestle there and be seen by everyone. Beneath the platform many spears and other sharp weapons were placed pointing upward. When Lyaios defeated his opponents, he threw them down onto the spears and they died. Many Christians were forced to fight Lyaios, and were killed. When Nestor saw how Emperor Maximian rejoiced over the victories of his champion, he disdained his pride. Seeing the miracles of Saint Demetrios, however, he took courage and went to the prison where the holy Martyr was confined, and fell at his feet. “Pray for me, O Servant of God Demetrios,” he said, “that by your prayers, God may help me to beat Lyaios, and put an end to him who brings reproach upon the Christians.” Saint, after sealing Nestor with the Sign of the Cross, told him that he would prevail over Lyaios, and then suffer for Christ. Nestor mounted the platform without fear and exclaimed: “Help me, O God of Demetrios.” After he defeated Lyaios, he hurled him down onto the spears, where he gave up his wretched soul. became enraged and ordered that both Nestor and Demetrios should be put to death. Saint Demetrios was stabbed with spears, and Saint Nestor was beheaded. Thus, by his example Saint Nestor teaches us that in every human challenge we must say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do to me.” (Psalm 117/118:6, Hebrews 13:6).

Rome, 301-350, Arbel, Galilee, Pagan Priest and Arbel Church Deacon, martyred together for confession
Galilee, 301-350, Arbel (Arbela), Galilee, Pagan Priest and Arbel Church Deacon, martyred together for confession; Arbel; Roman and Byzantine "Arbel" or "Arbela"[edit] In 161 BCE "Arbela" in the Arbel Valley was the site of a battle between the supporters of the Maccabees and Seleucid general Bacchides, who defeated and killed his opponents (1 Macc. 9:2).[3][4][5] the second half of the second century BCE, the village of Arbel was the home of the sage Nittai of Arbela.[citation needed] 38 BCE, Jewish partisans of Antigonus who were opposing Herod in his conquest of the land with the help of Roman, sought refuge from his troops in the caves dotting the steep northern cliffs of Mount Arbel, but couldn't escape death.[6][4][5] Their story is told by Josephus, who himself fortified the cave-village as a storage base at the beginning of the First Jewish–Roman War against Rome in 66 CE.[4][5] ancient town of Arbel is thought by some to have been located at the site of Khirbet Wadi Hamam ("Ruins [in the] Valley of the Doves"; Hurvat Vradim being the modern Hebrew name), on the other side of Arbel Valley, on the eastern slopes of Mount Nitay and close to the stream bed; if that was the case, the village only moved to the site of Khirbet Irbid, close to where the modern moshav stands now, during the Middle Ages.[5] The Jewish scholar Ishtori Haparchi, writing in 1322, thought to identify ancient Arbel with the Arab village itself, in its location on Mount Arbel, 4.5 kilometres (2.8 mi) northwest of Tiberias.[7] from the late Roman and Byzantine periods have been found.[8][dubious – discuss] Martyr Akepsimas of Egypt, Commemorated on December 11 ; Holy Martyrs Akepsimas and Aithalas were from Persia. Akepsimas was a pagan priest in the city of Arbel. Having received healing through the prayers of a Christian bishop, he was converted to the faith in Christ and boldly confessed it. For this they threw Saint Akepsimas into prison. after, Saint Aithalas, a deacon of the Arbel Church, was imprisoned with him. They brought the martyrs before the ruler, where they again confessed their faith and were beheaded.

Rome, 301-370, Hieromartyr Basil of Cherson, Crimea, Bosporan Kingdom in Thaurica (Crimea), 438 BC - 370 AD, North Black Sea Region from Danube to Dniper rivers
Rome, 301-370, Hieromartyr Basil of Cherson, Crimea, Bosporan Kingdom in Thaurica (Crimea), 438 BC - 370 AD, North Black Sea Region from Danube to Dniper rivers, ruled by Roman Empire, The beginning of the enlightenment of Tauridia is attributed to the holy Apostle Andrew the First-Called; Cherson, Crimea; Hieromartyr Basil of Cherson, Commemorated on March 7; Hieromartyrs Basil, Ephraim, Eugene, Elpidius, Agathodorus, Aetherius, and Capiton carried the Gospel of Christ into the North Black Sea region from the Danube to the Dniper, including the Crimea. were bishops of Cherson at different times during the fourth century, and they sealed their apostolic activity with martyrdom. Only Aetherius died in peace. before the Baptism of Rus under Saint Vladimir, the Christian Faith had already spread into the Crimea, which in antiquity was called Tauridia and was ruled by the Roman Emperor. The beginning of the enlightenment of Tauridia is attributed to the holy Apostle Andrew the First-Called (November 30). Church’s enemies unwillingly contributed to the further spread of Christianity. The Roman emperors often banished traitors to this area. During the first three centuries, Christians were regarded as traitors because they would not follow the state religion. In the reign of Trajan (98-117), Saint Clement, Bishop of Rome (November 25), was sent to work in a stone quarry near Cherson. There he continued his preaching, and suffered martyrdom. pagans inhabiting the Crimea stubbornly resisted the spread of Christianity. But the faith of Christ, through its self-sacrificing preachers, grew strong and was affirmed. Many missionaries gave their lives in this struggle. the beginning of the fourth century a bishop’s See was established at Cherson. This was a critical period when Cherson served as a base for the Roman armies which constantly passed through the area. During the reign of Diocletian (284-305), the Patriarch of Jerusalem sent many bishops to preach the Gospel in various lands. Two of them, Ephraim and Basil, arrived in Cherson and planted the Word of God there. on, Saint Ephraim went to the peoples living along the Danube, where he underwent many tribulations and sorrows. He was beheaded at the start of the persecution. The preaching at Cherson was continued by Saint Basil, Saint Ephraim’s companion. He set many idol-worshippers on the path of truth. Other wayward inhabitants of the city, enraged at his activity, rose up against him. The saint was arrested, mercilessly beaten and expelled from the city. went to a mountain and settled in a cave, where he unceasingly prayed to God for those who had driven him out, asking that He might illumine them with the light of true knowledge. And the Lord provided the unbelievers with a miracle. The only son of an important citizen of Cherson died. The dead child appeared to his parents in a dream and said that a certain man named Basil could resurrect him from the dead by his prayers. the parents had found the saint and entreated him to work the miracle, Saint Basil replied that he himself was a sinful man and had not the power to raise the dead, but the Lord Almighty could fulfill their request if they were to believe in Him. For a long time the saint prayed, invoking the Name of the Holy Trinity. Then he blessed water, and sprinkled it on the dead one, who was restored to life. The saint returned to the city with honor, and many believed and were baptized. by order of the emperor Maximian Galerius (305-311), the persecution against Christians spread with renewed force. The Christ-haters rose up also against Saint Basil. On March 7, 309 he was dragged from his house during the night. They tied him up, dragged him along the streets and beat him to death with stones and rods. The body of the saint was thrown out of the city to be eaten by dogs and birds, and for many days it was left unburied, but remained untouched. Then Christians secretly buried the body of the holy martyr in a cave. year after the martyrdom of Saint Basil, three of his companions, Bishops Eugene, Elpidius and Agathodorus, ceased their preaching in the Hellespont, and arrived at Cherson to continue his holy work. They endured many hardships for the salvation of human souls. All three bishops shared the fate of their predecessor: they were stoned to death by the pagans on March 7, 311. Constantine the Great (May 21) took the throne, Bishop Aetherius was sent by emperor Constantine to Cherson from Jerusalem. At first he also encountered hostility on the part of the pagans, but the holy emperor would not tolerate acts of violence against the preacher. He issued a decree permitting the Christians of Cherson to have church services without hindrance. Through the efforts of Saint Aetherius a church was built in the city, where the saint peacefully governed his flock. Aetherius journeyed to Constantinople to thank the emperor for protecting the Christians. He fell ill and died on the return trip. holy emperor Constantine then sent Bishop Capiton to Cherson to replace Saint Aetherius. The Christians met him with joy, but the pagans demanded a sign from the new bishop, so they might believe in the God Whom he preached. Placing all his hope on the Lord, Saint Capiton put on his omophorion and went into a burning furnace. He prayed in the fire for about an hour, and emerged from it unharmed. “Shall anyone bind fire in his bosom, and not burn his garments?” Solomon asks (Prov. 6:27). Saint Capiton carried red-hot coals in his phelonion, yet neither his body nor his garments were scorched. Many of the unbelievers were then persuaded in the power of the Christian God. miracle and the great faith of Saint Capiton were reported to Saint Constantine and the holy Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council (325), and they all glorified God. several years Saint Capiton journeyed to Constantinople on business, but the ship encountered a storm at the mouth of the Dniepr River. The local people (pagans) seized the ship and drowned all those on board, including Saint Capiton. Although this occurred on December 21, Saint Capiton is commemorated with the other hieromartyrs of Cherson on March 7.

Rome, 302, Nicomedia, Bithynia, Cyril had converted many, Anthimus baptized 20,000 who died in church fire, and more
Bithynia, 302, Nicomedia, Bithynia, Cyril had converted many incl court, incl pagan priestess Domna w eunuch indes, Domna saved to take care of the bodies w incense and oils, Anthimus baptized 20,000 who died in church fire, more christians in town, Theophila virginity preserved in whore house, blood sprinkled on square, christians leave, enraged emperor stopped by thunderstorm, Glycerius did not fold, regimental commander Zeno and Indes did not fold, Euthymius executed w Domna; Nicomedia; 20,000 Martyrs of Nicomedia, Commemorated December 28 ; Holy 20,000 Martyrs of Nicomedia: At the beginning of the fourth century the emperor Maximian (284-305) gave orders to destroy Christian churches, to burn service books, and to deprive all Christians of rights and privileges of citizenship. this time the bishop of the city of Nicomedia was Saint Cyril, who by his preaching and life contributed to the spread of Christianity, so that many members of the emperor’s court were also secret Christians. pagan priestess Domna was living in the palace at that time. Providentially, she obtained a copy of the Acts of the Apostles and the Epistles of Saint Paul. Her heart burned with the desire to learn more about the Christian teaching. the help of a young Christian girl, Domna went secretly to Bishop Anthimus (Cyril’s successor) with her faithful servant, the eunuch Indes. Saint Anthimus catechized them, and both received holy Baptism. began to help the poor: she gave away her valuables with the assistance of Indes, and she also distributed food from the imperial kitchen. chief eunuch, who was in charge of provisions for the imperial household, found out that Domna and Indes were not eating the food sent them from the emperor’s table. He had them beaten in order to find out why they did not partake of the food, but they remained silent. eunuch informed him that the saints were distributing all the emperor’s gifts to the poor. He locked them up in prison to exhaust them with hunger, but they received support from an angel and did not suffer. Domna feigned insanity so she wouldn’t have to live among the pagans. Then she and Indes managed to leave the court, and she went to a women’s monastery. Abbess Agatha quickly dressed her in men’s clothing, cut her hair and sent her off from the monastery. this time the emperor returned from battle and ordered that a search be made for the former pagan priestess Domna. soldiers sent for this purpose found the monastery and destroyed it. sisters were thrown into prison, subjected to torture and abuse, but not one of them suffered defilement. to a house of iniquity, Saint Theophila was able to preserve her virginity with the help of an angel of the Lord. The angel led her from the brothel and brought her to the cathedral. this time the emperor cleared the city square to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. When they began sprinkling the crowd with the blood of the sacrificial animals, Christians started to leave the square. this, the emperor became enraged, but in the middle of his rantings a great thunderstorm sprang up. People fled in panic, and the emperor had to retreat to the palace for his own safety. Maximian went to the church with soldiers and told them they could escape punishment if they renounced Christ. Otherwise, he promised to burn the church and those in it. Christian presbyter Glycerius told him that Christians would never renounce their faith, even under the threat of torture. his anger, the emperor exited the church, and a short time later commanded the presbyter Glycerius be arrested for trial. The executioners tortured the martyr, who did not cease to pray and to call on the Name of the Lord. Unable to force Saint Glycerius stop confessing Christ, Maximian ordered him to be burned to death. the Feast of the Nativity of Christ in the year 302, when about 20,000 Christians had assembled at the cathedral in Nicomedia, the emperor sent a herald into the church. He told the Christians that soldiers were surrounding the building, and that anyone who wished to leave had to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. Anyone who defied the emperor would perish when the soldiers set fire to the church. All those present refused to worship the idols. the pagans prepared to set fire to the church, Bishop Anthimus, baptized all the catechumens and communed everyone with the Holy Mysteries. All 20,000 of those praying died in the fire. Among them were the abbess Agatha and Saint Theophila who had been saved from the den of iniquity by a miracle. Bishop Anthimus, however, managed to escape the fire. thought that he had exterminated all the Christians of Nicomedia. He soon learned that there were many more, and that they would confess their faith and were prepared to die for Christ. emperor wondered how to deal with them. At his command they arrested the regimental commander Zeno, who was openly criticizing the emperor for his impiety and cruelty. Zeno was fiercely beaten and finally beheaded. They jailed the eunuch Indes, formerly a priest of the idols, for refusing to participate in a pagan festival. persecution against Christians continued. Dorotheus, Mardonius, Migdonius the deacon and others were thrown into prison. Anthimus encouraged them by sending letters to them. One of the messengers, the Deacon Theophilus, was captured. They subjected him to torture, trying to learn where the bishop was hiding. The holy martyr endured everything, while revealing nothing. Then they executed him and also those whom the bishop had addressed in his letter. Though they were executed in different ways, they all showed the same courage and received their crowns from God. weeks, Saint Domna concealed herself within a cave and sustained herself by eating plants. When she returned to the city, she wept for a long time at the ruins of the church, regretting that she was not found worthy to die with the others. night she went to the sea shore. At that moment fishermen pulled the bodies of the martyrs Indes, Gorgonius and Peter from the water in their nets. Domna was still dressed in men’s clothing, and she helped the fishermen to draw in their nets. They left her the bodies of the martyrs. With reverence she looked after the holy relics and wept over them, especially over the body of her spiritual friend, the Martyr Indes. giving them an honorable burial, she did not depart from these graves so dear to her heart. Each day she burned incense before them, sprinkling them with fragrant oils. When the emperor was told of an unknown youth who offered incense at the graves of executed Christians, he gave orders to behead the youth. The Martyr Euthymius was also executed along with Domna.

Rome, 302, Church Fire in Nicomedia, 20K died, Survivors, Hieromartyr Hermolaus and Martyrs Hermippus and Hermocrates
Bithynia, 303, Church Fire in Nicomedia, Survivors, Hieromartyr Hermolaus and Martyrs Hermippus and Hermocrates; Nicomedia; Hieromartyr Hermolaus and Martyrs Hermippus and Hermocrates at Nicomedia, Commemorated on July 26; Hermolaus, Hermippus and Hermocrates of Nicomedia, were among the small number of those remaining alive after 20,000 Christians were burned alive in a church at Nicomedia in the year 303 (December 28), on the orders of the emperor Maximian (284-305). They lived in remote places and did not cease to preach Christianity to the pagans. young pagan named Pantoleon (Holy Great Martyr Panteleimon, July 27) often passed by the house in which Saint Hermolaus had concealed himself. Once Saint Hermolaus chanced to meet the youth and asked him to stop by his house. In their conversation Saint Hermolaus began to explain to his guest the falseness, impiety and vanity of worshipping the pagan gods. From that day on, Pantoleon began to visit Saint Hermolaus daily and received holy Baptism from him. the trial of the holy Great Martyr Panteleimon was being held, Saints Hermolaus, Hermippus and Hermocrates, were also arrested. The Lord Jesus Christ appeared to Saint Hermolaus one evening and revealed to him that on the following day he would suffer for Him and receive a martyr’s crown. Hermippus and Hermocrates were arrested and brought to trial after Saint Hermolaus. All three were given the chance to deny Christ and offer sacrifice to idols. But they resolutely refused, confessed their faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and were prepared gladly to die for Him. pagans began to threaten the holy priests with torture and death. Suddenly, a strong earthquake occurred, and the idols and pagan temple collapsed and shattered. This was reported to the emperor. The enraged Maximian gave the holy martyrs over to torture and pronounced upon them a sentence of death. Bravely enduring all the torments, the holy Hieromartyrs Hermolaus, Hermippus and Hermocrates were beheaded in about the year 305. Holy Woman Olympias (Olympiada) the Deaconess of Constantinople, Commemorated on July 25; the banishment of Saint John Chrysostom, someone set fire to a large church, and after this a large part of the city burned down. the supporters of Saint John Chrysostom came under suspicion of arson, and they were summoned for interrogation. They summoned Saint Olympias to trial, rigorously interrogating her. They fined her a large sum of money for the crime of arson, despite her innocence and a lack of evidence against her. After this the saint left Constantinople and set out to Kyzikos (on the Sea of Marmara). But her enemies did not cease their persecution. In the year 405 they sentenced her to prison at Nicomedia, where the saint underwent much grief and deprivation. Saint John Chrysostom wrote to her from his exile, consoling her in her sorrow. In the year 409 Saint Olympias entered into eternal rest. 20,000 Martyrs of Nicomedia, Commemorated on December 28 ; Holy 20,000 Martyrs of Nicomedia: At the beginning of the fourth century the emperor Maximian (284-305) gave orders to destroy Christian churches, to burn service books, and to deprive all Christians of rights and privileges of citizenship. At this time the bishop of the city of Nicomedia was Saint Cyril, who by his preaching and life contributed to the spread of Christianity, so that many members of the emperor’s court were also secret Christians. pagan priestess Domna was living in the palace at that time. Providentially, she obtained a copy of the Acts of the Apostles and the Epistles of Saint Paul. Her heart burned with the desire to learn more about the Christian teaching. With the help of a young Christian girl, Domna went secretly to Bishop Anthimus (Cyril’s successor) with her faithful servant, the eunuch Indes. Saint Anthimus catechized them, and both received holy Baptism. began to help the poor: she gave away her valuables with the assistance of Indes, and she also distributed food from the imperial kitchen. The chief eunuch, who was in charge of provisions for the imperial household, found out that Domna and Indes were not eating the food sent them from the emperor’s table. He had them beaten in order to find out why they did not partake of the food, but they remained silent. Another eunuch informed him that the saints were distributing all the emperor’s gifts to the poor. He locked them up in prison to exhaust them with hunger, but they received support from an angel and did not suffer. Saint Domna feigned insanity so she wouldn’t have to live among the pagans. Then she and Indes managed to leave the court, and she went to a women’s monastery. Abbess Agatha quickly dressed her in men’s clothing, cut her hair and sent her off from the monastery. this time the emperor returned from battle and ordered that a search be made for the former pagan priestess Domna. The soldiers sent for this purpose found the monastery and destroyed it. The sisters were thrown into prison, subjected to torture and abuse, but not one of them suffered defilement. Sent to a house of iniquity, Saint Theophila was able to preserve her virginity with the help of an angel of the Lord. The angel led her from the brothel and brought her to the cathedral. this time the emperor cleared the city square to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. When they began sprinkling the crowd with the blood of the sacrificial animals, Christians started to leave the square. Seeing this, the emperor became enraged, but in the middle of his rantings a great thunderstorm sprang up. People fled in panic, and the emperor had to retreat to the palace for his own safety. Maximian went to the church with soldiers and told them they could escape punishment if they renounced Christ. Otherwise, he promised to burn the church and those in it. The Christian presbyter Glycerius told him that Christians would never renounce their faith, even under the threat of torture. Hiding his anger, the emperor exited the church, and a short time later commanded the presbyter Glycerius be arrested for trial. The executioners tortured the martyr, who did not cease to pray and to call on the Name of the Lord. Unable to force Saint Glycerius stop confessing Christ, Maximian ordered him to be burned to death. the Feast of the Nativity of Christ in the year 302, when about 20,000 Christians had assembled at the cathedral in Nicomedia, the emperor sent a herald into the church. He told the Christians that soldiers were surrounding the building, and that anyone who wished to leave had to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. Anyone who defied the emperor would perish when the soldiers set fire to the church. All those present refused to worship the idols. the pagans prepared to set fire to the church, Bishop Anthimus, baptized all the catechumens and communed everyone with the Holy Mysteries. All 20,000 of those praying died in the fire. Among them were the abbess Agatha and Saint Theophila who had been saved from the den of iniquity by a miracle. Bishop Anthimus, however, managed to escape the fire. thought that he had exterminated all the Christians of Nicomedia. He soon learned that there were many more, and that they would confess their faith and were prepared to die for Christ. The emperor wondered how to deal with them. At his command they arrested the regimental commander Zeno, who was openly criticizing the emperor for his impiety and cruelty. Zeno was fiercely beaten and finally beheaded. They jailed the eunuch Indes, formerly a priest of the idols, for refusing to participate in a pagan festival. persecution against Christians continued. Dorotheus, Mardonius, Migdonius the deacon and others were thrown into prison. Bishop Anthimus encouraged them by sending letters to them. One of the messengers, the Deacon Theophilus, was captured. They subjected him to torture, trying to learn where the bishop was hiding. The holy martyr endured everything, while revealing nothing. Then they executed him and also those whom the bishop had addressed in his letter. Though they were executed in different ways, they all showed the same courage and received their crowns from God. weeks, Saint Domna concealed herself within a cave and sustained herself by eating plants. When she returned to the city, she wept for a long time at the ruins of the church, regretting that she was not found worthy to die with the others. That night she went to the sea shore. At that moment fishermen pulled the bodies of the martyrs Indes, Gorgonius and Peter from the water in their nets. Domna was still dressed in men’s clothing, and she helped the fishermen to draw in their nets. They left her the bodies of the martyrs. With reverence she looked after the holy relics and wept over them, especially over the body of her spiritual friend, the Martyr Indes. giving them an honorable burial, she did not depart from these graves so dear to her heart. Each day she burned incense before them, sprinkling them with fragrant oils. When the emperor was told of an unknown youth who offered incense at the graves of executed Christians, he gave orders to behead the youth. The Martyr Euthymius was also executed along with Domna.

Rome, 303, Martyrs Dada, Maximus, and Quinctilian, at Dorostolum, Bulgaria, devil, angel, Lord commanded us to endure
Bulgaria, , Martyrs Dada, Maximus, and Quinctilian, at Dorostolum, Bulgaria (Silistra, Danube River 14.5, Southeast of Bucharest), pagan feast, withdrew, caught at prayer, confessed, salvation of their souls, devil appeared, angel appeared, Lord commanded us to endure, tortured several days, beheaded; Dorostolum (Dorostorum); Martyr Dada at Dorostolum, Commemorated on April 28; Martyrs Dada, Maximus and Quinctilian suffered under the emperor Diocletian (284-305), who issued a decree requiring everyone to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods during the public festivals, and to put Christians to death. and Gabinius, the emperor’s representatives in Dorostolum, made a sumptuous feast, attended not only by the inhabitants of the city, but also people from the surrounding villages. the festivities, someone reported to the emperor that three brothers, Dada, Maximus and Quinctilian, did not obey the imperial decree and withdrew themselves into the Ozovia forest. Soldiers were sent after them, who caught the holy brothers at prayer and led them forth for trial. governors interrogated the brothers, who confessed themselves Christians. Tarquinius offered to make Saint Maximus a pagan priest of Zeus, but the saint called Zeus a foul adulterer and again confessed the True God. attempted to reason with Saints Dada and Quinctilian. They said that their brother was well versed in the Holy Scripture and they would follow him in everything. They threw the martyrs into prison, but they thought only of the salvation of their souls. At midnight when the saints were asleep, the devil appeared to them. When the martyrs woke, they beheld an angel who said, “Fear not, for God your hope brings you to Himself. He is not far from you and will sustain you.” the morning, Tarquinius told the brothers that the gods had revealed their will to him in a dream: they were to be put to death if they did not offer sacrifice. The martyrs answered that the Lord had commanded them to endure torments for His sake. tortures and interrogations continued for several days from morning to evening. Finally, they sentenced the martyrs to death, led them out under guard to their forest and beheaded them with a sword.

Rome, 303, Aule, Martyr,London, England, Aule suffered martyrdom in London during Diocletian’s persecution of Christians
Aule suffered martyrdom in London during Diocletian’s persecution of Christians; London; Martyr Aule, Commemorated February 7; Aule suffered martyrdom in London during Diocletian’s persecution of Christians.

Rome, 303, Bishop Theopemptus and sorcerer Theonas, Nicomedia, red hot furnace, no food or drink 22 days, T poison failed
Bithynia, 303,Theopemptus and Theonas, Nicomedia, Bithynia, red hot furnace, preserved, no food or drink 22 days, sorcerer Theonas baptized after poison, no harm; Nicomedia; Hieromartyr Theopemptus the Bishop of Nicomedia, Commemorated January 5 ; Holy Martyrs Theopemptus and Theonas suffered in Nicomedia in the year 303. Saint Theopemptus was bishop in Nicomedia in the time of Diocletian. Speaking out against idolatry, he defended the faith in Christ. Because of this, he became one of the first victims of the Diocletian persecution. saint refused to obey the emperor’s order to worship an idol of Apollo. Saint Theopemptus was thrown into a red-hot furnace, but by the power of God he remained alive. The emperor came to the furnace by night with a detachment of soldiers, and there he saw the saint alive and praying to God. Ascribing the miracle to magic, Diocletian thought to exhaust Saint Theopemptus by depriving him of food and drink for twenty-two days, but the martyr was preserved by the will of God. emperor brought the famous sorcerer Theonas to overcome Bishop Theopemptus’ supposed magical power. Theonas prepared a poison for Saint Theopemptus, put it into a little cake, and offered it to him to eat. The poison did no harm at all to Saint Theopemptus. Then Theonas tried an even stronger poison on the martyr. Seeing that Saint Theopemptus remained unharmed, he came to believe in Christ. They threw him into prison together with the holy bishop, who taught and baptized him, giving him the name Synesios (which means “full of understanding”). dawn Diocletian summoned Saint Theopemptus, and again tried to turn him to pagan impiety. Seeing that the bishop remained firm in his faith, he subjected him to many grievous tortures, after which the saint was beheaded. The holy martyr Theonas refused to offer sacrifice to idols, so he was buried alive in a deep ditch. This occurred at Nicomedia in the year 303.

Rome, 303, Bassos, Eusebios, Eutychios & Basileides, Nicomedian Senators, witnessed Theopemptos martyrdom, no fear whatsoever
Bithynia, 303, Bassos, Eusebios, Eutychios and Basileides, Senators & Martyrs at Nicomedia, witnessed Theopemptos martyrdom, no fear whatsoever; Martyrs Bassus, Eusebius, Euthychius, and Basileides, at Nicomedia, Commemorated on January 20; Eusebios, Eutychios and Basileides lived during the reign of Emperor Diocletian (284-305), and suffered martyrdom in 303. They were wealthy and members of the Senate. They came to believe in Christ and were baptized after witnessing the martyrdom of Bishop Theopemptos of Nicomedia (January 5), who endured with spiritual bravery the horrible tortures to which the pagans had had subjected him. idolaters denounced these men as Christians and brought them before the emperor because they refused to worship the gods of the pagans. The Saints showed no fear whatsoever, but boldly proclaimed their faith in Christ and their eagerness to follow the path which would lead to martyrdom. the Synaxarion it is stated that the martyrs removed their belts, the symbols of their rank, and then each of them submitted to severe tortures. Bassos was buried in the ground up to his waist, and his upper body was cut to pieces. Saint Eusebios was suspended head downwards, and his limbs were cut off with axes. Saint Eutychios was tied to four poles by his hands and feet, and he was pulled apart. Saint Basileides was stabbed in the stomach with a knife.

Rome, 303, 1003 Martyrs at Nicomedia, Bithynia, servants decided to follow masters example
Nicomedia; 1,003 Martyrs of Nicomedia,Commemorated February 7 ; Martyrs at Nicomedia, were servants of the four dignitaries Bassos, Eusebius, Eutychius and Basilides, who suffered for Christ with their wives (January 5) in the year 303 during the reign of the emperor Diocletian (284-305). the martyric death of their masters, the servants decided to follow their example, and they also confessed themselves Christians before Diocletian. Swayed neither by persuasion nor promises nor rewards, 1003 men, women, and small children were cut down by soldiers who formed a tight circle around them so that none of them remained alive.

Rome, 303-304, Hieromartyr Marcellinus, Pope, afraid of tortures worshiped idols, repented, St Peter commanded he be buried
Rome, 303-304, Hieromartyr Marcellinus, Pope, confessed at Sinuessa (on the Appian Way), afraid of tortures he sacrificed to idols, confessed sackcloth and ashes at the synod, sentenced himself to no burial, St Peter in a vision commanded he be buried as martyr ; Sinuessa (in Campania); was a city on the line of the Via Appia, and was the last place where that great highroad touched on the sea-coast. Hieromartyr Marcellinus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; Marcellinus was Pope of Rome during the height of the persecution against Christians under Diocletian and Maximian (284-305), 17,000 men were martyred a single month. this time Saint Marcellinus was also arrested. Afraid of the fierce tortures, he burned incense and offered sacrifice to idols. The emperor called him his friend and clothed him in splendid robes. he had encouraged others to undergo torture for Christ, he gave in to cowardice. He wept bitterly, filled with remorse. this time, a Synod of 180 bishops and presbyters met at the city of Sinuessa (in Campania). Marcellinus appeared at the assembly in penitential sackcloth, his head sprinkled with ashes. He confessed his sin before the delegates and asked them to judge him. Fathers of the Council said, “Judge yourself! From your lips this sin came forth, from your lips let judgment be pronounced. know that even Saint Peter denied Christ out of fear, but he wept bitterly for his sin, and received forgiveness from the Lord.” Marcellinus pronounced sentence upon himself, “I strip myself of the priestly dignity, of which I am unworthy. After death, do not bury my body, but instead throw it to the dogs. Cursed be the one who dares to bury it.” his return to Rome Marcellinus went to the emperor, threw down the fine clothing given him, and said that he regretted his renunciation of Christ. The enraged emperor had him tortured, and sentenced him to death. Marcellinus prayed to the Lord Jesus Christ, Who mercifully receives sinners who repent, then willingly placed his head beneath the sword. The holy martyrs Claudius, Cyrinus and Antoninus were beheaded with him. body of Saint Marcellinus lay for thirty-six days along the wayside. Appearing in a vision to the new bishop Marcellus, the holy Apostle Peter said, “Why have you not buried the body of Marcellinus?” “I fear his curse,” replied Saint Marcellus. “Perhaps you do not remember,” said the Apostle Peter, “that it is written: ‘He that humbles himself shall be exalted.’ Therefore, go bury his body with reverence.” the command of the Apostle Peter, Saint Marcellus buried the body of Saint Marcellinus in a crypt, built for the burial of the bodies of martyrs by the illustrious Priscilla, along the Via Salaria.

Rome, 303-304, LUCY OF ROME, Syracuse, Sicily, virginity, rejected suitor, denounced, to be defiled, not burned, cut throat
Sicily, 303-304, LUCY OF ROME, Syracuse, Sicily, virginity vow, rejected suitor, who denounced her as a christian, sentenced to be defiled, saved from that, attempted to burn her, not harmed, killed by sword to the throat, light, aflictions of eyes, blinded tradition, eyesight restored ; of Syracuse (283–304), also called Saint Lucia or Saint Lucy, a Christian martyr who died during the Diocletianic Persecution. is venerated as a saint in the Roman Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, and Eastern Orthodox churches. is one of eight women (including Saint Mary) explicitly commemorated by Roman Catholics in the Canon of the Mass. traditional feast day, known in Europe as Saint Lucy's Day, is observed by Western Christians on 13 December. of Syracuse was honored in the Middle Ages and remained a well-known saint in early modern England.[3] Syracuse, Sicily Virginmartyr Lucy of Syracuse, Commemorated on December 13 ; Lucy was born in Syracuse, Sicily during the reign of Diocletian. distributed her wealth to the poor, and made a vow of virginity. Since she refused to marry him, a rejected suitor denounced her to the prefect Paschasius as a Christian, and she was arrested. She was sentenced to be defiled in a brothel, but with God’s help she preserved her purity. the pagans attempted to burn her alive, but she was not harmed by the fire. Finally, she was killed by a sword thrust to the throat. name Lucy (Lucia) is derived for the Latin word for light (lux), and so she is often invoked for afflictions of the eyes. There is a tradition that she was blinded by her torturers, and the church of San Giovanni Maggiore in Naples even claims to possess her eyes. ’s saint should not be confused with Saint Lucy of Campania (July 6). LUCY, VIRGIN AND MARTYR, abt. 304, Commemorated December 13 ; early Roman lists of martyrs commemorate Lucy, virgin and martyr, on 13 December, and her name, with that of Agatha, appears in the Roman Liturgy as an example of those who have gone before us, in whose company we join in giving thanks and praise to God. from this, little is known of her, except that she lived in Syracuse in Sicily, and probably died around 304. name, which means "light," probably accounts for the story that her eyes were put out and her eyesight miraculously restored, may be connected with the fact that her feast occurs near the time when (in the Northern Hemisphere) the nights are longest. Sweden and elsewhere, the day is observed by having one of the daughters of the house dress in a white robe with a crown of lighted candles and go singing from room to room (presumably followed by an adult with a fire extinguisher) early in the morning when it is still dark to awaken the other family members and to offer them St. Lucy's Cakes and hot coffee. Wednesday (of the winter season) is defined as the Wednesday after Lucy's Day. (An equivalent definition would be: the Wednesday preceding the last Sunday before Christmas.) by James Kiefer

Rome, 303-305, Hieromartyr Irenaeus, Bishop, Sirmium, Serbia (Pannonia Secunda, Srem Plain, Sava River 19), Diocletian persecution, torture, long prison, beheaded
Serbia, 303-305, Hieromartyr Irenaeus, Bishop, Sirmium, Serbia (Pannonia Secunda, Srem Plain, Sava River 19), Diocletian persecution, torture, long prison, beheaded; Sirmium; Hieromartyr Irenaeus the Bishop of Sirmium in Hungary, Commemorated on March 26; Irenaeus suffered during the persecution against Christians under the Roman emperors Diocletian and Maximian (284-305). was a presbyter, and he and his wife raised their children in Christian piety. Saint Irenaeus was greatly respected for his education and strict manner of life. was later made Bishop of Sirmium in Pannonia. Because of his fervent preaching of the Gospel he was arrested and brought before an official named Probus. Refusing to deny Christ and offer sacrifice to the pagan gods, the saint was handed over for torture. Witnessing his torments were the saint’s parents, relatives and friends, who attempted to persuade him to submit, but the martyr remained steadfast. cruel tortures, the holy confessor spent a long time in prison. Probus tried to persuade the martyr, urging him to spare his life for the sake of his sons. Saint Irenaeus replied, “My sons believe in God, Who will care for them. As for me, nothing will force me to renounce my Christ.” governor ordered the saint to be thrown into a river. They led the martyr on the bridge crossing the River Savva, where he knelt and prayed to the Lord for his flock. Then they beheaded the Hieromartyr Irenaeus, and threw his body into the river.

Rome, 303-305, Barlaam of Caesarea, Cappadocia and Antioch, Syria, held on to the red hot censer, until hand fell off
Armenia, Cappadocia, 303-305, Barlaam of Caesarea, Cappadocia and Antioch, Syria, held on to the red hot censer, until hand fell off; Caesurea, Cappadocia; Martyr Barlaam of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated November 19 ; Holy Martyr Barlaam lived in Antioch of Syria. During Diocletian’s persecution against Christians, the aged Saint Barlaam was arrested and brought to trial, where he confessed himself a Christian. judge, wanting to compel the saint to renounce Christ, ordered that Saint Barlaam be brought to the pagan altar. His right hand was placed over it, and a red-hot censer burning with incense was put into his hand. The torturer thought that a physically weak old man could not endure the pain and would drop it on the altar. In this way he would involuntarily be offering sacrifice to the idol. However, the saint held on to the censer until his hand fell off. After this, the holy Martyr Barlaam surrendered his soul to the Lord.

Rome, 303-305, Zosimus, Wilderness, Cilicia, tortured, unharmed, prison warden believed, they back to wilderness
Cilicia, 303-305, Zosimus, Wilderness, Cilicia Region of Asia Minor, tortured, preserved unharmed, prison warden Athanasius believed, they retired back to wilderness; Cilicia Region of Asia Minor ; Cilicia (Roman province); Cilicia; Confessors Zosimus the Hermit and Athanasius the Commentarisius (Superintendent of Prisoners), Anchorites, of Cilicia, Commemorated on January 4; Monk Confessor Zosimus came from Cilicia and was an inhabitant of the wilderness. During a time of persecution against Christians under the emperor Diocletian (284-305) Saint Zosimus was seized and subjected to fierce torture for the Faith, but by the power of God he was preserved unharmed. beheld such a miracle of God, the prison warden named Athanasius believed in Christ and was baptized. Saints Zosimus and Athanasius were released and went into the wilderness where they lived in the crevice of a mountain until their death.

Rome, 303-313, Anastasia, visited prisons, fed, clothed, ransomed, A beaten by h, be patient, accept lords will, much more
Rome, 303-313, Anastasia the œDeliverer from Potions, Rome, teacher Chrysogonus, given in marriage to a pagan, feigned illness, visited prisons clothed as a beggar, fed, clothed, ransomed, betrayed by servant to husband, beaten, C said be patient, cleave cross, accept lords will, also prophet h sea death, then she distributed, Diocletian, c prisoners endured torturers stoicly, kill them all order, she followed C to Aquileia, C beheaded, into sea, waves carried head and b back, presby Zolius concealed, C appeared to Z, informed about m for Agape, Chone and Irene, C sent Anastasia to encourage them, also that Z would d same day, 9 days later fulfilled, she burried them, back to ministeriing to prisoners city to city, she gave medical arts to captives far and wide, Theodora as helper, arrested in Illyricum after fiinding no one in the prisons, wept loudly, Jailers realized, back to Pagan priest in Rome, set before her riched and tools of torture, chose tools, 3 days to reconsider, Anastasia's beauty, blind by touching her, headache, appeal to idols but died, A and T free again to care for prisoners, T and her 3 sons martyred, Evodus endured, all red hot oven. A caught again, starvation ordered, 60 days no food, every night T appeared, Judge ordered drowning w prisoners incl Euthychianus, open sea, holes bored, T appeared and steered to shore, 120 believed and baptized, all captured and martyred, A stretched and burned alive, body not harmed, Apollinaria buried her in her garden, relics transfered in 5th century, then to near Athos; Rome; Greatmartyr Anastasia the œDeliverer from Potions, Commemorated on December 22; Great Martyr Anastasia the Deliverer from Potions, a Roman by birth, suffered for Christ at the time of Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. father was a pagan, but her mother was secretly a Christian. Anastasia’s teacher in her youth was an educated and pious Christian named Chrysogonus. the death of her mother, her father gave Saint Anastasia in marriage to a pagan named Publius, but feigning illness, she preserved her virginity. herself in the garb of a beggar, and accompanied by only one servant, she visited the prisons. She fed, doctored and often ransomed captives who were suffering for their faith in Christ. her servant told Publius about everything, he subjected his wife to a beating and locked her up at home. Anastasia then began to correspond secretly with Chrysogonus, who told the saint to be patient, to cleave to the Cross of Christ, and to accept the Lord’s will. also foretold the impending death of Publius in the sea. a certain while Publius did indeed drown, as he was setting out with a delegation to Persia. the death of her husband, Saint Anastasia began to distribute her property to the poor and suffering. was informed that the Christians who filled the prisons of Rome stoically endured tortures. He gave orders to kill them all in a single night, and for Chrysogonus to be sent to him at Aquileia. Saint Anastasia followed her teacher at a distance. emperor interrogated Chrysogonus personally, but could not make him renounce his faith. Therefore, he commanded that he be beheaded and thrown into the sea. body and severed head of the holy martyr were carried to shore by the waves. by divine Providence, the relics were found by a presbyter named Zoilus who placed them in a coffer, and concealed them at his home. Chrysogonus appeared to Zoilus and informed him that martyrdom was at hand for Agape, Chione and Irene (April 16), three sisters who lived nearby. He told him to send Saint Anastasia to them to encourage them. Chrysogonus foretold that Zoilus would also die on the same day. Nine days later, the words of Saint Chrysogonus were fulfilled. Zoilus fell asleep in the Lord, and Saint Anastasia visited the three maidens before their tortures. When these three martyrs gave up their souls to the Lord, she buried them. carried out her teacher’s request, the saint went from city to city ministering to Christian prisoners. Proficient in the medical arts of the time, she zealously cared for captives far and wide, healing their wounds and relieving their suffering. of her labors, Saint Anastasia received the name Deliverer from Potions (Pharmakolytria), since by her intercessions she has healed many from the effects of potions, poisons, and other harmful substances. made the acquaintance of the pious young widow Theodota, finding in her a faithful helper. Theodota was taken for questioning when it was learned that she was a Christian. Saint Anastasia was arrested in Illyricum. occurred just after all the Christian captives there had been murdered in a single night by order of Diocletian. Anastasia had come to one of the prisons, and finding no one there, she began to weep loudly. The jailers realized that she was a Christian and took her to the prefect of the district, who tried to persuade her to deny Christ by threatening her with torture. After his unsuccessful attempts to persuade Saint Anastasia to offer sacrifice to idols, he handed her over to the pagan priest Ulpian in Rome. cunning pagan offered Saint Anastasia the choice between luxury and riches, or grievous sufferings. He set before her gold, precious stones and fine clothing, and also fearsome instruments of torture. The crafty man was put to shame by the bride of Christ. Saint Anastasia refused the riches and chose the tools of torture. the Lord prolonged the earthly life of the saint, and Ulpian gave her three days to reconsider. by Anastasia’s beauty, the pagan priest decided to defile her purity. However, when he tried to touch her he suddenly became blind. His head began to ache so severely that he screamed like a madman. He asked to be taken to a pagan temple to appeal to the idols for help, but on the way he fell down and died. Anastasia was set free and she and Theodota again devoted themselves to the care of imprisoned Christians. long, Saint Theodota and her three sons accepted a martyrdom. Her eldest son, Evodus, stood bravely before the judge and endured beatings without protest. After lengthy torture, they were all thrown into a red-hot oven. Anastasia was caught again and condemned to death by starvation. remained in prison without food for sixty days. Theodota appeared to the martyr every night and gave her courage. that hunger caused Saint Anastasia no harm whatsoever, the judge sentenced her to drowning together with other prisoners. Among them was Eutychianus, who was condemned for his Christian faith. prisoners were put into a boat which went out into the open sea. The soldiers bored holes in the boat and got into a galley. Saint Theodota appeared to the captives and steered the ship to shore. When they reached dry land, 120 men believed in Christ and were baptized by Saints Anastasia and Eutychianus. were captured and received a martyr’s crown. Saint Anastasia was stretched between four pillars and burned alive. A certain pious woman named Apollinaria buried her body, which was unharmed by the fire, in the garden outside her house. the fifth century the relics of Saint Anastasia were transferred to Constantinople, where a church was built and dedicated to her. Later the head and a hand of the Great Martyr were transferred to the monastery of Saint Anastasia [Deliverer from Potions], near Mount Athos.

Rome, 303-313, Chrysogonus, Anastasia's teach, prophet, beheaded & thrown into sea, Zolius found them, he appeared
Roman Saint, 284-305, Saint Chrysogonus ; Greatmartyr Anastasia the œDeliverer from Potions, Commemorated on December 22; Martyr Chrysogonus the Teacher of the Greatmartyr Anastasia, Commemorated on December 22; Great Martyr Anastasia the Deliverer from Potions, a Roman by birth, suffered for Christ at the time of Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. Her father was a pagan, but her mother was secretly a Christian. Saint Anastasia’s teacher in her youth was an educated and pious Christian named Chrysogonus. After the death of her mother, her father gave Saint Anastasia in marriage to a pagan named Publius, but feigning illness, she preserved her virginity. herself in the garb of a beggar, and accompanied by only one servant, she visited the prisons. She fed, doctored and often ransomed captives who were suffering for their faith in Christ. When her servant told Publius about everything, he subjected his wife to a beating and locked her up at home. Saint Anastasia then began to correspond secretly with Chrysogonus, who told the saint to be patient, to cleave to the Cross of Christ, and to accept the Lord’s will. He also foretold the impending death of Publius in the sea. After a certain while Publius did indeed drown, as he was setting out with a delegation to Persia. After the death of her husband, Saint Anastasia began to distribute her property to the poor and suffering. was informed that the Christians who filled the prisons of Rome stoically endured tortures. He gave orders to kill them all in a single night, and for Chrysogonus to be sent to him at Aquileia. Saint Anastasia followed her teacher at a distance. emperor interrogated Chrysogonus personally, but could not make him renounce his faith. Therefore, he commanded that he be beheaded and thrown into the sea. The body and severed head of the holy martyr were carried to shore by the waves. There by divine Providence, the relics were found by a presbyter named Zoilus who placed them in a coffer, and concealed them at his home. Chrysogonus appeared to Zoilus and informed him that martyrdom was at hand for Agape, Chione and Irene (April 16), three sisters who lived nearby. He told him to send Saint Anastasia to them to encourage them. Saint Chrysogonus foretold that Zoilus would also die on the same day. Nine days later, the words of Saint Chrysogonus were fulfilled. Zoilus fell asleep in the Lord, and Saint Anastasia visited the three maidens before their tortures. When these three martyrs gave up their souls to the Lord, she buried them. carried out her teacher’s request, the saint went from city to city ministering to Christian prisoners. Proficient in the medical arts of the time, she zealously cared for captives far and wide, healing their wounds and relieving their suffering. Because of her labors, Saint Anastasia received the name Deliverer from Potions (Pharmakolytria), since by her intercessions she has healed many from the effects of potions, poisons, and other harmful substances. made the acquaintance of the pious young widow Theodota, finding in her a faithful helper. Theodota was taken for questioning when it was learned that she was a Christian. Meanwhile, Saint Anastasia was arrested in Illyricum. This occurred just after all the Christian captives there had been murdered in a single night by order of Diocletian. Saint Anastasia had come to one of the prisons, and finding no one there, she began to weep loudly. The jailers realized that she was a Christian and took her to the prefect of the district, who tried to persuade her to deny Christ by threatening her with torture. After his unsuccessful attempts to persuade Saint Anastasia to offer sacrifice to idols, he handed her over to the pagan priest Ulpian in Rome. cunning pagan offered Saint Anastasia the choice between luxury and riches, or grievous sufferings. He set before her gold, precious stones and fine clothing, and also fearsome instruments of torture. The crafty man was put to shame by the bride of Christ. Saint Anastasia refused the riches and chose the tools of torture. the Lord prolonged the earthly life of the saint, and Ulpian gave her three days to reconsider. Charmed by Anastasia’s beauty, the pagan priest decided to defile her purity. However, when he tried to touch her he suddenly became blind. His head began to ache so severely that he screamed like a madman. He asked to be taken to a pagan temple to appeal to the idols for help, but on the way he fell down and died. Anastasia was set free and she and Theodota again devoted themselves to the care of imprisoned Christians. Before long, Saint Theodota and her three sons accepted a martyrdom. Her eldest son, Evodus, stood bravely before the judge and endured beatings without protest. After lengthy torture, they were all thrown into a red-hot oven. Anastasia was caught again and condemned to death by starvation. She remained in prison without food for sixty days. Saint Theodota appeared to the martyr every night and gave her courage. Seeing that hunger caused Saint Anastasia no harm whatsoever, the judge sentenced her to drowning together with other prisoners. Among them was Eutychianus, who was condemned for his Christian faith. prisoners were put into a boat which went out into the open sea. The soldiers bored holes in the boat and got into a galley. Saint Theodota appeared to the captives and steered the ship to shore. When they reached dry land, 120 men believed in Christ and were baptized by Saints Anastasia and Eutychianus. All were captured and received a martyr’s crown. Saint Anastasia was stretched between four pillars and burned alive. A certain pious woman named Apollinaria buried her body, which was unharmed by the fire, in the garden outside her house. the fifth century the relics of Saint Anastasia were transferred to Constantinople, where a church was built and dedicated to her. Later the head and a hand of the Great Martyr were transferred to the monastery of Saint Anastasia [Deliverer from Potions], near Mount Athos.

Rome, 303-313, Saint Zoilus, recovered Chrysognus' relics from sea, Martyred in Cordoba Spain by Diocletian
Roman Saint, 284-305, Saint Zoilus; Zoilus (died 304 AD) is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church. Christian tradition states that he was a young man martyred with nineteen others at Córdoba, Spain under Diocletian. name is mentioned by Prudentius and his name appears in the Martyrologium Hieronymianum as well as the Roman Martyrology. relics were enshrined at the abbey named after him: the Benedictine abbey of San Zoilo de Carrión at Carrión de los Condes, in the Province of Palencia. There was also a monastery near Córdoba dedicated to him. Some of the subsequent Martyrs of Córdoba were associated with this monastery. feast was also celebrated at Chester;[3] he was anciently and incorrectly considered to have reigned by the city's inhabitants. Greatmartyr Anastasia the œDeliverer from Potions, Commemorated on December 22; Martyr Chrysogonus the Teacher of the Greatmartyr Anastasia, Commemorated on December 22;

Rome, 303-362, Greatmartyr Artemius at Antioch, ruler of Egypt, advanced C in E, torture, prophecy, Julian recompensed,
Egypt, 303-362, Greatmartyr Artemius at Antioch ; (died 362[1]), known as Challita in the Maronite tradition, was a general of the Roman Empire, dux Aegypti (imperial prefect of Roman Egypt). He is considered a saint by the Catholic and the Orthodox Churches, with the name of Artemius of Antioch. details are known of the life and death of Artemius, and many of those details are contradictory, or at least inconsistent, between Christian and pagan early sources. place or year of birth are not indicated in any historical sources, although at least one tradition quoted in a contemporary source indicates that Artemius was an Egyptian by birth.[2] to the 8th century compilation, Artemii Passio,[3] he was a Senator and “a notable participant in the highest affairs of [Constantine]”.[4] the author of the Passio attributes this information to Eusebius, who does not in fact mention Artemius in any of his writings, and this information cannot be confirmed by any other known historical records. stories that place Artemius with Constantine at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge[5] would make Artemius at least eighty years old when martyred by Julian, which would seem doubtful given his activity at the time.[6][7] assertion that Artemius was a friend and companion of Constantius II seems reliable.[8][9] Given the fact that Artemius held the position of dux Aegypti in the final years of Constantinus’ reign, as is asserted by a number of early sources, both pagan and Christian, it is clear that it is Constantius who must have awarded Artemius this position.[10][11][12][13] 360 CE, he was listed in a minute of the Oxyrhyncian Senate, under the name of Flavius Artemius, as holding the rank of dux Aegypti.[14] Artemii Passio attributes Artemius’ ascension to this high position to his successful completion of Constantius’ orders to recover the relics of the Apostles Andrew, Luke and Timothy.[15] to this narrative, Constantius sent Artemius to Achaea to claim the body of Andrew from Patras and the body of Luke from Boeotia.[16] is also credited there with translating the relics of Timothy from Ionian Ephesus to Constantinople.[17] Apparently in return for these tasks, Constantius awarded Artemius with the administration of Roman Egypt.[18] However, this attribution is not certain, given that other Christian sources that refer to the translation of St. Andrew's remains, including the Chronicon Paschale, written a century earlier, do not refer to Artemius in this regard.[19] serving as the military governor of Egypt, Artemius supported the Arian bishop of Alexandria, George the Cappadocian, and took part in the latter's campaign against both the pagan and Orthodox Christian populations. Documented examples of this support include the sacking of the Temple of Serapis in Alexandria,[20][21] as well as the pursuit of the former, Orthodox, bishop of Alexandria, Athanasius.[22][23] 361 CE, Constantius was succeeded by his cousin Julian, who, on becoming Emperor, broke with his Christian upbringing and took up traditional Roman pagan pantheism. thereafter, Artemius met his death, in circumstances that are not entirely clear. The Artemii Passio places his death at the hands of Julian, in Antioch, because upon being summoned by Julian from Alexandria, he supported Eugenius and Macarius, two Christian priests from Antioch, against the tortures to which they were subjected by Julian. Artemius is further accused by Julian of murdering Julian's half-brother, Gallus.[24] Despite Artemius' denials, Julian proceeds to have Artemius tortured in various fashions while exhorting Artemius to renounce his Christianity. Artemius repeatedly confirms his faith, and ultimately has his head cut off.[25] According to the Chronicon Paschale, Artemius dies in Alexandria.[26] Ammianus describes Artemius’ death as occurring after Artemius is no longer dux Aegypti, when he is executed for the crimes he was accused of committing against the people of Alexandria.[27] Julian himself provides a similar reason.[28] While Ammianus does not provide the location of Artemius’ death, his language indicates that it was not at Alexandria,[29] thus perhaps strengthening the contention that it was indeed at Antioch.[30] is considered a martyr and Saint in both the Catholic and Orthodox churches, despite his apparent adherence to Arianism during his life. His acceptance as a martyr is based on the tradition found in Christian sources that he was tortured and executed by Julian for speaking on behalf of Christianity in the face of the apostate Emperor Julian, and his unwillingness to renounce his Christianity despite Julian's promises to allow him to live and restore him to his offices.[31] canonization as St. Artemios is based on the anonymous late 7th century compilation of 45 miracles with which he is attributed.[32] As described in the 45 miracles attributed to him, St. Artemios specializes in miracles dealing with medicine and healing, and in particular with hernias, and testicular and genital maladies in men. One miracle dealing with the healing of a woman is attributed to St. Artemios through his sending St. Febronia, who occupies a parallel construct for women.[33] feast day was set as 20 October.[34] His cult site was the Church of Saint John the Forerunning (St John the Baptist) in Constantinople.[35] St. Artemius is invoked by those suffering from hernias.[36] Antioch (Orontes River 7); Greatmartyr Artemius at Antioch, Commemorated on October 20 ; Great Martyr Artemius of Antioch was a prominent military leader during the reigns of the emperor Constantine the Great (May 21), and his son and successor Constantius (337-361). received many awards for distinguished service and courage. was appointed viceroy of Egypt. In this official position he did much for the spreading and strengthening Christianity in Egypt. Artemius was sent by the emperor Constantius to bring the relics of the holy Apostle Andrew from Patras, and the relics of the holy Apostle Luke from Thebes of Boeotia, to Constantinople. The holy relics were placed in the Church of the Holy Apostles beneath the table of oblation. The emperor rewarded him by making him ruler of Egypt. emperor Constantius was succeeded on the throne by Julian the Apostate (361-363). Julian in his desire to restore paganism was extremely antagonistic towards Christians, sending hundreds to their death. At Antioch he ordered the torture of two bishops unwilling to forsake the Christian Faith. this time, Saint Artemius arrived in Antioch and publicly denounced Julian for his impiety. The enraged Julian subjected the saint to terrible tortures and threw the Great Martyr Artemius into prison. Artemius was praying, Christ, surrounded by angels, appeared to him and said, “Take courage, Artemius! I am with you and will preserve you from every hurt which is inflicted upon you, and I already have prepared your crown of glory. Since you have confessed Me before the people on earth, so shall I confess you before My Heavenly Father. Therefore, take courage and rejoice, you shall be with Me in My Kingdom.” Hearing this, Artemius rejoiced and offered up glory and thanksgiving to Him. the following day, Julian demanded that Saint Artemius honor the pagan gods. Meeting with steadfast refusal, the emperor resorted to further tortures. The saint endured all without a single moan. The saint told Julian that he would be justly recompensed for his persecution of Christians. Julian became furious and resorted to even more savage tortures, but they did not break the will of the saint. Finally the Great Martyr Artemius was beheaded. relics were buried by Christians. After the death of Saint Artemius, his prophecy about Julian the Apostate’s impending death came true. left Antioch for a war with the Persians. Near the Persian city of Ctesiphon, Julian came upon an elderly Persian, who agreed to betray his countrymen and guide Julian’s army. The old man deceived Julian and led his army into the Karmanite wilderness, where there was neither food nor water. Tired from hunger and thirst, Julian’s army battled against fresh Persian forces. retribution caught up with Julian the Apostate. During the battle he was mortally wounded by an unseen hand and an unseen weapon. Julian groaned deeply said, “You have conquered, Galilean!” After the death of the apostate emperor, the relics of the Great Martyr Artemius were transferred with honor from Antioch to Constantinople. Artemius is invoked by those suffering from hernias.

Rome, 303-320, 9yr old Martyr Basilissa of Nicomedia, tortured, her firmness converted Gov Alex
Nicomedia; Martyr Basilissa of Nicomedia, Commemorated on September 3; Martyr Basilissa of Nicomedia suffered for her faith in Christ under the emperor Diocletian. The Nicomedia governor Alexander gave orders to arrest the nine-year-old Basilissa and force her to renounce Christ. But the young maiden displayed unshakable firmness in fidelity to her Lord, and so she was subjected to protracted and intense torture. the grace of God, the holy martyr remained alive and unharmed. This was evident to all those present as a manifestation of the power of God, and it so upset the governor Alexander, that he also came to believe in Christ and confessed himself a Christian. later by Bishop Anthimus, he lived for a short while in deep repentance, and then departed peacefully to the Lord, as did Saint Basilissa some while after him. Her death was peaceful and accompanied by miraculous signs of God’s mercy.

Rome, 303-313, Hieromartyrs of Cherson, Diocletian Persecution
Bosporan Kingdom in Thaurica (Crimea), 438 BC - 370 AD; Bosporan Kingdom of the Roman Empire; Hieromartyrs of Cherson, 303-313 Diocletian Persecution; Hieromartyr Basil of Cherson, Commemorated on March 7;

Rome, 303-313, Diocletian Persecution, recinding Christians' rights, d idol worship, Copper Mines
Roman Diocletian Persecution, 303, copper mines at Phaeno in Palestine and Cilicia in Asia Minor ; Hieromartyr Silvanus of Gaza, Commemorated on October 14; Hieromartyr Silvanus the Bishop of Gaza, and with him 40 Martyrs, Commemorated on May 4 ;

Rome, 304, Calliopius at Pompeiopolis, dedicated to God, survived torture, crucified
Cilicia, 304, Calliopius at Pompeiopolis , Cilicia and (near Seyhan River Mouth) and Pompeiopolis in Paphlagonia, Armenia, dedicated to God, survived iron rods, iron wheel, roasted, encouraged by mother, crucified upside down, buried w mother ; Cilician Pompeiopolis ; Martyr Calliopius at Pompeiopolis in Cilicia, Commemorated on April 7; Holy Martyr Calliopius was born in Perge, Pamphylia of the pious woman Theoklia, wife of a renowned senator. Theoklia was childless for a long time. She fervently prayed for a son, vowing to dedicate him to God. after the birth of her son Theoklia was widowed. When Saint Calliopius reached adolescence, a fierce persecution against Christians began. Theoklia, learning that her son would be denounced as a Christian, sent him to Cilicia in Asia Minor. the saint arrived at Pompeiopolis, Paphlagonia there was a celebration in honor of the pagan gods. They invited the youth to take part in the proceedings, but he said he was a Christian and refused. They reported this to the prefect of the city Maximus. Saint Calliopius was brought before him to be tried. At first, he attempted to persuade Calliopius to worship the gods, promising to give him his own daughter in marriage. After the youth rejected this offer, Maximus subjected him to terrible tortures. He ordered the martyr to be beaten on the back with iron rods, and on the stomach with ox-hide thongs. Finally, the prefect had him tied to an iron wheel, and he was roasted over a slow fire. After these tortures, they threw the martyr Calliopius into prison. Theoklia heard about the sufferings of her son, she wrote her last will, freed her slaves, distributed her riches to the poor, and hastened to Saint Calliopius. The brave mother gave money to the guard and got into the prison to see her son. There she encouraged him to endure suffering to the end for Christ. on the following day the saint refused to renounce Christ, Maximus gave orders to crucify the martyr. The day of execution happened to be Great Thursday, when the Savior’s last meal with His disciples is commemorated. begged the guard to crucify her son head downward, since she considered it unworthy for him to be crucified like the Lord. Her wish was granted. The holy martyr hung on the cross overnight and died on Great Friday in the year 304. the holy martyr was removed from the cross, Theoklia gave glory to the Savior. She embraced the lifeless body of her son and gave up her own spirit to God. Christians buried their bodies in a single grave.

Rome, 304, Vincent of Spain, Martyr, Augustopolis, deacon who spoke and preached for his Bishop
Spain and Portugal, 304, Vincent of Spain, Martyr, Augustopolis; Vincent of Saragossa (also known as Vincent Martyr, Vincent of Huesca or Vincent the Deacon), the Protomartyr of Spain, was a deacon of the Church of Saragossa. is the patron saint of Lisbon and Valencia. feast day is 22 January in the Roman Catholic Church and Anglican Communion and 11 November in the Eastern Orthodox Church. He was born at Huesca and martyred under the Emperor Diocletian around the year 304. earliest account of Vincent's martyrdom is in a carmen (lyric poem) written by the poet Prudentius,[1] who wrote a series of lyric poems, Peristephanon ("Crowns of Martyrdom"), on Hispanic and Roman martyrs. was born at Huesca, near Saragossa, Spain sometime during the latter part of the 3rd century; it is believed his father was Eutricius (Euthicius), and his mother was Enola, a native of Osca.[2] spent most of his life in the city of Saragossa, where he was educated and ordained to the diaconate by Bishop Valerius of Saragossa, who commissioned Vincent to preach throughout the diocese.[2] Because Valerius suffered from a speech impediment, Vincent acted as his spokesman. the Roman Emperor Diocletian began persecuting Christians in Spain, both were brought before the Roman governor, Dacian, in Valencia. Vincent and his bishop Valerius were confined to the prison of Valencia. Though he was finally offered release if he would consign Scripture to the fire, Vincent refused. Speaking on behalf of his bishop, he informed the judge that they were ready to suffer everything for their faith, and that they could pay no heed either to threats or promises.[3] outspoken manner so angered the governor that he had every sort of torture inflicted on Vincent. He was stretched on the rack and his flesh torn with iron hooks. Then his wounds were rubbed with salt and he was burned alive upon a red-hot gridiron. Finally, he was cast into prison and laid on a floor scattered with broken pottery, where he died. his martyrdom he preserved such peace and tranquillity that it astonished his jailer, who repented from his sins and was converted. dead body was thrown into the sea in a sack, but was later recovered by the Christians and his veneration immediately spread throughout the Church.[3] The aged bishop Valerius was exiled. St. Vincent of Saragossa (Menologion of Basil II, 10th century) Crest of Lisboa.png story that Vincent was tortured on a gridiron is perhaps adapted from the martyrdom of another son of Huesca, Saint Lawrence— Vincent, like many early martyrs in the early hagiographic literature, succeeded in converting his jailer. to legend, after being martyred, ravens protected St. Vincent's body from being devoured by vultures, until his followers could recover the body. body was taken to what is now known as Cape St. Vincent; a shrine was erected over his grave, which continued to be guarded by flocks of ravens. the time of Muslim rule in the Iberian Peninsula, the Arab geographer Al-Idrisi noted this constant guard by ravens, for which the place was named by him Kanīsah al-Ghurāb (Church of the Raven). Afonso I of Portugal (1139–1185) had the body of the saint exhumed in 1173 and brought it by ship to the Lisbon Cathedral. This transfer of the relics is depicted on the coat of arms of Lisbon.[4] and veneration San Vicente Mártir thrown into the dunghill. Three elaborated hagiographies, all based ultimately on a lost 5th-century Passion, circulated in the Middle Ages. His "Acts" have been "rather freely colored by the imagination of their compiler".[5] Vincent's tomb in Valencia became the earliest center of his cult, he was also honoured at his birthplace and his reputation spread from Saragossa. The city of Oviedo in Asturias grew about the church dedicated to Vincent. Beyond the Pyrenees, he was venerated first in the vicinity of Béziers, and at Narbonne. Castres became an important stop on the international pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela when the relics of Vincent were transferred to its new abbey-church dedicated to Saint Benedict from Saragossa in 863, under the patronage of Salomon, count of Cerdanya. mosaic in the Cathedral of Braga depicting the translation of St. Vincent's arm. church was built in honour of Vincent, by the Catholic bishops of Visigothic Iberia, when they succeeded in converting King Reccared and his nobles to Trinitarian Christianity. When the Moors came in 711, the church was razed, and its materials incorporated in the Mezquita, the "Great Mosque" of Cordova.[6] Cape Verde island of São Vicente, a former Portuguese colony, was named in his honour because it was discovered on 22 January, St. Vincent's feast day, in 1462.[7] island of St. Vincent in the Caribbean, now a part of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, was named by Christopher Columbus after Vincent of Saragossa, as the island was discovered by Europeans on 22 January, St. Vincent's feast day. 15th century Portuguese artist Nuno Gonçalves depicted him in his Saint Vincent Panels. A small fresco cycle of stories of St. Vincent is in the apse of the Basilica di San Vincenzo near Cantù, in northern Italy. San Vicente Mártir arrojado al muladar. Escultura en alabastro. Documentado 1533 - Diego de Tredia - Museo de Bellas Artes de Valencia. Vincent's left arm is on display as a relic in Valencia Cathedral,[8] located near the extensive Carrer de Sant Vicent Mártir (Saint Vincent the Martyr Street). is also the small town of São Vicente on the Portuguese island of Madeira, and the city of São Vicente, São Paulo in Brazil named after this saint. is remembered in the Anglican Communion with a commemoration on 22 January.[9][10] Vincent is the patron of the Order of the Deacons of the Catholic Diocese of Bergamo (Italy). He is honoured as patron in Valencia, Saragossa, Portugal, etc., and is invoked by vintners, vinegar-makers, brickmakers, and sailors.[1] of Saragossa is represented wearing the dalmatic of a deacon.[1] Augustopolis (now Saragossa, Spain); Martyr Vincent of Spain, Commemorated on November 11 ; Holy Martyr Vincent of Spain from his childhood was the disciple of a wise pastor Valerian, the bishop of the city of Augustopolis (now Saragossa, Spain). he reached mature age, the virtuous, educated and eloquent Vincent was ordained deacon by Bishop Valerian. Since the bishop himself was not adept in speech, he gave a blessing to his deacon, an eloquent orator, to preach in church and among the people. (284-305) sent the governor Dacian to the city of Valencia, Spain with full authority to find and execute Christians. People denounced the wise bishop and his deacon to the governor, who arrested them. soldiers, mounted on horses, dragged the Elder and his disciple behind them in chains from Augustopolis to Valencia, and there they cast them into prison beaten and tortured, giving them neither food nor water. subjected the bishop to the first interrogation. The Elder spoke quietly, but seemed tongue-tied and uncertain. Then Saint Vincent came forward and made the most eloquent speech of his life before the judges and assembled people. After he sent the bishop back to prison, the persecutor gave orders to torture the holy deacon. martyr underwent many torments: while nailed to a cross, he was whipped and burned with red-hot rods. When he was removed from the cross, he then himself joyfully climbed back upon it, saying that the executioners were lazy and had not fulfilled their master’s orders. They became angry and tortured him again, until they were all exhausted. the tortures they threw the martyr back into prison. That night the astonished guard heard him singing Psalms, and saw an unearthly radiant light in the prison. The next morning the holy martyr was condemned to be burned on a gridiron. Christians took the saint’s body and buried it with reverence. This occurred in the year 304.

Rome, 304, Euphemia the all Praised, Chalcedon, stood alone, incorrupt relics, angel help, animals, then confessor in 451
Bithynia, 304, Euphemia the all Praised, Chalcedon, stood alone, incorrupt relics; Holy Great Martyr Euphēmia was the daughter of Christian parents, the senator Philophronos and his wife Theodosia. She suffered for Christ in the year 304 in the city of Chalcedon, on the Bosphorus opposite Constantinople, the Queen of Cities. the Proconsul of Chalcedon, issued a decree which required all the inhabitants of Chalcedon and the surrounding area to attend a pagan festival, in order to worship and offer sacrifice to the idol of Ares. He threatened grave torments for anyone who failed to appear. During this impious festival, 49 Christians were hidden in one house, where they worshiped the true God in secret. The young virgin Euphēmia was among those who prayed there. their hiding place was discovered, and they were brought before Priscus to answer the charges against them. For nineteen days the martyrs were subjected to various torments, but none of them wavered in their faith, nor did they consent to offer sacrifice to the idol. The governor, beside himself with rage and not knowing any other way of forcing the Christians to abandon their faith, sent them to Emperor Diocletian for trial. He kept the youngest, the virgin Euphēmia, hoping that she would not persevere if she were left all alone. from her fellow-Christians, Saint Euphēmia fervently prayed that the Lord Jesus Christ would strengthen her for her impending ordeal. Priscus urged the Saint to offer sacrifice to the idol, promising her many rewards. When she refused, he ordered that she be tortured. martyr was tied to a wheel with sharp knives attached to it, which slashed her body. The Saint prayed aloud, and miraculously, the wheel stopped by itself and would not move despite all the efforts of the executioners. An angel of the Lord, came down from Heaven, removed Euphēmia from the wheel, and healed her of her wounds, and the Saint gave thanks to God. did not notice the miracle which had taken place, so he ordered the soldiers Victor and Sosthenes to take the Saint to a red-hot furnace. the soldiers, seeing two Angels in the midst of the flames, refused to carry out the Proconsul's order and declared that they believed in the God Whom Euphēmia worshipped. Boldly proclaiming that they were Christians, Victor and Sosthenes awaited punishment. They were sentenced to be devoured by wild beasts. In the arena, they begged God to forgive the sins they had committed, asking the Lord to receive them into the Heavenly Kingdom. A Divine voice was heard, and the two soldiers entered into eternal life. The beasts, however, did not harm their bodies. Euphēmia, cast into the fire by other soldiers, did not suffer. With God's help she emerged unscathed after many other torments. Ascribing these things to sorcery, Priscus ordered a pit to be dug. Filling it with knives, he had it covered over with earth and grass, so that the martyr would not notice this trap. again, Saint Euphēmia remained safe, walking over the pit. Finally, she was sentenced to be devoured by wild beasts in the arena. Before her execution the Saint prayed that the Lord would deem her worthy of martyrdom. But none of the bears or lions attacked her, but only licked her feet. Finally, one she-bear wounded her foot, which bled slightly, and the Holy Great Martyr Euphēmia died right away. As her soul departed, there was an earthquake. The city was shaken, the walls fell down, and the pagan temples crumbled. As Saint Euphēmia lay dead in the sand, the guards and spectators fled in terror, so that the Saint's parents were able to take her body and bury it near Chalcedon. a majestic church was built over the grave of the Great Martyr Euphēmia. The sessions of the Fourth Ecumenical Council took place there in the year 451. At that time, the Holy Great Martyr Euphēmia confirmed the Orthodox confession of faith in a miraculous way, exposing the Monophysite heresy. That miracle is commemorated on July 11. the Persians captured Chalcedon in the year 617, the relics of the holy Great Martyr Euphēmia were transferred to Constantinople (around the year 620). During the Iconoclast heresy, the reliquary containing Saint Euphēmia's relics seems to have been thrown into the sea, but pious sailors recovered them. They were brought to the island of Lemnos, and they were returned to Constantinople in 796. incorrupt body of Saint Euphēmia is in the Patriarchal Church of Saint George at the Phanar in Constantinople. Portions of her relics are to be found in Kykkos Monastery on Cyprus, and in the Saint Alexander Nevsky Lavra at Saint Petersburg. Chalcedon; Greatmartyr Euphemia the All-praised, Commemorated on July 11 ; Miracle of Saint Euphemia the All-Praised: The holy Great Martyr Euphemia (September 16) suffered martyrdom in the city of Chalcedon in the year 304, during the time of the persecution against Christians by the emperor Diocletian (284-305). One and a half centuries later, at a time when the Christian Church had become victorious within the Roman Empire, God deigned that Euphemia the All-Praised should again be a witness and confessor of the purity of the Orthodox teaching. the year 451 in the city of Chalcedon, in the very church where the glorified relics of the holy Great Martyr Euphemia rested, the sessions of the Fourth Ecumenical Council (July 16) took place. The Council was convened for determining the precise dogmatic formulae of the Orthodox Church concerning the nature of the God-Man Jesus Christ. This was necessary because of the widespread heresy of the Monophysites [“mono-physis” meaning “one nature”], who opposed the Orthodox teaching of the two natures in Jesus Christ, the Divine and the Human natures (in one Divine Person). The Monophysites falsely affirmed that in Christ was only one nature, the Divine [i.e. that Jesus is God but not man, by nature], causing discord and unrest within the Church. At the Council were present 630 representatives from all the local Christian Churches. On the Orthodox side Anatolius, Patriarch of Constantinople (July 3), Juvenal, Patriarch of Jerusalem (July 2), and representatives of Saint Leo, Pope of Rome (February 18) participated in the conciliar deliberations. The Monophysites were present in large numbers, headed by Dioscorus, the Patriarch of Alexandria, and the Constantinople archimandrite Eutychius. prolonged discussions the two sides could not come to a decisive agreement. holy Patriarch Anatolius of Constantinople proposed that the Council submit the decision of the Church dispute to the Holy Spirit, through His undoubted bearer Saint Euphemia the All-Praised, whose wonderworking relics had been discovered during the Council’s discussions. The Orthodox hierarchs and their opponents wrote down their confessions of faith on separate scrolls and sealed them with their seals. They opened the tomb of the holy Great Martyr Euphemia and placed both scrolls upon her bosom. Then, in the presence of the emperor Marcian (450-457), the participants of the Council sealed the tomb, putting on it the imperial seal and setting a guard to watch over it for three days. During these days both sides imposed upon themselves strict fast and made intense prayer. After three days the patriarch and the emperor in the presence of the Council opened the tomb with its relics: the scroll with the Orthodox confession was held by Saint Euphemia in her right hand, and the scroll of the heretics lay at her feet. Saint Euphemia, as though alive, raised her hand and gave the scroll to the patriarch. After this miracle many of the hesitant accepted the Orthodox confession, while those remaining obstinant in the heresy were consigned to the Council’s condemnation and excommunication. an invasion by the Persians during the seventh century, the relics of Saint Euphemia were transferred from Chalcedon to Constantinople, into a newly built church dedicated to her. Many years later, during the period of the Iconoclast heresy, the reliquary with the relics of the saint was cast into the sea by order of the Iconoclast emperor Leo the Isaurian (716-741). The reliquary was rescued from the sea by the ship-owning brothers Sergius and Sergonos, who gave it over to the local bishop. The holy bishop ordered that the relics be preserved in secret, beneath a crypt, since the Iconoclast heresy was continuing to rage. A small church was built over the relics, and over the reliquary was put a board with an inscription stating whose relics rested within. When the Iconoclast heresy was finally condemned at the holy Seventh Ecumenical Council (in the year 787), during the time of Saint Tarasius, Patriarch of Constantinople (784-806) and the emperor Constantine VI (780-797) and his mother Saint Irene (797-802), the relics of the holy Great Martyr Euphemia were once again solemnly transferred to Constantinople. Greatmartyr Euphemia the All-praised, Commemorated on September 16 ;

Rome, 304, Anastasius the Fuller, Salona in Dalmatia, Croatia, martyred for cross on door
Croatia, , Anastasius the Fuller, Salona in Dalmatia, Croatia; Anastasius the Fuller (died 304) is a Christian saint of the pre-schism Christian Church. Anastasius was a fuller at Aquileia who subsequently moved his business to Solin (some sources say Split). was martyred by being drowned after he had proclaimed his Christian faith openly by painting a cross on his door. is the patron saint of fullers and weavers. His feast day is September 7 (formerly August 26).[1] Salona in Dalmatia; Definition of Fuller; who fulls cloth - definition of fulls cloth it to make it more absorbant, more full, more luxurious, fuller brush man Martyr Anastasius the Fuller at Salona in Dalmatia, Commemorated on October 25 ; Martyr Anastasius the Fuller lived at Salona in Dalmatia during the third century. He was arrested and brought to trial because of his missionary activity in Salona. Saint Anastasius, boldly and without fear, confessed Christ as the true God and Creator of all. He even painted a cross on his door during the persecution of Diocletian (284-311). Saint Anastasius was sentenced to death by the decision of the court, and the pagans tied a stone around his neck and threw his body into the sea. A righteous Christian, the rich matron Ascalopia, found the body of Saint Anastasius and reverently buried him in her estate church. The relics of the holy martyr were glorified by many miracles. Saint Anastasius the Fuller is also commemorated on December 5. Martyr Anastasius the Fuller of Salona in Dalmatia, Commemorated December 5 ; Martyr Anastasius the Fuller lived at Salona in Dalmatia during the third century. He was arrested and brought to trial because of his missionary activity in Salona. Saint Anastasius, boldly and without fear, confessed Christ as the true God and Creator of all. He even painted a cross on his door during the persecution of Diocletian (284-311). Saint Anastasius was sentenced to death by the decision of the court, and the pagans tied a stone around his neck and threw his body into the sea. A righteous Christian, the rich matron Ascalopia, found the body of Saint Anastasius and reverently buried him in her estate church. The relics of the holy martyr were glorified by many miracles. Saint Anastasius the Fuller is also commemorated on October 25.

Rome, 304, Crispina, Thacora Algeria, gladly endured torture for Christ, again and again I am ready to endure
Africa, North Africa, 304, Crispina, Thacora (Tagora) Algeria, gladly endured torture for Christ, again and again I am ready to endure, head shaved, beheaded; Crispina (died December 5, 304) was a martyr of Africa who suffered during the Diocletian persecution. She was born at Thagara, a town in the Roman province of Numidia, located in Taoura, Algeria. (The Tabula Peutingeriana calls it Thacora) in North Africa.) She died by beheading at Theveste, in Numidia. belonged to a distinguished family and was a wealthy matron with children. At the time of the persecution she was brought before the proconsul Annius Anullinus; on being ordered to sacrifice to the gods she declared she honored only one God. When threatened with death, Crispina replied: “I care not for the present life, and am only anxious for the life of my soul. I fear eternal torments only.” [1] head was shaved at the command of the judge, and she was exposed to public mockery, but she remained steadfast in her faith and was not moved even by the tears of her children. When condemned to death, she thanked God and offered her head with joy for execution.[2] Acts of her martyrdom, written not long after the event, form a valuable historical document of the period of the persecution. The day of St. Crispina's death was observed in the time of Augustine of Hippo; in his sermons Augustine repeatedly mentions her name, as well known in Africa and worthy to be held in the same veneration as the names of Saint Agnes and St. Thecla.[3] In his Sermon on Psalm 120, Augustine says: "The persecutors turned their rage against Crispina, whose birthday we celebrate today. They unleashed their savagery against a rich woman delicately nurtured; but she was strong, because the Lord was for her a better defense than the hand of her right hand, and He was guarding her. Is there anyone in Africa who does not know about these events, brothers and sisters? Scarcely, for she was extremely famous, of noble stock and very wealthy."[4]: 510  Ruinart in his collection of the Acts of the martyrs gives the account of her examination.[2] Alphonsus Liguori provided a version of these acts in his Victories of the Martyrs. Thacora (Tagora) in Africa; Numidia; St Crispina; Crispina lived at Thacora (Tagora) in Africa, and was arrested for professing Christianity. The proconsul Annius Anullinus presided at her trial at Theveste (or Tebessa) in December of 304. asked her if she was aware that she was required by law to offer sacrifice to the gods for the welfare of the emperors Diocletian and Maximian. said that she did not know of this decree, and that her Christian faith would not allow her to offer sacrifice to false gods. “Turn away from this superstition,” Anullinus said, “and submit to the sacred rites of the Roman gods.” Crispina replied that she knew no other god but the God worshiped by Christians. The proconsul threatened her with torture, and the saint said that she would gladly endure this for the sake of Christ. told her to stop being stubborn and to obey the edict. Crispina answered, “I will obey the edict given me by my Lord Jesus Christ.” proconsul repeated his threat of torture, saying that she would be forced to obey the edict. He also pointed out that the entire province of Africa had offered sacrifice, but Saint Crispina remained firm in her faith, saying that she would never offer sacrifice to demons. that she would not accept the pagan gods, Anullinus said that she would be forced to bow before the idols and to offer incense. The courageous woman retorted that she would never do so as long as she lived. the proconsul sought to persuade her that it would not be a sacrilege to offer sacrifice to the gods as required by law. She said, “May those gods, who have not made heaven and earth, perish.” urged Crispina to respect the Roman religion, but she said, “I have told you again and again that I am ready to endure any tortures rather than worship the idols which are the work of men’s hands.” told her that she spoke blasphemy and was not acting in a way which would ensure her safety. He then tried to humiliate her by ordering her head to be shaved. The holy martyr replied, “If I were not seeking my own well-being, I would not be on trial before you now. Let your gods speak, then I shall believe.” proconsul told her she could either live a long life, or die in agony before being beheaded. Saint Crispina told him, “I would thank my God if I obtained this. I would gladly lose my head for the Lord’s sake, for I refuse to offer sacrifice to those ridiculous deaf and dumb statues.” lost patience with her and ordered that the minutes of the trial be read back before he pronounced sentence. “Since Crispina persists in her superstition and refuses to offer sacrifice to the gods in accordance with our law, I order her to be executed by the sword.” Crispina said, “Thanks be to God, Who has deigned to free me from your hands.” She made the Sign of the Cross and stretched forth her neck to the executioner. Crispina was beheaded on December 5, 304 in accordance with the fourth edict of Diocletian. Saint Augustine mentions her in Sermons 286 and 354.

Rome, 304, AGNES of Rome, Martyr, Her execution shocked Romans because contrary to Roman Law
Rome, 304, AGNES of Rome, Martyr, Her execution shocked Romans because contrary to Roman Law; mausoleum of St Agnes at Rome; AGNES OF ROME, MARTYR (21 JAN 304); is a Christian martyr who died at Rome around 304 in the persecution of Diocletian: the last and fiercest of the persecutions of Christianity by the Roman emperors. The anniversary of her martyrdom is observed on 21 January. name means “pure” in Greek and “lamb” in Latin. She is said to have been only about twelve or thirteen when she died, and the remains preserved in St Agnes' Church in Rome are in agreement with this. is said that her execution shocked many Romans and helped bring an end to the persecutions. Some said, “It is contrary to Roman law to put a virgin to death. Our leaders say that it is necessary to kill Christians in order to preserve the old Roman ways: but they are themselves scorning those ways in the process.” Others said, “Do young girls constitute such a threat to Rome that it is necessary to kill them?” Others said, “If this religion can enable a twelve-year-old girl to meet death without fear, it is worth checking out.” is a narrative poem by Keats, called “The Eve of Saint Agnes.” It is a romantic poem with a mediaeval setting, about an elopement the night before St Agnes' Day. The only tie-in with Agnes is that (presumably because she died as a young virgin), Agnes is regarded as the patron of young unmarried girls, and there is a folk-belief that a girl who goes to bed supperless on the eve of St Agnes's Day will dream that night about her husband-to-be. by James Kiefer

Rome, 304, Hieromartyr Albian the Bishop of Anaea, Ephesus, diocletian p, tortured red-hot irons, died red-hot oven
Ephesus, 304, Hieromartyr Albian the Bishop of Anaea, Ephesus, diocletian p, tortured red-hot irons, died red-hot oven; Anaea, Ephesus (Ephesus River Mouth); Hieromartyr Albian the Bishop of Anaea in Asia Minor, Commemorated on May 4; Albian was bishop of the city of Aneium in the Aseian district, suffered for Christ about the year 304 in a persecution against Christians under the emperor Diocletian and his co-ruler Maximian. Albian was ordered to offer sacrifice to idols under the threat of death, but he confessed his faith in Christ and refused to serve idols. They tortured him with red-hot irons and beat him mercilessly, but he remained unyielding. tortured his disciple with him, and he also remained faithful to the Lord Jesus Christ. Both holy martyrs were sentenced to death and thrown into a red-hot oven, in which they died, receiving the crowns of martyrdom.

Rome, 304-305, Philetairus, Nicomedia, Bithynia, tall and handsome, unharmed - red hot oven, whippings, wild beasts, & sword
Bithynia, 304-305, Philetairus, Nicomedia, Bithynia, tall and handsome, emperor or not mouth be silenced, red hot oven, unharmed, set free, whippings, wild beasts, sword, unharmed, exile, destroyed temple on the way, visited with and buried by Eubiotus w soldiers; Nicomedia; Martyr Philetairus of Nicomedia, Commemorated December 30 ; Holy Martyr Philetairus of Nicomedia twice suffered torture for Christ: under the co-Emperors Diocletian (284-305) and Maximian (286-305). Diocletian arrived in Nicomedia, Saint Philetairus, who was tall and handsome, was put on trial. Seeing him, the emperor compared him to one of the pagan gods. When questioned about his social rank and family the martyr answered, “I am the son of an eparch, I am a Christian, and I live with Christians.” emperor spoke insultingly of the Lord Jesus Christ, but the saint replied, “Let the mouth of anyone who dares to insult my Christ be silenced, whether he is the emperor or anyone else.” After these words the martyr was thrown into a red-hot oven, but he emerged from it unharmed. Then Diocletian, witnessing the miracle, and taking into account the saint’s illustrious rank and handsome appearance, set him free. the emperor Maximian was informed that Philetairus was a Christian. Brought to trial before the emperor, the holy martyr again confessed his faith in Christ. For this they subjected him to whippings. Then they threw him to be eaten by wild beasts, but he remained unharmed. Then they sentenced him to beheading by the sword, but the two servants who were entrusted the execution were unable to kill him. Just as they raised the sword over the head of the martyr, their hands ceased to function. Persuaded that the Lord invisibly was guarding the holy martyr, both executioners believed in Christ and they themselves were beheaded by the sword. holy Martyr Philetairus was sentenced to exile on Prokonnesos, one of the islands of the Sea of Marmora. On the journey, he performed many miracles and destroyed a heathen temple with its idols. Six soldiers and their commander, who accompanied the saint to his exile, came to believe in Christ. the way Saint Eubiotus (December 18), who had also undergone many sufferings for Christ, came to see him. The saints joyfully embraced, and they stayed at the cell of Saint Eubiotus for seven days, together with the soldiers and their commander. Saint Philetairus died there and was buried by Saint Eubiotus. The soldiers and their commander also died there eleven days later, and were buried beside Saint Philetairus.

Rome, 304-309, Menas of Egypt, very famous wonderworker, angels, marytr crowns, angel, relics, camels not moving
Egypt, 304-309, Menas of Egypt, very famous wonderworker; of Egypt (also Mina, Minas, Mena, Meena; 285 - c. 309), a martyr and wonder-worker, is one of the most well-known Coptic saints in the East and the West, due to the many miracles that are attributed to his intercession and prayers. Menas was a Coptic soldier in the Roman army martyred because he refused to recant his Christian faith. The common date of his commemoration is November 11, which occurs 13 days later (November 24) on the Julian calendar. feast day is celebrated every year on 15 Hathor in the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria, which corresponds to November 24 on the Gregorian Calendar. In Eastern Orthodox churches that follow the old style or Julian calendar, it is likewise celebrated on November 24. In the Eastern Orthodox churches that follow the new style or Revised Julian calendar, as well as in the Catholic Church, it is celebrated on November 11. of his name was his original name, according to the story his mother called him Mena because she heard a voice saying Amen. Minas is how he is known in Greek and Armenian, while in Coptic he is known as Mīna). Life and martyrdom St. Menas and boatman on a Makurian manuscript from c. 1000 There are many sources written in different languages (Koine Greek, Coptic, Old Nubian, Ge'ez, Latin, Syriac, Armenian) relating to Menas.[3] was born in Egypt in 285 in the city of Nikiou,[4] which lay in the vicinity of Memphis. parents were ascetic Christians but did not have any children for a long time. father's name was Eudoxios and his mother's name was Euphemia. On the feast of the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus, Euphemia was praying with tears before an icon of the Virgin for God to give her a son. sound came from the icon saying "Amen". A few months later, Euphemia gave birth to a boy and named him Menas.[5] a ruler of one of the administrative divisions of Egypt, died when Menas was fourteen years old. the age of fifteen Menas joined the Roman army and was given a high rank due to his father's reputation. sources state that he served in Cotyaeus in Phrygia,[6] although some say his appointment was in Algeria.[5] years later he left the army, longing to devote his whole life to Christ, and headed towards the desert to live a different kind of life. spending five years as a hermit, Menas saw in a revelation the angels crowning the martyrs with glorious crowns, and longed to join those martyrs. he was thinking about it, he heard a voice saying: "Blessed are you Menas because you have been called to the pious life from your childhood. You shall be granted three immortal crowns: one for your celibacy, another for your asceticism, and a third for your martyrdom." Menas subsequently hurried to the ruler, declaring his Christian faith.[7] soldiers who executed Menas set his body on fire for three days but the body remained unharmed. Menas' sister then bribed the soldiers and managed to carry the body away. She embarked on a ship heading to Alexandria, where she placed his body in a church. the time of persecution ended, during the papacy of Athanasius of Alexandria the pope had a vision of an angel appearing to him and ordering him to load Menas' body on a camel and head towards the Libyan Desert. a certain spot near a water well at the end of Lake Mariout, not far from Alexandria, the camel stopped and wouldn't move. The Christians took this a sign from God and buried Menas' body there. Berbers of Pentapolis rose against the cities around Alexandria. the people were getting ready to face them, the Roman governor decided to secretly take the body of Menas with him to be his deliverer and his strong protector. Menas' blessings, the governor overcame the Berbers and returned victorious. he decided not to return the body to its original place and wanted to take it to Alexandria. On the way back, as they passed by Lake Mariout at the same spot where the body was originally buried, the camel carrying the body knelt down and would not move. moved the body to another camel, but the second camel would not move either.[8] The governor finally realized that this was God's command. He made a coffin from decay-resistant wood and placed the silver coffin in it. Terracotta pilgrim's Menas flask impressed with Saint Mina between two camels, Byzantine, probably made at Abu Mina, Egypt, c. 6th–7th century. (Louvre Museum) versions of the story state that the location of the tomb was then forgotten until its miraculous rediscovery by a local shepherd. A shepherd was feeding his sheep in that location, and a sick lamb fell on the ground. As it struggled to get on its feet again, its scab was cured. The story spread quickly and the sick who came to this spot recovered from whatever illnesses they had just by lying on the ground. Ethiopian Synaxarium describes Constantine I sending his sick daughter to the shepherd to be cured, and credits her with finding Menas' body, after which Constantine ordered the construction of a church at the site. versions of the story replace Constantine with the late-5th century emperor Zeno, but archaeologists have dated the original foundation to the late 4th century.[9] to the Zeno version, his daughter was leprous and his advisors suggested that she should try that place, and she did. At night Menas appeared to the girl and informed her that his body was buried in that place. The following morning, Zeno's daughter was cured and she related her vision about the saint to her servants. Zeno immediately ordered Mina's body to be dug out and a cathedral to be built there. his martyrdom in the early fourth century, Menas acquired a reputation for miraculous healing powers. The cult of Saint Menas was centered on Abu Mena near Alexandria.[10] Sick people from all over the Christian world used to visit that city and were healed through the intercessions of Menas, who became known as the Wonders' Maker. numerous little clay Menas flasks, or bottles for holy water or oil on which the saint's name and picture are stamped, are found by archeologists in diverse countries around the Mediterranean world, such as Heidelberg in Germany, Milan in Italy, Dalmatia in Croatia, Marseille in France, Dongola in Sudan, Meols (Cheshire) in England, and the holy city of Jerusalem, as well as modern Turkey and Eritrea. Pilgrims would buy these bottles and take them back to their relatives.[5] St Menas Church southwest of Alexandria, Oktodekadian monastery ; Martyr Menas of Egypt, Commemorated November 11 ; Holy Great Martyr Menas of Egypt, an Egyptian by birth, was a military officer and served in the Kotyaeion region of Phrygia under the centurion Firmilian during the reign of the emperors Diocletian (284-305) and Maximian (305-311). When the emperors began the fiercest persecution against Christians in history, the saint refused to serve these persecutors. He removed his soldier’s belt (a sign of military rank) and withdrew to a mountain, where he lived an ascetic life of fasting and prayer. he happened to arrive in the city during a pagan festival. At the climax of the games the saint’s accusing voice rang out, preaching faith in Christ, the Savior of the world. At his trial before the prefect Pyrrhus, the saint bravely confessed his faith, saying that he had come to denounce the impious. The prefect was angered, and had Menas arrested. offered to restore the saint’s former rank if he would offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. When he refused, he was put to cruel tortures, then he was beheaded. This occurred in the year 304. Christians gathered up the martyr’s relics by night and hid them until the end of the persecution. Later, they were brought to Egypt and placed in a church dedicated to Saint Menas southwest of Alexandria. saint received grace from God to work miracles, and to help those in need. Saint Menas is noted for healing various illnesses, delivering people from possession by demons, and as a protector, especially during times of war. We also ask his help in finding lost objects.

Rome, 305-311, Emperor, Maximian Galerius, Fanatic Pagan, horrible disease, ended D Persecution
Rome, 305-311, Emperor Maximian Galerius ; Galerius, Sophia, Castle of Roman emperor Galerius; Galerius Valerius Maximianus (c. 258 - May 311) was Roman emperor from 305 to 311. his reign he campaigned, aided by Diocletian, against the Sassanid Empire, sacking their capital Ctesiphon in 299. also campaigned across the Danube against the Carpi, defeating them in 297 and 300. he was a staunch opponent of Christianity, Galerius ended the Diocletianic Persecution when he issued an Edict of Toleration in Serdica in 311. life[edit] was born near Serdica,[14] in Dacia Ripensis, later named Dacia Mediterranea, though some modern scholars consider the strategic site where he later built his palace named after his mother – Felix Romuliana (Gamzigrad) – his birth and funeral place.[12] father was a Thracian and his mother Romula had left Roman Dacia because of the Carpians' attacks.[15][16]: 19  He originally followed his father's occupation, that of a herdsman, where he was nicknamed Armentarius, herdsman. Galerius' father-in-law and senior emperor served with distinction as a soldier under Emperors Aurelian and Probus, and in 293 at the establishment of the Tetrarchy, was designated Caesar along with Constantius Chlorus, receiving in marriage Diocletian's daughter Valeria (later known as Galeria Valeria), and at the same time being entrusted with the care of the Illyrian provinces. a few years campaigning against Sarmatians and Goths on the Danube, he received command of the legions on the eastern imperial limits. Soon after his appointment, Galerius was dispatched to Egypt to fight the rebellious cities Busiris and Coptos.[17] with Persia[edit] See also: Roman relations with the Parthians and Sassanids and Roman–Persian Wars counterinvasion[edit] 294, Narseh, a son of Shapur I, who had been passed over for the Sassanid succession, came into power in Persia. Narseh probably moved to eliminate Bahram III, a young man installed by a noble named Vahunam in the wake of Bahram II's death in 293.[18]: 292 [19]: 69  In early 294, Narseh sent Diocletian the customary package of gifts, but within Persia, he was destroying every trace of his immediate predecessors, erasing their names from public monuments. He sought to identify himself with the warlike reigns of Ardashir (r. 226–41) and Shapur (r. 241–72), who had sacked Roman Antioch and captured Emperor Valerian.[19]: 69–70  295 or 296, Narseh declared war on Rome. He appears to have first invaded western Armenia, retaking the lands delivered to Tiridates in the peace of 287. He occupied the lands there until the following year.[18][20]: 149 [21]: 292 [22] historian Ammianus Marcellinus, circa 320–395, is the only source detailing the initial invasion of Armenia.[23] Southern (1999, 149) dates the invasion to 295; Barnes (1982, 17, 293) mentions an earlier, unsuccessful invasion by Narseh based on the fact that the title Persici Maximi was given to all four emperors; Odahl (2004, 59) concurs with Barnes and suggests that Saracen princes in the Syrian desert collaborated with Narseh's invasion. then moved south into Roman Mesopotamia, where he inflicted a severe defeat on Galerius, then commander of the eastern forces, in the region between Carrhae (Harran, Turkey) and Callinicum (Raqqa, Syria).[21] may or may not have been present at the battle,[18]: 652  but presented himself soon afterwards at Antioch, where the official version of events was made clear: Galerius was to take all the blame for the affair. Antioch, Diocletian forced Galerius to walk a mile in advance of his imperial cart while still clad in the purple robes of an emperor.[18][21]: 292–3  The message conveyed was clear; the loss at Carrhae was not due to the failings of the empire's soldiers, but due to the failings of their commander, and Galerius' failures would not be accepted.[24] Galerius' position at the head of the caravan possibly was merely the conventional organization of an imperial progression, designed to show a Caesar's deference to his Augustus.[25] of Galerius attacking Narseh on the Arch of Galerius at Thessaloniki, Greece, the city where Galerius carried out most of his administrative actions.[20]: 151  army was reinforced probably in the spring of 298 by new contingents collected from the empire's Danubian holdings.[26] did not advance from Armenia and Mesopotamia leaving Galerius to lead the offensive in 298 with an attack on northern Mesopotamia via Armenia.[24] may or may not have been present to assist the campaign.[27] retreated to Armenia to fight Galerius' force, to Narseh's disadvantage; the rugged Armenian terrain was favorable to Roman infantry, but not to Sassanid cavalry. Local aid gave Galerius the advantage of surprise over the Persian forces, and, in two successive battles, Galerius secured victories over Narseh.[24][26] the second encounter, the Battle of Satala in 298, Roman forces seized Narseh's camp, his treasury, his harem, and his wife.[24][26] Narseh's wife would live out the remainder of the war in Daphne, a suburb of Antioch, serving as a constant reminder to the Persians of the Roman victory.[24] advanced into Media and Adiabene, winning continuous victories, most prominently near Theodosiopolis (Erzurum),[20]: 151  securing Nisibis (Nusaybin) before 1 October 298. He moved down the Tigris, taking Ctesiphon, and gazing onwards to the ruins of Babylon before returning to Roman territory via the Euphrates.[26] source ever specifically claims that Ctesiphon was sacked, but it is assumed to have been, primarily due to the seizure of Narseh's wife and harem.[20]: 150  negotiations[edit] had previously sent an ambassador to Galerius to plead for the return of his wife and children, but Galerius had dismissed this ambassador, reminding him of how Shapur had treated Valerian.[26] Romans, in any case, treated Narseh's captured family well perhaps seeking to evoke comparisons to Alexander and his beneficent conduct towards the family of Darius III.[24] negotiations began in the spring of 299, with both Diocletian and Galerius presiding. Their magister memoriae (secretary) Sicorius Probus was sent to Narseh to present terms.[26] conditions of the Peace of Nisibis were heavy:[24] Persia would give up territory to Rome, making the Tigris the boundary between the two empires. terms specified that Armenia was returned to Roman domination with the fort of Ziatha as its border; Caucasian Iberia would pay allegiance to Rome under a Roman appointee; now under Roman rule, would become the sole conduit for trade between Persia and Rome; and Rome would exercise control over the five satrapies between the Tigris and Armenia: Ingilene, Sophanene (Sophene), Arzanene (Aghdznik), Corduene, and Zabdicene (near modern Hakkâri, Turkey). regions included the passage of the Tigris through the Anti-Taurus range; the Bitlis pass, the quickest southerly route into Persian Armenia; and access to the Tur Abdin plateau. these territories, Rome would have an advance station north of Ctesiphon, and would be able to slow any future advance of Persian forces through the region.[28] the terms of the peace, Tiridates would regain both his throne and the entirety of his ancestral claim, and Rome would secure a wide zone of cultural influence in the region.[26] Because the empire was able to sustain such constant warfare on so many fronts, it has been taken as a sign of the essential efficacy of the Diocletianic system and the goodwill of the army towards the tetrarchic enterprise.[20]: 150  as Augustus[edit] of Galerius the elevation of Constantius I and Galerius to the rank of Augustus, two new Caesars were required to take their place. The two persons whom Galerius promoted to the rank of Caesar were very much his creatures, and he hoped to enhance his authority throughout the empire with their elevation.[29] was Maximinus Daza, whose mother was Galerius' sister. An inexperienced youth with little formal education, he was invested with the purple, exalted to the dignity of Caesar, and assigned the command of Egypt and Syria. Second was Severus, Galerius' comrade in arms; he was sent to Milan to receive the possession of Italy and Africa. According to the forms of the constitution, Severus acknowledged the supremacy of the western emperor, but he was absolutely devoted to the commands of his benefactor Galerius, who, reserving to himself the intermediate countries from the confines of Italy to those of Syria, firmly established his power over three-quarters of the empire.[29] hopes were dashed when his colleague Constantius died at York in 306 and the legions elevated his son Constantine to the position of Augustus. Galerius only discovered this when he received a letter from Constantine, who informed him of his father's death, modestly asserted his natural claim to the succession, and respectfully lamented that the enthusiastic violence of his troops had not allowed him to obtain the imperial purple in the regular and constitutional manner. The first emotions of Galerius were those of surprise, disappointment, and rage, and as he could seldom restrain his passions, he threatened to burn both the letter and the messenger.[30][31][32][33] however, when he had time to reconsider his position, he inevitably saw that his chances of winning a war against Constantine were doubtful at best. Galerius was well aware of Constantine's strengths – Constantine had been his guest for some time at Nicomedia – and knew that Constantius' legions were wildly devoted to his son.[29] Therefore, without either condemning or ratifying the choice of the Roman army, Galerius accepted the son of his deceased colleague as the ruler of the provinces beyond the Alps; but he gave him only the title of Caesar, and the fourth rank among the Roman princes, whilst he conferred the vacant place of Augustus on his favourite Severus. ambitious spirit of Galerius was only just over this disappointment when he beheld the unexpected loss of Italy to Maxentius, who was married to his daughter Valeria Maximilla.[34] Galerius’ need for additional revenue had persuaded him to make a very strict and rigorous examination of the property of his subjects for the purpose of a general taxation. A very minute survey was taken of their real estates and, wherever there was the slightest suspicion of concealment, torture was used to obtain a sincere declaration of their personal wealth. Italy had traditionally been exempt from any form of taxation, but Galerius ignored this precedent, and the officers of the revenue already began to number the Roman people, and to settle the proportion of the new taxes. Italy began to murmur against this indignity and Maxentius used this sentiment to declare himself emperor in Italy, to the fury of Galerius. Therefore, Galerius ordered his colleague Severus to immediately march to Rome, in the full confidence that, by his unexpected arrival, he would easily suppress the rebellion.[29] Severus was captured after his troops deserted to their old commander Maximian, who had once again been elevated to the rank of co-emperor, this time by his son Maxentius. Severus was later executed. Palace of Galerius in Zaječar, Serbia, today an UNESO World Heritage Site importance of the occasion needed the presence and abilities of Galerius. At the head of a powerful army collected from Illyricum and the East, he entered Italy, determined to avenge Severus and to punish the rebellious Romans.[citation needed] But due to the skill of Maximian, Galerius found every place hostile, fortified, and inaccessible; and though he forced his way as far as Narni, within sixty miles of Rome, his control in Italy was confined to the narrow limits of his camp. that he was facing ever-greater difficulties, Galerius made the first advances towards reconciliation, and dispatched two officers to tempt the Romans by the offer of a conference, and the declaration of his paternal regard for Maxentius, reminding them that they would obtain much more from his willing generosity than anything that might have been obtained through a military campaign. The offers of Galerius were rejected with firmness, his friendship refused, and it was not long before he discovered that, unless he retreated, he would share Severus' fate. It was not a moment too soon; large monetary gifts from Maxentius to his soldiers had corrupted the fidelity of the Illyrian legions. When Galerius finally began his withdrawal from Italy, it was only with great difficulty that he managed to stop his veterans deserting him.[29] frustration, Galerius allowed his legions to ravage the countryside as they passed northwards. Maxentius declined to make a general engagement. so many emperors now in existence, in 308 Galerius, together with the retired emperor Diocletian and the now active Maximian, called an imperial 'conference' at Carnuntum on the River Danube to rectify the situation and bring some order back into the imperial government.[citation needed] Here it was agreed that Galerius’ long-time friend and military companion Licinius, who had been entrusted by Galerius with the defense of the Danube while Galerius was in Italy, would become Augustus in the West, with Constantine as his Caesar. In the East, Galerius remained Augustus and Maximinus remained his Caesar. Maximian was to retire, and Maxentius was declared a usurper. ’ plan soon failed. The news of Licinius’ promotion was no sooner carried into the East, than Maximinus, who governed the provinces of Egypt and Syria, rejected his position as Caesar, and, notwithstanding the prayers as well as arguments of Galerius, exacted the equal title of Augustus.[29] For the first, and indeed for the last time, six emperors administered the Roman world. Though the opposition of interest, and the memory of a recent war, divided the empire into two great hostile powers, their mutual fears and the fading authority of Galerius produced an apparent tranquility in the imperial government. last years of Galerius saw him relinquishing his aspirations towards being the supreme ruler of the empire, though he managed to retain the position of first among equals. He spent the remainder of his years enjoying himself and ordering some important public works, such as discharging into the Danube the superfluous waters of Lake Pelso, and cutting down the immense forests that encompassed it.[29] of Christians[edit] Main article: Diocletian Persecution of the Arch of Galerius in Thessaloniki. had lived pleasantly during most of the rule of Diocletian. The persecutions that began with an edict of February 24, 303, were credited by Christians to Galerius' work, as he was a fierce advocate of the old ways and old gods. Christian houses of assembly were destroyed, for fear of sedition in secret gatherings.[citation needed] was not anti-Christian during the first part of his reign, and historians have claimed that Galerius decided to prod him into persecuting them by secretly burning the Imperial Palace and blaming it on Christian saboteurs. Regardless of who was at fault for the fire, Diocletian's rage was aroused and he began one of the last and greatest Christian persecutions in the history of the Roman Empire.[citation needed] was at the insistence of Galerius that the last edicts of persecution against the Christians were published, beginning on February 24, 303, and this policy of repression was maintained by him until the appearance of the general edict of toleration, issued from Nicomedia in April 311, apparently during his last bout of illness (see Edict of Toleration by Galerius). Galerius's last request was that Christians should pray for him as he suffered with a painful and fatal illness; he died six days later.[35] one of the leading figures in the persecutions, Galerius later admitted that the policy of trying to eradicate Christianity had failed, saying: "wherefore, for this our indulgence, they ought to pray to their God for our safety, for that of the republic, and for their own, that the republic may continue uninjured on every side, and that they may be able to live securely in their homes." Lactantius gives the text of the edict in his moralized chronicle of the bad ends to which all the persecutors came, De Mortibus Persecutorum.[36] This marked the end of official persecution of Christians. Christianity was officially legalized in the Roman Empire two years later in 313 by Constantine and Licinius in the Edict of Milan.[citation needed] died in late April or early May 311[37] from a horribly gruesome disease described by Eusebius[38] and Lactantius,[39] possibly some form of bowel cancer, gangrene or Fournier gangrene. was buried in his mausoleum at Gamzigrad-Romuliana, which was part of the palace he built at his birthplace, today's Zaječar in Serbia. Several lumps composed of corroded iron ring mail (lorica hamata) have been found at the site. This mail armour may have been worn by the wax ﬁgure of the emperor that was burned during the imperial funeral and apotheosis ceremony.[40] The entire site has been inscribed into the World Heritage List in June 2007. accusations[edit] to Lactantius, Galerius affirmed his Dacian identity and avowed himself the enemy of the Roman name once made emperor, even proposing that the empire should be called, not the Roman, but the Dacian Empire, much to the horror of the patricians and senators. Lactantius further states that Galerius exhibited anti-Roman attitude as soon as he had attained the highest power, treating the Roman citizens with ruthless cruelty, like the conquerors treated the conquered, all in the name of the same treatment that the victorious Trajan had applied to the conquered Dacians, forefathers of Galerius, two centuries before.[41] Greatmartyr Euphemia the All-praised, Commemorated on July 11 ; Martyr Paul at Caesarea, in Palestine, Commemorated July 16 ; Martyr and Archdeacon Euplus of Catania, Commemorated on August 11; Martyr Lucius, Commemorated August 20 ; Martyr Bassa of Edessa, and her sons, Commemorated on August 21; Martyr Agathonicus of Nicomedia, and others who suffered under Maximian, Commemorated on August 22; Martyr Lupus the Slave of St Demetrius of Thessalonica, Commemorated on August 23 ; Martyr Adrian of Nicomedia, Commemorated on August 26 ; 3,628 Martyrs who suffered at Nicomedia, Commemorated on September 2 ; Hieromartyr Anthimus the Bishop of Nicomedia, Commemorated on September 3; Martyr Eudoxius, Commemorated September 6 ; Martyr Menodora at Nicomedia, Commemorated on September 10 ; Martyr Theodotus of Adrianopolis, Commemorated on September 15 ; 156 Martyrs in Palestine, Commemorated on September 17 ; Martyr Peleus the Bishop of Palestine, Commemorated on September 17 ; Hieromartyr Hierotheus the Bishop of Athens, Commemorated October 4 ; Martyr Callisthene and her father Audactus of Ephesus, Commemorated on October 4; Martyr Theotecnus of Antioch, Commemorated on October 10 ; Venerable Hilarion the Great, Commemorated on October 21; Martyr Cyrenia in Cilicia, Commemorated on November 1; Repose of St Alexander Nevsky, Commemorated November 23 ; NICHOLAS OF MYRA, FRIEND OF CHILDREN, GIVER OF GIFTS, CLIMBER OF CHIMNEYS, ETC. (6 DEC 326) ; Greatmartyr Catherine of Alexandria, Commemorated on November 24; Hieromartyr Peter the Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on November 25; Greatmartyr Barbara at Heliopolis, in Syria, Commemorated on December 4; Martyr Juliana at Heliopolis, in Syria, Commemorated on December 4; St Nicholas the Wonderworker and Archbishop of Myra in Lycia, Commemorated on December 6; St Sophronius the Archbishop of Cyprus, Commemorated on December 9; Martyr Menas of Alexandria, Commemorated on December 10; Martyr Elias in Cilicia, Commemorated on December 19; Martyr Philetairus of Nicomedia, Commemorated on December 30; Venerable Syncletica of Alexandria, Commemorated on January 5; Martyr Peter of Anium, at Hieropolis, Commemorated on January 13; Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15; Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17; Martyr Julian of Emesa, Commemorated on February 6; Virginmartyr Ennatha of Palestine, Commemorated on February 10; Hieromartyr Blaise the Bishop of Sebaste, Commemorated on February 11; Greatmartyr Theodore the Tyro ("œthe Recruit"Â), Commemorated on February 17; Uncovering of the relics of the Martyr Menas of Alexandria, Commemorated on February 17; Martyr Victor of Phrygia, Commemorated on February 18 ; Martyr Archippus of the Seventy Apostles, Commemorated on February 19; Martyr Maximus of Adrianopolis, Commemorated February 19; Martyr Maurice at Apamea in Syria, Commemorated on February 22; Martyr Eutropius of Amasea, Commemorated on March 3 ; Hieromartyr Basil of Cherson, Commemorated on March 7; Martyr Urpasianus of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 9; Martyr Urpasianus of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 9 ; Martyr Alexander of Macedonia, Commemorated on March 13 ; Martyr Julian of Anazarbus, Commemorated on March 16; Martyr Papas of Lyconia, Commemorated on March 16; Virginmartyr Alexandra of Amisus, Commemorated on March 20; GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332); Hieromartyr Irenaeus the Bishop of Sirmium in Hungary, Commemorated on March 26; Martyr Matrona of Thessalonica, Commemorated on March 27; Martyr Amphianus (Apphianus) of Lycia, Commemorated on April 2 ; Martyr Polycarp of Alexandria, Commemorated on April 2 ; Virginmartyr Theodosia of Tyre, Commemorated on April 3 ; Martyr Rufinus the Deacon at Sinope, Commemorated on April 7; St Akaki Asistavi of Georgia, Commemorated on May 7; Martyr Hesychius of Antioch, Commemorated on May 10; Martyr Basiliscus the Bishop of Comana, Commemorated on May 22; Virginmartyr Theodosia of Tyre, Commemorated on May 29; Martyr Marcian of Egypt, Commemorated on June 5; Hieromartyr Marcellinus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; Hieromartyr Sisinius the Deacon of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; Martyr Priscilla of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; Martyr Doulas of Cilicia, Commemorated on June 15; Venerable Paisius the Great, Commemorated on June 19; Hieromartyr Methodius the Bishop of Patara, Commemorated on June 20; Martyr Aristocles the Presbyter of Cyprus, Commemorated on June 20; Translation of the relics of the Holy and Wonderworking Unmercenary John, Commemorated on June 28 ;

Rome, 305-313, Empress, Galeria Valeria, Christian, Diocletian's daughter, k w mother Alexandra by Licinius
Rome, 305-313, Empeess Agusta, Galeria Valeria ; Valeria (died 315) was the daughter of Roman Emperor Diocletian and wife of his co-emperor Galerius. as Valeria to Diocletian and Prisca, she married Galerius in 293, when her father elevated him to the position of Caesar. This marriage was clearly organized to strengthen the bonds between the two emperors. was raised to the title of Augusta and Mater Castrorum in November 308. Since Galerius fathered no child with her, Valeria adopted her husband's illegitimate son, Candidianus, as her own. In her honor, Galerius renamed the province of Upper Pannonia Valeria, which he had improved by draining marshes and removing forests.[1] Galerius died, in 311, Licinius was entrusted with the care of Valeria and her mother Prisca. The two women, however, fled from Licinius to Maximinus Daia, whose daughter was betrothed to Candidianus. After a short time, Valeria refused the marriage proposal of Maximinus, who arrested and confined her in Syria and confiscated her properties. At the death of Maximinus, Licinius ordered the death of both women. Valeria and Prisca fled, hiding for a year, until they were recognized by residents in Thessaloniki. She and her mother were captured by Licinius' soldiers, beheaded in the central square of the city, and their bodies thrown in the sea.[2] Valeria was sympathetic towards Christians, while Galerius persecuted them. She was canonized as a Christian saint with her mother (see Saint Alexandra). Roman Emperor, 305-313, Maximian Galerius Greatmartyr Catherine of Alexandria, Commemorated on November 24;

Rome, 305-312, Emperor, Maximinus II Daia, in the East, pagan, defeated by Licinius
Roman Emperor, 305-312, Maximinus II Daia; Valerius Maximinus, also known as Daza[i] (c. 270 – c. July 313), was Roman emperor from 310 to 313. He became embroiled in the Civil wars of the Tetrarchy between rival claimants for control of the empire, in which he was defeated by Licinius. A committed pagan, he engaged in one of the last persecutions of Christians, before issuing an edict of tolerance near his death. ANTONY, ABBOT IN EGYPT (17 JAN 356); Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17; Martyr Julian of Emesa, Commemorated on February 6; Virginmartyr Ennatha of Palestine, Commemorated on February 10; Hieromartyr Blaise the Bishop of Sebaste, Commemorated on February 11; Uncovering of the relics of the Martyr Menas of Alexandria, Commemorated on February 17; Martyr Archippus of the Seventy Apostles, Commemorated on February 19; Martyr Eutropius of Amasea, Commemorated on March 3 ; Martyr Urpasianus of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 9; Martyr Alexander of Macedonia, Commemorated on March 13 ; Martyr Julian of Anazarbus, Commemorated on March 16; Martyr Papas of Lyconia, Commemorated on March 16; Virginmartyr Alexandra of Amisus, Commemorated on March 20; GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332); Martyr Matrona of Thessalonica, Commemorated on March 27; Martyr Amphianus (Apphianus) of Lycia, Commemorated on April 2 ; Martyr Polycarp of Alexandria, Commemorated on April 2 ; Virginmartyr Theodosia of Tyre, Commemorated on April 3 ;

Rome, 305-325, Sisinius, Bishop of Cyzikus, slated f martyr, survived being drug behind horse, died 20 yrs later 325
Constantinople, 305-325, Sisinius, Bishop of Cyzikus, slated for martyrdom, survived being drug behind a horse, died 20 yrs later in 325; Cyzicus Martyr Sisinius the Bishop of Cyzicus, Commemorated on November 23 ; Holy Confessor Sisinius was Bishop of Cyzicus in what is now Turkey. During the persecution of Diocletian he was slated for martyrdom, having been tied behind a horse in an effort to drag him through the streets until death. Sisinius survived, however, and died in the year 325 AD.

Rome, 306, Theodore the Recruit, confessed Christ, Jesus appearance, climed into fire, body not burned, 363 Kolva instead
Armenia, 306, Theodore the Recruit, Alasium, Pontine, Armenia, soldier, commanded to idol sacrifice, loudly confessed Christ, temple fire, starvation sentence, Jesus appearance, climed into fire, body not burned, 363 T appeared to warn of blood on food, Kolva instead; Alasium or Amasea; Greatmartyr Theodore the Tyro "œthe Recruit"), Commemorated on February 17; Holy Great Martyr Theodore the Recruit (Tyro) was a soldier in the city of Alasium of the Pontine district (northeast province of Asia Minor, stretching along the coast of the Euxine, i.e. the Black Sea), under the command of a certain Brincus. commanded him to offer sacrifice to idols. Saint Theodore firmly confessed his faith in Christ the Savior in a loud voice. The commander gave him several days to think it over, during which time Saint Theodore prayed. charged him with setting a pagan temple on fire, and threw him into prison to be starved to death. The Lord Jesus Christ appeared to him there, comforting and encouraging him. Brought to the governor, Saint Theodore boldly and fearlessly confessed his faith, for which he was subjected to new torments and condemned to burning. The martyr Theodore climbed onto the fire without hesitation, and with prayer gave up his holy soul to God. occurred in about the year 306 under the Roman emperor Galerius (305-311). by the fire, the body of Saint Theodore was buried in the city of Euchaita, not far from Amasium. His relics were afterwards transferred to Constantinople, to a church dedicated to him. His head is in Italy, in the city of Gaeto. on, fifty years after the death of Saint Theodore, the emperor Julian the Apostate (361-363), wanting to commit an outrage upon the Christians, commanded the city-commander of Constantinople during the first week of Great Lent to sprinkle all the food provisions in the marketplaces with the blood offered to idols. Saint Theodore appeared in a dream to Archbishop Eudoxius, ordering him to inform all the Christians that no one should buy anything at the marketplaces, but rather to eat cooked wheat with honey (kolyva). memory of this occurrence, the Orthodox Church annually celebrates the holy Great Martyr Theodore the Recruit on the first Saturday of Great Lent. On Friday evening, at the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts following the prayer at the ambo, the Canon to the holy Great Martyr Theodore, composed by Saint John of Damascus, is sung. After this, kolyva is blessed and distributed to the faithful. The celebration of the Great Martyr Theodore on the first Saturday of Great Lent was set by the Patriarch Nectarius of Constantinople (381-397). Troparion to Saint Theodore is quite similar to the Troparion for the Prophet Daniel and the Three Holy Youths (December 17, Sunday Before Nativity). The Kontakion to Saint Theodore, who suffered martyrdom by fire, reminds us that he also had faith as his breastplate (see I Thessalonians 5:8). pray to Saint Theodore for the recovery of stolen articles.

Rome, 306-312, Emperor, Maxentius, in Rome, civil war against Licinius and Constantine, drowned in Tiber
Roman Emperor, 306-312, Maxentius ; (Marcus Aurelius Valerius Maxentius; c. 276 - 28 October 312) was Roman emperor from 306 to 312. He was the son of former Emperor Maximian and the son-in-law of Emperor Galerius. latter part of his reign was preoccupied with civil war, allying with Maximinus II against Licinius and Constantine. The latter defeated him at the Battle of the Milvian Bridge in 312, where Maxentius, with his army in flight, purportedly perished by drowning in the Tiber river. Martyr Menodora at Nicomedia, Commemorated on September 10; Martyr Theotecnus of Antioch, Commemorated on October 10 ; Venerable Hilarion the Great, Commemorated on October 21; Hieromartyr Peter the Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on November 25; NICHOLAS OF MYRA, FRIEND OF CHILDREN, GIVER OF GIFTS, CLIMBER OF CHIMNEYS, ETC. (6 DEC 326) ; St Nicholas the Wonderworker and Archbishop of Myra in Lycia, Commemorated on December 6; St Sophronius the Archbishop of Cyprus, Commemorated on December 9; Venerable Syncletica of Alexandria, Commemorated on January 5; Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17; Martyr Julian of Emesa, Commemorated on February 6; Virginmartyr Ennatha of Palestine, Commemorated on February 10; Hieromartyr Blaise the Bishop of Sebaste, Commemorated on February 11; Uncovering of the relics of the Martyr Menas of Alexandria, Commemorated on February 17; Martyr Archippus of the Seventy Apostles, Commemorated on February 19; Martyr Eutropius of Amasea, Commemorated on March 3 ; Martyr Urpasianus of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 9; Martyr Julian of Anazarbus, Commemorated on March 16; Martyr Papas of Lyconia, Commemorated on March 16; Virginmartyr Alexandra of Amisus, Commemorated on March 20; GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332); Martyr Matrona of Thessalonica, Commemorated on March 27; Martyr Amphianus (Apphianus) of Lycia, Commemorated on April 2 ; Martyr Polycarp of Alexandria, Commemorated on April 2 ; Virginmartyr Theodosia of Tyre, Commemorated on April 3 ; Hieromartyr Marcellinus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; Hieromartyr Sisinius the Deacon of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; Martyr Priscilla of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; Venerable Paisius the Great, Commemorated on June 19; Hieromartyr Methodius the Bishop of Patara, Commemorated on June 20;

Rome, 306-337, Emperor, Constantine the Great, declared emperor at York, Roman Britain
Roman Emperor, 306-337, Constantine the Great ; Venerable Onesimus of Magnesia, Commemorated on July 14 ; Martyr Julita (Ulita) of Tarsus, Commemorated on July 15 ; MACRINA THE YOUNGER, MONASTIC AND TEACHER (19 JUL 379) ; Martyr Eusignius of Antioch, Commemorated on August 5; St Myron the Wonderworker and Bishop of Crete, Commemorated on August 8 ; Martyr Bassa of Edessa, and her sons, Commemorated on August 21; St Hosius the Confessor the Bishop of Cordova, Commemorated August 27 ; Martyr Menodora at Nicomedia, Commemorated on September 10; The Universal Exaltation of the Precious and Life-Giving Cross, Commemorated on September 14; Martyr Callisthene and her father Audactus of Ephesus, Commemorated on October 4; Martyr Theotecnus of Antioch, Commemorated on October 10 ; St Martin the Merciful the Bishop of Tours, Commemorated on October 12 ; Greatmartyr Artemius at Antioch, Commemorated on October 20; Venerable Hilarion the Great, Commemorated on October 21; Hieromartyr Peter the Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on November 25; St John of Egypt, Commemorated on December 2; NICHOLAS OF MYRA, FRIEND OF CHILDREN, GIVER OF GIFTS, CLIMBER OF CHIMNEYS, ETC. (6 DEC 326) ; St Nicholas the Wonderworker and Archbishop of Myra in Lycia, Commemorated on December 6; St Sophronius the Archbishop of Cyprus, Commemorated on December 9; St Spyridon the Wonderworker and Bishop of Tremithus, Commemorated on December 12 ; Martyr Zoticus the Keeper of Orphans, Commemorated on December 30; Hieromartyr Theogenes the Bishop of Parium on the Hellespont, Commemorated on January 2; Martyr Gordius at Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on January 3 ; Venerable Syncletica of Alexandria, Commemorated on January 5; Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15 ; Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17; Martyr Silvanus Bishop of Emesa, Commemorated on January 29; Martyr Julian of Emesa, Commemorated on February 6; St Parthenius the Bishop of Lampsacus on the Hellespont, Commemorated on February 7; Hieromartyr Blaise the Bishop of Sebaste, Commemorated on February 11; Uncovering of the relics of the Martyr Menas of Alexandria, Commemorated on February 17; Martyr Victor of Phrygia, Commemorated on February 18; St Agapitus the Confessor the Bishop of Synnada in Phrygia, Commemorated February 18; St Agapitus the Confessor the Bishop of Synnada in Phrygia, Commemorated on February 18; Martyr Archippus of the Seventy Apostles, Commemorated on February 19; Hieromartyr Theodotus the Bishop of Cyrenia, Commemorated on March 2; Martyr Eutropius of Amasea, Commemorated on March 3 ; Uncovering of the Precious Cross and the Precious Nails by the Empress St Helen in Jerusalem, Commemorated on March 6; 40 Holy Martyrs of Sebaste, Commemorated on March 9; Martyr Urpasianus of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 9; Martyr Julian of Anazarbus, Commemorated on March 16; Martyr Papas of Lyconia, Commemorated on March 16; Virginmartyr Alexandra of Amisus, Commemorated on March 20; GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332); Venerable Paisius the Great, Commemorated on June 19; Hieromartyr Marcellinus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; Venerable Arcadius of Cyprus, Commemorated on March 6; Hieromartyr Theodoritus of Antioch, Commemorated on March 8; 40 Holy Martyrs of Sebaste, Commemorated on March 9; Martyr Alexander of Macedonia, Commemorated on March 13 ; Martyr Matrona of Thessalonica, Commemorated on March 27; CYRIL OF JERUSALEM, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (18 MAR 386); Martyr Cyril the Deacon of Heliopolis, who suffered under Julian the Apostate, Commemorated on March 29 ; St Hypatius the Wonderworker and Bishop of Gangraz, Commemorated on March 31; Martyr Amphianus (Apphianus) of Lycia, Commemorated on April 2 ; Martyr Polycarp of Alexandria, Commemorated on April 2 ; Virginmartyr Theodosia of Tyre, Commemorated on April 3 ; St Platonida (Platonis) of Nisibis, Syria, Commemorated on April 6; Hieromartyr Basil the Bishop of Amasea, Commemorated on April 26; Righteous Virginmartyr Glaphyra, Commemorated on April 26; Uncovering of the relics of St Basil the Bishop of Amasea, Commemorated on April 30; ATHANASIUS, BISHOP OF ALEXANDRIA, THEOLOGIAN, DOCTOR (2 MAY 373); GREGORY OF NAZIANZUS, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (9 MAY 389); Martyr Philadelphus and 18 others in Sicily, Commemorated on May 10; Commemoration of the Founding of Constantinople, Commemorated on May 11 ; St Achilles the Bishop of Larissa, Commemorated on May 15 ; Venerable Pachomius the Great, Founder of Coenobitic Monasticism, Commemorated on May 15; Equal of the Apostles and Emperor Constantine with his Mother Helen, Commemorated on May 21; Hieromartyr Dorotheus the Bishop of Tyre, Commemorated on June 5; Hieromartyr Sisinius the Deacon of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; Martyr Priscilla of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; Translation of the relics of the Greatmartyr Theodore Stratelates, Commemorated on June 8; Hieromartyr Methodius the Bishop of Patara, Commemorated on June 20;

Rome, 307, Demetrios of Thrace, Bulgaria, a slav, tortured, martyred
Thrace; Martyr Demetrios of Thrace, Commemorated on November 15 Demetrios was a Slav from the village of Davoudio (Dabuda) in Thrace, which was near the town of Amapasos. He was arrested in the time of Emperor Maximian and the Archon Publius, about the year 298 (some sources say 307). After suffering many tortures for Christ, he was finally beheaded.

Rome, 308, Elias, Probus, and Ares, Cilicia, heedless of their own safety, cared for Christians locked up in prison, Martyred
Cilicia, 308, Elias, Probus, and Ares, Cilicia Region of Asia Minor, heedless of their own safety, cared for Christians locked up in prison, during Maximian, tortured and Killed; Cilicia Region of Asia Minor ; Cilicia (Roman province); Cilicia; Martyr Boniface at Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on December 19 ; Martyr Elias in Cilicia, Commemorated on December 19 ; Martyrs Elias, Probus, and Ares, natives of Egypt, and heedless of their own safety, cared for Christians locked up in prison during the persecution of Maximian (305-313). For this they were arrested, subjected to torture and given over to death (+308). Righteous Aglaida (Aglae) of Rome, Commemorated on December 19 ;

Rome, 308-309, Pope Marcellus I, renounced in cowardice, then repentented and martyred
Roman Pope, 308-309, Pope Marcellus I; Marcellinus was the bishop of Rome from 30 June 296 to his death in 304. He may have renounced Christianity during Emperor Diocletian's persecution of Christians before repenting afterwards, which would explain why he is omitted from lists of martyrs. He is today venerated as a saint in Catholic and Serbian Orthodox Church. St Sylvester the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on January 2; Hieromartyr Marcellinus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on June 7; Marcellinus was Pope of Rome during the height of the persecution against Christians under Diocletian and Maximian (284-305), when 17,000 men were martyred a single month. During this time Saint Marcellinus was also arrested. Afraid of the fierce tortures, he burned incense and offered sacrifice to idols. The emperor called him his friend and clothed him in splendid robes. Although he had encouraged others to undergo torture for Christ, he gave in to cowardice. He wept bitterly, filled with remorse. this time, a Synod of 180 bishops and presbyters met at the city of Sinuessa (in Campania). Saint Marcellinus appeared at the assembly in penitential sackcloth, his head sprinkled with ashes. He confessed his sin before the delegates and asked them to judge him. The Fathers of the Council said, “Judge yourself! From your lips this sin came forth, from your lips let judgment be pronounced. We know that even Saint Peter denied Christ out of fear, but he wept bitterly for his sin, and received forgiveness from the Lord.” Marcellinus pronounced sentence upon himself, “I strip myself of the priestly dignity, of which I am unworthy. After death, do not bury my body, but instead throw it to the dogs. Cursed be the one who dares to bury it.” his return to Rome Marcellinus went to the emperor, threw down the fine clothing given him, and said that he regretted his renunciation of Christ. The enraged emperor had him tortured, and sentenced him to death. Marcellinus prayed to the Lord Jesus Christ, Who mercifully receives sinners who repent, then willingly placed his head beneath the sword. The holy martyrs Claudius, Cyrinus and Antoninus were beheaded with him. body of Saint Marcellinus lay for thirty-six days along the wayside. Appearing in a vision to the new bishop Marcellus, the holy Apostle Peter said, “Why have you not buried the body of Marcellinus?” “I fear his curse,” replied Saint Marcellus. “Perhaps you do not remember,” said the Apostle Peter, “that it is written: ‘He that humbles himself shall be exalted.’ Therefore, go bury his body with reverence.” the command of the Apostle Peter, Saint Marcellus buried the body of Saint Marcellinus in a crypt, built for the burial of the bodies of martyrs by the illustrious Priscilla, along the Via Salaria.

Rome, 308-309, Pamphilius, Valens, Paul, Porphyrius, Seleucius, Theodulus, Julian, persecution, initiated by Diocletian
Palestine, 308-309, Pamphilius the Presbyter, Valens the Deacon, Paul, Porphyrius, Seleucius, Theodulus, Julian, Samuel, Elias, Daniel, Jeremiah and Isaiah suffered during the persecution against Christians, initiated by the emperor Diocletian in the years 308-309 at Caesarea in Palestine; Caesarea, Palestine ; Martyr Pamphilius the Presbyter at Caesarea, in Palestine, Commemorated on February 16; Holy Martyrs Pamphilius the Presbyter, Valens the Deacon, Paul, Porphyrius, Seleucius, Theodulus, Julian, Samuel, Elias, Daniel, Jeremiah and Isaiah suffered during the persecution against Christians, initiated by the emperor Diocletian in the years 308-309 at Caesarea in Palestine. holy martyr Pamphilius, a native of the city of Beirut, was educated at Alexandria, after which he was made a priest at Caesarea. He devoted much labor to collating manuscripts and correcting copyist errors in the texts of the New Testament. The corrected texts of Saint Pamphilius were copied and distributed to anyone who wanted them. Many pagans were converted to Christ through them. works were collected into the extensive library of spiritual books available for the enlightening of Christians. Saint Jerome (4th-5th century) deeply respected Saint Pamphilius and considered himself fortunate to have located and acquired several of his manuscripts. assisting Saint Pamphilius in proclaiming the faith in Christ were Saint Valens, deacon of the church at Eleia, a man stooped with age and well-versed in the Holy Scriptures, and Saint Paul, ardent in faith and love for Christ the Savior. All three were imprisoned for two years by Urban, the governor of Palestinian Caesarea. the rule of his successor Firmilian, 130 Christians were sentenced in Egypt and sent to Cilicia (Asia Minor) to work in the gold mines. Five young brothers accompanied them to the place of exile. On their return to Egypt they were detained at Caesarea and thrown into prison for confessing Christ. youths appeared before Firmilian, together with those imprisoned earlier: Saints Pamphilius, Valens and Paul. The five Egyptian youths took the names of Old Testament prophets, Elias, Jeremiah, Isaiah, Samuel and Daniel. Asked where they were from, the youths said that they were citizens of Jerusalem, meaning the heavenly Jerusalem. Firmilian knew nothing of such a city, since Jerusalem had been razed to the ground by the emperor Titus in the year 70. The emperor Hadrian (117-138) built a new city on the site, which was called Aelia Capitolina. tortured the youths for a long time. He sought to learn the location of the unknown city, and he sought to persuade the youths to apostatize. But nothing was accomplished, and the governor ordered them to be beheaded by the sword with Pamphilius, Valens and Paul. this occurred, a servant of Pamphilius endured suffering. This was the eighteen-year-old youth Porphyrius, meek and humble. He had heard the sentence of death for the condemned martyrs, and asked the governor’s permission to bury the bodies after their execution. For this he was sentenced to death, and thrown into a fire. witness of this execution, the pious Christian Seleucius, a former soldier, in saluting the deeds of the sufferers, went to Pamphilius and told him about the martyric death of Saint Porphyrius. He was seized by soldiers and, on Firmilian’s orders, was beheaded by the sword together with the condemned. of the governor’s servants, Theodulus, a man of venerable age and a secret Christian, met the martyrs being led to execution, embraced them and asked them to pray for him. He was taken by soldiers to Firmilian, on whose orders he was crucified. young Julian, a native of Cappadocia who had come to Caesarea, saw the bodies of the saints which had been thrown to wild beasts without burial. Julian went down on his knees and venerated the bodies of the sufferers. Soldiers standing by at the wall seized him and took him to the governor, who condemned him to burning. The bodies of all twelve martyrs remained unburied for four days, but neither beasts nor birds would touch them. Embarrassed by this situation, the pagans permitted Christians to take the bodies of the martyrs and bury them.

Rome, 308-324, Emperor, Licinius, West and East, Fake Christian then Last Pagan
Roman Emperor, 308-324, Licinius ; Licinianus Licinius (c. 265 - 325) was Roman emperor from 308 to 324. most of his reign he was the colleague and rival of Constantine I, with whom he co-authored the Edict of Milan, AD 313, that granted official toleration to Christians in the Roman Empire. was finally defeated at the Battle of Chrysopolis (AD 324), and was later executed on the orders of Constantine I. reign[edit] to a Dacian[1][2] peasant family in Moesia Superior, Licinius accompanied his close childhood friend, the future emperor Galerius, on the Persian expedition in 298.[1] was trusted enough by Galerius that in 307 he was sent as an envoy to Maxentius in Italy to attempt to reach some agreement about the latter's illegitimate political position.[1] then trusted the eastern provinces to Licinius when he went to deal with Maxentius personally after the death of Flavius Valerius Severus.[3] his return to the east Galerius elevated Licinius to the rank of Augustus in the West on 11 November 308, and under his immediate command were the Balkan provinces of Illyricum, Thrace and Pannonia.[2] 310 he took command of the war against the Sarmatians, inflicting a severe defeat on them.[4] the death of Galerius in May 311,[5] Licinius entered into an agreement with Maximinus Daza to share the eastern provinces between them. this point, not only was Licinius the official Augustus of the west but he also possessed part of the eastern provinces as well, as the Hellespont and the Bosporus became the dividing line, with Licinius taking the European provinces and Maximinus taking the Asian.[2] alliance between Maximinus and Maxentius forced the two remaining emperors to enter into a formal agreement with each other.[3] So in March 313 Licinius married Flavia Julia Constantia, half-sister of Constantine I,[citation needed] at Mediolanum (now Milan); they had a son, Licinius the Younger, in 315. marriage was the occasion for the jointly-issued "Edict of Milan" that reissued Galerius' previous edict allowing Christianity (and any religion one might choose) to be professed in the Empire,[2] with additional dispositions that restored confiscated properties to Christian congregations and exempted Christian clergy from municipal civic duties.[6] The redaction of the edict as reproduced by Lactantius - who follows the text affixed by Licinius in Nicomedia on 14 June 313, after Maximinus' defeat - uses neutral language, expressing a will to propitiate "any Divinity whatsoever in the seat of the heavens".[7] Brown coin depicting man with diadem facing right of Licinius in the meantime decided to attack Licinius. Leaving Syria with 70,000 men, he reached Bithynia, although harsh weather he encountered along the way had gravely weakened his army. In April 313, he crossed the Bosporus and went to Byzantium, which was held by Licinius' troops. Undeterred, he took the town after an eleven-day siege. He moved to Heraclea, which he captured after a short siege, before moving his forces to the first posting station. a much smaller body of men, possibly around 30,000,[8] Licinius arrived at Adrianople while Daza was still besieging Heraclea. the decisive engagement, Licinius allegedly had a vision in which an angel recited him a generic prayer that could be adopted by all cults and which Licinius then repeated to his soldiers.[9] 30 April 313, the two armies clashed at the Battle of Tzirallum, and in the ensuing battle Daza's forces were crushed. himself of the imperial purple and dressing like a slave, Daza fled to Nicomedia.[3] he still had a chance to come out victorious, Daza attempted to stop the advance of Licinius at the Cilician Gates by establishing fortifications there. Unfortunately for Daza, Licinius' army succeeded in breaking through, forcing Daza to retreat to Tarsus where Licinius continued to press him on land and sea. The war between them ended only with Daza's death in August 313.[2] that Constantine had already crushed his rival Maxentius in 312, the two men decided to divide the Roman world between them. As a result of this settlement, the Tetrarchy was replaced by a system of two emperors, called Augusti: Licinius became Augustus of the East, while his brother-in-law, Constantine, became Augustus of the West.[5] making the pact, Licinius rushed immediately to the East to deal with another threat, an invasion by the Persian Sassanid Empire.[3] with Constantine I[edit] Sculptural portraits of Licinius (left) and his rival Constantine I (right). 314, a civil war erupted between Licinius and Constantine, in which Constantine used the pretext that Licinius was harbouring Senecio, whom Constantine accused of plotting to overthrow him.[3] Constantine prevailed at the Battle of Cibalae in Pannonia (8 October 314).[2] the situation was temporarily settled, with both men sharing the consulship in 315, it was but a lull in the storm. next year a new war erupted, when Licinius named Valerius Valens co-emperor, only for Licinius to suffer a humiliating defeat on the plains in the Battle of Mardia (also known as the Battle of Campus Ardiensis) in Thrace. emperors were reconciled after these two battles and Licinius had his co-emperor Valens killed.[2] the next ten years, the two imperial colleagues maintained an uneasy truce.[3] Licinius kept himself busy with a campaign against the Sarmatians in 318,[2] temperatures rose again in 321 when Constantine pursued some Sarmatians, who had been ravaging some territory in his realm, across the Danube into what was technically Licinius's territory.[2] When he repeated this with another invasion, this time by the Goths who were pillaging Thrace under their leader Rausimod, Licinius complained that Constantine had broken the treaty between them. wasted no time going on the offensive. Licinius's fleet of 350 ships was defeated by Constantine's fleet in 323. Then in 324, Constantine, tempted by the "advanced age and unpopular vices"[5][3] of his colleague, again declared war against him and having defeated his army of 165,000 men[10] at the Battle of Adrianople (3 July 324), succeeded in shutting him up within the walls of Byzantium.[5][2] defeat of the superior fleet of Licinius in the Battle of the Hellespont by Crispus, Constantine's eldest son and Caesar, compelled his withdrawal to Bithynia, where a last stand was made; the Battle of Chrysopolis, near Chalcedon (18 September),[5] resulted in Licinius' final submission.[3] this conflict Licinius was supported by the Gothic prince Alica. Due to the intervention of Flavia Julia Constantia, Constantine's sister and also Licinius' wife, both Licinius and his co-emperor Martinian were initially spared, Licinius being imprisoned in Thessalonica, Martinian in Cappadocia; however, both former emperors were subsequently executed. his defeat, Licinius attempted to regain power with Gothic support, but his plans were exposed, and he was sentenced to death. While attempting to flee to the Goths, Licinius was apprehended at Thessalonica. Constantine had him hanged, accusing him of conspiring to raise troops among the barbarians.[3][11] and legacy[edit] One of a hoard of 5 or 6 identical silver plates celebrating Licinius's 10th anniversary as Emperor, discovered in Niš, Serbia and now in the British Museum in London[12] Another plate from the same hoard in the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna defeating Daza, Licinius had put to death Flavius Severianus, the son of the emperor Severus, as well as Candidianus, the son of Galerius.[3] He also ordered the execution of the wife and daughter of the Emperor Diocletian, who had fled from the court of Licinius before being discovered at Thessalonica.[3] part of Constantine's attempts to decrease Licinius's popularity, he actively portrayed his brother-in-law as a pagan supporter. This may not have been the case; contemporary evidence tends to suggest that he was at least a committed supporter of Christians at one point.[citation needed] He co-authored the Edict of Milan which ended the Great Persecution, and re-affirmed the rights of Christians in his half of the empire. He also added the Christian symbol to his armies, and attempted to regulate the affairs of the Church hierarchy just as Constantine and his successors were to do. His wife was a devout Christian.[13] It is even a possibility that he converted.[14] Eusebius of Caesarea, writing under the rule of Constantine, charges him with expelling Christians from the Palace and ordering military sacrifices to pagan gods, as well as interfering with the Church's internal procedures and organization.[15] It has been theorized that he originally supported Christians along with Constantine, but later in his life turned against them and to paganism.[14] on Licinius's death, his memory was branded with infamy; his statues were thrown down; and by edict, all his laws and judicial proceedings during his reign were abolished.[3] Martyr Severian of Sebaste, Commemorated on September 9 ; Hieromartyr Julian of Galatia, Commemorated September 13 ; Martyr Callisthene and her father Audactus of Ephesus, Commemorated on October 4; Martyr and Confessor Gurias of Edessa, Commemorated on November 15; Hieromartyr Theogenes the Bishop of Parium on the Hellespont, Commemorated on January 2; St Sylvester the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on January 2; Martyr Hermylus of Belgrade, Commemorated on January 13; Martyr Stratonicus of Belgrade, Commemorated on January 13; Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15; ANTONY, ABBOT IN EGYPT (17 JAN 356); Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17; Greatmartyr Theodore Stratelates "œthe General"Â, Commemorated on February 8; Hieromartyr Blaise the Bishop of Sebaste, Commemorated on February 11; Martyr Victor of Phrygia, Commemorated on February 18 ; St Agapitus the Confessor the Bishop of Synnada in Phrygia, Commemorated on February 18; Martyr Victor of Phrygia, Commemorated on February 18; Hieromartyr Theodotus the Bishop of Cyrenia, Commemorated on March 2; Martyr Eutropius of Amasea, Commemorated on March 3 ; 40 Holy Martyrs of Sebaste, Commemorated on March 9; Martyr Urpasianus of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 9; Martyr Alexander of Macedonia, Commemorated on March 13 ; Martyr Julian of Anazarbus, Commemorated on March 16; Virginmartyr Alexandra of Amisus, Commemorated on March 20; GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332); St Hypatius the Wonderworker and Bishop of Gangraz, Commemorated on March 31; Hieromartyr Basil the Bishop of Amasea, Commemorated on April 26; Righteous Virginmartyr Glaphyra, Commemorated on April 26; Uncovering of the relics of St Basil the Bishop of Amasea, Commemorated on April 30; Martyr Philadelphus and 18 others in Sicily, Commemorated on May 10; Martyrs of Niculitsel, Commemorated on June 4;

Rome, 311-320, Theogenes, Bishop of Parium, Hellespont, Troy, divine light when he prayed before execution
Parium: near Ephesus and near Lampsacus on the Hellenspont. Hieromartyr Theogenes the Bishop of Parium on the Hellespont, Commemorated January 2 ; Hieromartyr Theogenes was bishop of the Asia Minor city of Parion at the beginning of the fourth century. the reign of the emperor Licinius (311-324), a coruler with Constantine the Great, the tribune Zalinkinthius demanded that he give up the priesthood, to renounce Christ and to enlist in military service. he refused, Saint Theogenes was mercilessly beaten with rods and thrown into prison, where he was not allowed any food. Then they sentenced him to be drowned in the sea. Before his execution, the saint requested time to pray. he prayed, an extraordinary light shone on him. The sailors and some of the soldiers who were ordered to drown the saint were struck by the light and were converted to Christ. Other soldiers hastened to cast him into the sea. Theogenes received the unfading crown of martyrdom around the year 320. His body was later taken from the water by Christians and buried at the city walls. At this spot, numerous healings occurred.

Rome, 311-324, Hermylus&Stratonicus of Belgrade, Slavs, H mocked pagan gods, p Licinius' wounds, voice, 3 days suffer
Serbia, 311-324, Hermylus and Stratonicus of Belgrade, Serbia (Sava Mouth and Danube River 9), Slavs, H mocked pagan gods, predicted Licinius' wounds, voice heard, 3 days suffering, S cried, H&S drowned in net; Martyr Avakum the Deacon of Serbia; Martyr Hermylus of Belgrade, Commemorated January 13 ; Holy Martyrs Hermylus and Stratonicus, Slavs by origin, lived at the beginning of the fourth century during a persecution against Christians by the emperor Licinius (311-324). Saint Hermylus served as deacon in the city of Singidunum (Belgrade). Condemned by Licinius to imprisonment, he was long and cruelly tortured for Christ, but he remained unyielding. mocked the pagan gods, calling them deaf, dumb, and blind idols. In anger Licinius ordered more severe torments for him, saying that he could avoid them if he would offer sacrifice. The holy martyr predicted that Licinius would suffer terrible wounds himself because he worshiped idols instead of the Creator. His words came true, for Licinius was killed in 324. three days Hermylus was brought before the tribunal again and asked whether he would avoid more torture by offering sacrifice. The saint replied that he would offer worship and sacrifice only to the true God. Hermylus prayed that the Lord would give him strength to endure his torments and triumph over the pagans. A voice was heard saying, “Hermylus, you will be delivered from your suffering in three days, and will receive a great reward.” The torturers fell to the ground in fear, and took the saint back to prison. Stratonicus was one of the prison guards and a secret Christian. Seeing the agonizing torments of his friend, he was unable to keep from weeping, and he revealed that he was a Christian. They also subjected him to punishment. the torture, they put both martyrs into a net and threw them into the Danube. On the third day, the bodies of the saints were found by Christians on the bank of the river and buried near Singidunum. Their venerable heads were in the Church of Hagia Sophia, where the Russian pilgrim Anthony saw them in the year 1200. Martyr Stratonicus of Belgrade, Commemorated January 13 ; Holy Martyrs Hermylus and Stratonicus, Slavs by origin, lived at the beginning of the fourth century during a persecution against Christians by the emperor Licinius (311-324). Saint Hermylus served as deacon in the city of Singidunum (Belgrade). Condemned by Licinius to imprisonment, he was long and cruelly tortured for Christ, but he remained unyielding. mocked the pagan gods, calling them deaf, dumb, and blind idols. In anger Licinius ordered more severe torments for him, saying that he could avoid them if he would offer sacrifice. The holy martyr predicted that Licinius would suffer terrible wounds himself because he worshiped idols instead of the Creator. His words came true, for Licinius was killed in 324. three days Hermylus was brought before the tribunal again and asked whether he would avoid more torture by offering sacrifice. The saint replied that he would offer worship and sacrifice only to the true God. Hermylus prayed that the Lord would give him strength to endure his torments and triumph over the pagans. A voice was heard saying, “Hermylus, you will be delivered from your suffering in three days, and will receive a great reward.” The torturers fell to the ground in fear, and took the saint back to prison. Stratonicus was one of the prison guards and a secret Christian. Seeing the agonizing torments of his friend, he was unable to keep from weeping, and he revealed that he was a Christian. They also subjected him to punishment. the torture, they put both martyrs into a net and threw them into the Danube. On the third day, the bodies of the saints were found by Christians on the bank of the river and buried near Singidunum. Their venerable heads were in the Church of Hagia Sophia, where the Russian pilgrim Anthony saw them in the year 1200.

Rome, 312, Julian of Emesa, Phoenecia Segunda, skilled physician, converted many,encouraged martyrs, martyred w long nails
Syria, 312, Julian of Emesa, Syria or Phoenecia Segunda (Homs, Orontes River 2), skilled physician, converted many,encouraged martyrs, martyred w long nails; Emesa, Syria (Homs); Martyr Julian of Emesa, Commemorated on February 6 ; Holy Martyr Julian was a native of the Phoenician city of Emesa, and he suffered in the year 312 under the emperor Maximian. was a skilled physician, and healed illnesses not only of the body but also of the soul, and he converted many people to faith in Christ the Savior. they led away the holy Martyrs Bishop Silvanus, Deacon Luke and the Reader Mocius (February 29) to be eaten by wild beasts, Julian encouraged them and urged them not to fear death for the Lord. was also arrested and put to death. His head, hands and feet were pierced with long nails.

Rome, 312, Indiction, Sept 1, Church New Year, C's Cross vision, Promised Land entry, Christ's mission announcement
Byzantium, 312, Indiction, Constantine's vision of the Cross, somewhere, Church New Year; first day of the Church New Year is also called the beginning of the Indiction. The term Indiction comes from a Latin word meaning, “to impose.” It was originally applied to the imposition of taxes in Egypt. The first worldwide Indiction was in 312 when the Emperor Constantine (May 21) saw a miraculous vision of the Cross in the sky. Before the introduction of the Julian calendar, Rome began the New Year on September 1. to Holy Tradition, Christ entered the synagogue on September 1 to announce His mission to mankind (Luke 4:16-22). Quoting Isaiah 61:1-2, the Savior proclaimed, “The spirit of the Lord is upon Me; because He has anointed Me to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to proclaim release to captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord...” This scene is depicted in a Vatican manuscript (Vatican, Biblioteca. Cod. Gr. 1613, p.1). says that the Hebrews entered the Promised Land in September. Byzantine Emperor, 306-337, Constantine the Great ;

Rome, 313 and 323, Edict of Milan, freedom of religion
Edict of Milan, 313 Western Roman Empire and 323 extended to the Eastern Roman Empire; The Universal Exaltation of the Precious and Life-Giving Cross, Commemorated on September 14 ; Greatmartyr, Victory-bearer and Wonderworker George, Commemorated on April 23; Hieromartyr Basil the Bishop of Amasea, Commemorated on April 26; ATHANASIUS, BISHOP OF ALEXANDRIA, THEOLOGIAN, DOCTOR (2 MAY 373); Equal of the Apostles and Emperor Constantine with his Mother Helen, Commemorated on May 21;

Rome, 313, 40 Martyrs of Sebaste, Christian Soldiers banned to prison, psalmody, persevere voice, stones came back, More
Armenia, 313, 40 Holy Martyrs of Sebaste, Armenia (Iris River Source, Kizilirmak River 1) Constantine recognizes Christianity, Co-Ruler Pagan Licinius bans Christian Soldiers, 40 distinguished Christian Soldiers to prison, prayer and psalmody, voice to persevere, stones came back, invisible power, voice live for imperishible crowns, into lake in winter, divine light warm water, radiant crowns martyrs heads, 39 crowns b dash for warm b house, guard Aggias becomes Christian, 40th crown, 40 still alive morning, fire, bones in water, bishop Peter commanded to bury relics, 40 skylarks; Sebaste, Armenia ; 40 Holy Martyrs of Sebaste, Commemorated on March 9; the year 313 Saint Constantine the Great issued an edict granting Christians religious freedom, and officially recognizing Christianity as equal with paganism under the law. his co-ruler Licinius was a pagan, and he decided to stamp out Christianity in his part of the Empire. As Licinius prepared his army to fight Constantine, he decided to remove Christians from his army, fearing mutiny. of the military commanders of that time in the Armenian city of Sebaste was Agricola, a zealous champion of idolatry. Under his command was a company of forty Cappadocians, brave soldiers who had distinguished themselves in many battles. When these Christian soldiers refused to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods, Agricola locked them up in prison. The soldiers occupied themselves with prayer and psalmody, and during the night they heard a voice saying, “Persevere until the end, then you shall be saved.” the following morning, the soldiers were again taken to Agricola. This time the pagan tried flattery. He began to praise their valor, their youth and strength, and once more he urged them to renounce Christ and thereby win themselves the respect and favor of their emperor. days later, the renowned judge Licius arrived at Sebaste and put the soldiers on trial. The saints steadfastly answered, “Take not only our military insignia, but also our lives, since nothing is more precious to us than Christ God.” Licius then ordered his servants to stone the holy martyrs. But the stones missed the saints and returned to strike those who had thrown them. One stone thrown by Licius hit Agricola in the face, smashing his teeth. The torturers realized that the saints were guarded by some invisible power. In prison, the soldiers spent the night in prayer and again they heard the voice of the Lord comforting them: “He who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live (John 11:25). Be brave and fear not, for you shall obtain imperishable crowns.” the following day the judge repeated the interrogation in front of the torturer, but the soldiers remained unyielding. was winter, and there was a severe frost. They lined up the holy soldiers, threw them into a lake near the city, and set a guard to prevent them from coming out of the water. In order to break the will of the martyrs, a warm bath-house was set up on the shore. During the first hour of the night, when the cold had become unbearable, one of the soldiers made a dash for the bath-house, but no sooner had he stepped over the threshold, then he fell down dead. the third hour of the night, the Lord sent consolation to the martyrs. Suddenly there was light, the ice melted away, and the water in the lake became warm. All the guards were asleep, except for Aglaius, who was keeping watch. Looking at the lake he saw that a radiant crown had appeared over the head of each martyr. Aglaius counted thirty-nine crowns and realized that the soldier who fled had lost his crown. then woke up the other guards, took off his uniform and said to them, “I too am a Christian,” and he joined the martyrs. Standing in the water he prayed, “Lord God, I believe in You, in Whom these soldiers believe. Add me to their number, and make me worthy to suffer with Your servants.” Then a fortieth crown appeared over his head. the morning, the torturers saw with surprise that the martyrs were still alive, and their guard Aggias was glorifying Christ together with them. They led the soldiers out of the water and broke their legs. During this horrible execution the mother of the youngest of the soldiers, Meliton, pleaded with her son to persevere until death. put the bodies of the martyrs on a cart and committed them to fire. Young Meliton was still breathing, and they left him on the ground. His mother then picked up her son, and on her own shoulders she carried him behind the cart. When Meliton drew his last breath, his mother put him on the cart with the bodies of his fellow sufferers. The bodies of the saints were tossed in the fire, and their charred bones were thrown into the water, so that Christians would not gather them up. days later the martyrs appeared in a dream to Saint Peter, Bishop of Sebaste, and commanded him to bury their remains. The bishop together with several clergy gathered up the relics of the glorious martyrs by night and buried them with honor. is a pious custom of baking “skylarks” (pastries shaped like skylarks) on this day, because people believed that birds sing at this time to announce the arrival of spring. Forty “skylarks” are prepared in honor of the Forty Martyrs. names of the forty martyrs are: Cyrion (or Quirio), Candidus, Domnus, Hesychius, Heraclius, Smaragdus, Eunocius (Or Eunicus), Valens, Vivianus, Claudius, Priscus, Theodulus, Eutychius, John, Xanthius, Helianus, Sisinius, Aggias, Aetius, Flavius, Acacius, Ecdicius, Lysimachus, Alexander, Elias, Gorgonius, Theophilus, Dometian, Gaius, Leontuis, Athanasius, Cyril, Sacerdon, Nicholas, Valerius, Philoctimon, Severian, Chudion, Aglaius, and Meliton.

Rome, 314-335, Pope, Sylvester I, famous debate converted 120 Jews, large churches, P supremacy Legend
Roman Pope, 314-335, Pope Sylvester I ; I (also Silvester, died 31 December 335) was the bishop of Rome from 314 until his death. He was the 33rd pope of the Catholic Church.[2] filled the see of Rome at an important era in the history of the Western Church, yet very little is known of him.[3] accounts of his pontificate preserved in the seventh- or eighth-century Liber Pontificalis contain little more than a record of the gifts said to have been conferred on the church by Constantine I,[4] although it does say that he was the son of a Roman named Rufinus.[5] feast is celebrated as Saint Sylvester's Day in Western Christianity on 31 December, while Eastern Christianity commemorates it on 2 January.[6] Large churches were founded and built during Sylvester I's pontificate, including Basilica of St. John Lateran, Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem, Old St. Peter's Basilica and several churches built over the graves of martyrs.[5][7] Sylvester did not attend the First Council of Nicaea in 325, where the Nicene Creed was formulated, but he was represented by two legates, Vitus and Vincentius, and he approved the council's decision. One of the Symmachian forgeries, the Vita beati Silvestri (c. 501–508), which has been preserved in Greek and Syriac (and in Latin in the Constitutum Silvestri), is an apocryphal alleged account of a Roman council, including legends of Sylvester's close relationship with the first Christian emperor. These also appear in the Donation of Constantine.[5] after his death, the figure of Sylvester was embroidered upon in a fictional account of his relationship to Constantine, which seemed to successfully support the later Gelasian doctrine of papal supremacy, papal auctoritas (authority) guiding imperial potestas (power), the doctrine that is embodied in the forged Donation of Constantine of the eighth century. In the fiction, of which an early version is represented in the early sixth-century Symmachean forgeries emanating from the curia of Pope Symmachus (died 514), the Emperor Constantine was cured of leprosy by the virtue of the baptismal water administered by Sylvester.[8] Sylvester I and Constantine in a 1247 fresco Emperor, abjectly grateful, not only confirmed the bishop of Rome as the primate above all other bishops, he resigned his imperial insignia and walked before Sylvester's horse holding the Pope's bridle as the papal groom. Pope, in return, offered the crown of his own good will to Constantine, who abandoned Rome to the pope and took up residence in Constantinople. doctrine behind this charming story is a radical one," Norman F. Cantor observes: "The pope is supreme over all rulers, even the Roman emperor, who owes his crown to the pope and therefore may be deposed by papal decree". Such a useful legend quickly gained wide circulation; Gregory of Tours referred to this political legend in his history of the Franks, written in the 580s.[9] Sylvester II, himself a close associate of Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor, chose the name Sylvester in imitation of Sylvester I. of Saint Sylvester in the Abbey of Saint Sylvester in Nonantola the West, the liturgical feast of Saint Sylvester is on 31 December, the day of his burial in the Catacomb of Priscilla.[5] This is the last day in the year and, accordingly, in German-speaking countries and in some others close to them, New Year's Eve is known as Silvester. In some other countries, too, the day is usually referred to as Saint Sylvester's Day or the Feast of Saint Sylvester.[10] In São Paulo, Brazil, a long-distance running event called the Saint Silvester Road Race occurs every year on 31 December.[11] Sylvester I portrayed slaying a dragon and resurrecting its victims, a fresco by Maso di Banco The Donation of Constantine is a document fabricated in the second half of the eighth century, purporting to be a record by the Emperor himself of his conversion, the profession of his new faith, and the privileges he conferred on Pope Sylvester I, his clergy, and their successors. According to it, Pope Sylvester was offered the imperial crown, which, however, he refused.[12] Santu Papa Silvestru", a story in Giuseppe Pitrè's collection of Sicilian fables, recounts the legend as follows: Constantine the king wants to take a second wife, and asks Sylvester. Sylvester denies him permission, calling on heaven as witness; Constantine threatens him, and Sylvester, rather than give in, escapes into the woods. Not long after, Constantine falls ill; when he is desperate of ever regaining his health he has a dream which commands him to send for Sylvester. He obeys, and Sylvester receives Constantine's messengers in his cave and swiftly baptizes them, whereafter (having shown them several miracles) he is led back to Constantine, whom he baptizes also, and cures. In this story, Constantine and his entourage are not pagans but Jews.[13] legend has Sylvester slaying a dragon. He is often depicted with the dying beast.[14][15] St Sylvester the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on January 2;

Rome, 318-373, Athanasius the Great, led first E Council as a deacon, exiled, came back to defend the faith
Egypt, 318-373, Athanasius the Great, led first E Council as a deacon, exiled, came back to defend the faith; Alexandria; Saint Athanasius the Great, Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on January 18; Athanasius and Cyril were Archbishops of Alexandria. These wise teachers of truth and defenders of Christ’s Church share a joint Feast in recognition of their dogmatic writings which affirm the truth of the Orthodox Faith, correctly interpret the Holy Scripture, and censure the delusions of the heretics. Athanasius took part in the First Ecumenical Council when he was still a deacon. He surpassed everyone there in his zeal to uphold the teaching that Christ is consubstantial (homoousios) with the Father, and not merely a creature, as the Arians proclaimed. radiant beacon of Orthodoxy spent most of his life in exile from his See, because of the plotting of his enemies. He returned to his flock as he was approaching the end of his life. Like an evening star, he illumined the Orthodox faithful with his words for a little while, then reposed in 373. He is also commemorated on May 2 (the transfer of his holy relics).

Rome, 320, Gordius, Caes, Centurion, to Sinai, identified self as christian, tormented, beheaded
Caesurea, Cappadocia; Martyr Gordius at Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated January 3 ; Martyr Gordius was born at the end of the third century in the city of Caesarea of Cappadocia into a Christian family. he came of age, he entered military service. Because of his valor and military skill, he was made a centurion. During the persecution of Christians at the beginning of the fourth century, he left the world and settled in the Sinai desert to prepare himself for the good deed of confessing the Name of Christ the Savior. the year 320, Gordius openly appeared before the prefect of a city where pagan games were being held, and identified himself as a Christian. He was arrested, suffered terrible torments, then was beheaded.

Rome, 323-337, Emperor, Constantine the Great sole ruler of the Roman Empire
Byzantine Emperor, 306-337, Constantine the Great ; Greatmartyr Euphemia the All-praised, Commemorated on July 11 ; Venerable Onesimus of Magnesia, Commemorated on July 14 ; Martyr Julita (Ulita) of Tarsus, Commemorated on July 15 ; Venerable Pambo the Hermit of Egypt, Commemorated on July 18; MACRINA THE YOUNGER, MONASTIC AND TEACHER (19 JUL 379) ; Venerable Macrina the Sister of St Basil the Great, Commemorated on July 19 ; Martyr Eusignius of Antioch, Commemorated on August 5; Venerable Horus of the Thebaid, Egypt, Commemorated on August 7; Martyr Bassa of Edessa, and her sons, Commemorated on August 21; St Hosius the Confessor the Bishop of Cordova, Commemorated August 27 ; St Alexander the Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on August 30; 40 Women Martyrs at Heraclea, in Thrace, Commemorated on September 1; Martyr Menodora at Nicomedia, Commemorated on September 10; Commemoration of the Founding of the Church of the Resurrection (Holy Sepulchre) at Jerusalem, Commemorated on September 13; FEAST OF THE HOLY CROSS, (14 SEP 335); The Universal Exaltation of the Precious and Life-Giving Cross, Commemorated on September 14; Commemoration of the apparition of the Pillar with the Robe of the Lord under it at Mtskheta in Georgia, Commemorated on October 1; Martyr Callisthene and her father Audactus of Ephesus, Commemorated on October 4; Martyr Polychronius the Presbyter, Commemorated on October 7; Martyr Theotecnus of Antioch, Commemorated on October 10 ; St Martin the Merciful the Bishop of Tours, Commemorated on October 12 ; Greatmartyr Artemius at Antioch, Commemorated on October 20; Venerable Hilarion the Great, Commemorated on October 21; Holy, Glorious Demetrius the Myrrh-gusher of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 26; Martyr Nestor of Thessalonica, Commemorated on October 27; Hieromartyr Cyriacus the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Commemorated on October 28 ; Venerable Abramius the Recluse of Mesopotamia, Commemorated on October 29; St Marcian of Cyrrhus, Commemorated on November 2; Dedication of the Church of the Greatmartyr George in Lydia, Commemorated on November 3; St Martin the Merciful the Bishop of Tours, Commemorated on November 11; St Hypatius of Gangra, Commemorated on November 16; Hieromartyr Peter the Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on November 25; Martyr Anna, Commemorated on November 28; St John of Egypt, Commemorated on December 2; St Spyridon the Wonderworker and Bishop of Tremithus, Commemorated on December 12 ; St Niphon the Bishop of Cyprus, Commemorated on December 23; St Paul the Bishop of Neocaesarea, Commemorated on December 23; Martyr Zoticus the Keeper of Orphans, Commemorated on December 30; St. Basil the Great, Archbishop of Kaesarea in Cappadocia, Commemorated on January 1; St Emilia, the Mother of St Basil the Great, Commemorated on January 1; Martyr Gordius at Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on January 3 ; Venerable Syncletica of Alexandria, Commemorated on January 5; HILARY OF POITIERS, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (13 JANUARY 367); St James the Bishop of Nisibis, Commemorated on January 13; Venerable Theodulus, son of the Venerable Nilus of Sinai, Commemorated on January 14; ANTONY, ABBOT IN EGYPT (17 JAN 356); Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17; St Athanasius the Great the Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on January 18; Venerable Macarius of Alexandria, Commemorated on January 19; Venerable Ephraim the Syrian, Commemorated on January 28; Martyr Silvanus Bishop of Emesa, Commemorated on January 29; Hieromartyr Abramius the Bishop of Arbela in Assyria, Commemorated on February 4; St Parthenius the Bishop of Lampsacus on the Hellespont, Commemorated on February 7; Venerable Eusebius the Hermit of Syria, Commemorated on February 15; Martyr Victor of Phrygia, Commemorated on February 18 ; St Agapitus the Confessor the Bishop of Synnada in Phrygia, Commemorated on February 18; Hieromartyr Sadoc (Sadoth) the Bishop of Persia, Commemorated on February 20; St Eustathius the Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on February 21; First and second finding of the Honorable Head of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist of the Lord, John, Commemorated on February 24; Virginmartyr Piama, Commemorated on March 3; Uncovering of the Precious Cross and the Precious Nails by the Empress St Helen in Jerusalem, Commemorated on March 6; Venerable Arcadius of Cyprus, Commemorated on March 6; Hieromartyr Capiton of Cherson, Commemorated on March 7; Hieromartyr Eugene of Cherson, Commemorated on March 7; Venerable Paul the Simple and Disciple of the Venerable Anthony the Great, Commemorated on March 7; Hieromartyr Theodoritus of Antioch, Commemorated on March 8; 40 Holy Martyrs of Sebaste, Commemorated on March 9; CYRIL OF JERUSALEM, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (18 MAR 386); St Cyril the Archbishop of Jerusalem, Commemorated on March 18; St Malchus of Chalcis in Syria, Commemorated on March 26 ; Venerable John the Clairvoyant, Anchorite, of Egypt, Commemorated on March 27; Hieromartyr Mark the Bishop of Arethusa, who suffered under Julian the Apostate, Commemorated on March 29; Venerable Apollonius, Ascetic, of Egypt, Commemorated on March 31; Venerable Vitalius of Gaza, Commemorated on April 22; Martyr Theognes at Cyzicus, Commemorated on April 29; Uncovering of the relics of St Basil the Bishop of Amasea, Commemorated on April 30; ATHANASIUS, BISHOP OF ALEXANDRIA, THEOLOGIAN, DOCTOR (2 MAY 373); St Akaki Asistavi of Georgia, Commemorated on May 7; GREGORY OF NAZIANZUS, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (9 MAY 389); Blessed Isidora the Fool of Tabenna in Egypt, Commemorated on May 10; Martyr Philadelphus and 18 others in Sicily, Commemorated on May 10; Commemoration of the Founding of Constantinople, Commemorated on May 11 ; St Epiphanius the Bishop of Cyprus, Commemorated on May 12 ; St Sabinus the Archbishop of Cyprus, Commemorated on May 12; St Achilles the Bishop of Larissa, Commemorated on May 15 ; Venerable Pachomius the Great, Founder of Coenobitic Monasticism, Commemorated on May 15; The Entrance of St Nino (Nina) the Enlightener into Georgia, Commemorated on May 19; Equal of the Apostles and Emperor Constantine with his Mother Helen, Commemorated on May 21; Hieromartyr Helladius the Bishop in the East, Commemorated on May 28; St Metrophanes the first Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on June 4; Hieromartyr Dorotheus the Bishop of Tyre, Commemorated on June 5; Martyr Marcian of Egypt, Commemorated on June 5; Translation of the relics of the Greatmartyr Theodore Stratelates, Commemorated on June 8; EPHREM OF EDESSA, DEACON AND HYMN-WRITER (10 JUNE 373); Martyr Alexander at Constantinople, Commemorated on June 10; St Triphyllius the Bishop of Leucosia (Nicosia) in Cyprus, Commemorated on June 13; BASIL THE GREAT, BISHOP, THEOLOGIAN (14 JUNE 379);

Rome, 324-330, Constantinople Founding, closer Eastern Provinces, direct communication West, boundaries, when he stops
Constantinople, 324-330, Founding of Constantinople (Bosphorus Strait, Golden Horn), closer to Eastern Provinces, with direct communication to the West, tracing boundaries w spear, how long?, when he stops, divine power, pagan monuments, Christian Capital for 1000 yrs; Constantinople; Commemoration of the Founding of Constantinople, Commemorated on May 11; 324 the holy Emperor Constantine (May 21) decided that the imperial capital had to be closer to the Eastern provinces, and yet have direct communication with the West. The city of Byzantium fulfilled these requirements, and on November 8, 324 the site of the new capital was consecrated. tells us that the Emperor was tracing the boundaries of the city with a spear, when his courtiers became astonished by the magnitude of the new dimensions of the capital. “Lord,” they asked, “how long will you keep going?” replied, “I shall keep going until the one who walks ahead of me stops.” they understood that the emperor was being guided by some divine power. There is an iconographic sketch by Rallis Kopsides showing an angel of the Lord going before Saint Constantine as he traces the new boundaries of the city. of the main buildings was begun in 325, and pagan monuments from Rome, Athens, and other cities were used to beautify the new capital. The need for the new city is partially explained by the changing requirements of government, the Germanic invasion of the West, and commercial benefits, but the new city was also to be a Christian capital. For this, a new foundation was required. 330, the work had progressed to the point where it was possible for Constantine to dedicate the new capital. The dedication took place on May 11, followed by forty days of joyous celebration. Christian Constantinople was placed under the protection of the Most Holy Theotokos, and overshadowed pagan Byzantium. Saint Constantine was the first Emperor to submit voluntarily to Christ, and Constantinople became the symbol of a Christian Empire which lasted for a thousand years.

Rome, 325, St Hypatius of Gangra, killed by Novatians after 325 E Council, m relics, appeared 1330 in Ipatiev, Russia
Armenia, 325, St Hypatius of Gangra, Paphlagonia, killed by Novatians coming back from 325 E Council, m relics, appeared 1330 in Ipatiev, Russia; Gangra; St Hypatius of Gangra, Commemorated on November 16; Hypatius, Bishop of Gangra, was bishop of the city of Gangra in Paphlagonia (Asia Minor). In the year 325 he participated in the First Ecumenical Council at Nicea, at which the heresy of Arius was anathematized. Saint Hypatius was returning in 326 from Constantinople to Gangra, followers of the schismatics Novatus and Felicissimus fell upon him in a desolate place. The heretics ran him through with swords and spears, and threw him into a swamp. Like the Protomartyr Stephen, Saint Hypatius prayed for his murderers. Arian woman struck the saint on the head with a stone, killing him. The murderers hid his body in a cave, where a Christian who kept straw there found his body. Recognizing the bishop’s body, he hastened to the city to report this, and the inhabitants of Gangra piously buried their beloved archpastor. his death, the relics of Saint Hypatius were famous for numerous miracles, particularly for casting out demons and for healing the sick. of old the hieromartyr Hypatius was particularly venerated in the Russian land. Thus in the year 1330 the Ipatiev monastery was built at Kostroma, on the place where the Mother of God appeared with the Pre-eternal Christ Child, the Apostle Philip, and the hieromartyr Hypatius, Bishop of Gangra. monastery later occupied a significant place in the spiritual and social life of the nation, particularly during the Time of Troubles. ancient copies of the Life of the hieromartyr Hypatius were widely distributed in Russian literature, and one of these was incorporated into The Reading Menaion of Metropolitan Macarius (1542-1564). In this Life there is an account of the appearance of the Savior to Saint Hypatius on the eve of the martyr’s death. entry for the saint’s Feast consists of his Life, some prayers, and words of praise and instruction. The pious veneration of Saint Hypatius was also expressed in Russian liturgical compositions. During the nineteenth century a new service was written for the hieromartyr Hypatius, distinct from the services written by Saint Joseph the Studite, contained in the March Menaion.

Rome, 325-330, Achilles the Bishop of Larissa, Thessaly, denounced Arius at first council, deliverance
Greece, Thessaly, 325-330, Achilles the Bishop of Larissa, Thessaly (near Pineios River Mouth), denounced Arius at first council, deliverance ; Larissa; St Achilles the Bishop of Larissa, Commemorated on May 15; Achilles, Bishop of Larissa, lived during the fourth century, during the reign of Saint Constantine the Great. Glorified for his holiness of life and erudition, he was made Bishop of Larissa in Thessaly. Achilles participated in the First Ecumenical Council, where he boldly denounced the heretic Arius. In his city he strove to promote Christianity, destroyed idolatrous pagan temples, and he built and adorned churches. Achilles had the gift of healing sickness, especially demonic possession, and he worked many miracles. The saint died peacefully in about the year 330. His relics have remained in Prespa, in today's Republic of Macedonia, since 978.

Rome, 325-373, EPHREM OF NISIBIS, Armenia, defended Nicean faith 325, Hymnographer, by songs, commentaries, sermons
Armenia, 325-373, EPHREM OF NISIBIS, Armenia (Tigris River 3) defended Nicean faith 325, Hymnographer, by songs to spread faith, commentaries, sermons; Nisibis (Mesopotamia); EPHREM OF NISIBIS, DEACON AND HYMN-WRITER (10 JUNE 373); (or Ephren or Ephraim or Ephrain) of Edessa [or Nisibis] was a teacher, poet, orator, and defender of the Faith. English-speakers, the most familiar form of his name will be "Ephraim." It is the name of the younger son of Joseph, son of Jacob (see Genesis 41:52), and is thus the name of one of the largest of the twelve tribes of Israel.) (now Urfa), a city in modern Turkey about 100 kilometers from Antioch (now Antakya), was a an early center for the spread of Christian teaching in the East. is said that in 325 he accompanied his bishop, James of Nisibis, to the Council of Nicea. his writings are an eloquent defense of the Nicene faith in the Deity of Jesus Christ. countered the Gnostics' practice of spreading their message through popular songs by composing Christian songs and hymns of his own, with great effect. He is known to the Syrian church as "the harp of the Holy Spirit." retired to a cave outside Edessa, where he lived in great simplicity and devoted himself to writing. He frequently went into the city to preach. During a famine in 372-3 he worked distributing food to the hungry, and organizing a sort of ambulance service for the sick. He worked long hours at this, and became exhausted and sick, and so died. Of his writings there remain 72 hymns, commentaries on the Old and New Testaments, and numerous sermons. Several hymns are available at: http://www.voskrese.info/spl/XefremSyria.html Orthodox he is best known for a fasting prayer: THE PRAYER OF ST EPHRAIM THE SYRIAN O Lord and Master of my life, do not give me the spirit of laziness, meddling, self-importance and idle talk. (prostration) Instead, grace me, Your servant, with the spirit of modesty, humility, patience, and love. (prostration) Indeed, my Lord and King, grant that I may see my own faults, and not condemn my brothers and sisters, for You are blessed unto ages of ages. Amen. (prostration) (Twelve deep bows, saying each time: O God, be gracious to me, a sinner.) [Translation by Fr James Silver, Drew University; posted on the Orthodox list] by James Kiefer

Rome, 330-1453 Bryzantine Empire, Constantinople
Byzantium; Byzantine Empire; The Placing of the Honorable Robe of the Lord at Moscow, Commemorated on July 10 ; St Olga the Princess of Russia, in Holy Baptism Called Helen, Commemorated on July 11; Equal of the Apostles Great Prince Vladimir, in Holy Baptism Basil, the Enlightener of the Russian Land, Commemorated on July 15 ; Dormition of the Righteous Anna, the Mother of the Most Holy Theotokos, Commemorated on July 25; Martyr Florus of Illyria, Commemorated on August 18; Martyr Adrian of Nicomedia, Commemorated on August 26 ; Commemoration of the apparition of the Pillar with the Robe of the Lord under it at Mtskheta in Georgia, Commemorated on October 1; Venerable Nestor the Chronicler of the Kiev Caves, Commemorated on October 27 ; Princess Anna Vsevolodna, Commemorated on November 3 ; St Justinian the Emperor, Commemorated on November 14 ; ANDREW THE APOSTLE, (30 NOV NT) ; Apostle Andrew, the Holy and All-Praised First-Called, Commemorated November 30 ; Hierarch Peter, First Catholicos of Georgia, Commemorated on November 30 ; Martyr Adrian of Nicomedia; New Martyr Isaac of Georgia; Apostle Stachys of the Seventy, Commemorated October 31 ; St Justinian the Emperor; Apostle Andrew, the Holy and All-Praised First-Called, Commemorated November 30 ; Hierarch Samuel, Second Catholicos of Georgia, Commemorated on November 30 ; Martyr Eleutherius at Constantinople, Commemorated on December 15; St Florus the Bishop of Amisus, Commemorated on December 18 ; Venerable George the Scribe, of Khakhuli, Commemorated on December 19 ; Hieromartyr Euthymius the Bishop of Sardis, Commemorated on December 26 ; Venerable Marcellus the Abbot of the Monastery of the "Unsleeping Ones", Commemorated December 29 ; Apostle Stachys of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Venerable John Calabytes "œthe Hut-Dweller"Â, Commemorated on January 15; St Mark the Archbishop of Ephesus, Commemorated on January 19 ; Martyr Ashot Curapalati, King of of Artanuji, Commemorated on January 29 ; Blessed Peter the King of Bulgaria, Commemorated January 30 ; St Arsenius of Iqalto in Georgia, Commemorated on February 6; Righteous Theodora, wife of the Emperor Theophilus, the Iconoclast, Commemorated February 11; Icon of the Mother of God "Iveron", Commemorated February 12 ; Venerable Stephen (In Monasticism Simeon), the Myrrhgusher and Prince of Serbia, Commemorated on February 13; 12 Greeks who built the Dormition Cathedral in the Kiev Caves, Far Caves, Lavra, Commemorated on February 14; St Maruthas the Bishop of Martyropolis in Mesopotamia, Commemorated on February 16; Venerable Alexander the founder of the Monastery, of the "œUnsleeping Ones"Â, Commemorated on February 23; Byzantium Emperor Marcian (450-457); Hieromartyr Proterius the Patriarch of Alexandria, Commemorated on February 28; St Thomas the Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on March 21; Venerable Publius of Egypt, Commemorated on April 5 ; 120 Martyrs of Persia, Commemorated on April 6; Venerable Gregory the Byzantine, Commemorated on April 6; St Eutychius the Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on April 6 ; St George the Confessor the Bishop of Mitylene, Commemorated on April 7; St Isaac the Syrian, Abbot of Spoleto, Commemorated on April 12; Venerable Thomas the Fool of Syria, Commemorated on April 24; Martyrs of Lazeti, Commemorated on April 29; Martyr Acacius the Centurion at Byzantium, Commemorated on May 7; St Akaki Asistavi of Georgia, Commemorated on May 7; Commemoration of the Founding of Constantinople, Commemorated on May 11 ; Hieromartyr Mocius the Presbyter of Amphipolis in Macedonia, Commemorated on May 11; Martyr Alexander of Rome, Commemorated on May 13; St Euthymius of Athos the translator, Commemorated on May 13; Commemoration of the Holy Fathers of the Second Ecumenical Council, Commemorated on May 22; Martyr Lucillian and those who suffered with him at Byzantium, Commemorated on June 3; St Metrophanes the first Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on June 4; St (John) Tornike of Mt Athos, Commemorated on June 12; Appearance of the Tikhvin Icon of the Mother of God, Commemorated on June 26; Jacob Riis of WALTER RAUSCHENBUSCH, WASHINGTON GLADDEN, and JACOB RIIS, PROPHETIC WITNESSES, 1918, 1918, 1914, Commemorated July 2;

Rome, 335, Commem Resurrection Church F, after rebuilding Jerusalem, a Aelia Capitolinna, C of Tyre attends
Jerusalem, 335, Commemoration Resurrection Church Founding; Commemoration of the Founding of the Church of the Resurrection (Holy Sepulchre) at Jerusalem, Commemorated on September 13; Dedication of the Temple of the Resurrection of Christ at Jerusalem celebrates the dedication of the Church of the Resurrection, built by Saint Constantine the Great and his mother, the empress Helen. the voluntary Passion and Death on the Cross of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the holy place of His suffering was long trampled on by pagans. When the Roman emperor Titus conquered Jerusalem in the year 70, he razed the city and destroyed the Temple of Solomon on Mount Moriah, leaving there not a stone upon a stone, as even the Savior foretold (Mt.13:1-2). on the zealous pagan emperor Hadrian (117-138) built on the site of the Jerusalem destroyed by Titus a new city named Aelia Capitolina for him (Hadrian Aelius). It was forbidden to call the city by its former name. gave orders to cover the Holy Tomb of the Lord with earth and stones, and on that spot to set up an idol. On Golgotha, where the Savior was crucified, he constructed a pagan temple dedicated to the goddess Venus in 119. Before the statues they offered sacrifice to demons and performed pagan rites, accompanied by wanton acts. Bethlehem, at the place the Savior was born of the All-Pure Virgin, the impious emperor set up an idol of Adonis. He did all this intentionally, so that people would forget completely about Christ the Savior and that they would no loner remember the places where He lived, taught, suffered and arose in glory. the beinning of the reign of Saint Constantine the Great (306-337), the first of the Roman emperors to recognize the Christian religion, he and his pious mother the empress Helen decided to rebuild the city of Jerusalem. They also planned to build a church on the site of the Lord’s suffering and Resurrection, in order to reconsecrate and purify the places connected with memory of the Savior from the taint of foul pagan cults. empress Helen journeyed to Jerusalem with a large quantity of gold, and Saint Constantine the Great wrote a letter to Patriarch Macarius I (313-323), requesting him to assist her in every possible way with her task of the renewing the Christian holy places. her arrival in Jerusalem, the holy empress Helen destroyed all the pagan temples and reconsecrated the places desecrated by the pagans. She was zealous to find the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, and she ordered the excavation of the place where the temple of Venus stood. There they discovered the Sepulchre of the Lord and Golgotha, and they also found three crosses and some nails. order to determine upon which of the three crosses the Savior was crucified, Patriarch Macarius gave orders to place a dead person, who was being carried to a place of burial, upon each cross in turn. When the dead person was placed on the Cross of Christ, he immediately came alive. With the greatest of joy the empress Helen and Patriarch Macarius raised up the Life-Creating Cross and displayed it to all the people standing about. holy empress quickly began the construction of a large church which enclosed within its walls Golgotha, the place of the Crucifixion of the Savior, and the Sepulchre of the Lord, located near each other. The holy Apostle and Evangelist John wrote about this: "Now in the place where He was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had yet been laid. Therefore they laid Jesus there because of the Jewish preparation day, for the tomb was nearby" (John 19:41-42). The Church of the Resurrection was ten years in building, and the holy empress Helen did not survive to see its completion. She returned to Constantinople, and reposed in the year 327. After her arrival in Jerusalem, the holy empress built churches in Bethlehem, on the Mount of Olives, at Gethsemane and in many other places connected with the life of the Savior and events in the New Testament. construction of the church of the Resurrection, called "Martyrion" in memory of the sufferings of the Savior, was completed in the same year as the Council of Tyre, and in the thirtieth year of the reign of Saint Constantine the Great. Therefore, at the assembly of September 13, 335, the consecration of the temple was particularly solemn. Hierarchs of Christian Churches in many lands: Bythnia, Thrace, Cilicia, Cappadocia, Syria, Mesopotamia, Phoenicia, Arabia, Palestine, and Egypt, participated in the consecration of the church. The bishops who participated in the Council of Tyre, and many others, went to the consecration in Jerusalem. On this day all the city of Jerusalem was consecrated. The Fathers of the Church established September 13 as the commemoration of this remarkable event.

Rome, 335-367, HILARY of Poitiers, Gaul, the Athanasius of the West, exiled, wrote essays, sent back, persuaded Arian bishop
Gaul, 335-367, HILARY of Poitiers, Gaul (Clain River 3) the Athanasius of the West. He was bishop of Poitiers, exiled to Phrygia 357, wrote essays, sent back to Gaul, to Milan persuaded Arian bishop ; Poitiers; St Hilary the Bishop of Poitiers, Commemorated January 13 ; Hilary, the great opponent of Arianism, was born around 320. was raised as a pagan, but converted to Christianity as an adult. became Bishop of Poitiers in 350. When the emperor Constantius II attempted to impose Arianism on the western Church, Saint Hilary led a vigorous opposition to his efforts. Because of his outspoken criticism, he was exiled to Phrygia in 356. There he became such a defender and champion of Orthodoxy that the emperor decided it would be less trouble to allow him to return to his diocese. Hilary continued to fight against Arianism until his death in 368. His holy relics still rest in the cathedral bearing his name at Poitiers in France. has lent his name to the “Hilary term” of English law courts and universities, which begin on or near his Feast Day. HILARY OF POITIERS, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (13 JANUARY 367) ; of Poitiers (315-367) lived during the great controversy between Athanasius, who taught that the Son is fully God, equally with the Father, and Arius, who denied this. is sometimes called "the Athanasius of the West." He was bishop of Poitiers, when he refused to sign a condemnation of Athanasius, the Arian emperor Constantius (one of the sons of Constantine) banished him to Phrygia in 357. His exile lasted three years, during which time he wrote several essays, including On the Trinity. Finally the Emperor was forced to send him back to Gaul because he was causing such difficulties for the Arians in the East. In 364, he journeyed to Milan, where he engaged in public debate with the Arian bishop Auxentius, and persuaded him of the error of his ways.

Rome, 337-340, Emperor, Constantine II, Orthodox, Gaul, died invading Italy
Roman Emperor, 337-340, Constantine II (emperor); II (Latin: Flavius Claudius Constantinus; February 316 – 340) was Roman emperor from 337 to 340. Son of Constantine the Great and co-emperor alongside his brothers, his attempt to exert his perceived rights of primogeniture led to his death in a failed invasion of Italy in 340. St Liberius the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on August 27; AMBROSE OF MILAN, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (7 DEC 397); St Ambrose the Bishop of Milan, Commemorated on December 7; HILARY OF POITIERS, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (13 JANUARY 367); Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15; St Honoratus the Archbishop of Arles and Founder of Lerins Monastery, Commemorated on January 16 ; Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17; Hieromartyr Theodoritus of Antioch, Commemorated on March 8; St Caesarius, brother of St Gregory the Theologian, Commemorated on March 9 ; CYRIL OF JERUSALEM, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (18 MAR 386); GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332); St Hypatius the Wonderworker and Bishop of Gangraz, Commemorated on March 31; 120 Martyrs of Persia, Commemorated on April 6; Hieromartyr Zeno the Bishop of Verona, Commemorated on April 12 ; Martyr Sava the Goth of Wallachia, Commemorated on April 15; Commemoration of the Apparition of the Sign of the Precious Cross Over Jerusalem, in 351 AD, Commemorated on May 7; Venerable Theodore the Sanctified, Disciple of the Venerable Pachomius the Great, Commemorated on May 16; St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15;

Rome, 337-350, Emperor, Constans, Orthodox, Italy, Illyricum, Africa, then Gaul, u by M
Roman Emperor,;337-350, Constans; Julius Constans (c. 320 – 350) was Roman emperor from 337 to 350. He held the imperial rank of caesar from 333, and was the youngest son of Constantine the Great. After his father's death, he was made augustus alongside his brothers in September 337. Constans was given the administration of the praetorian prefectures of Italy, Illyricum, and Africa.[3] He defeated the Sarmatians in a campaign shortly afterwards.[3] In the civil war that followed, in 340 he defeated his eldest brother and co-emperor Constantine II's invasion of Italy, who was killed in battle with Constans's forces near Aquileia.[3] Constans gained from him the praetorian prefecture of Gaul.[3] Thereafter there were tensions with his remaining younger brother and co-augustus Constantius II (r. 337–361), including over the exiled bishop Athanasius of Alexandria.[3] In the following years he campaigned against the Franks and in 343 visited Roman Britain.[3] In January 350, Magnentius (r. 350–353) the commander of the Jovians and Herculians, a corps in the Roman army, was acclaimed augustus at Augustodunum (Autun) with the support of Marcellinus, the comes rei privatae.[4] Magnentius overthrew and killed Constans.[3][4] Surviving sources, possibly influenced by the propaganda of Magnentius's faction, accuse Constans of misrule and of homosexuality.[3] St Liberius the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on August 27; AMBROSE OF MILAN, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (7 DEC 397); St Ambrose the Bishop of Milan, Commemorated on December 7; HILARY OF POITIERS, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (13 JANUARY 367); Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15; St Honoratus the Archbishop of Arles and Founder of Lerins Monastery, Commemorated on January 16 ; Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17; Hieromartyr Theodoritus of Antioch, Commemorated on March 8; St Caesarius, brother of St Gregory the Theologian, Commemorated on March 9 ; CYRIL OF JERUSALEM, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (18 MAR 386); GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332); St Hypatius the Wonderworker and Bishop of Gangraz, Commemorated on March 31; 120 Martyrs of Persia, Commemorated on April 6; Hieromartyr Zeno the Bishop of Verona, Commemorated on April 12 ; Martyr Sava the Goth of Wallachia, Commemorated on April 15; Commemoration of the Apparition of the Sign of the Precious Cross Over Jerusalem, in 351 AD, Commemorated on May 7; Venerable Theodore the Sanctified, Disciple of the Venerable Pachomius the Great, Commemorated on May 16; St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15;

Rome, 337-361, Emperor, Constantius II, Greece, Thrace, Asia, Egypt, Orthodox then Arian
Roman Emperor, 324-361, Constantius II, Son of Constantine the Great ; Julius Constantius (Greek: ÎšÏ‰Î½ÏƒÏ„Î¬Î½Ï„Î¹Î¿Ï‚; 7 August 317 – 3 November 361), known as Constantius II, was Roman emperor from 337 to 361. His reign saw constant warfare on the borders against the Sasanian Empire and Germanic peoples, while internally the Roman Empire went through repeated civil wars, court intrigues and usurpations. His religious policies inflamed domestic conflicts that would continue after his death. Constantius was a son of Constantine the Great, who elevated him to the imperial rank of caesar on 8 November 324 and after whose death Constantius became augustus together with his brothers, Constantine II and Constans on 9 September 337. He promptly oversaw the massacre of his father-in-law, an uncle and several cousins, consolidating his hold on power. The brothers divided the empire among themselves, with Constantius receiving Greece, Thrace, the Asian provinces and Egypt in the east. For the following decade a costly and inconclusive war against Persia took most of Constantius's time and attention. In the meantime, his brothers Constantine and Constans warred over the western provinces of the empire, leaving the former dead in 340 and the latter as sole ruler of the west. The two remaining brothers maintained an uneasy peace with each other until, in 350, Constans was overthrown and assassinated by the usurper Magnentius. Unwilling to accept Magnentius as co-ruler, Constantius waged a civil war against the usurper, defeating him at the battles of Mursa Major in 351 and Mons Seleucus in 353. Magnentius committed suicide after the latter battle, leaving Constantius as sole ruler of the empire. In 351, Constantius elevated his cousin Constantius Gallus to the subordinate rank of caesar to rule in the east, but had him executed three years later after receiving scathing reports of his violent and corrupt nature. Shortly thereafter, in 355, Constantius promoted his last surviving cousin, Gallus' younger half-brother Julian, to the rank of caesar. As emperor, Constantius promoted Arian Christianity, persecuted pagans by banning sacrifices and closing pagan temples and issued laws discriminating against Jews. His military campaigns against Germanic tribes were successful: he defeated the Alamanni in 354 and campaigned across the Danube against the Quadi and Sarmatians in 357. The war against the Sasanians, which had been in a lull since 350, erupted with renewed intensity in 359 and Constantius traveled to the east in 360 to restore stability after the loss of several border fortresses. However, Julian claimed the rank of augustus in 360, leading to war between the two after Constantius' attempts to persuade Julian to back down failed. No battle was fought, as Constantius became ill and died of fever on 3 November 361 in Mopsuestia, naming Julian as his rightful successor before his death. St Liberius the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on August 27; AMBROSE OF MILAN, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (7 DEC 397); St Ambrose the Bishop of Milan, Commemorated on December 7; HILARY OF POITIERS, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (13 JANUARY 367); Venerable Paul of Thebes, Commemorated on January 15; St Honoratus the Archbishop of Arles and Founder of Lerins Monastery, Commemorated on January 16 ; Venerable and God-bearing Father Anthony the Great, Commemorated on January 17; Hieromartyr Theodoritus of Antioch, Commemorated on March 8; St Caesarius, brother of St Gregory the Theologian, Commemorated on March 9 ; CYRIL OF JERUSALEM, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (18 MAR 386); GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332); St Hypatius the Wonderworker and Bishop of Gangraz, Commemorated on March 31; 120 Martyrs of Persia, Commemorated on April 6; Hieromartyr Zeno the Bishop of Verona, Commemorated on April 12 ; Martyr Sava the Goth of Wallachia, Commemorated on April 15; Venerable Theodore the Sanctified, Disciple of the Venerable Pachomius the Great, Commemorated on May 16; St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15;

Rome, 336-397, St Martin of Tours, Martin the Merciful
France, 336-397, St Martin of Tours, Martin the Merciful; Tours; St Martin the Merciful the Bishop of Tours, Commemorated on October 12 ; MARTIN OF TOURS, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (11 NOV 397) ; St Martin the Merciful the Bishop of Tours, Commemorated on November 11 ;

Rome, 352-366, Pope, St Liberius, Orthodox against Arianism, defended Athanasius
Roman Pope, 352-366 , St Liberius ; St Liberius the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on August 27; Liberius the Confessor, Bishop of Rome, became Bishop of Rome in the year 352, after the death of Pope Julius. Liberius was a fervent proponent of Orthodoxy against the Arian heresy and a defender of Saint Athanasius of Alexandria (May 2). The emperor Constantius (337-361) was inclined to side with the Arians, but was not able to compel Saint Liberius to condemn Saint Athanasius. For such intransigence he was sent off to prison in Beroea (Thrace), but was soon returned to his see on the insistent petitions of the Roman people. his return, they summoned Saint Liberius to the Semi-Arian Council of Sirmium, where they forced him to sign the acts of the Council. Saint Liberius deeply repented of this later, and labored much at Rome on behalf of Orthodoxy. He died peacefully in the year 366.

Rome, 361-363, Emperor Julian the Apostate, Constantinople, C's step brother
Roman Emperor, 361-363, Julian the Apostate, Constantinople; Greatmartyr Nicetas the Goth, Commemorated on September 15; AMBROSE OF MILAN, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (7 DEC 397); St Ambrose the Bishop of Milan, Commemorated on December 7; Martyr Anthusa at Rome, Commemorated on December 8; HILARY OF POITIERS, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (13 JANUARY 367); St Honoratus the Archbishop of Arles and Founder of Lerins Monastery, Commemorated on January 16 ; Hieromartyr Theodoritus of Antioch, Commemorated on March 8; Icon œNot Made by Hands from Lydda, Commemorated on March 12; CYRIL OF JERUSALEM, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (18 MAR 386); Hieromartyr Basil of Ancyra, Commemorated on March 22; Hieromartyr Mark the Bishop of Arethusa, who suffered under Julian the Apostate, Commemorated on March 29; Martyr Cyril the Deacon of Heliopolis, who suffered under Julian the Apostate, Commemorated on March 29 ; Venerable Publius of Egypt, Commemorated on April 5 ; Venerable Publius of Egypt, Commemorated on April 5 ; Martyr Barbarus the Soldier in Morea, Commemorated on May 6; GREGORY OF NAZIANZUS, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (9 MAY 389); St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15;

Rome, 360-397, Roman Saint, Ambrose, against Arianism
Rome, 360-397, Roman Saint, Ambrose; (born Aurelius Ambrosius; c. 340 -“ 397), venerated as Saint Ambrose[a], was the Bishop of Milan, a theologian, and one of the most influential ecclesiastical figures of the 4th century. was serving as the Roman governor of Aemilia-Liguria in Milan when he was unexpectedly made Bishop of Milan in 374 by popular acclamation. As bishop, he took a firm position against Arianism and attempted to mediate the conflict between the emperor Theodosius I and the usurper Magnus Maximus. Tradition credits Ambrose with promoting "antiphonal chant", a style of chanting in which one side of the choir responds alternately to the other, as well as with composing Veni redemptor gentium, an Advent hymn. He also had notable influence on Augustine of Hippo (354-430). Christianity identified Ambrose as one of its four traditional Doctors of the Church. He is considered a saint by the Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, Anglican Communion, and various Lutheran denominations, and venerated as the patron saint of Milan. 1 Life 1.1 Early life 1.2 Bishop of Milan 1.3 Arianism 1.4 Imperial relations 1.5 Attitude towards Jews 1.6 Attitude towards pagans 1.7 Later years and death 1.8 Character 2 Theology 2.1 Giving to the poor 2.2 Mariology 3 Writings 4 Church music 5 Augustine 5.1 Reading 6 Bibliography 7 See also 8 References 8.1 Notes 8.2 Citations 8.3 Works cited 9 External links life[edit] was born into a Roman Christian family about 340 and was raised in Gallia Belgica, the capital of which was Augusta Treverorum.[3] His father is sometimes identified with Aurelius Ambrosius,[4][5] a praetorian prefect of Gaul;[6] but some scholars identify his father as an official named Uranius who received an imperial constitution dated 3 February 339 (addressed in a brief extract from one of the three emperors ruling in 339, Constantine II, Constantius II, or Constans, in the Codex Theodosianus, book XI.5).[7][8][9] mother was a woman of intellect and piety[10] and a member of the Roman family Aurelii Symmachi,[11] and thus Ambrose was cousin of the orator Quintus Aurelius Symmachus. He was the youngest of three children, who included Marcellina and Satyrus (who is the subject of Ambrose's De excessu fratris Satyri), also venerated as saints.[12] There is a legend that as an infant, a swarm of bees settled on his face while he lay in his cradle, leaving behind a drop of honey. His father considered this a sign of his future eloquence and honeyed tongue. For this reason, bees and beehives often appear in the saint's symbology. the year 354 Ambrosius, the father, died, whereupon the family moved to Rome.[13] There he studied literature, law, and rhetoric. He then followed in his father's footsteps and entered public service. Praetorian Prefect Sextus Claudius Petronius Probus first gave him a place in the council and then in about 372 made him governor of Liguria and Emilia, with headquarters at Milan.[6] In 286 Diocletian had moved the capital of the Western Roman Empire from Rome to Mediolanum (Milan). was the Governor of Aemilia-Liguria in northern Italy until 374, when he became the Bishop of Milan. Ambrose was a very popular political figure, and since he had been the Governor in the effective capital in the Roman West, he was a recognizable figure in the court of Valentinian I. of Milan[edit] the late 4th century there was a deep conflict in the diocese of Milan between the Nicene Church and Arians.[14][15] In 374 the bishop of Milan, Auxentius, an Arian, died, and the Arians challenged the succession. Ambrose went to the church where the election was to take place, to prevent an uproar, which was probable in this crisis. His address was interrupted by a call, "Ambrose, bishop!", which was taken up by the whole assembly.[15] was known to be Nicene Christian in belief, but also acceptable to Arians due to the charity shown in theological matters in this regard. At first he energetically refused the office, for which he was in no way prepared: Ambrose was neither baptized nor formally trained in theology.[6] Upon his appointment, Ambrose fled to a colleague's home seeking to hide. Upon receiving a letter from the Emperor Gratian praising the appropriateness of Rome appointing individuals evidently worthy of holy positions, Ambrose's host gave him up. Within a week, he was baptized, ordained and duly consecrated bishop of Milan. bishop, he immediately adopted an ascetic lifestyle, apportioned his money to the poor, donating all of his land, making only provision for his sister Marcellina (who had become a nun). This raised his popularity even further, giving him considerable political leverage over even the emperor. Upon the unexpected appointment of Ambrose to the episcopate, his brother Satyrus resigned a prefecture in order to move to Milan, where he took over managing the diocese's temporal affairs.[3] 383 Gratian was assassinated at Lyon, France, and Paulinus of Nola, who had served as governor of Campania, went to Milan to attend the school of Ambrose.[16] of Saint Ambrose with a scourge in Museo del Duomo, Milan. Unknown Lombard author, early 17 century. studied theology with Simplician, a presbyter of Rome.[10] Using to his advantage his excellent knowledge of Greek, which was then rare in the West, he studied the Old Testament and Greek authors like Philo, Origen, Athanasius, and Basil of Caesarea, with whom he was also exchanging letters.[17] He applied this knowledge as preacher, concentrating especially on exegesis of the Old Testament, and his rhetorical abilities impressed Augustine of Hippo, who hitherto had thought poorly of Christian preachers. the confrontation with Arians, Ambrose sought to theologically refute their propositions, which were contrary to the Nicene creed and thus to the officially defined orthodoxy. The Arians appealed to many high level leaders and clergy in both the Western and Eastern empires. Although the western Emperor Gratian supported orthodoxy, the younger Valentinian II, who became his colleague in the Empire, adhered to the Arian creed.[18] Ambrose did not sway the young prince's position. In the East, Emperor Theodosius I likewise professed the Nicene creed; but there were many adherents of Arianism throughout his dominions,[10] especially among the higher clergy. this contested state of religious opinion, two leaders of the Arians, bishops Palladius of Ratiaria and Secundianus of Singidunum, confident of numbers, prevailed upon Gratian to call a general council from all parts of the empire. This request appeared so equitable that he complied without hesitation. However, Ambrose feared the consequences and prevailed upon the emperor to have the matter determined by a council of the Western bishops. Accordingly, a synod composed of thirty-two bishops was held at Aquileia in the year 381. Ambrose was elected president and Palladius, being called upon to defend his opinions, declined. A vote was then taken and Palladius and his associate Secundianus were deposed from their episcopal offices.[10] the increasing strength of the Arians proved a formidable task for Ambrose. In 385[18] or 386 the emperor and his mother Justina, along with a considerable number of clergy and laity, especially military, professed Arianism. They demanded two churches in Milan, one in the city (the Basilica of the Apostles), the other in the suburbs (St Victor's), be allocated to the Arians.[18] Ambrose refused and was required to answer for his conduct before the council.[6][page needed] He went, his eloquence in defense of the Church reportedly overawing the ministers of Valentinian, so he was permitted to retire without making the surrender of the churches. The day following, when he was performing divine service in the basilica, the prefect of the city came to persuade him to give up at least the Portian basilica in the suburbs. As he still refused, certain deans or officers of the court were sent to take possession of the Portian basilica, by hanging up in it imperial escutcheons[18] to prepare for the arrival of the emperor and his mother at the ensuing festival of Easter.[19] spite of Imperial opposition, Ambrose declared, "If you demand my person, I am ready to submit: carry me to prison or to death, I will not resist; but I will never betray the church of Christ. I will not call upon the people to succour me; I will die at the foot of the altar rather than desert it. The tumult of the people I will not encourage: but God alone can appease it."[19] 386 Justina and Valentinian received the Arian bishop Auxentius the younger, and Ambrose was again ordered to hand over a church in Milan for Arian usage. Ambrose and his congregation barricaded themselves inside the church, and the imperial order was rescinded.[20 relations[edit] Ambrose barring Theodosius from Milan Cathedral by Anthony van Dyck. National Gallery, London. imperial court was displeased with the religious principles of Ambrose, though his aid was soon solicited by the Emperor. When Magnus Maximus usurped the supreme power in Gaul, and was meditating a descent upon Italy, Valentinian sent Ambrose to dissuade him from the undertaking, and the embassy was successful.[19] second later embassy was unsuccessful. The enemy entered Italy and Milan was taken. Justina and her son fled but Ambrose remained at his post and did good service to many of the sufferers by causing the plate of the church to be melted for their relief.[19] I, the emperor of the East, espoused the cause of Justina, and regained the kingdom. Theodosius was excommunicated by Ambrose for the massacre of 7,000 people at Thessalonica in 390,[19] after the murder of the Roman governor there by rioters.[6][page needed] - Ambrose told Theodosius to imitate David in his repentance as he had imitated him in guilt,[19] and he readmitted the emperor to the Eucharist only after several months of penance. This shows the strong position of a bishop in the western part of the empire, even when facing a strong emperor. The controversy of John Chrysostom with a much weaker emperor a few years later in Constantinople led to a crushing defeat of the bishop. 392, after the death of Valentinian II and the fall of Eugenius, Ambrose supplicated the emperor for the pardon of those who had supported Eugenius after Theodosius was eventually victorious.[19] of St. Ambrose Saint Ambrose with scourge and book, a painting in the church of San Giuseppe alla Lungara, Rome towards Jews[edit] his treatise on Abraham, Ambrose warns against intermarriage with pagans, Jews, or heretics.[21] 388, Emperor Theodosius the Great was informed that a crowd of Christians, led by their bishop, had destroyed the synagogue at Callinicum on the Euphrates. He ordered the synagogue rebuilt at the expense of the bishop,[22] but Ambrose persuaded Theodosius to retreat from this position.[23] He wrote to the Emperor, pointing out that he was thereby "exposing the bishop to the danger of either acting against the truth or of death"; in the letter "the reasons given for the imperial rescript are met, especially by the plea that the Jews had burnt many churches".[24] Ambrose, referring to a prior incident where Magnus Maximus issued an edict censuring Christians in Rome for burning down a Jewish synagogue, warned Theodosius that the people in turn exclaimed "the emperor has become a Jew", implying that if Theodosius attempted to apply the law to protect his Jewish subjects he'd be viewed similarly.[25] In the course of the letter Ambrose speaks of the clemency that the emperor had shown with regard to the many houses of wealthy people and churches that had been destroyed by unruly mobs, with many then still not restored and then adds: "There is, then, no adequate cause for such a commotion, that the people should be so severely punished for the burning of a building, and much less since it is the burning of a synagogue, a home of unbelief, a house of impiety, a receptacle of folly, which God Himself has condemned. For thus we read, where the Lord our God speaks by the mouth of the prophet Jeremiah: 'And I will do to this house, which is called by My Name, wherein ye trust, and to the place which I gave to you and to your fathers, as I have done to Shiloh, and I will cast you forth from My sight, as I cast forth your brethren, the whole seed of Ephraim. And do not thou pray for that people, and do not thou ask mercy for them, and do not come near Me on their behalf, for I will not hear thee. Or seest thou not what they do in the cities of Judah?'[Jeremiah 7:14] God forbids intercession to be made for those."[24][26] Yet, Ambrose did not oppose punishing those who were directly responsible for destroying the synagogue. his exposition of Psalm 1, Ambrose says: "Virtues without faith are leaves, flourishing in appearance, but unproductive. How many pagans have mercy and sobriety but no fruit, because they do not attain their purpose! The leaves speedily fall at the wind's breath. Some Jews exhibit purity of life and much diligence and love of study, but bear no fruit and live like leaves."[27] towards pagans[edit] article: Anti-paganism influenced by Saint Ambrose his influence, emperors Gratian, Valentinian II and Theodosius I carried on a persecution of paganism;[28][b][30][31] Theodosius issued the 391 "Theodosian decrees," which with increasing intensity outlawed pagan practices.[29][32]The Altar of Victory was removed by Gratian. Ambrose prevailed upon Gratian, Valentinian and Theodosius to reject requests to restore the altar. years and death[edit] silver urn with the body of Ambrose (with white vestments) in the crypt of Sant'Ambrose, with the skeletons of Gervase and Protase. April 393 Arbogast, magister militum of the West and his puppet Emperor Eugenius, marched into Italy to consolidate their position in regard to Theodosius I and his son, Honorius, whom Theodosius had appointed Augustus to govern the western portion of the empire. Arbogast and Eugenius courted Ambrose's support by very obliging letters; but before they arrived at Milan, he had retired to Bologna, where he assisted at the translation of the relics of Saints Vitalis and Agricola. From there he went to Florence, where he remained until Eugenius withdrew from Milan to meet Theodosius in the Battle of the Frigidus in early September 394.[33] after acquiring the undisputed possession of the Roman Empire, Theodosius died at Milan in 395, and two years later (4 April 397) Ambrose also died. He was succeeded as bishop of Milan by Simplician.[19] Ambrose's body may still be viewed in the church of Saint Ambrogio in Milan, where it has been continuously venerated“ along with the bodies identified in his time as being those of Saints Gervase and Protase. Drawing based on a statue of Saint Ambrose circumstances in the history of Ambrose are characteristic of the general spirit of the times. The chief causes of his victory over his opponents were his great popularity and the reverence paid to the episcopal character at that period. He used several indirect means to obtain and support his authority with the people.[19] was his custom to comment severely in his preaching on the public characters of his times; and he introduced popular reforms in the order and manner of public worship. It is alleged, too, that at a time when the influence of Ambrose required vigorous support, he was admonished in a dream to search for, and found under the pavement of the church, the remains of two martyrs, Gervasius and Protasius. The saints, although they would have had to have been hundreds of years old, looked as if they had just died. The applause of the people was mingled with the derision of the court party.[19] joins Augustine, Jerome, and Gregory the Great as one of the Latin Doctors of the Church. Theologians compare him with Hilary, who they claim fell short of Ambrose's administrative excellence but demonstrated greater theological ability. He succeeded as a theologian despite his juridical training and his comparatively late handling of Biblical and doctrinal subjects.[19] intense episcopal consciousness furthered the growing doctrine of the Church and its sacerdotal ministry, while the prevalent asceticism of the day, continuing the Stoic and Ciceronian training of his youth, enabled him to promulgate a lofty standard of Christian ethics. Thus we have the De officiis ministrorum, De viduis, De virginitate and De paenitentia.[19] displayed a kind of liturgical flexibility that kept in mind that liturgy was a tool to serve people in worshiping God, and ought not to become a rigid entity that is invariable from place to place. His advice to Augustine of Hippo on this point was to follow local liturgical custom. "When I am at Rome, I fast on a Saturday; when I am at Milan, I do not. Follow the custom of the church where you are."[34][35] Thus Ambrose refused to be drawn into a false conflict over which particular local church had the "right" liturgical form where there was no substantial problem. His advice has remained in the English language as the saying, "When in Rome, do as the Romans do." interpretation of Ambrose's writings is that he was a Christian universalist.[36] It has been noted that Ambrose's theology was significantly influenced by that of Origen and Didymus the Blind, two other early Christian universalists.[36] quotation cited in favor of this belief is: Our Savior has appointed two kinds of resurrection in the Apocalypse. 'Blessed is he that hath part in the first resurrection,' for such come to grace without the judgment. As for those who do not come to the first, but are reserved unto the second resurrection, these shall be disciplined until their appointed times, between the first and the second resurrection.[37] could interpret this passage as being another example of the mainstream Christian belief in a general resurrection (that both those in heaven and in hell undergo a bodily resurrection), or an allusion to purgatory (that some destined for heaven must first undergo a phase of purification). Several other works by Ambrose clearly teach the mainstream view of salvation. For example: "The Jews feared to believe in manhood taken up into God, and therefore have lost the grace of redemption, because they reject that on which salvation depends."[38] to the poor[edit] was also interested in the condition of contemporary Italian society.[39] Ambrose considered the poor not a distinct group of outsiders, but a part of the united, solidary people. Giving to the poor was not to be considered an act of generosity towards the fringes of society but a repayment of resources that God had originally bestowed on everyone equally and that the rich had usurped.[40] The theological treatises of Ambrose of Milan would come to influence Popes Damasus, Siricius and Leo XIII. Central to Ambrose is the virginity of Mary and her role as Mother of God.[41] virgin birth is worthy of God. Which human birth would have been more worthy of God, than the one in which the Immaculate Son of God maintained the purity of his immaculate origin while becoming human?[42] confess that Christ the Lord was born from a virgin, and therefore we reject the natural order of things. Because she conceived not from a man but from the Holy Spirit.[43] is not divided but one. If we adore him as the Son of God, we do not deny his birth from the virgin. ... But nobody shall extend this to Mary. Mary was the temple of God but not God in the temple. Therefore, only the one who was in the temple can be worshiped.[44] truly blessed for having surpassed the priest (Zechariah). While the priest denied, the Virgin rectified the error. No wonder that the Lord, wishing to rescue the world, began his work with Mary. Thus she, through whom salvation was being prepared for all people, would be the first to receive the promised fruit of salvation.[45] viewed celibacy as superior to marriage and saw Mary as the model of virginity.[46] Roman Saint, 367-420, Jerome ; AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (28 AUGUST 430); JEROME, SCHOLAR, TRANSLATOR, AND THEOLOGIAN (30 SEP 420); St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15;

Rome, 360-397, Bishop of Milan, Ambrose, against Arianism, antiphonal chant, Augistine of H
Northern Italy, 360-397, Bishop of Milan, Ambrose, against Arianism, antiphonal chant, Augistine of H; (born Aurelius Ambrosius; c. 340 -“ 397), venerated as Saint Ambrose[a], was the Bishop of Milan, a theologian, and one of the most influential ecclesiastical figures of the 4th century. was serving as the Roman governor of Aemilia-Liguria in Milan when he was unexpectedly made Bishop of Milan in 374 by popular acclamation. As bishop, he took a firm position against Arianism and attempted to mediate the conflict between the emperor Theodosius I and the usurper Magnus Maximus. Tradition credits Ambrose with promoting "antiphonal chant", a style of chanting in which one side of the choir responds alternately to the other, as well as with composing Veni redemptor gentium, an Advent hymn. He also had notable influence on Augustine of Hippo (354-430). Christianity identified Ambrose as one of its four traditional Doctors of the Church. He is considered a saint by the Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, Anglican Communion, and various Lutheran denominations, and venerated as the patron saint of Milan. 1 Life 1.1 Early life 1.2 Bishop of Milan 1.3 Arianism 1.4 Imperial relations 1.5 Attitude towards Jews 1.6 Attitude towards pagans 1.7 Later years and death 1.8 Character 2 Theology 2.1 Giving to the poor 2.2 Mariology 3 Writings 4 Church music 5 Augustine 5.1 Reading 6 Bibliography 7 See also 8 References 8.1 Notes 8.2 Citations 8.3 Works cited 9 External links life[edit] was born into a Roman Christian family about 340 and was raised in Gallia Belgica, the capital of which was Augusta Treverorum.[3] His father is sometimes identified with Aurelius Ambrosius,[4][5] a praetorian prefect of Gaul;[6] but some scholars identify his father as an official named Uranius who received an imperial constitution dated 3 February 339 (addressed in a brief extract from one of the three emperors ruling in 339, Constantine II, Constantius II, or Constans, in the Codex Theodosianus, book XI.5).[7][8][9] mother was a woman of intellect and piety[10] and a member of the Roman family Aurelii Symmachi,[11] and thus Ambrose was cousin of the orator Quintus Aurelius Symmachus. He was the youngest of three children, who included Marcellina and Satyrus (who is the subject of Ambrose's De excessu fratris Satyri), also venerated as saints.[12] There is a legend that as an infant, a swarm of bees settled on his face while he lay in his cradle, leaving behind a drop of honey. His father considered this a sign of his future eloquence and honeyed tongue. For this reason, bees and beehives often appear in the saint's symbology. the year 354 Ambrosius, the father, died, whereupon the family moved to Rome.[13] There he studied literature, law, and rhetoric. He then followed in his father's footsteps and entered public service. Praetorian Prefect Sextus Claudius Petronius Probus first gave him a place in the council and then in about 372 made him governor of Liguria and Emilia, with headquarters at Milan.[6] In 286 Diocletian had moved the capital of the Western Roman Empire from Rome to Mediolanum (Milan). was the Governor of Aemilia-Liguria in northern Italy until 374, when he became the Bishop of Milan. Ambrose was a very popular political figure, and since he had been the Governor in the effective capital in the Roman West, he was a recognizable figure in the court of Valentinian I. of Milan[edit] the late 4th century there was a deep conflict in the diocese of Milan between the Nicene Church and Arians.[14][15] In 374 the bishop of Milan, Auxentius, an Arian, died, and the Arians challenged the succession. Ambrose went to the church where the election was to take place, to prevent an uproar, which was probable in this crisis. His address was interrupted by a call, "Ambrose, bishop!", which was taken up by the whole assembly.[15] was known to be Nicene Christian in belief, but also acceptable to Arians due to the charity shown in theological matters in this regard. At first he energetically refused the office, for which he was in no way prepared: Ambrose was neither baptized nor formally trained in theology.[6] Upon his appointment, Ambrose fled to a colleague's home seeking to hide. Upon receiving a letter from the Emperor Gratian praising the appropriateness of Rome appointing individuals evidently worthy of holy positions, Ambrose's host gave him up. Within a week, he was baptized, ordained and duly consecrated bishop of Milan. bishop, he immediately adopted an ascetic lifestyle, apportioned his money to the poor, donating all of his land, making only provision for his sister Marcellina (who had become a nun). This raised his popularity even further, giving him considerable political leverage over even the emperor. Upon the unexpected appointment of Ambrose to the episcopate, his brother Satyrus resigned a prefecture in order to move to Milan, where he took over managing the diocese's temporal affairs.[3] 383 Gratian was assassinated at Lyon, France, and Paulinus of Nola, who had served as governor of Campania, went to Milan to attend the school of Ambrose.[16] of Saint Ambrose with a scourge in Museo del Duomo, Milan. Unknown Lombard author, early 17 century. studied theology with Simplician, a presbyter of Rome.[10] Using to his advantage his excellent knowledge of Greek, which was then rare in the West, he studied the Old Testament and Greek authors like Philo, Origen, Athanasius, and Basil of Caesarea, with whom he was also exchanging letters.[17] He applied this knowledge as preacher, concentrating especially on exegesis of the Old Testament, and his rhetorical abilities impressed Augustine of Hippo, who hitherto had thought poorly of Christian preachers. the confrontation with Arians, Ambrose sought to theologically refute their propositions, which were contrary to the Nicene creed and thus to the officially defined orthodoxy. The Arians appealed to many high level leaders and clergy in both the Western and Eastern empires. Although the western Emperor Gratian supported orthodoxy, the younger Valentinian II, who became his colleague in the Empire, adhered to the Arian creed.[18] Ambrose did not sway the young prince's position. In the East, Emperor Theodosius I likewise professed the Nicene creed; but there were many adherents of Arianism throughout his dominions,[10] especially among the higher clergy. this contested state of religious opinion, two leaders of the Arians, bishops Palladius of Ratiaria and Secundianus of Singidunum, confident of numbers, prevailed upon Gratian to call a general council from all parts of the empire. This request appeared so equitable that he complied without hesitation. However, Ambrose feared the consequences and prevailed upon the emperor to have the matter determined by a council of the Western bishops. Accordingly, a synod composed of thirty-two bishops was held at Aquileia in the year 381. Ambrose was elected president and Palladius, being called upon to defend his opinions, declined. A vote was then taken and Palladius and his associate Secundianus were deposed from their episcopal offices.[10] the increasing strength of the Arians proved a formidable task for Ambrose. In 385[18] or 386 the emperor and his mother Justina, along with a considerable number of clergy and laity, especially military, professed Arianism. They demanded two churches in Milan, one in the city (the Basilica of the Apostles), the other in the suburbs (St Victor's), be allocated to the Arians.[18] Ambrose refused and was required to answer for his conduct before the council.[6][page needed] He went, his eloquence in defense of the Church reportedly overawing the ministers of Valentinian, so he was permitted to retire without making the surrender of the churches. The day following, when he was performing divine service in the basilica, the prefect of the city came to persuade him to give up at least the Portian basilica in the suburbs. As he still refused, certain deans or officers of the court were sent to take possession of the Portian basilica, by hanging up in it imperial escutcheons[18] to prepare for the arrival of the emperor and his mother at the ensuing festival of Easter.[19] spite of Imperial opposition, Ambrose declared, "If you demand my person, I am ready to submit: carry me to prison or to death, I will not resist; but I will never betray the church of Christ. I will not call upon the people to succour me; I will die at the foot of the altar rather than desert it. The tumult of the people I will not encourage: but God alone can appease it."[19] 386 Justina and Valentinian received the Arian bishop Auxentius the younger, and Ambrose was again ordered to hand over a church in Milan for Arian usage. Ambrose and his congregation barricaded themselves inside the church, and the imperial order was rescinded.[20 relations[edit] Ambrose barring Theodosius from Milan Cathedral by Anthony van Dyck. National Gallery, London. imperial court was displeased with the religious principles of Ambrose, though his aid was soon solicited by the Emperor. When Magnus Maximus usurped the supreme power in Gaul, and was meditating a descent upon Italy, Valentinian sent Ambrose to dissuade him from the undertaking, and the embassy was successful.[19] second later embassy was unsuccessful. The enemy entered Italy and Milan was taken. Justina and her son fled but Ambrose remained at his post and did good service to many of the sufferers by causing the plate of the church to be melted for their relief.[19] I, the emperor of the East, espoused the cause of Justina, and regained the kingdom. Theodosius was excommunicated by Ambrose for the massacre of 7,000 people at Thessalonica in 390,[19] after the murder of the Roman governor there by rioters.[6][page needed] - Ambrose told Theodosius to imitate David in his repentance as he had imitated him in guilt,[19] and he readmitted the emperor to the Eucharist only after several months of penance. This shows the strong position of a bishop in the western part of the empire, even when facing a strong emperor. The controversy of John Chrysostom with a much weaker emperor a few years later in Constantinople led to a crushing defeat of the bishop. 392, after the death of Valentinian II and the fall of Eugenius, Ambrose supplicated the emperor for the pardon of those who had supported Eugenius after Theodosius was eventually victorious.[19] of St. Ambrose Saint Ambrose with scourge and book, a painting in the church of San Giuseppe alla Lungara, Rome towards Jews[edit] his treatise on Abraham, Ambrose warns against intermarriage with pagans, Jews, or heretics.[21] 388, Emperor Theodosius the Great was informed that a crowd of Christians, led by their bishop, had destroyed the synagogue at Callinicum on the Euphrates. He ordered the synagogue rebuilt at the expense of the bishop,[22] but Ambrose persuaded Theodosius to retreat from this position.[23] He wrote to the Emperor, pointing out that he was thereby "exposing the bishop to the danger of either acting against the truth or of death"; in the letter "the reasons given for the imperial rescript are met, especially by the plea that the Jews had burnt many churches".[24] Ambrose, referring to a prior incident where Magnus Maximus issued an edict censuring Christians in Rome for burning down a Jewish synagogue, warned Theodosius that the people in turn exclaimed "the emperor has become a Jew", implying that if Theodosius attempted to apply the law to protect his Jewish subjects he'd be viewed similarly.[25] In the course of the letter Ambrose speaks of the clemency that the emperor had shown with regard to the many houses of wealthy people and churches that had been destroyed by unruly mobs, with many then still not restored and then adds: "There is, then, no adequate cause for such a commotion, that the people should be so severely punished for the burning of a building, and much less since it is the burning of a synagogue, a home of unbelief, a house of impiety, a receptacle of folly, which God Himself has condemned. For thus we read, where the Lord our God speaks by the mouth of the prophet Jeremiah: 'And I will do to this house, which is called by My Name, wherein ye trust, and to the place which I gave to you and to your fathers, as I have done to Shiloh, and I will cast you forth from My sight, as I cast forth your brethren, the whole seed of Ephraim. And do not thou pray for that people, and do not thou ask mercy for them, and do not come near Me on their behalf, for I will not hear thee. Or seest thou not what they do in the cities of Judah?'[Jeremiah 7:14] God forbids intercession to be made for those."[24][26] Yet, Ambrose did not oppose punishing those who were directly responsible for destroying the synagogue. his exposition of Psalm 1, Ambrose says: "Virtues without faith are leaves, flourishing in appearance, but unproductive. How many pagans have mercy and sobriety but no fruit, because they do not attain their purpose! The leaves speedily fall at the wind's breath. Some Jews exhibit purity of life and much diligence and love of study, but bear no fruit and live like leaves."[27] towards pagans[edit] article: Anti-paganism influenced by Saint Ambrose his influence, emperors Gratian, Valentinian II and Theodosius I carried on a persecution of paganism;[28][b][30][31] Theodosius issued the 391 "Theodosian decrees," which with increasing intensity outlawed pagan practices.[29][32]The Altar of Victory was removed by Gratian. Ambrose prevailed upon Gratian, Valentinian and Theodosius to reject requests to restore the altar. years and death[edit] silver urn with the body of Ambrose (with white vestments) in the crypt of Sant'Ambrose, with the skeletons of Gervase and Protase. April 393 Arbogast, magister militum of the West and his puppet Emperor Eugenius, marched into Italy to consolidate their position in regard to Theodosius I and his son, Honorius, whom Theodosius had appointed Augustus to govern the western portion of the empire. Arbogast and Eugenius courted Ambrose's support by very obliging letters; but before they arrived at Milan, he had retired to Bologna, where he assisted at the translation of the relics of Saints Vitalis and Agricola. From there he went to Florence, where he remained until Eugenius withdrew from Milan to meet Theodosius in the Battle of the Frigidus in early September 394.[33] after acquiring the undisputed possession of the Roman Empire, Theodosius died at Milan in 395, and two years later (4 April 397) Ambrose also died. He was succeeded as bishop of Milan by Simplician.[19] Ambrose's body may still be viewed in the church of Saint Ambrogio in Milan, where it has been continuously venerated“ along with the bodies identified in his time as being those of Saints Gervase and Protase. Drawing based on a statue of Saint Ambrose circumstances in the history of Ambrose are characteristic of the general spirit of the times. The chief causes of his victory over his opponents were his great popularity and the reverence paid to the episcopal character at that period. He used several indirect means to obtain and support his authority with the people.[19] was his custom to comment severely in his preaching on the public characters of his times; and he introduced popular reforms in the order and manner of public worship. It is alleged, too, that at a time when the influence of Ambrose required vigorous support, he was admonished in a dream to search for, and found under the pavement of the church, the remains of two martyrs, Gervasius and Protasius. The saints, although they would have had to have been hundreds of years old, looked as if they had just died. The applause of the people was mingled with the derision of the court party.[19] joins Augustine, Jerome, and Gregory the Great as one of the Latin Doctors of the Church. Theologians compare him with Hilary, who they claim fell short of Ambrose's administrative excellence but demonstrated greater theological ability. He succeeded as a theologian despite his juridical training and his comparatively late handling of Biblical and doctrinal subjects.[19] intense episcopal consciousness furthered the growing doctrine of the Church and its sacerdotal ministry, while the prevalent asceticism of the day, continuing the Stoic and Ciceronian training of his youth, enabled him to promulgate a lofty standard of Christian ethics. Thus we have the De officiis ministrorum, De viduis, De virginitate and De paenitentia.[19] displayed a kind of liturgical flexibility that kept in mind that liturgy was a tool to serve people in worshiping God, and ought not to become a rigid entity that is invariable from place to place. His advice to Augustine of Hippo on this point was to follow local liturgical custom. "When I am at Rome, I fast on a Saturday; when I am at Milan, I do not. Follow the custom of the church where you are."[34][35] Thus Ambrose refused to be drawn into a false conflict over which particular local church had the "right" liturgical form where there was no substantial problem. His advice has remained in the English language as the saying, "When in Rome, do as the Romans do." interpretation of Ambrose's writings is that he was a Christian universalist.[36] It has been noted that Ambrose's theology was significantly influenced by that of Origen and Didymus the Blind, two other early Christian universalists.[36] quotation cited in favor of this belief is: Our Savior has appointed two kinds of resurrection in the Apocalypse. 'Blessed is he that hath part in the first resurrection,' for such come to grace without the judgment. As for those who do not come to the first, but are reserved unto the second resurrection, these shall be disciplined until their appointed times, between the first and the second resurrection.[37] could interpret this passage as being another example of the mainstream Christian belief in a general resurrection (that both those in heaven and in hell undergo a bodily resurrection), or an allusion to purgatory (that some destined for heaven must first undergo a phase of purification). Several other works by Ambrose clearly teach the mainstream view of salvation. For example: "The Jews feared to believe in manhood taken up into God, and therefore have lost the grace of redemption, because they reject that on which salvation depends."[38] to the poor[edit] was also interested in the condition of contemporary Italian society.[39] Ambrose considered the poor not a distinct group of outsiders, but a part of the united, solidary people. Giving to the poor was not to be considered an act of generosity towards the fringes of society but a repayment of resources that God had originally bestowed on everyone equally and that the rich had usurped.[40] The theological treatises of Ambrose of Milan would come to influence Popes Damasus, Siricius and Leo XIII. Central to Ambrose is the virginity of Mary and her role as Mother of God.[41] virgin birth is worthy of God. Which human birth would have been more worthy of God, than the one in which the Immaculate Son of God maintained the purity of his immaculate origin while becoming human?[42] confess that Christ the Lord was born from a virgin, and therefore we reject the natural order of things. Because she conceived not from a man but from the Holy Spirit.[43] is not divided but one. If we adore him as the Son of God, we do not deny his birth from the virgin. ... But nobody shall extend this to Mary. Mary was the temple of God but not God in the temple. Therefore, only the one who was in the temple can be worshiped.[44] truly blessed for having surpassed the priest (Zechariah). While the priest denied, the Virgin rectified the error. No wonder that the Lord, wishing to rescue the world, began his work with Mary. Thus she, through whom salvation was being prepared for all people, would be the first to receive the promised fruit of salvation.[45] viewed celibacy as superior to marriage and saw Mary as the model of virginity.[46] St Monica, Commemorated on May 4; Saint Bassian, Bishop of Lodi in Lombardy, Commemorated on June 10; AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (28 AUGUST 430);

Rome, 364-378, Emperor, Valentian I in the West, Orthodox, last great western emperor
Roman Emperor, 364-378, Valentian I in the West ; Valentinian I (Latin: Flavius Valentinianus; 3 July 321 -“ 17 November 375), also known as Valentinian the Great,[2][3][4][5] was Roman emperor from 364 to 375. Upon becoming emperor he made his brother Valens his co-emperor, giving him rule of the eastern provinces while Valentinian retained the west. his reign, Valentinian fought successfully against the Alamanni, Quadi, and Sarmatians. Most notable was his victory over the Alamanni in 367 at the Battle of Solicinium. His brilliant general Count Theodosius defeated a revolt in Africa and the Great Conspiracy, a coordinated assault on Roman Britain by Picts, Scots, and Saxons. Valentinian was also the last emperor to conduct campaigns across both the Rhine and Danube rivers. Valentinian rebuilt and improved the fortifications along the frontiers, even building fortresses in enemy territory. to the successful nature of his reign and the rapid decline of the empire after his death, he is often considered to be the "last great western emperor". He founded the Valentinianic dynasty, with his sons Gratian and Valentinian II succeeding him in the western half of the empire. AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (28 AUGUST 430) ; Greatmartyr Nicetas the Goth, Commemorated on September 15; AMBROSE OF MILAN, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (7 DEC 397); St Ambrose the Bishop of Milan, Commemorated on December 7; Martyr Anthusa at Rome, Commemorated on December 8; St Honoratus the Archbishop of Arles and Founder of Lerins Monastery, Commemorated on January 16 ; St Paulinus the Merciful the Bishop of Nola, Commemorated on January 23; Martyr Bathusius in the Crimea, Commemorated on March 26; Hieromartyr Zeno the Bishop of Verona, Commemorated on April 12 ; St Epiphanius the Bishop of Cyprus, Commemorated on May 12 ; St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15;

Rome, 364-378, Emperor, Valens in the East, Arian, died and lost to Goths at Adrianople, bad g, good a
Roman Emperor, 364-375, Valens in the East ; Valens (328 -“ 9 August 378) was Roman emperor from 364 to 378. He was the younger brother of the emperor Valentinian I, who gave Valens the eastern half of the Roman Empire to rule. Before 364, Valens had a largely unremarkable military career. In 378, Valens was defeated and killed at the Battle of Adrianople against the invading Goths, which astonished contemporaries and marked the beginning of barbarian encroachment into Roman territory. emperor Valens continually faced threats both internal and external.[6] He defeated, after some dithering, the usurper Procopius in 366, and campaigned against the Goths across the Danube in 367 and 369. In the following years, Valens focused on the eastern frontier, where he faced the perennial threat of Persia, particularly in Armenia, as well as additional conflicts with the Saracens and Isaurians. Domestically, he inaugurated the Aqueduct of Valens in Constantinople, which was longer than all the aqueducts of Rome. In 376-77, the Gothic War broke out, following a mismanaged attempt to settle the Goths in the Balkans. Valens returned from the east to fight the Goths in person, but lack of coordination with his nephew, the western emperor Gratian (Valentinian I's son), as well as poor battle tactics, led to Valens and much of the eastern Roman army dying at a battle near Adrianople in 378. Valens is described as indecisive, impressionable, a mediocre general and overall "utterly undistinguished", he was also a conscientious and capable administrator,[7] and a notable achievement of his was to significantly relieve the burden of taxation on the population.[8] At the same time, his suspicious and fearful disposition, and excessive concern for personal safety, resulted in numerous treason trials and executions, which heavily stained his reputation. Valens was a Arian Christian “ (the last Roman emperor to profess this denomination)“ and unenthusiastically persecuted eastern Catholics while interfering little in the affairs of the pagans.[8][9] AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (28 AUGUST 430) ; Greatmartyr Nicetas the Goth, Commemorated on September 15; AMBROSE OF MILAN, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (7 DEC 397); St Ambrose the Bishop of Milan, Commemorated on December 7; Martyr Anthusa at Rome, Commemorated on December 8; St Honoratus the Archbishop of Arles and Founder of Lerins Monastery, Commemorated on January 16 ; Martyr Bathusius in the Crimea, Commemorated on March 26; Hieromartyr Zeno the Bishop of Verona, Commemorated on April 12 ; St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15;

Rome, 366-384, Pope, Damasus I, presided over canon of scripture, encouraged Vulgate and martyr veneration
Pope, 366-384, Pope Damasus I; I (c. 305 - 11 December 384) was the bishop of Rome from October 366 to his death. presided over the Council of Rome of 382 that determined the canon or official list of sacred scripture.[1] He spoke out against major heresies in the church (including Apollinarianism and Macedonianism) and encouraged production of the Vulgate Bible with his support for Jerome. He helped reconcile the relations between the Church of Rome and the Church of Antioch, and encouraged the veneration of martyrs. well as various prose letters and other pieces Damasus was the author of Latin verse. Alan Cameron describes his epitaph for a young girl called Projecta (of great interest to scholars as the Projecta Casket in the British Museum may have been made for her) as "a tissue of tags and clichés shakily strung together and barely squeezed into the meter".[2] Damasus has been described as "the first society Pope",[3] and was possibly a member of a group of Spanish Christians, largely related to each other, who were close to the Spaniard Theodosius I.[4] number of images of "DAMAS" in gold glass cups probably represent him and seem to be the first contemporary images of a pope to survive, though there is no real attempt at a likeness. "Damas" appears with other figures, including a Florus who may be Projecta's father. It has been suggested that Damasus or another of the group commissioned and distributed these to friends or supporters, as part of a programme "insistently inserting his episcopal presence in the Christian landscape".[5] is recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church; his feast day is 11 December.[6] In the Eastern Orthodox Church his feast day is 13 November.[7] JEROME, SCHOLAR, TRANSLATOR, AND THEOLOGIAN (30 SEP 420); Venerable Arsenius the Great, Commemorated on May 8; St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15;

Rome, 367-420, Roman Saint, Jerome, scholar, translator, theologian
Roman Saint, 367-420, Jerome ; AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (28 AUGUST 430); JEROME, SCHOLAR, TRANSLATOR, AND THEOLOGIAN (30 SEP 420); was the foremost biblical scholar of the ancient Church. His translation of the Bible, along with his commentaries and homilies on the biblical books, have made him a major intellectual force in the Western Church. was born in about 347, and was converted and baptized during his student days in Rome. a visit to Trier, he found himself attracted to the monastic life, which he tested in a brief but unhappy experience as a hermit in the deserts of Syria. Antioch, he continued his studies in Hebrew and Greek. In 379, he went to Constantinople where he studied under Gregory of Nazianzus. 382 to 384 he was secretary to Pope Damasus I, and spiritual director of many noble Roman ladies who were becoming interested in the monastic life. It was Damasus who set him the task of making a new translation of the Bible into Latin -- into the popular form of the language, hence the name of the translation: the Vulgate. the death of Damasus, Jerome returned to the East, and established a monastery at Bethlehem, where he lived and worked until his death on 30 September 420. is best known as the translator of the Bible into Latin. A previous version (now called the Old Latin) existed, but Jerome's version far surpassed it in scholarship and in literary quality. was well versed in classical Latin (as well as Greek and Hebrew), but deliberately translated the Bible into the style of Latin that was actually spoken and written by the majority of persons in his own time. This kind of Latin is known as Vulgate Latin (meaning the Latin of the common people), and accordingly Jerome's translation is called the Vulgate. Vulgate Latin is classical Latin in the first stages of evolving into such modern languages as Spanish, French, and Italian. It has begun the process of changing from an inflected language (in which words have various endings, or inflections, which are used to show the relation of the word to other words in the sentence) to a separate-word language like English (in which additional words, such as prepositions, are used, along with word order, to show the function of the word). Thus, in classical Latin, "He spoke to me," is dix it mihi or mihi dixit, but in Vulgate Latin it is dixit ad me. In the second century BC, Jewish scholars in Alexandria, Egypt, had translated the Hebrew Scriptures into Greek. Tradition had it that this translation was the work of 70 (or 72) scholars, and accordingly the result was known as the Septuagint (often written as LXX). The LXX contains six or more books (there is some leeway here) not found in the standard Hebrew text, known as the Masoretic Text (or MT), and sometimes reads differently from the MT in particular verses. New Testament writers, except for Matthew, when they are quoting the Old Testament, usually quote from the LXX. The differences in readings between the MT and the LXX were formerly explained by assuming that the LXX translators were sometimes not very good translators. very ancient Hebrew manuscripts of the Bible, recently found at Qumran and elsewhere, often agree with the LXX against the MT. Accordingly, it is now generally supposed that the LXX is a fairly accurate translation of Hebrew manuscripts available at the time, and that sometimes the manuscripts that the LXX translators worked from differed from the manuscripts that became the basis for the standardized Hebrew text that we know today. The early Christians, most of whom knew Greek but not Hebrew, were accustomed to use the LXX as their version of the Old Testament Scriptures. (So, for that matter, did most Jews living in the Roman Empire outside of the land of Israel itself.) Old Latin translation had been made from the Greek. But Jerome was determined to make his translation from the Hebrew, partly because he considered it to be more accurate, and partly because he wanted a text that he could use as a basis for argument with Jewish opponents, without having them object, "But that is not what the Hebrew text says." a translation from the Hebrew, he ran into a difficulty with the Psalms. They were used regularly in public and private worship, and many Christians knew them well enough to notice and resent any radical changes from the wording they had always used. So Jerome translated the Psalms from the Greek, and salved his scholarly feelings by publishing a translation of the Psalms from the Hebrew in an Appendix. The history of the Psalms in English is in some ways similar. 1611, the King James Version of the Bible was published, and generally accepted by English-speakers. However, the Psalms in English were already an established part of public worship in the Coverdale translation of 1536 or thereabouts. For roughly 75 years worshippers in England had been reading, saying, singing, or chanting the Psalms in the Coverdale translation (also called the Prayer Book Version). Their response to the Psalms in the King James Version was: "What is this nonsense! Take away this new-fangled modern translation, and leave me to recite the Psalms in the good old-fashioned version that I learned at the knee of my dear old silver-haired mother, the most magnificent version that the pen of man has ever written, the version that has comforted and sustained me all the days of my life." So, when you attend an Anglican funeral, and you hear the choir chanting, The LORD is my shepherd, therefore can I lack nothing. He shall feed me in a green pasture, and lead me forth beside the waters of comfort. are hearing the Coverdale Psalter. And for some of us, at least, it is a great tree, deeply rooted in the soil of English Christianity, and full of complex associations that make reading it a deeply moving experience. (I have heard rumors that there are versions of the Psalter used in some circles, that are even more modern and trendy than the King James. Hmmph!) was intemperate in controversy, and any correspondence with him tended to degenerate into a flame war. (His friendship with Augustine, conducted by letter, nearly ended before it began. Fortunately Augustine sized him up correctly, soothed his feelings, and was extremely tactful thereafter.) His hot temper, pride of learning, and extravagant promotion of asceticism involved him in many bitter controversies over questions of theology and of Bible interpretation. However, he was candid at times in admitting his failings, and was never ambitious for either worldly or churchly honors. He was a militant champion of orthodoxy, a tireless worker, and a scholar of rare gifts. by James Kiefer Martyr Pamphilius the Presbyter at Caesarea, in Palestine, Commemorated on February 16; St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15; Jerome of Stridon was born into a Christian family in the city of Stridon located on the border between Dalmatia and Pannonia. full name is Eusebius Hieronymos Sophronius. His parents sent him to Rome, where he studied the secular sciences. At the beginning of his life in the capital, the youth was captivated by worldly vanities and fell into temptation. At the end of his time in Rome, Jerome resolved to change his life and to live in goodness and purity. the youth was about 20 years old, he accepted holy Baptism. After this he visited in Gaul (France). Then Saint Jerome decided to dedicate himself totally to God, and to become a monk. about the year 372 Saint Jerome returned to his native city, but his parents had already departed this life. On him fell the responsibility of raising his younger sisters and his brother Paulinian. These cares forced him to put aside his plans to enter a monastery, at least for a time. made arrangements for the care of his siblings, he journeyed to the East with several of his friends. 374, he decided to dwell in the desert of Chalcis southeast of Antioch. There he remained for about 5 years, combining work on the Holy Scriptures with austere ascetic deeds. Besides this, Saint Jerome mastered the Hebrew and Chaldean languages. this period he began his correspondence with numerous persons upon a variety of questions. About 120 letters, considered as authentically written by Saint Jerome, have been preserved. the beginning of the 360s there arose a controversy between the proponents of bishops Meletius, Paulinos and Vitalis. The controversy also reached the monastery where Saint Jerome toiled. In consequence, the disputes caused him to leave the monastery and go to Antioch. Here Bishop Paulinos ordained him to the priesthood. Saint Jerome visited Constantinople and conversed with the holy hierarchs Gregory the Theologian and Gregory of Nyssa the year 381 he set off for Rome. At Rome he continued his studies. The holy Pope Damasus I (366-384), who also devoted much of his time to the study of Holy Scripture, made Jerome his secretary. because the saint denounced the morals of the contemporary Christian society, a whole party of those bearing malice towards the saint came forward to spread slanders about him. a three year stay at Rome, Saint Jerome felt compelled to abandon this city for good. Together with his brother Paulinian and friends, Saint Jerome visited the Holy Land, and also the monks of the Nitria wilderness monastery. the year 386 he settled into a cave at Bethlehem near the cave where Christ was born, and there he began a life of austere asceticism. was the period of blossoming of his creative activity. Attending to the studies of his time, Saint Jerome left to the Church a rich written legacy: collections of dogmatic-polemic works, moral-ascetic works, commentaries on Scripture, and historical works. the most important of his works was a new translation the books of the Old and New Testaments into the Latin language. This Latin translation is called the “Vulgate,” and it passed into general use throughout the Western Church. Jerome lived through the fall of his beloved city Rome, which was sacked by the Goths in the year 410. In the year 411 a new ordeal beset the saint, Bethlehem was invaded by wild Bedouin Arabs. Only through the mercy of God was the community of the aged ascetic saved from complete destruction. He finished his life at the cave in Bethlehem. Saint Jerome is believed to have reposed in 420. relics were transferred from Bethlehem to Rome in 642, but their present location is unknown. His hand is enshrined in a church near Rome’s Piazza Farnese.

Rome, 374-430, Saint Augustine, Hippo, Rome, Milan, western theologian, Mani, Gnostic, reason vs authority, Ambrose
Rome, 374-430, Saint Augustine of Hippo; (Aurelius Augustinus) was one of the greatest theologians of Western Christianity. (In his day the Mediterranean world consisted of an Eastern, Greek-speaking half and a Western, Latin-speaking half, with different ways of looking at things, and different habits of thought.) was born 13 November 354 in North Africa, about 45 miles south of the Mediterranean, in the town of Tagaste in Numidia (now Souk-Ahras in Algeria), near ancient Carthage (modern Tunis). mother, Monnica, was a Christian (see 4 May), and his father for many years a pagan (although he became a Christian before his death). mother undertook to bring him up as a Christian, and on one level he always found something attractive about Christ, but in the short run he was more interested in the attractions of sex, fame, and pride in his own cleverness. a moderate amount of running around as a teen-ager, he took a mistress, who bore him a son when he was about eighteen. Theirs was a long-term relationship, apparently with faithfulness on both sides, and the modern reader is left wondering why he did not simply marry the girl. He never tells us this (and in fact never tells us her name), so that we can only guess. It seems likely that she was a freedwoman, and the laws forbade marriage between a free-born Roman citizen and a slave, or an ex-slave. he was 19 and a student at Carthage, he read a treatise by Cicero that opened his eyes to the delights of philosophy. He was from the beginning a brilliant student, with an eager intellectual curiosity, but he never mastered Greek -- he tells us that his first Greek teacher was a brutal man who constantly beat his students, and Augustine rebelled and vowed never to learn Greek. By the time he realized that he really needed to know Greek, it was too late; and although he acquired a smattering of the language, he was never really at home in it. However, his mastery of Latin was another matter. He became an expert both in the eloquent use of the language and in the use of clever arguments to make his points. became a teacher of rhetoric in Carthage, but was dissatisfied. It was the custom for students to pay their fees to the professor on the last day of the term, and many students attended faithfully all term, and then did not pay. In his late twenties, Augustine decided to leave Africa and seek his fortune in Rome. Augustine teaching in Rome, by Gozzoli Augustine teaching in Rome, by Gozzoli a long time Augustine was attracted by the teachings of Manicheeism, named for Mani, a Persian who had preached kind of synthesis of Christianity with Zoroastrianism, the dominant religion of Persia. Zoroaster had taught the existence of a power of light, God, the supreme Creator, and of a dark and evil power that opposed him. On the Zoroastrian (Parsi) view, the dark power was a rebel against his creator, and doomed to ultimate defeat. Mani, on the other hand, was a thoroughgoing dualist, who taught that there are two gods of equal power and eternity, and that the universe is the scene of an unending battle between light and darkness, good and evil, knowledge and ignorance, soul and body, etc. Manichees as they moved west into the Roman Empire adopted many traits of what is generically called Gnosticism. In particular, they advertised themselves as being not an alternative to Christianity but as the advanced version of Christianity, as the faith for the spiritually mature, the intellectually gifted. They claimed that their beliefs were based on reason rather than authority, and that they had answers for everything, at least as soon as the learner was sufficiently advanced to comprehend them. differed from the classical Gnostics by not contrasting spirit with matter. On their view, everything was composed of material particles, but these were either light or dark. Since the mind was composed of light particles, imprisoned in the body, a cage made of dark particles, something like the Gnostic contrast between spirit and matter was there. Members were divided into an inner circle, the "elect," who were expected to be celibate and vegetarian, so as to avoid all those dark particles, and the "learners," of whom considerably less was expected. Augustine signed up as a learner. He was at first completely captivated, but then met with a series of disappointments. The rank and file of the movement did not seem to be very clear thinkers. He met the leaders, who were advertised as the Towering Intellects of the Ages, and was not impressed. prospered in Rome, and was eventually appointed chief professor of rhetoric for the city of Milan, at that time the capital city of the Empire in the West. It should be noted that this was an extremely prestigious appointment. In classical times, when laws were often made and issues voted on by huge public assemblies, when even juries typically had several hundred members, and when a man's public influence, or even on occasion his life, depended on his ability to sway large audiences, rhetoric -- the art of manipulating an audience -- was a skill that few men thought they could afford to neglect. (Socrates was one of the few, and we know what happened to him!) The art, at first intensely practical, had by Augustine's day become a display form admired for its own sake. However, the admiration was there. Every lawyer, arguing a case, was expected to give an eloquent speech, full of classical allusions and standard rhetorical flourishes. And Augustine was at the top of the field. St. Augustine entering Milan, by Gozzoli St. Augustine entering Milan, by Gozzoli Milan Augustine met the bishop Ambrose, and was startled to find in him a reasonableness of mind and belief, a keenness of thought, and an integrity of character far in excess of what he had found elsewhere. For the first time, Augustine saw Christianity as a religion fit for a philosopher. Soon after his arrival in Milan, Augustine was plunged into two crises. First, his mother arrived from Africa, and persuaded him that he ought to give up his mistress and get married. He agreed to a betrothal to a suitable young lady; but his betrothed was too young for immediate marriage, and so the actual wedding was postponed for two years. Meanwhile the mistress had been sent back to Africa. Augustine, not ready for two years of sexual abstinence, lapsed back into promiscuity. The second crisis was that Augustine became a neo-Platonist. Plato, as interpreted by his later spokesmen, in particular by Plotinus, taught that only God is fully real, and that all other things are degenerations in varying degrees from the One--things are progressively less good, less spiritual, and less real as one goes rung by rung down the cosmic ladder. By contemplating spiritual realities, directing one's attention first to one's own mind and then moving up the ladder rung by one to the contemplation of God, one acquires true wisdom, true self-fulfilment, true spirituality, and union with God, or the One. Augustine undertook this approach, and believed that he had in fact had an experience of the presence of God, but found that this only made him more aware of the gulf between what he was and what he realized that he ought to be. he continued to hear Bishop Ambrose. And finally, partly because Ambrose had answers for his questions, partly because he admired Ambrose personally, and chiefly (or so he believed) because God touched his heart, he was converted to Christianity in 386 and was baptised by Ambrose at Easter of 387. About 12 years later he wrote an account of his life up to a time shortly after his conversion, a book called the Confessions, a highly readable work available in English. Ostensibly an autobiography, it is more an outpouring of penitence and thanksgiving. "Take and Read", by Gozzoli "Take and Read", by Gozzoli a well-known chapter, Augustine describes his conversion. His intellectual objections had lost their force, and he was at a point where the difficulty was that he seemed unable to make a commitment to living chastely, or unable to make a commitment, period. He heard of a group of young men, Christians, one of whom decided to become a desert hermit, whereupon the others, one at a time, made the same commitment, encouraged and inspired by the examples of those in the group who had already done so. (In many circles at that time, becoming a desert hermit had the same overtones as joining the Peace Corps did for many young persons in the 1960's, or joining the armed forces for many in the weeks immediately after the attack on Pearl Harbor.) Augustine went aside to ponder the question, "How is it that these young men can make so drastic a commitment, and I cannot take even the first step of declaring myself a Christian?" He heard what seemed to be a child's voice coming from next door, saying over and over, "Tolle, lege; tolle, lege," or, "Pick up and read; pick up and read." Since he could not think of any reason why a child would be saying that, he took it as an omen, and picked up a copy of Paul's Epistle to the Romans. As he opened it, his eye fell on the end of the thirteenth chapter: The night is far gone, the day is at hand. Let us then cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light; let us conduct ourselves becomingly as in the day, not in reveling and drunkenness, not in debauchery and licentiousness, not in quarreling and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires. he read, he experienced this as God speaking directly to him, convicting him of his past sins, and offering him forgiveness; calling him to amend his life, and promising him the grace and power to do it. He burst into tears, and surrendered. Later, he wrote: Late have I loved Thee, O Lord; and behold, Thou wast within and I without, and there I sought Thee. Thou was with me when I was not with Thee. Thou didst call, and cry, and burst my deafness. Thou didst gleam, and glow, and dispell my blindness. Thou didst touch me, and I burned for Thy peace. For Thyself Thou hast made us, and restless our hearts until in Thee they find their ease. Late have I loved Thee, Thou Beauty ever old and ever new. Thou hast burst my bonds asunder; unto Thee will I offer up an offering of praise. written as an account of his life, the Confessions keeps digressing into speculations about the nature of time, the nature of causality, the nature of free will, the motives of human action, etc. Louis deWohl has written a novel about Augustine, based mostly on the Confessions, called The Restless Flame. It is an excellent introduction to the man. his conversion, Augustine went back to his native Africa in 387, where he was ordained a priest in 391 and consecrated bishop of Hippo in 396. It was not his intention to become a priest. He was visiting the town of Hippo (or Hippo Regius, now Annaba, 36:55 N 7:47 E), was in church hearing a sermon, and the bishop, without warning, said, "This congregation is in need of more priests, and I believe that the ordination of Augustine would be to the glory of God." Willing hands dragged Augustine forward, and the bishop together with his council of priests laid hands on Augustine and ordained him to the priesthood. (The experience may have colored Augustine's perception of such questions as, "Does a man come to God because he has chosen to do so, or because God has chosen him, and drawn him to Himself?") A few years later, when the Bishop of Hippo died, Augustine was chosen to succeed him. was a diligent shepherd of his flock, but he also found time to write extensively. He was an admirer of Jerome, and wrote him a letter hoping to establish a friendship, but the letter went astray. (In those days there was no public post office, and if you wanted to send a letter to a friend in Athens, you entrusted it to someone you knew who was travelling to Athens, or at least in that general direction, with instructions to deliver it or pass it on to someone else who would oblige.) Jerome did not get the letter, and the contents became public knowledge before he heard of it. Augustine, in addition to saying how much he admired Jerome, had offered some criticisms of something Jerome had written. Jerome was furious, and came close to writing Augustine off altogether. However, Augustine wrote him a second letter, apologizing and explaining what had happened, and Jerome was mollified. They had a long and intellectually substantial correspondence. written output was vast, and largely responsible for the fact that the entry for him in the index of the Encyc. Brit. is more than a column long. His surviving works (and it is assumed that the majority did not survive) include 113 books and treatises, over 200 letters, and over 500 sermons. His work greatly influenced Luther and Calvin, to the point where for a while Roman Catholic speakers and writers were wary of quoting him lest they be suspected of Protestant tendencies. have already mentioned his Confessions. A second great work of his is the book, De Civitatae Dei (The City of God). This was written after Rome had been sacked by invaders led by Alaric the Visigoth. It is a reply to those who said that the Roman Empire was falling apart because the Christians had taken over; he discusses the work of God in history, and the relation between the Christian as citizen of an earthly commonwealth and the Christian as citizen of Heaven. third great work is his De Trinitate (On the Trinity). Here, he discusses the doctrine of the Trinity by undertaking to compare the mind of man with the mind of God, since man is made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). Augustine begins by pointing out a Trinitarian structure in the act of knowing something. He continues by pointing out a Trinitarian structure in the act of self-awareness. He concludes by pointing out a Trinitarian structure in the act of religious contemplation by which man sees himself as made in the image of God. Roman Saint, 367-420, Jerome ; AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (28 AUGUST 430); was one of the greatest theologians of Western Christianity. (In his day the Mediterranean world consisted of an Eastern, Greek-speaking half and a Western, Latin-speaking half, with different ways of looking at things, and different habits of thought.) He was born 13 November 354 in North Africa, about 45 miles south of the Mediterranean, in the town of Tagaste in Numidia (now Souk-Ahras in Algeria), near ancient Carthage (modern Tunis). His mother, Monnica, was a Christian (see 4 May), and his father for many years a pagan (although he became a Christian before his death). His mother undertook to bring him up as a Christian, and on one level he always found something attractive about Christ, but in the short run he was more interested in the attractions of sex, fame, and pride in his own cleverness. After a moderate amount of running around as a teen-ager, he took a mistress, who bore him a son when he was about eighteen. Theirs was a long-term relationship, apparently with faithfulness on both sides, and the modern reader is left wondering why he did not simply marry the girl. He never tells us this (and in fact never tells us her name), so that we can only guess. It seems likely that she was a freedwoman, and the laws forbade marriage between a free-born Roman citizen and a slave, or an ex-slave. he was 19 and a student at Carthage, he read a treatise by Cicero that opened his eyes to the delights of philosophy. He was from the beginning a brilliant student, with an eager intellectual curiosity, but he never mastered Greek -- he tells us that his first Greek teacher was a brutal man who constantly beat his students, and Augustine rebelled and vowed never to learn Greek. By the time he realized that he really needed to know Greek, it was too late; and although he acquired a smattering of the language, he was never really at home in it. However, his mastery of Latin was another matter. He became an expert both in the eloquent use of the language and in the use of clever arguments to make his points. He became a teacher of rhetoric in Carthage, but was dissatisfied. It was the custom for students to pay their fees to the professor on the last day of the term, and many students attended faithfully all term, and then did not pay. In his late twenties, Augustine decided to leave Africa and seek his fortune in Rome. Augustine teaching in Rome, by Gozzoli Augustine teaching in Rome, by Gozzoli a long time Augustine was attracted by the teachings of Manicheeism, named for Mani, a Persian who had preached kind of synthesis of Christianity with Zoroastrianism, the dominant religion of Persia. Zoroaster had taught the existence of a power of light, God, the supreme Creator, and of a dark and evil power that opposed him. On the Zoroastrian (Parsi) view, the dark power was a rebel against his creator, and doomed to ultimate defeat. Mani, on the other hand, was a thoroughgoing dualist, who taught that there are two gods of equal power and eternity, and that the universe is the scene of an unending battle between light and darkness, good and evil, knowledge and ignorance, soul and body, etc. The Manichees as they moved west into the Roman Empire adopted many traits of what is generically called Gnosticism. In particular, they advertised themselves as being not an alternative to Christianity but as the advanced version of Christianity, as the faith for the spiritually mature, the intellectually gifted. They claimed that their beliefs were based on reason rather than authority, and that they had answers for everything, at least as soon as the learner was sufficiently advanced to comprehend them. They differed from the classical Gnostics by not contrasting spirit with matter. On their view, everything was composed of material particles, but these were either light or dark. Since the mind was composed of light particles, imprisoned in the body, a cage made of dark particles, something like the Gnostic contrast between spirit and matter was there. Members were divided into an inner circle, the "elect," who were expected to be celibate and vegetarian, so as to avoid all those dark particles, and the "learners," of whom considerably less was expected. Augustine signed up as a learner. He was at first completely captivated, but then met with a series of disappointments. The rank and file of the movement did not seem to be very clear thinkers. He met the leaders, who were advertised as the Towering Intellects of the Ages, and was not impressed. prospered in Rome, and was eventually appointed chief professor of rhetoric for the city of Milan, at that time the capital city of the Empire in the West. It should be noted that this was an extremely prestigious appointment. In classical times, when laws were often made and issues voted on by huge public assemblies, when even juries typically had several hundred members, and when a man's public influence, or even on occasion his life, depended on his ability to sway large audiences, rhetoric -- the art of manipulating an audience -- was a skill that few men thought they could afford to neglect. (Socrates was one of the few, and we know what happened to him!) The art, at first intensely practical, had by Augustine's day become a display form admired for its own sake. However, the admiration was there. Every lawyer, arguing a case, was expected to give an eloquent speech, full of classical allusions and standard rhetorical flourishes. And Augustine was at the top of the field. St. Augustine entering Milan, by Gozzoli St. Augustine entering Milan, by Gozzoli Milan Augustine met the bishop Ambrose, and was startled to find in him a reasonableness of mind and belief, a keenness of thought, and an integrity of character far in excess of what he had found elsewhere. For the first time, Augustine saw Christianity as a religion fit for a philosopher. Soon after his arrival in Milan, Augustine was plunged into two crises. First, his mother arrived from Africa, and persuaded him that he ought to give up his mistress and get married. He agreed to a betrothal to a suitable young lady; but his betrothed was too young for immediate marriage, and so the actual wedding was postponed for two years. Meanwhile the mistress had been sent back to Africa. Augustine, not ready for two years of sexual abstinence, lapsed back into promiscuity. The second crisis was that Augustine became a neo-Platonist. Plato, as interpreted by his later spokesmen, in particular by Plotinus, taught that only God is fully real, and that all other things are degenerations in varying degrees from the One--things are progressively less good, less spiritual, and less real as one goes rung by rung down the cosmic ladder. By contemplating spiritual realities, directing one's attention first to one's own mind and then moving up the ladder rung by one to the contemplation of God, one acquires true wisdom, true self-fulfilment, true spirituality, and union with God, or the One. Augustine undertook this approach, and believed that he had in fact had an experience of the presence of God, but found that this only made him more aware of the gulf between what he was and what he realized that he ought to be. he continued to hear Bishop Ambrose. And finally, partly because Ambrose had answers for his questions, partly because he admired Ambrose personally, and chiefly (or so he believed) because God touched his heart, he was converted to Christianity in 386 and was baptised by Ambrose at Easter of 387. About 12 years later he wrote an account of his life up to a time shortly after his conversion, a book called the Confessions, a highly readable work available in English. Ostensibly an autobiography, it is more an outpouring of penitence and thanksgiving. "Take and Read", by Gozzoli "Take and Read", by Gozzoli a well-known chapter, Augustine describes his conversion. His intellectual objections had lost their force, and he was at a point where the difficulty was that he seemed unable to make a commitment to living chastely, or unable to make a commitment, period. He heard of a group of young men, Christians, one of whom decided to become a desert hermit, whereupon the others, one at a time, made the same commitment, encouraged and inspired by the examples of those in the group who had already done so. (In many circles at that time, becoming a desert hermit had the same overtones as joining the Peace Corps did for many young persons in the 1960's, or joining the armed forces for many in the weeks immediately after the attack on Pearl Harbor.) Augustine went aside to ponder the question, "How is it that these young men can make so drastic a commitment, and I cannot take even the first step of declaring myself a Christian?" He heard what seemed to be a child's voice coming from next door, saying over and over, "Tolle, lege; tolle, lege," or, "Pick up and read; pick up and read." Since he could not think of any reason why a child would be saying that, he took it as an omen, and picked up a copy of Paul's Epistle to the Romans. As he opened it, his eye fell on the end of the thirteenth chapter: The night is far gone, the day is at hand. Let us then cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light; let us conduct ourselves becomingly as in the day, not in reveling and drunkenness, not in debauchery and licentiousness, not in quarreling and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires. he read, he experienced this as God speaking directly to him, convicting him of his past sins, and offering him forgiveness; calling him to amend his life, and promising him the grace and power to do it. He burst into tears, and surrendered. Later, he wrote: Late have I loved Thee, O Lord; and behold, Thou wast within and I without, and there I sought Thee. Thou was with me when I was not with Thee. Thou didst call, and cry, and burst my deafness. Thou didst gleam, and glow, and dispell my blindness. Thou didst touch me, and I burned for Thy peace. For Thyself Thou hast made us, and restless our hearts until in Thee they find their ease. Late have I loved Thee, Thou Beauty ever old and ever new. Thou hast burst my bonds asunder; unto Thee will I offer up an offering of praise. written as an account of his life, the Confessions keeps digressing into speculations about the nature of time, the nature of causality, the nature of free will, the motives of human action, etc. deWohl has written a novel about Augustine, based mostly on the Confessions, called The Restless Flame. It is an excellent introduction to the man. his conversion, Augustine went back to his native Africa in 387, where he was ordained a priest in 391 and consecrated bishop of Hippo in 396. It was not his intention to become a priest. He was visiting the town of Hippo (or Hippo Regius, now Annaba, 36:55 N 7:47 E), was in church hearing a sermon, and the bishop, without warning, said, "This congregation is in need of more priests, and I believe that the ordination of Augustine would be to the glory of God." Willing hands dragged Augustine forward, and the bishop together with his council of priests laid hands on Augustine and ordained him to the priesthood. (The experience may have colored Augustine's perception of such questions as, "Does a man come to God because he has chosen to do so, or because God has chosen him, and drawn him to Himself?") A few years later, when the Bishop of Hippo died, Augustine was chosen to succeed him. was a diligent shepherd of his flock, but he also found time to write extensively. He was an admirer of Jerome, and wrote him a letter hoping to establish a friendship, but the letter went astray. (In those days there was no public post office, and if you wanted to send a letter to a friend in Athens, you entrusted it to someone you knew who was travelling to Athens, or at least in that general direction, with instructions to deliver it or pass it on to someone else who would oblige.) Jerome did not get the letter, and the contents became public knowledge before he heard of it. Augustine, in addition to saying how much he admired Jerome, had offered some criticisms of something Jerome had written. Jerome was furious, and came close to writing Augustine off altogether. However, Augustine wrote him a second letter, apologizing and explaining what had happened, and Jerome was mollified. They had a long and intellectually substantial correspondence. written output was vast, and largely responsible for the fact that the entry for him in the index of the Encyc. Brit. is more than a column long. His surviving works (and it is assumed that the majority did not survive) include 113 books and treatises, over 200 letters, and over 500 sermons. His work greatly influenced Luther and Calvin, to the point where for a while Roman Catholic speakers and writers were wary of quoting him lest they be suspected of Protestant tendencies. have already mentioned his Confessions. A second great work of his is the book, De Civitatae Dei (The City of God). This was written after Rome had been sacked by invaders led by Alaric the Visigoth. It is a reply to those who said that the Roman Empire was falling apart because the Christians had taken over; he discusses the work of God in history, and the relation between the Christian as citizen of an earthly commonwealth and the Christian as citizen of Heaven. third great work is his De Trinitate (On the Trinity). Here, he discusses the doctrine of the Trinity by undertaking to compare the mind of man with the mind of God, since man is made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). Augustine begins by pointing out a Trinitarian structure in the act of knowing something. He continues by pointing out a Trinitarian structure in the act of self-awareness. He concludes by pointing out a Trinitarian structure in the act of religious contemplation by which man sees himself as made in the image of God. AND THE DONATISTS Almost a century before Augustine was born, the Church in Africa had been torn apart by the Donatist controversy. For a brief account of this controversy (and the Pelagian and other controversies of the day), but a longer one than I am prepared to give here, I refer the reader to the relevant section of the book, Sketches of Church History, by Canon Robertson. the persecution of the Church by the Emperor Decius, some Christian clergymen in Africa, or so it was alleged, had stood firm against threat of torture, imprisonment and death more consistently and nobly than others. The Donatists maintained that their clergy derived their ordinations from clergy with very good records of constancy under persecution, and that they were the Church of the Martyrs, as opposed to the Church of the Sell-outs, which was everybody else. They further held that sacraments received at the hands of unworthy ministers were of no value. Or at least it seems that they held this. Augustine had a long correspondence and controversy with them, and at one point they apparently replied that they did not hold this, to which Augustine replied, "In that case, will you kindly tell me what the controversy is all about, and what you and I have been debating for the last eighteen months, and what your bishops and ours have been out of fellowship with each other about for the last century?" The controversy dragged on, with part of the dispute historical (whether Bishop so-and-so, now seventy years dead, had really done what he was accused of doing), and part theological. It seems clear that the Donatists, at least most of the time, argued that the holiness of the Church depended on the holiness of its members, especially its clergy. Against them, Augustine maintained that the holiness of the Church is not derived from the average level of virtue of its individual members, but is derived from the Holiness of its Head, who is Christ. AND THE PELAGIANS In Augustine's day, a man from Britain named Morgan, or in Latin Pelagius (means "islander" -- consider the words "pelagic" and "archipelago"), began to preach, denouncing what he saw as a slackening of moral standards. He saw professed Christians living less than exemplary lives, and offering human frailty as an excuse. His reply was: "Nonsense. God has given you free will. You can choose to follow the example of Adam, or you can choose to follow the example of Christ. God has given everyone the grace he needs to be good. If you are not good, you simply need to try harder." Augustine asked him about original sin, and he replied that there is no such thing. Augustine asked him why, in that case, it was the universal custom to baptize infants, and he had no answer. Augustine saw the teaching of Pelagius as totally undermining the doctrine that God is the ultimate source of all good, and encouraging the virtuous and well-behaved Christian to feel that he had earned God's approval by his own efforts. Pelagius was condemned by Pope Innocent I, and then re-instated by Pope Zosimus. Augustine refused to accept the judgement of Zosimus, and ultimately won the day. the end of his life, the Vandals, a barbarian people with a reputation for wanton destructiveness (hence our modern term "vandal"), who had earlier invaded Spain from the north and settled down there (hence the province of Spain called "Andalusia"), became involved in a civil war in Northern Africa, and their troops invaded Africa in huge numbers. The leader of the losing side took refuge in the town of Hippo, and the Vandals were besieging the town (which they ultimately captured) when Augustine, bishop of Hippo, died 28 August 430, aged 75. by James Kiefer JEROME, SCHOLAR, TRANSLATOR, AND THEOLOGIAN (30 SEP 420); Martyr Pamphilius the Presbyter at Caesarea, in Palestine, Commemorated on February 16; St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15;

Rome, 374-450, Egyptian, Roman, Byzantine Saint, Arsenius the Great, educated, hide from people, silence, tears
Egypt, 370-445, Egyptian, Roman, Byzantine Saint, Arsenius the Great; Venerable Arsenius the Great, Commemorated on May 8 ; Arsenius the Great was born in the year 354 at Rome into a pious Christian family, which provided him a fine education and upbringing. studied rhetoric and philosophy, and mastered the Latin and Greek languages. Saint Arsenius gave up philosophy and the vanity of worldly life, seeking instead the true wisdom praised by Saint James “pure, peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits” (Jas. 3:17). He entered the ranks of the clergy as a deacon in one of the Roman churches, dedicating himself to the service of God. emperor Theodosius (379-395), who ruled the eastern half of the Roman Empire, heard about his erudition and piety, and he wished to entrust Arsenius with the education of his sons Arcadius and Honorius. however, protested that he had given up secular studies in order to serve God. Against his will, but in obedience to the will of Pope Damasus (December 11), Saint Arsenius agreed to teach the imperial children, hoping to teach them Christian piety as well. he arrived at Constantinople, Arsenius was received with great honor by the emperor Theodosius, who charged him to educate his sons not only in wisdom, but also in piety, guarding them from the temptations of youth. “Forget that they are the emperor’s sons,” said Theodosius, “for I want them to submit to you in all things, as to their father and teacher.” fervor the saint devoted himself to the education of the youths, but the high esteem in which he was held troubled his spirit, which yearned for the quietude of monastic life. Saint Arsenius entreated the Lord to show him the way to salvation. The Lord heard his prayer and one time he heard a voice telling him, “Arsenius, flee from men, and you shall be saved.” And then, removing his rich clothing and replacing it with old and tattered garments, he secretly left the palace, boarded a ship for Alexandria, and he made his way to Sketis, a monastery in the midst of the desert. at the church, he asked the priests to accept him into the monastic brotherhood, calling himself a wretched wanderer, though his very manner betrayed him as a cultivated man. The brethren led him to Abba John the Dwarf (November 9), famed for his holiness of life. He, wishing to test the newcomer’s humility, did not seat Arsenius with the monks for the trapeza meal. He threw him a piece of dry bread saying, “Eat if you wish.” Saint Arsenius got down on his hands and knees, and picked up the bread with his mouth. Then he crawled off into a corner and ate it. Seeing this, Elder John said, “He will be a great ascetic!” Then accepting Arsenius with love, he tonsured him into monasticism. Arsenius zealously passed through his obediences and soon he surpassed many of the desert Fathers in asceticism. The saint again heard the Voice while he was praying, “Arsenius, hide from people and dwell in silence, this is the root of virtue.” From that moment Saint Arsenius settled in a solitary cell deep in the desert. taken on the struggle of silence he seldom left his seclusion. He came to church only on Sundays and Feast days, observing complete silence and conversing with no one. When Abba Moses asked him why he hid himself from people, Saint Arsenius replied, “God knows that I love you, but I cannot remain with God and with men at the same time. The Heavenly Powers all have one will and praise God together. On earth, however, there are many human wills, and each man has his own thoughts. I cannot leave God in order to live with people.” absorbed in constant prayer, the saint did not refuse visiting monks with his counsel and guidance, giving short, but perceptive answers to their questions. Once, a monk from Sketis saw the great Elder through a window standing at prayer, surrounded by a flame. handicraft of Saint Arsenius was to weave baskets, for which he used the fronds of date palms soaked in water. For a whole year Saint Arsenius did not change the water in the container, but merely added a little water to it from time to time. This caused his cell to be permeated with a foul stench. When asked why he did this, the saint replied that it was fitting for him to humble himself in this way, because in the world he had used incense and fragrant oils. He prayed that after death he would not experience the stench of hell. fame of the great ascetic spread far, and many wanted to see him, and they disturbed his tranquility. As a result, the saint was forced to move around from place to place. But those thirsting to receive his guidance and blessing still found him. Arsenius taught that many take upon themselves great deeds of repentance, fasting, and vigil, but it is rare for someone to guard his soul from pride, greed, jealousy, hatred of one’s brother, remembrance of wrongs, and judgment. In this they resemble graves which are decorated outwardly, but filled with stinking bones. certain monk once asked Saint Arsenius what he should do when he read the Holy Scriptures and did not comprehend their meaning. The Elder answered, “My child, you must study and learn the Holy Scriptures constantly, even if you do not understand their power... For when we have the words of the Holy Scriptures on our lips, the demons hear them and are terrified. Then they flee from us, unable to bear the words of the Holy Spirit Who speaks through His apostles and prophets.” monks heard how the saint often urged himself on in his efforts with the words, “Rouse yourself, Arsenius, work! Do not remain idle! You have not come here to rest, but to labor.” He also said, “I have often regretted the words I have spoken, but I have never regretted my silence.” great ascetic and keeper of silence was given the gift of tears with which his eyes were constantly filled. He spent fifty-five years at monastic labors and struggles. He spent forty years at Sketis, and ten years on the mountain of Troe near Memphis. Then he spent three years at Canopus, and two more years at Troe, where he fell asleep in the Lord. holy, God-bearing Father Arsenius reposed when he was nearly one hundred years old, in the year 449 or 450. only disciples seem to have been Alexander, Zoilos, and Daniel (June 7).

Rome, 375-392, Emperor, Valentian II, figurehead, 4 year old Agustus, set up by south western generals
Roman Emperor, 375-392, Valentian II ; II (371- 15 May 392) was Roman emperor from AD 375 to 392. 1 Early life and accession (371-375) 2 Reign from Milan (375-“387) 3 Reign from Vienne (388-“392) 4 Significance 5 See also 6 Notes 7 References 8 Bibliography 9 External links life and accession (371-375)[edit] Valentinianus was born to Emperor Valentinian I and his second wife, Justina. He was the half-brother of Valentinian's other son, Gratian, who had shared the imperial title with his father since 367. He had three sisters: Galla, Grata and Justa. The elder Valentinian died on campaign in Pannonia in 375. Neither Gratian (then in Trier) nor his uncle Valens (emperor for the East) were consulted by the army commanders on the scene. Instead of merely acknowledging Gratian as his father's successor, Valentinian I's generals acclaimed the four-year-old Valentinian augustus on 22 November 375. The army, and its Frankish general Merobaudes, may have been uneasy about Gratian's lack of military ability, and so raised a boy who would not immediately aspire to military command.[2][3] from Milan (375-“387)[edit] of Valentinian II forced to accommodate the generals who supported his half-brother, governed the trans-alpine provinces (including Gaul, Hispania, and Britain), while Italy, part of Illyricum, and North Africa were under the rule of Valentinian. 378, their uncle, the Emperor Valens, was killed in battle with the Goths at Adrianople, and Gratian invited the general Theodosius to be emperor in the East. a child, Valentinian II was under the influence of his Arian mother, the Empress Justina, and the imperial court at Milan, an influence contested by the Nicene bishop of Milan, Ambrose.[4] used her influence over her young son to oppose the Nicean party which was championed by Ambrose. 385 Ambrose refused an imperial request to hand over the Portian basilica for the celebration of Easter by the Imperial court.[5] When he was summoned to be punished to the Imperial palace, the orthodox populace rioted, and Justina's Gothic troops were prevented by the arch-bishop himself, standing in the doorway, from entering the Basilica. Justina was forced to back down.[6] Afterwards, Justina ordered legislation to rescind the penalties enacted by Gratian and Valentinian against heresy, proclaiming universal toleration.[7] Ambrose was found, as no doubt she had intended, to have determinedly infracted the new laws, Justina again tried to have him banished, and Ambrose was forced to barricade himself, with the enthusiastic backing of the people, within the walls of the Basilica. The Imperial troops besieged him, but Ambrose held on, reinforcing the resolution of his followers by allegedly unearthing, beneath the foundations of the church, the bodies of two ancient martyrs.[8] the orthodox emperor of the east, interceded, forcing Justina to again relent.[9] Magnus Maximus was to use the emperor's heterodoxy against him. also tried to restrain the despoiling of pagan temples in Rome. Buoyed by this instruction, the pagan senators, led by Aurelius Symmachus, the Prefect of Rome, petitioned in 384 for the restoration of the Altar of Victory in the Senate House, which had been removed by Gratian in 382. Valentinian, at the insistence of Ambrose, refused the request and, in so doing, rejected the traditions and rituals of pagan Rome to which Symmachus had appealed. 383, Magnus Maximus, commander of the armies in Britain, declared himself Emperor and established himself in Gaul and Hispania. Gratian died while fleeing him. For a time the court of Valentinian, through the mediation of Ambrose, came to an accommodation with the usurper, and Theodosius recognized Maximus as co-emperor of the West. In 386 or 387, Maximus crossed the Alps into the Po valley and threatened Milan. Valentinian II and Justina fled to Theodosius in Thessalonica. The latter came to an agreement, cemented by his marriage to Valentinian's sister Galla, to restore the young emperor in the West.[4] In 388, Theodosius marched west and defeated Maximus. Although he was to appoint both of his sons emperor (Arcadius in 383, Honorius in 393), Theodosius remained loyal to the dynasty of Valentinian I. from Vienne (388-“392)[edit] solidus minted by Valentinian II. On the reverse, both Valentinian and Theodosius I are celebrated as victorious. the defeat of Maximus, Theodosius remained in Milan until 391. Valentinian took no part in Theodosius's triumphal celebrations over Maximus. Valentinian and his court were installed at Vienne in Gaul, while Theodosius appointed key administrators in the West and had coins minted, which implied his guardianship over the 17-year-old.[10] had already died, and Vienne was far away from the influence of Ambrose. Theodosius's trusted general, the Frank Arbogast, was appointed magister militum for the Western provinces (bar Africa) and guardian of Valentinian. Acting in the name of Valentinian, Arbogast was actually subordinate only to Theodosius.[11] While the general campaigned successfully on the Rhine, the young emperor remained at Vienne, in contrast to his warrior father and his older brother, who had campaigned at his age. Arbogast's domination over the emperor was considerable, and the general even murdered Harmonius, a friend of Valentinian suspected of taking bribes, in the emperor's presence.[12] crisis reached a peak when Arbogast prohibited the emperor from leading the Gallic armies into Italy to oppose a barbarian threat. Valentinian, in response, formally dismissed Arbogast. The latter ignored the order, publicly tearing it up and arguing that Valentinian had not appointed him in the first place. The reality of where the power lay was openly displayed. Valentinian wrote to Theodosius and Ambrose complaining of his subordination to his general. In explicit rejection of his earlier Arianism, he invited Ambrose to come to Vienne to baptize him. 15 May 392, Valentinian was found hanged in his residence in Vienne. Arbogast maintained that the emperor's death was suicide. Most sources agree, however, that Arbogast murdered him with his own hands, or paid the Praetorians. Zosimus writing in the early sixth century from Constantinople, states that Arbogast had Valentinian murdered;[13] ancient authorities being divided in their opinion.[14][page needed] Ambrose's eulogy is the only contemporary Western source for Valentinian's death.[15] It is ambiguous on the question of the emperor's death, which is not surprising, as Ambrose represents him as a model of Christian virtue. Suicide, not murder, would make the bishop dissemble on this key question.[16] young man's body was conveyed in ceremony to Milan for burial by Ambrose, mourned by his sisters Justa and Grata. He was laid in a porphyry sarcophagus next to his brother Gratian, most probably in the Chapel of Sant'Aquilino attached to San Lorenzo.[a] He was deified with the consecratio: Divae Memoriae Valentinianus, lit. 'the Divine Memory of Valentinian'.[18] first Arbogast recognized Theodosius's son Arcadius as emperor in the West, seemingly surprised by his charge's death.[19] After three months, during which he had no communication from Theodosius, Arbogast selected an imperial official, Eugenius, as emperor. Theodosius initially tolerated this regime but, in January 393, elevated the eight-year-old Honorius as augustus to succeed Valentinian II. Civil war ensued and, in 394, Theodosius defeated Eugenius and Arbogast at the Battle of Frigidus River. himself seems to have exercised no real authority, and was a figurehead for various powerful interests: his mother, his co-emperors, and powerful generals. the Crisis of the Third Century the empire had been ruled by powerful generals, a situation formalised by Diocletian and his collegiate system which collapsed a year after his abdication in 305. Constantine I and his sons, strong military figures, re-established the practice of hereditary succession adopted by Valentinian I.[contradictory] The obvious flaw in these two competing requirements came in the reign of Valentinian II, a child.[20] His reign was a harbinger of the fifth century, when children or nonentities, reigning as emperors, were controlled by powerful generals and officials in the West and in the East until mid-century. AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (28 AUGUST 430) ; AMBROSE OF MILAN, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (7 DEC 397); St Ambrose the Bishop of Milan, Commemorated on December 7; Martyr Anthusa at Rome, Commemorated on December 8; St Honoratus the Archbishop of Arles and Founder of Lerins Monastery, Commemorated on January 16 ; St Paulinus the Merciful the Bishop of Nola, Commemorated on January 23; Martyr Bathusius in the Crimea, Commemorated on March 26; MONNICA, MOTHER OF AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO (4 MAY 387); St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15;

Rome, 375-383, Emperor, Gratian in the North West, moved seat from Trier to Milan, Orthodox
Roman Emperor, 375-383, Gratian in the West ; Gratian (18 April 359 - 25 August 383) was Roman emperor from 367 to 383. The eldest son of Valentinian I, Gratian accompanied his father on several campaigns along the Rhine and Danube frontiers and was raised to the rank of augustus in 367. Upon the death of Valentinian in 375, Gratian took over government of the west while his half-brother Valentinian II was also acclaimed emperor in Pannonia. Gratian governed the western provinces of the empire, while his uncle Valens was already the emperor over the east. Gratian subsequently led a campaign across the Rhine, attacked the Lentienses, and forced the tribe to surrender. That same year, the eastern emperor Valens was killed fighting the Goths at the Battle of Adrianople, which led to Gratian elevating Theodosius to replace him in 379. Gratian favoured Nicene Christianity over traditional Roman religion, issuing the Edict of Thessalonica, refusing the office of pontifex maximus, and removing the Altar of Victory from the Roman Senate's Curia Julia. The city of Cularo on the Isure river in Roman Gaul was renamed after him, becoming Grenoble from Latin: Gratianopolis. In 383, faced with rebellion by the usurper Magnus Maximus, Gratian marched his army towards Lutetia (Paris). His army deserted him, he fled to Lyons, and was later murdered. Contents 1 Early life 2 Reign 2.1 Junior augustus 2.2 Senior augustus 3 Death and burial 4 See also 5 Notes 6 References 7 Sources 8 External links Early life[edit] According to the Chronicle of Jerome and the Chronicon Paschale, Valentinian's eldest son Gratian was born on 18 April 359 at Sirmium, now Sremska Mitrovica in Serbia, the capital of Pannonia Secunda, to Valentinian's first wife Marina Severa.[2][3][4][5] Gratian was his parents' only son together.[4][5] At the time of his birth Gratian's father was living in exile.[6] Gratian was named after his grandfather Gratian the Elder, who was a tribune and later comes of Britannia for Constantine the Great (r. 306-“337).[7] Following the death of the emperor Jovian (r. 363-“364), on 26 February 364, Valentinian was proclaimed augustus (emperor).[8] Within a month, motivated by senior officers, he proclaimed his brother Valens, Gratian's uncle, augustus of the Eastern empire.[8] Gratian was appointed consul in 366 and was entitled nobilissimus puer by his father.[a][2][9] Gratian was seven when entitled nobilissimus puer, which indicated he was to be proclaimed augustus.[9] Gratian's tutor was the rhetor Ausonius, who mentioned the relationship in his epigrams and a poem.[2] Reign[edit] In summer 367, Valentinian became ill at Civitas Ambianensium (Amiens), raising questions about his succession. On recovery, he presented his then eight-year-old son to his troops on 27 August, as his co-augustus (r. 367 to “383), passing over the customary initial step of caesar.[3][2][10][11] Solidus of Valentinian I showing Valentinian and Gratian on the reverse, marked: victores augusti ("the Victors Augusti"). A palm bough is between them and Victory crowns each with a wreath Junior augustus[edit] On 24 August 367[contradictory] Gratian received from his father Valentinian the title of augustus.[9] Valentinian, concerned with Gratian's age and inexperience, stated his son would assist commanders with upcoming campaigns.[12] The magister peditum Merobaudes, together with the comes rei militaris Sebastianus, was sent by Valentinian to campaign against the Quadi.[13] Around 370, Gratian's mother Marina Severa died and was interred in the Church of the Holy Apostles.[10] Valentinian married again, wedding Justina.[10] On the 9 April 370, according to the Consularia Constantinopolitana and the Chronicon Paschale, the Church of the Holy Apostles adjoining the Mausoleum of Constantine in Constantinople was inaugurated.[14] In autumn 371, Gratian's half brother, called Valentinian, was born to Justina, possibly at Augusta Treverorum (Trier).[15][16] Gratian, who was then 15, was married in 374 to Constantius II's 13 year-old posthumous daughter Flavia Maxima Constantia at Trier.[2][3][17][18][19] This marriage consolidated the dynastic link to Constantinian dynasty, as had his Valentinian I's second marriage to Justina, with her family connections.[20] When a party of Alamanni visited Valentinian's headquarters to receive the customary gifts towards the end of 364, Ursatius, the magister officiorum made them an offering they considered inferior to that of his predecessor. Angered by Ursatius' attitude, they vowed revenge and crossed over the Rhine into Roman Germania and Gaul in January 365, overwhelming the Roman defences.[21][22] Although at first unsuccessful, eventually Jovinus, the magister equitum in Gaul inflicted heavy losses on the enemy at Scarpona (Dieulouard) and at Catalauni (ChÃ¢lons-sur-Marne), forcing them to retire.[22] An opportunity to further weaken the Alamanni occurred in the summer of 368, when king Vithicabius was murdered in a coup, and Valentinian and his son Gratian crossed the river Moenus (the Main) laying waste to Alamannic territories.[3][23] Gratian was awarded the victory titles of Germanicus Maximus and Alamannicus Maximus, and Francicus Maximus and Gothicus Maximus in 369.[3] Valentinian fortified the frontier from Raetia in the east to the Belgic channel, but the construction was attacked by Alamanni at Mount Pirus (the Spitzberg, Rottenburg am Neckar). In 369 (or 370) Valentinian then sought to enlist the help of the Burgundians, who were involved in a dispute with the Alamanni, but a communication failure led to them returning to their lands without joining forces with the Romans.[21] It was then that the magister equitum, Theodosius the Elder and his son Theodosius (the Theodosi) attacked the Alamanni through Raetia, taking many prisoners and resettling them in the Po Valley in Italy.[24][21][10] Valentinian made one attempt to capture Macrianus in 372, but eventually made peace with him in 374.[21] The necessity to make peace was the increasing threat from other peoples, the Quadi and the Sarmatians. Valentinian's decision to establish garrisons across the Danube had angered them, and the situation escalated after the Quadi king, Gabinus, was killed during negotiations with the Romans in 374. Consequently, in the autumn, the Quadi crossed the Danube plundering Pannonia and the provinces to the south.[10] The situation deteriorated further once the Sarmatians made common cause inflicting heavy losses on the Pannonica and Moesiaca legions.[10] However on encountering Theodosius' forces on the borders of Moesia in the eastern Balkans, which had previously defeated one of their armies in 373,[24] they sued for peace. Valentinian mounted a further offensive against the Quadi in August 375, this time using a pincer movement, one force attacking from the northwest, while Valentinian himself headed to Aquincum (Budapest), crossed the Danube and attacked from the southeast. This campaign resulted in heavy losses to the enemy, following which he returned to Aquincum and from there to Brigetio (Szany, Hungary) where he died suddenly in November.[25] When his father died on 17 November 375, Gratian inherited the administration of the western empire.[26] Days later, Gratian's half-brother Valentinian was acclaimed augustus by troops in Pannonia.[27] Despite Valentinian being given nominal authority over the praetorian prefectures of Italy, Illyricum, and Africa, Gratian ruled the western Roman empire himself.[28] Following his death, Valentinian's body was prepared for burial and started its journey to Constantinople, where it arrived the following year,[20] on 28 December 376, but was not yet buried.[10] He was deified, as was the custom, becoming known in Latin: Divus Valentinianus Senior, lit. 'the Divine Valentinian the Elder'.[10][26] Detail of drawing of obverse of medal of Valens showing the three reigning emperors: Valens (C), Gratian (R), and Valentinian II (L) and marked: pietas d augustorum[b] Location of the battle of Argentovaria in 378. With the death of Valentinian I, in the east Valens became the senior augustus[10] and the 16 year old Gratian was the only augustus in the western empire. To complicate matters further for Gratian, certain among Valentinian's generals then promoted his four-year-old second son Valentinian II (Gratian's half brother), the army on the Danube acclaiming him augustus in a palatine coup[26] at Aquincum (Budapest) on 22 November 375, despite Gratian's existing prerogatives.[2][16] The young Valentinian II was essentially the subject of the influence of his courtiers and mother, the Arian Christian Justina.[16] Gratian's tutor, Ausonius, became his quaestor, and together with the magister militum, Merobaudes, the power behind the throne.[26] Negotiations eventually left Gratian as the senior western emperor.[26] Valens and Valentinian II were consuls for the year 376, Valens's fifth consulship.[14] Neither Gratian or Valentinian travelled much, which was thought to be due to not wanting the populace to realise how young they were. Gratian is said to have visited Rome in 376, possibly to celebrate his decennalia on 24 August,[3] but whether the visit actually took place is disputed.[26] Under the tutorage of Ausonius, Gratian issued an edict of tolerance at Sirmium in 378.[29] The edict restored bishops exiled by Valens and ensured religious freedoms to all religions.[29] Gratian's uncle Valens, returning from a campaign against the Sasanian Empire, had sent a request to Gratian for reinforcements against the Goths.[30] According to Ammianus Marcellinus, Valens also requested that Sebastianus be sent to him for the war, though according to Zosimus Sebastianus went to Constantinople of his own accord as a result of intrigues by eunuchs at the western court.[13] Once Gratian had put down the invasions in the west in early 378, he notified Valens that he was returning to Thrace to assist him in his struggle against the Goths. Late in July, Valens was informed that the Goths were advancing on Adrianople (Edirne) and Nice, and started to move his forces into the area. However, Gratian's arrival was delayed by an encounter with Alans at Castra Martis, in Dacia in the western Balkans. Advised of the wisdom of awaiting the western army, Valens decided to ignore this advice because he was sure of victory and unwilling to share the glory.[31][2] The forces Gratian sent never reached Valens due to its commander feigning illness.[32] Weeks later, Gratian had arrived in Castra Martis with a few thousand men, by which time Valens was at Adrianople (Latin: Hadrianopolis; Turkish: Edirne).[33] Aware that Gratian's forces were not going to arrive, Valens attacked the Gothic army and as a result thousands[c] of Romans died in the Battle of Adrianople along with Sebastianus and the emperor himself.[32][34][13] After his death, Valens was deified by consecratio as Latin: Divus Valens, lit. 'the Divine Valens'.[14] Marble portrait head of Gratian (Rheinisches Landesmuseum Trier) Solidus of Theodosius I showing Theodosius and Gratian on the reverse, marked: victoria augg ("the Victory of the Augusti") Senior augustus[edit] Following the battle of Adrianople, the Goths raided from Thrace in 378 to Illyricum the following year.[36][37] Convinced that one emperor alone was incapable of repelling the inundation of foes on several different fronts, Gratian, now senior augustus following Valens's death,[38] appointed Theodosius I augustus on 19 January 379 to govern the east.[39][40] Theodosius the Elder, who had died in 375, was then deified as: Divus Theodosius Pater, lit. 'the Divine Father Theodosius'.[24] On 3 August that year, Gratian issued an edict against heresy.[3] In 380, Gratian was made consul for the fifth time and Theodosius for the first. In September the augusti Gratian and Theodosius met, returning the Roman diocese of Dacia to Gratian's control and that of Macedonia to Valentinian II.[3][24] The same year, Gratian won a victory, possibly over the Alamanni, that was announced officially at Constantinople.[3] In the autumn of 378 Gratian issued an edict of religious toleration.[3] By 380, the Greuthungi tribe of Goths moved into Pannonia, only to be defeated by Gratian.[36] Consequently, the Vandals and Alemanni were threatening to cross the Rhine, now that Gratian had departed from the region.[41] With the collapse of the Danube frontier[d] under the incursions of the Huns and Goths, Gratian moved his seat from Augusta Treverorum (Trier) to Mediolanum (Milan) in 381,[42] and was increasingly aligned with the city's bishop, Ambrose (374 to 397), and the Roman Senate, shifting the balance of power within the factions of the western empire.[2][20][43] Under the influence of Ambrose, bishop of Mediolanum (Milan), took active steps against pagan worship.[44] On 27 February 380, Gratian, Valentinian II, and Theodosius issued the Edict of Thessalonica.[45] This edict made Nicene Christianity the only legal form of Christianity and outlawed all other forms of religion.[45] This brought to an end a period of widespread religious tolerance that had existed since the death of Julian.[46] Gratian was then forthright in his promotion of Nicene Christianity. He ordered the removal of the Altar of Victory from the Roman Senate's Curia Julia in the winter of 383/383.[3][2] State endowments for pagan cults were cancelled.[2] According to the late 5th/early 6th-century Greek historian Zosimus, Gratian refused the robe of office of the pontifex maximus, though this story is not creditable, because no such garment was associated with the priesthood.[2] According to the Consularia Constantinopolitana, Gratian's father's remains were eventually interred in the Mausoleum of Constantine, to which the Church of the Holy Apostles was attached, on 21 February 382, beside those of his first wife and the mother of Gratian, Marina Severa.[10] In 382, Gratian issued edicts that removed the statue of the winged goddess Victory from the Senate floor,[47] removed the privileges of Vestal Virgins,[48] and confiscated money designated for sacrifices and ceremonies.[49] Gratian declared that all of the pagan temples and shrines were to be confiscated by the government and that their revenues were to be joined to the property of the treasury.[50] This resulted in protests from the Roman Senate led by Symmachus, which in turn was counter-protested by Christian senators led by Pope Damasus.[51] Sometime in 383, Gratian's wife Constantia died.[3] Gratian remarried, wedding Laeta, whose father was a consularis of Roman Syria.[2] Gratian wife Constantia died in early 383.[18][19] He subsequently married Laeta.[52] Both marriages remained childless.[53] In the summer of 383 Gratian was again at war with the Alamanni in Raetia.[3] Gratian alienated the army by his favouritism towards his Alan deserters whom he made his body-guard and to whom he gave military commands. This favouritism of former enemies and the paganism of the Alans angered his Christian army. By 383 the Roman general Magnus Maximus had raised the standard of revolt in Britain and invaded Gaul with a large army.[54] when a rebellion broke out in Britain under Magnus Maximus (r. 383 to “388), the commander of the Roman troops there. Magnus Maximus, who had served under the comes Theodosius and had won a victory over the Picts in 382, was proclaimed augustus and crossed the channel, encamping near Paris. There, his forces encountered Gratian, but much of the latter's army defected to this usurper, forcing Gratian to flee.[55][3][56][54][57] Reverse of a solidus of Gratian marked: victoria augustorum ("the Victory of the augusti") Death and burial[edit] He was pursued by Andragathius, Maximus' magister equitum and killed at Lugdunum (Lyon) on 25 August 383, according to the Consularia Constantinopolitana.[55][3][56][54][57] Maximus then established his court at the former imperial residence in Trier.[58] On the death of Gratian in 383, the 12 year old Valentinian II (r. 375 to “392) became the sole legitimate augustus in the west. The body of Constantia, Gratian's first wife, who had died earlier that year, arrived in Constantinople on 12 September 383 and was buried in the complex of the Church of the Holy Apostles (Apostoleion) on 1 December, the resting place of a number of members of the imperial family, starting with Constantine in 337, under the direction of Theodosius, who had embarked on making the site a dynastic symbol. This was the last occasion that a member of the western imperial family was buried in the east, as a new mausoleum being built at St Peter's Basilica in Rome.[20][3] According to Augustine of Hippo's The City of God and Theodoret's Historia Ecclesiastica, Gratian and Constantia had had a son, who died in infancy before 383 but had been born before 379.[3] It would not be until 387, possibly even after the death of Magnus Maximus, that Gratian's remains were interred at Mediolanum in the imperial mausoleum.[59] Gratian was deified as Latin: Divus Gratianus, lit. 'the Divine Gratian'.[3][60] AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (28 AUGUST 430) ; NINIAN OF GALLOWAY, BISHOP, MISSIONARY TO SCOTLAND (16 SEP 430) ; AMBROSE OF MILAN, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (7 DEC 397); St Ambrose the Bishop of Milan, Commemorated on December 7; Martyr Anthusa at Rome, Commemorated on December 8; St Honoratus the Archbishop of Arles and Founder of Lerins Monastery, Commemorated on January 16 ; St Paulinus the Merciful the Bishop of Nola, Commemorated on January 23; Martyr Bathusius in the Crimea, Commemorated on March 26; St Monica, Commemorated on May 4 ; St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15;

Rome, 375-392, Emperor, Theodosius I of the East, son of Elder, Orthodox, accelerated c, persecuted p
Roman Emperor, 375-392, Theodosius I of the East ; I (11 January 347-“ 17 January 395), also called Theodosius the Great, was Roman emperor from 379 to 395, during Late Antiquity. reign accelerated the Christianization of the Roman Empire, achieved military successes when the frontiers of the empire were threatened by the wars of the Migration Period, and defeated two rival emperors in successive civil wars. He was the first emperor of the Theodosian dynasty (r. 379--“457), and married into the ruling Valentinianic dynasty (r. 364-“455). His decrees made Nicene Christianity the state church of the Roman Empire and punished Roman paganism, Hellenistic religion, and Arianism. his capital Constantinople he commissioned the honorific Column of Theodosius, the Theodosian Walls, and the Golden Gate, among the greatest works of ancient Roman architecture. a military career and a governorship under his father Theodosius the Elder he became magister equitum and was then elevated to the imperial rank of augustus by the emperor Gratian (r. 367-“383). He replaced the latter's uncle and senior augustus Valens (r. 364-“378), who had been killed in the Battle of Adrianople. Theodosius married Gratian's half-sister Galla, daughter of Valentinian the Great (r. 364-“375), and defeated the rebellion of Magnus Maximus (r. 383-“388) on behalf of his new brother-in-law, Valentinian II (r. 375-“392). When Valentinian II died, Theodosius became the senior emperor, having already made his eldest son Arcadius his co-augustus. Theodosius then defeated the usurper Eugenius (r. 392-“394). accepting his elevation, he campaigned against Goths and other barbarians who had invaded the Empire. His resources were not sufficient to destroy them or drive them out, which had been Roman policy for centuries in dealing with invaders. By treaty, which followed his indecisive victory at the end of the Gothic War, they were established as foederati, autonomous allies of the Empire, south of the Danube, in Illyricum, within the Empire's borders. They were given lands and allowed to remain under their own leaders, not assimilated as had been normal Roman practice. issued decrees that effectively made Nicene Christianity the official state religion of the Roman Empire, including the Edict of Thessalonica.[4][5] neither prevented nor punished the destruction of prominent Hellenistic temples of classical antiquity, including the Temple of Apollo in Delphi and the Serapeum in Alexandria. He dissolved the order of the Vestal Virgins in Rome's Temple of Vesta. In 393, he banned the pagan rituals of the Olympic Games. his death, Theodosius's young and incapable sons were the two augusti. Arcadius (r. 383-“408) inherited the eastern empire and ruled from Constantinople and Honorius (r. 393-“423) the western empire, an administrative division that endured until the fall of the western Roman empire in the late 5th century. fought two destructive civil wars, successively defeating the usurpers Magnus Maximus in 387-“388 and Eugenius in 394, at great cost to the power of the Empire. His management of the empire was marked by heavy tax exactions, by the compulsory establishment of Christianity, and by a court in which according to Peter Brown "everything was for sale".[6] is considered a saint by the Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Oriental Orthodox churches, and his feast day is on January 17.[7] 1 Early life 2 Military career 3 Accession 4 Reign 4.1 Early reign: 379â€“383 4.1.1 Temporary settlement of the Gothic Wars 4.2 First civil war: 383â€“384 4.3 Middle reign: 384â€“387 4.4 Second civil war: 387â€“388 4.5 Religious affairs: 388â€“391 4.6 Third civil war: 392â€“394 5 Death 6 Art patronage 7 Religious policy 7.1 Arianism 7.2 Definition of orthodoxy 7.3 Proscription of pagan religion 8 See also 9 References 10 Sources 11 Further reading 12 External links life[edit] to Polemius Silvius, Theodosius the Great was born on 11 January 347 or 346.[8] The epitome de Caesaribus places his birthplace at Cauca (Coca, Segovia) in Hispania.[8] According to the traditional texts of the chronicle of Hydatius and Zosimus, he was born at "Cauca in Gallaecia".[9][10][11] These texts are probably corrupted with interpolations, as Cauca was in fact not part of the province of Gallaecia, while according to Themistius, Claudius Claudianus, and Marcellinus Comes, he was born at Italica in Hispania Baetica.[11] These claims were probably fictitious and intended to connect Theodosius with the lineage of his distant predecessor Trajan (r. 98-“117), who had came from Italica.[8] Thedosius's father was Theodosius the Elder and his mother was Thermantia.[8] Theodosius had a brother named Honorius, a sister referred to in Aurelius Victor's De caesaribus but whose name is unknown, and a niece, Serena.[8] career[edit] accompanied his father, the comes rei militaris, on his 368-“369 campaign against the Franks, Scots, and Saxons to restore order and the rule of the emperors Valentinian I (r. 364-“375) and Valens (r. 364-“378) in Roman Britain, which had been threatened in 367 by the Great Conspiracy.[12][13][8] They also defeated the usurpation in Britain by Valentinus.[13] Previous to this in 366, Theodosius the Elder attacked and defeated the Alamanni in Roman Gaul; the defeated prisoners had been resettled in the Po Valley.[14][15] the Elder was made magister equitum in 369, and retained the post until 375.[8] Theodosius and his father son campaigned against the Alamanni 370.[8] The two Theodosi campaigned against Sarmatians in 372/373.[8] The emperors' rule in Roman Africa was disrupted by the revolt of Firmus in 373.[16] Theodosius the Elder moved to defeat the usurpation.[16] In about 373, Theodosius was made dux of the province of Moesia Prima.[17] In 374, the Quadi and their allies the Sarmatians overran the province of Valeria in the praetorian prefecture of Illyricum.[18] Theodosius drove the Sarmatians out of the Roman territory and then defeated the Quadi.[19][20] He is reported to have defended his province with marked ability and success.[19] the Elder fell from power in 375, and Theodosius the dux of Moesia Prima retired to his estates in the Iberian Peninsula, where he married Aelia Flaccilla in 376.[8] Their first child, Arcadius, was born around 377.[8] Pulcheria, their daughter, was born in 377 or 378.[8] Theodosius had returned to the Danube frontier by 378, when he was appointed magister equitum.[8] the death of his uncle Valens (r. 364-“378), Gratian, now the senior augustus, sought a candidate to nominate as Valens's successor. On 19 January 379, Theodosius I was made augustus over the eastern provinces at Sirmium.[8][21] His wife, Aelia Flaccilla, was accordingly raised to augusta.[8] The new augustus's territory spanned the Roman praetorian prefecture of the East, including the Roman diocese of Thrace, and the additional dioceses of Dacia and of Macedonia. Theodosius the Elder, who had died in 375, was then deified as: Divus Theodosius Pater, lit. 'the Divine Father Theodosius'.[8] administrative divisions of the Roman Empire in 395, under Theodosius I. of Valentinian II showing Valentinian and Theodosius I on the reverse, each holding a mappa reign: 379-“383[edit] October 379 the Council of Antioch was convened.[8] On 27 February 380 Theodosius issued the Edict of Thessalonica, making Nicene Christianity the state church of the Roman Empire.[8] In 380, Theodosius was made Roman consul for the first time and Gratian for the fifth; in September the augusti Gratian and Theodosius met, returning the Roman diocese of Dacia to Gratian's control and that of Macedonia to Valentinian II.[21][8] In autumn Theodosius fell ill, and was baptized.[8] According to the Consularia Constantinopolitana, Theodosius arrived at Constantinople and staged an adventus, a ritual entry to the capital, on 24 November 380.[8] issued a decree against Christians deemed heretics on 10 January 381.[8] According to the Consularia Constantinopolitana, on the 11 January, Athanaric, king of the Gothic Thervingi arrived in Constantinople; he died and was buried in Constantinople on 25 January.[8] 8 May 381, Theodosius issued an edict against Manichaeism.[8] In mid-May, Theodosius convened the First Council of Constantinople, the second ecumenical council after Constantine's First Council of Nicaea in 325; the Constantinopolitan council ended on 9 July.[8] According to Zosimus, Theodosius won a victory over the Carpi and the Scirii in summer 381.[8] On 21 December, Theodosius decreed the prohibition of sacrifices with the intent of divining the future.[8] 21 February 382, the body of Theodosius's father in law Valentinian the Great was finally laid to rest in the Church of the Holy Apostles.[8] Another Council of Constantinople was held in summer 382.[8] to the Consularia Constantinopolitana, a treaty of foedus was reached with the Goths, and they were settled between the Danube and the Balkan Mountains.[8] settlement of the Gothic Wars[edit] Goths and their allies (Vandals, Taifals, Bastarnae and the native Carpians) entrenched in the provinces of Dacia and eastern Pannonia Inferior consumed Theodosius's attention. Gothic crisis was so dire that his co-Emperor Gratian relinquished control of the Illyrian provinces and retired to Trier in Gaul to let Theodosius operate without hindrance. major weakness in the Roman position after the defeat at Adrianople was the recruiting of barbarians to fight against other barbarians. In order to reconstruct the Roman Army of the East, Theodosius needed to find able bodied soldiers and so he turned to the most capable men readily at hand: the barbarians recently settled in the Empire. This caused many difficulties in the battle against barbarians since the newly recruited fighters had little or no loyalty to Theodosius. It did not help that Theodosius himself was dangerously ill during many months after his elevation, being confined to his bed in Thessalonica during much of 379.[22] suppressed the incursions into dioceses of Illyria (Pannonia and Dalmatia) by Alathaeus and Saphrax in 380.[23] He succeeded in convincing both to agree to a treaty and be settled in Pannonia.[24] was able finally to enter Constantinople in November 380, after two seasons in the field, having ultimately prevailed by offering highly favorable terms to the Gothic chiefs.[23] His task was rendered much easier when Athanaric, an aged and cautious leader, accepted Theodosius's invitation to a conference in the capital, Constantinople, and the splendor of the imperial city reportedly awed him and his fellow-chiefs into accepting Theodosius' offers.[25] himself died soon after, but his followers were impressed by the honorable funeral arranged for him by Theodosius, and agreed to defending the border of the empire.[25] The final treaties with the remaining Gothic forces, signed 3 October 382, permitted large contingents of barbarians, primarily Thervingian Goths, to settle in Thrace south of the Danube frontier.[26] The Goths now settled within the Empire would largely fight for the Romans as a national contingent, as opposed to being fully integrated into the Roman forces.[26] provinces along the Ister (Danube), showing the Roman dioceses of Thrace, Dacia, Pannonia and Italia Annonaria on the empire's northern frontier civil war: 383-“384[edit] of Theodosius, showing both he and his co-augustus Valentinian II (r. 375-“392) enthroned on the reverse, each crowned by Victory and together holding an orb victoria augg ("the Victory of the Augusti") to the Chronicon Paschale, Theodosius celebrated his quinquennalia on 19 January 383 at Constantinople; on this occasion he raised his eldest son Arcadius to co-augustus.[8] Early 383 saw the acclamation of Magnus Maximus as augustus in Britain and the appointment of Themistius as praefectus urbi in Constantinople.[8] On 25 July, Theodosius issued a new edict against gatherings of Christians deemed heretics.[8] unable to do much about Maximus due to his still inadequate military capability, opened negotiations with the Persian emperor Shapur III (r. 383-“388) of the Sasanian Empire.[27] In an attempt to curb Maximus's ambitions, Theodosius appointed Flavius Neoterius as praetorian prefect of Italy.[28] in 383, Gratian's wife Constantia died.[21] Gratian remarried, wedding Laeta, whose father was a consularis of Roman Syria.[29] On the 25 August 383, according to the Consularia Constantinopolitana, Gratian was killed at Lugdunum (Lyon) by Andragathius, the magister equitum of the rebel augustus during the rebellion of Magnus Maximus .[21] Constantia's body arrived in Constantinople on 12 September that year and was buried in the Church of the Holy Apostles on 1 December.[21] Gratian was deified as Latin: Divus Gratianus, lit. 'the Divine Gratian'.[21] 21 January 384 all those deemed heretics were expelled from Constantinople.[8] According to the Consularia Constantinopolitana, Theodosius received in Constantinople an embassy from the Sasanian Empire in 384.[8] In summer 384, Theodosius met his co-augustus Valentinian II in northern Italy.[30][8] Theodosius brokered a peace agreement between Valentinian and Magnus Maximus which endured for several years.[31] of Theodosius, found in 1847 in Almendralejo, Spain reign: 384-“387[edit] second son Honorius was born on 9 December 384 and titled nobilissimus puer (or nobilissimus iuvenis).[8] The death of Aelia Flaccilla, Theodosius's first wife and the mother of Arcadius, Honorius, and Pulcheria, occurred by 386.[8] She died at Scotumis in Thrace and was buried at Constantinople, her funeral oration delivered by Gregory of Nyssa.[8][32] A statue of her was dedicated in the Byzantine Senate.[32] In 384 or 385, Theodosius's niece Serena was married to the magister militum, Stilicho.[8] On 25 May 385, Theodosius repeated the ban on sacrifices that were done in order to predict the future.[8] the beginning of 386, Theodosius's daughter Pulcheria also died.[8] That summer more Goths were defeated, and many were settled in Phrygia.[8] According to the Consularia Constantinopolitana, a Roman triumph over the Gothic Greuthungi was then celebrated at Constantinople.[8] The same year, work began on the great triumphal column in the Forum of Theodosius in Constantinople, the Column of Theodosius.[8] On 19 January 387, according to the Consularia Constantinopolitana, Arcadius celebrated his quinquennalia in Constantinople.[8] By the end of the month, there was an uprising or riot in Antioch (Antakya).[8] With a peace agreement with Persia in the Roman-“Persian Wars came a division of Armenia.[8] civil war: 387-“388[edit] peace with Magnus Maximus was broken in 387, and Valentinian escaped the west with Justina, reaching Thessalonica (Thessaloniki) in summer or autumn 387 and appealing to Theodosius for aid; Valentinian II's sister Galla was then married to the eastern augustus at Thessalonica in late autumn.[30][8] Theodosius may still have been in Thessalonica when he celebrated his decennalia on 19 January 388.[8] Theodosius was consul for the second time in 388.[8] Galla and Theodosius's first child, a son named Gratian, was born in 388 or 389.[8] 10 March 388, Christians deemed heretics were forbidden from residing in cities.[8] On 14 March, Theodosius banned the intermarriage of Jews and Christians.[8] In summer 388, Theodosius recovered Italy from Magnus Maximus for Valentinian, and in June, the meeting of Christians deemed heretics was banned by Valentinian.[30][8] armies of Theodosius and Maximus fought at the Battle of Poetovio in 388, which saw Maximus defeated. On 28 August 388 Maximus was executed.[33] Now the de facto ruler of the Western empire as well, Theodosius celebrated his victory in Rome on June 13, 389 and stayed in Milan until 391, installing his own loyalists in senior positions including the new magister militum of the West, the Frankish general Arbogast.[33] July, Magnus Maximus was defeated by Theodosius at the Battle of Save; on 28 August, Magnus Maximus was executed by Theodosius.[8] According to the Consularia Constantinopolitana, Arbogast killed Flavius Victor (r. 384-“388), Magnus Maximus's young son and co-augustus, in Gaul in August/September that year. Damnatio memoriae was pronounced against them, and inscriptions naming them were erased.[8] affairs: 388-“391[edit] Ambrose barring Theodosius from Milan Cathedral, Anthony van Dyck, c. 1620 came into conflict with Ambrose, bishop of Mediolanum (Milan), in October 388 over the persecution of Jews at Callincium-on-the-Euphrates (Raqqa).[8] As mentioned in the Panegyrici Latini and in a panegyric of Claudian's on the sixth consulship of Honorius, Theodosius then received another embassy from the Persians in 389.[8] According to the Consularia Constantinopolitana, Theodosius staged an adventus on entering Rome on 13 June 389.[8] On 17 June, he issued a decree against Manichaeism.[8] Theodosiushad left Valentinian under the protection of the magister militum Arbogast, who then defeated the Franks in 389.[31][30] 390 the population of Thessalonica rioted in complaint against the presence of the local Gothic garrison. The garrison commander was killed in the violence, so Theodosius ordered the Goths to kill all the spectators in the circus as retaliation, an event known as the Massacre of Thessalonica; Theodoret, a contemporary witness to these events, reports: the anger of the Emperor rose to the highest pitch, and he gratified his vindictive desire for vengeance by unsheathing the sword most unjustly and tyrannically against all, slaying the innocent and guilty alike. It is said seven thousand perished without any forms of law, and without even having judicial sentence passed upon them; but that, like ears of wheat in the time of harvest, they were alike cut down.[34] was excommunicated by the bishop of Milan, Ambrose, for the massacre.[35] Ambrose told Theodosius to imitate David in his repentance as he had imitated him in guilt; Ambrose readmitted the emperor to the Eucharist only after several months of penance.[citation needed] spring 390, possibly in April, the Massacre of Thessalonica was perpetrated by Theodosius's army, leading to a confrontation with Ambrose.[8] Ambrose demanded that the emperor do penance for the massacre.[8] According to the 5th-century church historian Theodoret, on 25 December 390 (Christmas), Ambrose received Theodosius back into the Christian Church in his bishopric of Mediolanum.[8] According to the Chronicon Paschale, on 18 February 391, the head of John the Baptist was translated to Constantinople.[8] On the 24 February, attendance at pagan sacrifices and temples was forbidden by law.[8] In early summer 391, an uprising in Alexandria was suppressed, and the Serapeum of Alexandria was destroyed.[8] On 16 June, pagan worship was prohibited by law.[8] In 391, a delegation from the Roman Senate was snubbed in Gaul because of the reappearance of the Altar of Victory in the Curia Julia.[30] to Zosimus, Theodosius then campaigned against marauding barbarian bandits in Macedonia in autumn 391.[8] Eventually, he came to Constantinople, where according to Socrates Scholasticus's Historia Ecclesiastica he held an adventus, entering the city on 10 November 391.[8] of Eugenius (r. 392-“394), showing both he and Theodosius enthroned on the reverse, each crowned by Victory and together holding an orb. Marked: victoria augg ("the Victory of the Augusti") of the Theodosian emperors from the Hoxne Hoard: portraits of Theodosius I (top), Arcadius (left), and Honorius (right) civil war: 392-“394[edit] 15 May 392, Valentinian II died at Vienna in Gaul (Vienne), either by suicide or as part of a plot by the magister militum Arbogast.[30] Valentinian had quarrelled publicly with Arbogast, and was found hanged in his room.[36] Arbogast announced that this had been a suicide.[36] He was deified with the consecratio: Divae Memoriae Valentinianus, lit. 'the Divine Memory of Valentinian'.[30] was then sole adult emperor, reigning with his son Arcadius. Arbogast was unable to assume the role of emperor because of his non-Roman background.[36] Instead, on 22 August at the behest of Arbogast, a magister scrinii and vir clarissimus, Eugenius, was acclaimed augustus at Lugdunum.[8] Eugenius made some limited concessions to the Roman religion; like Maximus he sought Theodosius's recognition in vain.[36] On 8 November 392, all cult worship of the gods was forbidden by Theodosius.[8] to Polemius Silvius, Theodosius raised his second son Honorius to augustus on 23 January 393.[8] He cited Eugenius's illegitimacy.[36] 393 was the year of Theodosius's third consulship.[8] On 29 September 393, Theodosius issued a decree for the protection of Jews.[8] According to Zosimus, at the end of April 394, Theodosius's wife Galla died.[8] On 1 August, a colossal statue of Theodosius was dedicated in Constantinople's Forum of Theodosius, an event recorded in the Chronicon Paschale.[8] the last years of Theodosius's reign, one of the emerging leaders of the Goths, named Alaric, participated in Theodosius's campaign against Eugenius in 394, only to resume his rebellious behavior against Theodosius's son and eastern successor, Arcadius, shortly after Theodosius' death. had gathered a large army, including the Goths whom he had settled in the eastern empire as foederati, as well as Caucasian and Saracen auxiliaries, and marched against Eugenius.[37] According to Socrates Scholasticus, Theodosius defeated Eugenius at the Battle of the Frigidus (the Vipava) on 6 September 394.[8] battle began on 5 September 394, with Theodosius' full frontal assault on Eugenius's forces.[citation needed] Theodosius was repulsed on the first day, and Eugenius thought the battle to be all but over.[citation needed] In Theodosius's camp, the loss of the day decreased morale.[citation needed] It is said[by whom?] that Theodosius was visited by two "heavenly riders all in white" who gave him courage.[citation needed] The next day, the battle began again and Theodosius's forces were aided by a natural phenomenon known as the Bora, which produces cyclonic winds.[38] The Bora blew directly against the forces of Eugenius and disrupted the line.[citation needed] Eugenius's camp was stormed; Eugenius was captured and soon after executed.[38] On 8 September, Arbogast killed himself.[8] to Socrates, on 1 January 395, Honorius arrived in Mediolanum and a victory celebration was held there.[8] suffered from a disease involving severe edema, in Milan.[39] According to the Consularia Constantinopolitana, Theodosius died in Mediolanum on 17 January 395.[8] His funeral was held there on 25 February.[8] Ambrose delivered a panegyric titled De obitu Theodosii in the presence Stilicho and Honorius in which Ambrose praised the suppression of paganism by Theodosius.[39] body transferred to Constantinople, where according to the Chronicon Paschale he was buried on 8 November 395 in the Church of the Holy Apostles.[8] He was deified as: Divus Theodosius, lit. 'the Divine Theodosius'.[8] He was interred in a porphyry sarcophagus that was described in the 10th century by Constantine VII Porphyrogenitus in his work De Ceremoniis.[40] offers a laurel wreath to the victor, on the marble base of the Obelisk of Thutmosis III at the Hippodrome of Constantinople. patronage[edit] section does not cite any sources. Please help improve this section by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. (January 2017) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) oversaw the removal in 390 of an Egyptian obelisk from Alexandria to Constantinople.[41] It is now known as the obelisk of Theodosius and still stands in the Hippodrome of Constantinople,[41] the long Roman circus that was the centre of Constantinople's public life and scene of political turmoil. Re-erecting the monolith was a challenge for the technology that had been honed in the construction of siege engines. The obelisk, still recognizably a solar symbol, had been moved from Karnak to Alexandria with what is now the Lateran obelisk by Constantius II. Lateran obelisk was shipped to Rome soon afterwards, but the other one then spent a generation lying at the docks due to the difficulty involved in attempting to ship it to Constantinople. Eventually, the obelisk was cracked in transit. The white marble base is entirely covered with bas-reliefs documenting the imperial household and the engineering feat of removing it to Constantinople. Theodosius and the imperial family are separated from the nobles among the spectators in the imperial box, with a cover over them as a mark of their status. The naturalism of traditional Roman art in such scenes gave way in these reliefs to conceptual art: the idea of order, decorum and respective ranking, expressed in serried ranks of faces. This is seen as evidence of formal themes beginning to oust the transitory details of mundane life, celebrated in Roman portraiture. Forum Tauri in Constantinople was renamed and redecorated as the Forum of Theodosius, including a column and a triumphal arch in his honour.[42] of Nazianzus takes his leave of the emperor Theodosius in a miniature from the Paris Gregory, a 9th-century illuminated manuscript of the Homilies of Gregory policy[edit] 325, Constantine I convened the Council of Nicaea, which affirmed the doctrine that Jesus, the Son, was equal to God the Father and "of one substance" with the Father (homoousios in Greek). The Council condemned the teachings of Arius, who believed Jesus to be inferior to the Father. the council's ruling, controversy continued for decades, with several christological alternatives to the Nicene Creed being brought forth. Theologians attempted to bypass the Christological debate by saying that Jesus was merely like (homoios in Greek) God the father, without speaking of substance (ousia). These non-Nicenes were frequently labelled as Arians (i.e., followers of Arius) by their opponents, though not all would necessarily have identified themselves as such.[43] Emperor Valens had favored the group who used the homoios formula; this theology was prominent in much of the East and had under Constantius II gained a foothold in the West, being ratified by the Council of Ariminum, though it was later abjured by a majority of the western bishops (after Constantius II's death in 361). The death of Valens damaged the standing of the Homoian faction, especially since his successor Theodosius steadfastly held to the Nicene Creed which was the interpretation that predominated in the West and was held by the important Alexandrian church. of orthodoxy[edit] Barocci, Saint Ambrose forces Emperor Theodosius I to make penance for the Thessaloniki massacre (1603), left-side nave, Saint Ambrose Altar, Milan Cathedral. 27 February 380, together with Gratian and Valentinian II, Theodosius issued the decree "Cunctos populos", the so-called Edict of Thessalonica, recorded in the Codex Theodosianus xvi.1.2. This declared the Nicene Trinitarian Christianity to be the only legitimate imperial religion and the only one entitled to call itself Catholic; non-Christian religions or those who did not support the Trinity, he described as "foolish madmen".[44] He also ended official state support for the traditional polytheist religions and customs.[45] 26 November 380, two days after he had arrived in Constantinople, Theodosius expelled the Homoian bishop, Demophilus of Constantinople, and appointed Meletius patriarch of Antioch, and Gregory of Nazianzus, one of the Cappadocian Fathers from Cappadocia (today in Turkey), patriarch of Constantinople. Theodosius had just been baptized, by bishop Ascholius of Thessalonica, during a severe illness.[citation needed] May 381, Theodosius summoned a new ecumenical council at Constantinople to repair the schism between East and West on the basis of Nicene orthodoxy.[46] The council went on to define orthodoxy, including the Third Person of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit, as equal to the Father and 'proceeding' from Him, whereas the Son was 'begotten' of Him.[47] The council also "condemned the Apollonarian and Macedonian heresies, clarified jurisdictions of the bishops according to the civil boundaries of dioceses and ruled that Constantinople was second in precedence to Rome."[47] of pagan religion[edit] article: Persecution of pagans under Theodosius I persecution of pagans under Theodosius I began in 381, after the first couple of years of his reign in the Eastern Roman Empire. In the 380s, Theodosius I reiterated Constantine's ban on some practices of Roman religion, prohibited haruspicy on pain of death, decreed magistrates who did not enforce laws against polytheism were subject to criminal prosecution, broke up some pagan associations and tolerated attacks on Roman temples. 391 and 392 Theodosius promulgated three laws restricting pagan religious practices. The first, issued in June 391 and addressed to the urban prefect of Rome, banned ritual sacrifice and access to temples, with heavy fines for infractors. A similar measure was addressed to Alexandria in June 392. These two laws were apparently aimed at public officials specifically and not binding on the population at large.[48] The third and more extreme law, issued in November 392, prohibited pagan worship in every form, including animal sacrifice and offerings of incense and wine, again threatening offenders with confiscation of property.[49] This measure was addressed specifically to the praetorian prefect of the East, the staunchly Christian Rufinus, and there is seemingly no evidence of its application in the West, where Theodosius himself appointed several pagans to high office to mollify them.[50] He turned pagan holidays into workdays, closed temples, confiscated Temple endowments and disbanded the Vestal Virgins.[51] The practices of taking auspices and witchcraft were punished. Theodosius refused to restore the Altar of Victory in the Senate House, as asked by non-Christian senators.[52]:115 392 until his death in 395, while non-Christians continued to request toleration,[53][54] he ordered, authorized, or at least failed to punish, the closure or destruction of many temples, holy sites, images and objects of piety throughout the empire.[55][56][57][58][59] 393 he issued a comprehensive law that prohibited any public non-Christian religious customs,[60] and was particularly oppressive to Manicheans.[61] He is likely to have discontinued the ancient Olympic Games, whose last record of celebration was in 393, though archeological evidence indicates that some games were still held after this date.[62] AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (28 AUGUST 430) ; NINIAN OF GALLOWAY, BISHOP, MISSIONARY TO SCOTLAND (16 SEP 430) ; AMBROSE OF MILAN, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (7 DEC 397); St Ambrose the Bishop of Milan, Commemorated on December 7; Martyr Anthusa at Rome, Commemorated on December 8; St Honoratus the Archbishop of Arles and Founder of Lerins Monastery, Commemorated on January 16 ; St Paulinus the Merciful the Bishop of Nola, Commemorated on January 23; Martyr Bathusius in the Crimea, Commemorated on March 26 ; Venerable John the Clairvoyant, Anchorite, of Egypt, Commemorated on March 27; St Theotimus the Bishop of Lesser Scythia, Commemorated on April 20; St Donatus the Bishop of Euroea in Epirus, Commemorated on April 30; St Monica, Commemorated on May 4 ; Venerable Arsenius the Great, Commemorated on May 8; Commemoration of the Holy Fathers of the Second Ecumenical Council, Commemorated on May 22; St Augustine the Bishop of Hippo, Commemorated on June 15 ; St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15;

Rome, 379-395, Emperor, Theodosius I, Moved to Viminacium, Moecia Prima, Illuricum, on R R Militarica
Roman Emperor, 379-395, Theodosius I, Moved from Rome to Illuricum ; about 373, Theodosius was made dux of the province of Moesia Prima.[17] In 374, the Quadi and their allies the Sarmatians overran the province of Valeria in the praetorian prefecture of Illyricum.[18] Theodosius drove the Sarmatians out of the Roman territory and then defeated the Quadi.[19][20] He is reported to have defended his province with marked ability and success.[19] the Elder fell from power in 375, and Theodosius the dux of Moesia Prima retired to his estates in the Iberian Peninsula, where he married Aelia Flaccilla in 376.[8] Their first child, Arcadius, was born around 377.[8] Pulcheria, their daughter, was born in 377 or 378.[8] Theodosius had returned to the Danube frontier by 378, when he was appointed magister equitum.[8] AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (28 AUGUST 430) ; NINIAN OF GALLOWAY, BISHOP, MISSIONARY TO SCOTLAND (16 SEP 430) ; AMBROSE OF MILAN, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (7 DEC 397); St Ambrose the Bishop of Milan, Commemorated on December 7; Martyr Anthusa at Rome, Commemorated on December 8; St Honoratus the Archbishop of Arles and Founder of Lerins Monastery, Commemorated on January 16 ; St Paulinus the Merciful the Bishop of Nola, Commemorated on January 23; Venerable John the Clairvoyant, Anchorite, of Egypt, Commemorated on March 27; St Theotimus the Bishop of Lesser Scythia, Commemorated on April 20; St Donatus the Bishop of Euroea in Epirus, Commemorated on April 30; St Monica, Commemorated on May 4 ; Venerable Arsenius the Great, Commemorated on May 8; Commemoration of the Holy Fathers of the Second Ecumenical Council, Commemorated on May 22; St Augustine the Bishop of Hippo, Commemorated on June 15 ;

Rome, 380-435, Saint John Cassian the Roman
Rome, 380-435, Saint John Cassian the Roman; Venerable John Cassian the Roman, Commemorated on February 28; St. Germanus of Dacia Pontica (Dobrogea), Commemorated on February 29;

Rome, 395-423, Emperor, Honorius in the West, Rome sacked, his general Stilicho preserved stability until executed
Roman Emperor, 395-423, Honorius ; Flavius Honorius (9 September 384 -“ 15 August 423) was Roman emperor from 393 to 423. He was the younger son of emperor Theodosius I and his first wife Aelia Flaccilla, and brother of Arcadius, who ruled the eastern half of the empire from 395, when their father died, until his death in 408. In 410, during Honorius's reign over the western Roman Empire, Rome was sacked for the first time in almost 800 years.[2] Even by the standards of the rapidly declining Western Empire, Honorius's reign was precarious and chaotic. His reign was supported by his principal general, Stilicho, who was successively Honorius's guardian (during his childhood) and his father-in-law (after the emperor became an adult). Stilicho's generalship helped preserve some level of stability, but with his execution in 408, the western Roman Empire moved closer to collapse. St Germanus the Bishop of Auxerre, Commemorated on July 31; NINIAN OF GALLOWAY, BISHOP, MISSIONARY TO SCOTLAND (16 SEP 430) ; AMBROSE OF MILAN, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (7 DEC 397); St Honoratus the Archbishop of Arles and Founder of Lerins Monastery, Commemorated on January 16 ; St Patrick the Bishop of Armagh and Enlightener of Ireland, Commemorated on March 17; Venerable Alexis the Man of God, Commemorated on March 17; Venerable Serapion of Egypt, Commemorated on April 7; Venerable Serapion of Egypt, Commemorated on May 14; Blessed Child Musa of Rome, Commemorated on May 16 ; St Augustine the Bishop of Hippo, Commemorated on June 15 ;

Rome, 395-410, Roman Visgoth, Alaric the Visgoth, Sack of Rome in 410
Roman Visgoth, 395-410, Alaric the Visgoth, Sack of Rome in 410; AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (28 AUGUST 430);

Rome, 400, 5th - 8th Century, Folder, Fall of Rome, Gothic Empire, Primacy of Roman Pope

Rome, 400-499, 5th Century Folder, Fall of Rome, Ostrogoth Kingdom, Defeat by Byzantines 552

Rome, 401-417, Archbishop, Innocent I, energetic, gifted, defended Chrysostom
Roman Archbishop, 401-417, Innocent ; Innocent I was the bishop of Rome from 401 to his death on 12 March 417. He may have been the son of his predecessor, Anastasius I. the beginning of his papacy, he was seen as the general arbitrator of ecclesiastical disputes in both the East and the West. He confirmed the prerogatives of the Archbishop of Thessalonica, and issued a decretal on disciplinary matters referred to him by the Bishop of Rouen. defended the exiled John Chrysostom and consulted with the bishops of Africa concerning the Pelagian controversy, confirming the decisions of the African synods. Catholic priest-scholar Johann Peter Kirsch, 1500 years later, described Innocent as a very energetic and highly gifted individual "...who fulfilled admirably the duties of his office".[2] Venerable Alexis the Man of God, Commemorated on March 17 ; St. Germanus of Dacia Pontica (Dobrogea), Commemorated on February 29; Venerable Alexis the Man of God, Commemorated on March 17;

Rome, 403-439, Melania the Younger, wealth, chasity, visited prisoners and mine convicts, helped monasteries, much more
Rome, 403-439, Melania the Younger of Rome, wealth, chasity, children died, new life dedicated to God, visited sick , debtors prison, and mine convicts, sold estates italy and spain, helped monasteries in Mesopotamia, Syria, Egypt, Phoenicia and Palestine, to Africa, storm, ransom for city on the way, 7 yrs in Carthage, Cyril and Nestorius, to Jerusalem, distributed rest of gold, poverty and prayer, short egypt visit, desert fathers, Melania's cell on mt of olives, later founded monastery, 90 virgins, husband Apinianus died, 4 more yrs fasting and p, benefactor sent for Mount of the Assension Chapel; Melania the Younger (born in Rome c. 383, died in Jerusalem on 31 December 439) is a Christian saint and Desert Mother who lived during the reign of Emperor Honorius, son of Theodosius I. She is the paternal granddaughter of Melania the Elder. Feast of Melania the Younger is held on 31 December (the Julian calendar's 31 December falls on 13 January on the Gregorian calendar). In Ukraine, by Orthodox Christians, Malanka ("Melania's Day") is celebrated on 13 January, and on 31 December by other Christians. Mount of the Assension, Chapel of the Assension; Venerable Melania the Younger of Rome, Commemorated on December 31; Melania was born in Rome into a devout Christian family. Her parents, people of property and wealth, hoped that their daughter would marry and have children who would inherit their wealth. fourteen years of age Melania was married to the illustrious youth Apinianus. From the very beginning of their married life, Saint Melania asked her husband to live with her in chastity or else release her from the marriage. Apinianus answered, “I cannot agree to this right now. When we have two children to inherit the property, then we shall both renounce the world.” Melania gave birth to a daughter, whom the young parents dedicated to God. Continuing to live together in marriage, Melania secretly wore a hair shirt and spent her nights in prayer. The second child, a boy, was premature and had severe complications. They baptized him, and he departed to the Lord. the suffering of his wife, Apinianus asked the Lord to preserve Saint Melania’s life, and he vowed to spend the rest of their life together in chastity. Recovering, Saint Melania stopped wearing her beautiful clothing and jewelry. Soon their daughter also died. The parents of Saint Melania did not support the young couple’s desire to devote themselves to God. It was only when Saint Melania’s father became deathly ill, that he asked their forgiveness and permitted them to follow their chosen path, asking them to pray for him. saints then left the city of Rome, and began a new life completely dedicated to the service of God. Apinianus at this time was twenty-four years of age, and Melania twenty. They began to visit the sick, to take in wanderers, and to help the indigent. They visited those who were exiled, and mine-convicts, and the destitute, there in debtor’s prison. After selling their estates in Italy and Spain, they generously helped monasteries, hospitals, widows and orphans in Mesopotamia, Syria, Egypt, Phoenicia, and Palestine. churches and hospitals were built with their assistance. Churches of both West and East benefited from them. Leaving their native land, they set sail for Africa, and a strong storm arose while they were at sea. The sailors said that this was because of the wrath of God, but Saint Melania said that it was not God’s will that they should go directly to their destination. waves carried the ship to an island on which barbarians had landed. The besiegers demanded a ransom from the inhabitants, or else they threatened to lay waste the city. The saints supplied the necessary ransom, and thus saved the city and its people from destruction. their voyage, they landed in Africa and helped all the needy there. With the blessing of the local bishops, they made offerings to churches and monasteries. During this time Saint Melania continued to humble her flesh by strict fasting, and she fortified her soul by constantly reading the Word of God, making copies of the sacred books and distributing them to those who lacked them. She sewed a hairshirt for herself, put it on, and continued to wear it. saints spent seven years in Carthage, and then decided to visit Jerusalem. At Alexandria, they were welcomed by the bishop, Saint Cyril, and they met in church with the holy Elder Nestorius, who was possessed of the gift of prophecy and healing. The Elder turned to them and told them to have courage and patience in expectation of the Glory of Heaven. Jerusalem, the saints distributed their remaining gold to the destitute and then spent their days in poverty and prayer. After a short visit to Egypt, where the saints visited many of the desert Fathers, Saint Melania secluded herself in a cell on the Mount of Olives. Only occasionally did she see Saint Apinianus. she founded a monastery, where eventually ninety virgins lived in obedience to Saint Melania. Out of humility, she would not consent to be abbess, and lived and prayed in solitude as before. In her instructions, Saint Melania urged the sisters to be vigilant and to pray, to disdain their own opinions and cultivate first of all love for God and for one another, to keep the holy Orthodox Faith, and to guard their purity of soul and of body. particular, she exhorted them to be obedient to the will of God. Calling to mind the words of the Apostle Paul, she counselled them to keep the fasts “not with wailing, nor from compulsion, but in virtuous disposition with love for God”. her efforts an oratory and altar were built in the monastery, where they enshrined the relics of saints: the Prophet Zachariah, the holy Protomartyr Stephen, and the Forty Martyrs of Sebaste. About this time Saint Apinianus fell asleep in the Lord. Saint Melania buried his relics and there spent another four years in fasting and unceasing prayer. Melania wanted to build a men’s monastery on the Mount of the Ascension of the Lord. The Lord blessed her intent by sending a benefactor who provided the means for the monastery. Joyfully accepting it, Saint Melania finished the great work in a single year. In this monastery, saintly men began to lift up unceasing prayer in the church of the Ascension of Christ. completed her tasks, the saint left Jerusalem for Constantinople, hoping to save the soul of her pagan uncle Volusianus who had traveled there from Rome. Along the way she prayed at the relics of Saint Laurence (August 10), at the place of his martyrdom, and received auspicious signs. Arriving in Constantinople, the saint found her uncle had fallen ill. Her demeanor and her inspired discourses had a profound influence on the sick man. He gave up pagan impiety and died a Christian. this time many inhabitants of the capital were deceived by the heretical teaching of Nestorius. Saint Melania accepted anyone who turned to her for proper explanation, converting many of them to Orthodoxy. Many miracles were worked through the prayers of the saint. to her own monastery, the saint sensed the approach of death, and told this to the priest and the sisters. They listened to her final instructions with deep sorrow and with tears. Having asked their prayers and commanding them to preserve themselves in purity, she received the Holy Mysteries with joy. Saint Melania peacefully gave up her soul to the Lord in the year 439.

Rome, 418-422, Pope, Boniface I, praise from Augustine of Hippo
Roman Pope, 418-422, Pope Boniface I; Boniface I was the bishop of Rome from 28 December 418 to his death on 4 September 422. His election was disputed by the supporters of Eulalius until the dispute was settled by Emperor Honorius. was active in maintaining church discipline, and he restored certain privileges to the metropolitical sees of Narbonne and Vienne, exempting them from any subjection to the primacy of Arles. was a contemporary of Augustine of Hippo, who dedicated to him some of his works. St Celestine the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on April 8;

Rome, 422-432, Roman Pope, Celestine I, condemned Nestorius, Pelagians, and Novatians
Roman Pope, 422-432, Celestine I ; Celestine I (Latin: Caelestinus I) was the bishop of Rome from 10 September 422 to his death on 1 August 432. Celestine's tenure was largely spent combatting various ideologies deemed heretical. He supported the mission of the Gallic bishops that sent Germanus of Auxerre in 429, to Britain to address Pelagianism, and later commissioned Palladius as bishop to the Scots of Ireland and northern Britain. In 430, he held a synod in Rome which condemned the apparent views of Nestorius. 1 Early life and family 2 Pontificate 3 Death and legacy 4 See also 5 References 6 External links life and family[edit] I was a Roman from the region of Campania.[2] Nothing is known of his early history except that his father's name was Priscus. to John Gilmary Shea, Celestine was a relative of the emperor Valentinian.[1] is said to have lived for a time at Milan with St. Ambrose. The first known record of him is in a document of Pope Innocent I from the year 416, where he is spoken of as "Celestine the Deacon".[3] to the Liber Pontificalis, the start of his papacy was 3 November.[2] However, Tillemont places the date at 10 September.[4] portions of the liturgy are attributed to Celestine I, but without any certainty on the subject. 430, he held a synod in Rome, at which the teachings of Nestorius were condemned. The following year, he sent delegates to the First Council of Ephesus, which addressed the same issue.[1] Four letters written by him on that occasion, all dated 15 March 431, together with a few others, to the African bishops, to those of Illyria, of Thessalonica, and of Narbonne, are extant in re-translations from the Greek; the Latin originals having been lost. actively condemned the Pelagians and was zealous for Roman orthodoxy. To this end he was involved in the initiative of the Gallic bishops to send Germanus of Auxerre and Lupus of Troyes travelling to Britain in 429 to confront bishops reportedly holding Pelagian views. sent Palladius to Ireland to serve as a bishop in 431. Bishop Patrick continued this missionary work. Celestine strongly opposed the Novatians in Rome; as Socrates Scholasticus writes, "this Celestinus took away the churches from the Novatians at Rome also, and obliged Rusticula their bishop to hold his meetings secretly in private houses."[5] The Novationists refused absolution to the lapsi, but Celestine argued that reconciliation should never be refused to any dying sinner who sincerely asked it.[1] He was zealous in refusing to tolerate the smallest innovation on the constitutions of his predecessors. As St. Vincent of Lerins reported in 434: Pope Celestine also expresses himself in like manner and to the same effect. For in the Epistle which he wrote to the priests of Gaul, charging them with connivance with error, in that by their silence they failed in their duty to the ancient faith, and allowed profane novelties to spring up, he says: "We are deservedly to blame if we encourage error by silence. Therefore rebuke these people. Restrain their liberty of preaching."[6] a letter to certain bishops of Gaul, dated 428, Celestine rebukes the adoption of special clerical garb by the clergy. He wrote: "We [the bishops and clergy] should be distinguished from the common people [plebe] by our learning, not by our clothes; by our conduct, not by our dress; by cleanness of mind, not by the care we spend upon our person" [3] and legacy[edit] died on 26 July 432. He was buried in the cemetery of St. Priscilla in the Via Salaria, but his body, subsequently moved, now lies in the Basilica di Santa Prassede. In art, Saint Celestine is portrayed as a pope with a dove, dragon, and flame, and is recognized by Oriental Orthodox, Eastern Orthodox, and Catholic Churches as a saint. LEO THE GREAT, BISHOP OF ROME, DOCTOR (10 NOV 461); St Celestine the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on April 8 ; St Cyril the Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on June 9;

Rome, 423-455, Emperor, Valentinian III, weak, Primacy of the Roman Pope
Roman Emperor, 423-455, Valentinian III; St Germanus the Bishop of Auxerre, Commemorated on July 31; Translation of the relics of the Protomartyr and Archdeacon Stephen from Jerusalem to Constantinople, Commemorated on August 2; LEO THE GREAT, BISHOP OF ROME, DOCTOR (10 NOV 461); Virginmartyr Appolinaria of Egypt, Commemorated on January 5; St Elian, Missionary to Cornwall, England, Commemorated on January 13; St Paulinus the Merciful the Bishop of Nola, Commemorated on January 23; St Patrick the Bishop of Armagh and Enlightener of Ireland, Commemorated on March 17; St Celestine the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on April 8 ; Venerable Serapion of Egypt, Commemorated on May 14; Blessed Child Musa of Rome, Commemorated on May 16 ;

Rome, 423-455, Emperess, Honoraria, V III's sister, promiscuous, gave love to Attila, so he proclaimed western empire rule
Rome, 423-455, Emperess, Honoraria; Grata Honoria, commonly referred to during her lifetime as Honoria,[1] was the older sister of the Western Roman Emperor Valentinian III. She is famous for her plea of love and help to Attila the Hun, which led to his proclamation of his claim to rule the Western Roman Empire. Coins attest that she was granted the title of Augusta not long after the accession of her brother in 426.[2] Roman Emperor, 423-455, Valentinian III; St. Epiphanius the Bishop of Cyprus, Commemorated on May 12;

Rome, 432-440, Pope Sixtus III, Holy Pope Sixtus
Pope, 432-440, Pope Sixtus III; LEO THE GREAT, BISHOP OF ROME, DOCTOR (10 NOV 461); Saint Leo the Great, Pope of Rome, Commemorated on February 18;

Rome, 440-461, Roman Pope, Pope Leo I, LEO THE GREAT, met Attila the Hun in 452, Tone of Leo, 451 Council Document
Roman Pope, 440-461, Pope Leo I; I (c. 400 – 10 November 461), also known as Leo the Great, was Bishop of Rome from 29 September 440 until his death. Pope Benedict XVI said that Leo's papacy "was undoubtedly one of the most important in the Church's history."[1] was a Roman aristocrat, and was the first pope to have been called "the Great". He is perhaps best known for having met Attila the Hun in 452 and allegedly persuaded him to turn back from his invasion of Italy. He is also a Doctor of the Church, most remembered theologically for issuing the Tome of Leo, a document which was a major foundation to the debates of the Ecumenical Council of Chalcedon. The Council of Chalcedon, the fourth ecumenical council, dealt primarily with Christology, and elucidated the orthodox definition of Christ's being as the hypostatic union of two natures, divine and human, united in one person, "with neither confusion nor division". It was followed by a major schism associated with Monophysitism, Miaphysitism and Dyophysitism.[2] LEO THE GREAT, BISHOP OF ROME, DOCTOR (10 NOV 461); St Leo the Great the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on February 18;

Rome, 450, St Elian, Missionary to Cornwall, England, established several religious houses
England, 450, St Elian, Missionary to Cornwall, England, established several religious houses; Anglesey Island, Northwest Wales, Ynys Mon; St. Elian, Missionary to Cornwall, England, Commemorated on January 13; is known of Saint Elian. While some accounts hold that he came by sea from Rome and landed in Anglesey at Porth yr Yehen in Northern Wales, where he established a church around 450 AD, claim that he was of Cornish or Breton roots and lived during the sixth century. was said to have been related to Saint Ismael, the sixth century Welsh Bishop of Rhos. He is remembered for his missionary efforts in Cornwall, England and for establishing several religious houses.

Rome, 455, Sack of Rome by Vandals, Genseric
North Africa, 455, Vandal Sack of Rome; St. Paulinus the Merciful the Bishop of Nola, Commemorated on January 23;

Rome, 455-455, Emperor, Petronius Maximus, killed V III, forced marriages, cancelled Genseric's marriage, who sacked Rome
Roman Emperor, 455-455, Petronius Maximus; Maximus (c. 397 - 31 May 455) was Roman emperor of the West for two and a half months in 455. A wealthy senator and a prominent aristocrat, he was instrumental in the murders of the Western Roman magister militum, Aëtius, and the Western Roman emperor, Valentinian III. secured the throne the day after Valentinian's death by ensuring the backing of the senate and by bribing the palace officials. He strengthened his position by forcing Valentinian's widow to marry him and forcing Valentinian's daughter to marry his son. He cancelled the betrothal of his new wife's daughter to the son of the Vandal king Genseric. This infuriated both his stepdaughter and Genseric, who sent a fleet to Rome. Maximus failed to obtain troops from the Visigoths and he fled as the Vandals arrived, became detached from his retinue and bodyguard in the confusion, and was killed. The Vandals thoroughly sacked Rome. LEO THE GREAT, BISHOP OF ROME, DOCTOR (10 NOV 461); Virginmartyr Appolinaria of Egypt, Commemorated on January 5;

Rome, 455-456, Emperor, Avitus, opposed Italy alone, added Gallic senators, Theodoric's friend, deposed by r generals
Roman Emperor, 455-456, Avitus; Avitus[i] (c. 390 - 457) was Roman emperor of the West from July 455 to October 456. He was a senator of Gallic extraction and a high-ranking officer both in the civil and military administration, as well as Bishop of Piacenza. opposed the reduction of the Western Roman Empire to Italy alone, both politically and from an administrative point of view. this reason, as Emperor he introduced several Gallic senators in the Imperial administration; this policy, however, was opposed by the Senatorial aristocracy and by the people of Rome, who had suffered from the sack of the city by the Vandals in 455. had a good relationship with the Visigoths, in particular with their king Theodoric II, who was a friend of his and who acclaimed Avitus Emperor. possibility of a strong and useful alliance between the Visigoths and Romans faded, however, when Theodoric invaded Hispania at Avitus' behest, which rendered him unable to help Avitus against the rebel Roman generals who deposed him. LEO THE GREAT, BISHOP OF ROME, DOCTOR (10 NOV 461); Virginmartyr Appolinaria of Egypt, Commemorated on January 5;

Rome, 457-461, Emperor, Majorian, deposed A, fought Visigoths, reformer killed by aristocrats' general
Roman Emperor, 457-461, Majorian; (c. 420 - 7 August 461) was the western Roman emperor from 457 to 461. prominent general of the Roman army, Majorian deposed Emperor Avitus in 457 and succeeded him. Majorian was the last emperor to make a concerted effort to restore the Western Roman Empire with its own forces. Possessing little more than Italy, Dalmatia, and some territory in northern Gaul, Majorian campaigned rigorously for three years against the Empire's enemies. His successors until the fall of the Empire, in 476/480, were actually instruments of their barbarian generals, or emperors chosen and controlled by the Eastern Roman court. defeating a Vandal attack on Italy, Majorian launched a campaign against the Visigothic Kingdom in southern Gaul. Defeating king Theodoric II at the Battle of Arelate, Majorian forced the Goths to abandon their possessions in Septimania and Hispania and return to federate status immediately. Majorian then attacked the Burgundian Kingdom, defeating them at the Siege of Lugdunum, expelling them from the Rhone valley and reducing them to federate status. 460, Majorian left Gaul to consolidate his hold on Hispania. His generals launched a campaign against the Suebic Kingdom in northwest Hispania, defeating them at the battles of Lucus Augusti and Scallabis and reducing them to federate status as well. His fleet for his planned campaign to recover Africa from the Vandals was destroyed due to treachery. sought to reform the imperial administration in order to make it more efficient and just. The powerful general Ricimer deposed and killed Majorian, who had become unpopular with the senatorial aristocracy because of his reforms. historian Edward Gibbon, Majorian "presents the welcome discovery of a great and heroic character, such as sometimes arise, in a degenerate age, to vindicate the honour of the human species".[1] LEO THE GREAT, BISHOP OF ROME, DOCTOR (10 NOV 461); Virginmartyr Appolinaria of Egypt, Commemorated on January 5;

Rome, 461-465, Emperor, Libius Severus, christian but figurhead to general Ricimer
Roman Emperor, 461-465, Libius Severus; Severus (died 465), sometimes enumerated as Severus III,[3][4][5][6][7] was Roman emperor of the West from 461 to his death in 465. Roman senator from Lucania[8] Severus was one of the last Western emperors, emptied of any effective power (the real power was in the hands of the magister militum Ricimer), and unable to solve the many problems affecting the empire; the sources describe him as a pious Christian.[9] LEO THE GREAT, BISHOP OF ROME, DOCTOR (10 NOV 461); Virginmartyr Appolinaria of Egypt, Commemorated on January 5;

Rome, 465-472, Emperor, Anthemius, last capable western emperor, killed by general Ricimer
Roman Emperor, 465-472, Anthemius ; Anthemius (/ænˈθɛmiəs/; c. 420 – 11 July 472) was western Roman emperor from 467 to 472. the last capable Western Roman Emperor, Anthemius attempted to solve the two primary military challenges facing the remains of the Western Roman Empire: the resurgent Visigoths, under Euric, whose domain straddled the Pyrenees; and the unvanquished Vandals, under Geiseric, in undisputed control of North Africa. Anthemius was killed by Ricimer, his own general of Gothic descent, who contested power with him. Virginmartyr Appolinaria of Egypt, Commemorated on January 5;

Rome, 472-472, Emperor, Olybrius, not recognized by Leo I, puppet raised by Ricimer
Roman Emperor, 472-472, Olybrius ; Olybrius[1] (died 22 October or 2 November 472) was Roman emperor from July 472 until his death later that same year; rule as augustus in the western Roman Empire was not recognised as legitimate by the ruling augustus in the eastern Roman Empire, Leo I (r. 457–474). He was in reality a puppet ruler raised to power by Ricimer, the magister militum of Germanic descent, and was mainly interested in religion, while the actual power was held by Ricimer and his nephew Gundobad.

Rome, 473-474, Emperor, Glycerius, commander of palace guard, not recognized by Leo I in the east, forced to abdicate
Roman Emperor, 473-474, Glycerius ; (fl. 470s) was Roman emperor of the West from 473 to 474. He served as comes domesticorum (commander of the palace guard) during the reign of Olybrius, until Olybrius died in November 472. a four-month interregnum, Glycerius was proclaimed Western Emperor in March 473 by the magister militum (master of soldiers) and power behind the throne Gundobad. Very few of the events of his reign are known other than that during his reign an attempted invasion of Italy by the Visigoths was repelled, diverting them to Gaul. Glycerius also prevented an invasion by the Ostrogoths through gifts. was not recognized by the Eastern Roman emperor Leo I, who instead nominated Julius Nepos as Emperor and sent him with an army to invade the Western Empire. Glycerius was without allies, because Gundobad had left to rule the Burgundians, and therefore was forced to abdicate on 24 June 474. He was appointed Bishop of Salona, which position he held until his death. He died some time after 474, possibly 480. He may have had a role in the assassination of Julius Nepos in 480.

Rome, 474-475, Emperor, Julius Nepos, Ruling from Italy, supported by Zeno in the East
Roman Emperor, 474-475, Julius Nepos, Ruling from Italy; Julius Nepos (c. AD 430 â€“ 480) was de jure and de facto Roman emperor of the West from 474 to 475 and then only de jure until his death in 480. Born to a distinguished family, he succeeded his uncle, Marcellinus, as military governor of the province of Dalmatia in 468. With support of the Eastern Empire, Nepos overthrew his predecessor Glycerius without a fight and proclaimed himself western emperor in June 474. Orestes, the Magister Militum, turned his forces on Nepos in August 475, forcing him to flee by ship to Dalmatia.[1] Orestes crowned his son Romulus as Emperor in Nepos's absence, but neither the Eastern Emperor Zeno nor many Western provinces recognized Romulus, regarding him as a usurper.[2][3] Nepos never relinquished his imperial title and sought a compromise with the barbarian king Odoacer who deposed Romulus. Odoacer ambiguously recognized his claim but refused him any role in government outside of Dalmatia.[4] Nepos was assassinated in 480 while plotting his own restoration, and Zeno formally abolished the Western division of the Empire.

Rome, 474-475, 476-491, Emperor in the East, Zeno, allied with Goth Theodoric and Nepos in the West
Rome, 474-475, 476-491, Emperor in the East, Zeno; Zeno (c. 425-“ 9 April 491) was Eastern Roman emperor from 474 to 475 and again from 476 to 491. Domestic revolts and religious dissension plagued his reign, which nevertheless succeeded to some extent in foreign issues. His reign saw the end of the Western Roman Empire following the deposition of Romulus Augustus and the death of Julius Nepos, but he contributed much to stabilising the Eastern Empire. In ecclesiastical history, Zeno is associated with the Henotikon or "instrument of union", promulgated by him and signed by all the Eastern bishops, with the design of solving the monophysite controversy. 1 Biography 1.1 Rise to power 1.1.1 Early life 1.1.2 Son-in-law of Leo I 1.2 Reign 1.2.1 First reign and Basiliscus' revolt (475-“476) 1.2.2 End of the Western Empire 1.2.3 Revolt of Marcian (479) 1.2.4 Revolt of Illus (484-“488) 1.2.5 Affairs with the Goths (474-“487) 1.2.6 Promulgation of the Henotikon (482) 1.2.7 Suppressing the Samaritan revolt (484) 1.3 Death and succession 2 In popular culture 3 See also 4 Notes 5 Bibliography 5.1 Primary sources 5.2 Secondary sources 6 External links Biography[edit] Rise to power[edit] Early life[edit] detail of the Missorium of Aspar, depicting the powerful magister militum Aspar and his elder son Ardabur (434 circa). Zeno caused Ardabur's fall, producing treacherous letters that linked him to the Sassanid King; Ardabur later bribed some of Zeno's soldiers into trying to kill him. original name was Tarasis, and more accurately Tarasikodissa in his native Isaurian language (Latin: Trascalissaeus).[2] Tarasis was born in Isauria, at Rusumblada, later renamed Zenopolis in Zeno's honour.[3] His father was called Kodisa (as attested by his patronymic "Tarasicodissa"), his mother Lallis, his brother Longinus. Tarasis had a wife, Arcadia, whose name indicates a relationship with the Constantinopolitan aristocracy, and whose statue was erected near the Baths of Arcadius, along the steps that led to Topoi.[4] Near Eastern and other Christian traditions maintain that Zeno had two daughters, Hilaria and Theopiste, who followed a religious life,[5] but historical sources attest the existence of only one son by Arcadia, called Zenon.[6] According to ancient sources, Zeno's prestigious career”he had fought against Attila in 447 to defend Constantinople and been consul the following year ”was the reason why another Isaurian officer, Tarasis, chose the Greek name Zeno when he married into the Imperial family, thus being known as Zeno when he rose to the throne.[7] Some modern historians suggest that the Isaurian general Zeno was the father of the emperor,[8] but there is no consensus about this, and other sources suggest that Tarasis was a member of Zeno's entourage. Isaurians were a people who lived inland from the Mediterranean coast of Anatolia, in the core of the Taurus Mountains (generally what is now the Konya/Bozkir area of Turkey). Like most borderland tribes, they were looked upon as barbarians by the Romans even though they had been Roman subjects for more than five centuries. However, being Orthodox Christians rather than Arians, as the Goths and other Germanic tribes were, they were not formally barred from the throne.[3] to some scholars, in the mid-460s, the Eastern Roman Emperor, Leo I, wanted to balance the weight of the Germanic component of the army, whose leader was the Alan magister militum Aspar. He thought that Tarasis and his Isaurians could be that counterweight, and called him, with many Isaurians, to Constantinople. This interpretation, however, has been contested.[9] By the mid-460s, Arcadia and Zeno had been living at Constantinople for some time,[4] where Lallis and Longinus also lived, the latter married to a Valeria, possibly a woman of aristocrat rank.[9] to ancient sources, the earliest reference to Tarasis dates back to 464, when he put his hands on some letters written by Aspar's son, Ardabur, which proved that the son of the magister militum had incited the Sassanid King to invade Roman territory, promising to support the invasion. Through these letters, which Tarasis gave to Leo, the Emperor could dismiss Ardabur, who at the time was magister militum per Orientem and patricius, thus reducing Aspar's influence and ambition. As reward for his loyalty, which Leo praised to Daniel the Stylite,[10] Tarasis was appointed comes domesticorum, an office of great influence and prestige.[4] This appointment could mean that Tarasis had been a protector domesticus, either at Leo's court in Constantinople, or attached at Ardabur's staff in Antioch.[9] 465, Leo and Aspar quarrelled about the appointment of consuls for the following year; it was on this occasion that Tarasis' position was strengthened, as he became friend and ally of the Emperor.[11] of Leo I[edit] of Ariadne, elder daughter of Emperor Leo I and wife of Zeno. make himself more acceptable to the Roman hierarchy and the population of Constantinople, Tarasis adopted the Greek name of Zeno and used it for the rest of his life. In mid-late 466, Zeno married Ariadne, elder daughter of Leo I and Verina; there is no reference to him divorcing Arcadia who evidently died prior to this. The next year their son was born, and Zeno became father of the heir apparent to the throne, as the only son of Leo I had died in his infancy; to stress his claim to the throne, the boy was called Leo.[12] Zeno, however, was not present at the birth of his son, as in 467, he participated in a military campaign against the Goths.[9][13] I, father-in-law of Zeno, Eastern Roman Emperor from 457 to 474. as a member of the protectores domestici, did not take part in the disastrous expedition against the Vandals, led in 468 by Leo's brother-in-law Basiliscus. The following year, during which he held the honour of the consulate, he was appointed magister militum per Thracias and led an expedition in Thrace. The sources do not clearly state what enemy he fought there, and historians had proposed either Goths or Huns, or the rebels of Anagastes. Either way, before leaving, Leo and Zeno asked for Daniel the Stylite's opinion about the campaign, and Daniel answered that Zeno would be the target of a conspiracy but would escape unharmed. Indeed, Leo sent some of his personal soldiers with Zeno to protect him, but they were bribed by Aspar to capture him instead. Zeno was informed of their intention and fled to Serdica, and, because of this episode, Leo grew even more suspicious of Aspar.[14] the attack, Zeno did not return to Constantinople, where Aspar and Ardabur were, still with considerable power. Instead, he moved to the "Long Wall" (the Long Wall of the Thracian Chersonese or, less probably, the Anastasian Wall), then to Pylai and from there to Chalcedon. While waiting here for an opportunity to return to the capital, he was appointed magister militum per Orientem. He took the monk Peter the Fuller with him and left for Antioch, his office's see, passing through Isauria, where he put down the rebellion of Indacus. Zeno stayed at Antioch for two years.[15] living in Antioch with his family, Zeno sympathised with the Monophysite views of Peter the Fuller, and supported him against his opponent, the Chalcedonian bishop Martyrius. Zeno allowed the arrival in Antioch of monks from nearby monasteries who increased the number of Peter's followers, and did not effectively repress their violence. Martyrius went to Constantinople to ask Leo for help, but, on returning to Antioch, he was informed that Peter had been elected bishop, and resigned (470). Leo reacted by ordering Peter into exile and addressing to Zeno a law that forbade the monks from leaving their monasteries or fomenting rebellion (1 June 471).[16] In 470/471, Zeno had also to deal with an invasion of Tzanni, who attacked Roman Armenia.[17] Zeno far from Constantinople, Aspar had increased his influence by having his son Patricius appointed Caesar and married to Leo I's younger daughter, Leontia (470). Sources are contradictory on the causes, but clearly state that in 471, Leo I had Aspar and Ardabur treacherously killed. This certainly occurred with Zeno's and Basiliscus' approval, as, on the eve of the murders, the two generals had moved closer to Constantinople (Zeno was at Chalcedon). Thereafter, Zeno returned to Constantinople and was appointed magister militum praesentalis.[18] reign and Basiliscus' revolt (475-“476)[edit] of Leo II, minted in the name of "Leo and Zeno perpetual Augusti"; it belongs to the period when both Zeno and his son were joint emperors, between 9 February and 17 November 474. 25 October 473, Leo I appointed as Caesar his grandson Leo II, the son of Zeno and Ariadne. On 18 January 474, Leo I died; if Leo II had not already been proclaimed co-emperor by his grandfather, he would have become Augustus on that occasion. Since Leo II was seven years old (too young to rule himself) Ariadne and her mother Verina prevailed upon him to crown Zeno, his father, as co-emperor, which he did on 9 February 474. When Leo II became ill and died, Zeno became sole emperor. Zeno had to settle matters with the Vandal King, Genseric, who was conducting raids against the Empire's coastal cities, threatening key commercial sea routes. Zeno sent Genseric a high-ranking officer as ambassador, Severus, who succeeded in stipulating an "eternal" peace between the Vandals and the Empire, which allowed the Romans to pay ransoms for the prisoners in Vandal hands and which ended the Vandal persecution of Orthodox Christians in their territory.[19] this success, Zeno continued to be unpopular with the people and Senate because of his barbarian origins; his right to the throne was limited to his marriage with Ariadne and his relationship to Verina, the dowager Empress. Therefore, he chose to draw support from the Isaurian component of the army, in particular, the Isaurian generals Illus and Trocundes, both brothers. However, Verina decided to overthrow her son-in-law Zeno and replace him with her lover, the ex-magister officiorum Patricius, with the help of her brother Basiliscus. The conspirators fomented riots in the capital against the Isaurian emperor; Basiliscus succeeded also in convincing Illus, Trocundes and the Ostrogothic general Theodoric Strabo to join the plot.[19] of Basiliscus, who revolted against Zeno in January 475 and held power until Zeno's return in August 476. Basiliscus was Verina's brother; he took power after having Zeno flee from Constantinople, but alienated the people of Constantinople and was captured and put to death by Zeno. January 475, Zeno was forced to flee Constantinople to Isauria with his wife and mother,[20] some Isaurian fellows and the Imperial treasure. Illus and Trocundes were sent to chase him, and Zeno was compelled to shut himself up in a fortress, where Illus besieged him, capturing also Zeno's brother, Longinus and keeping him as an hostage.[19] the conspirators quickly fell in conflict with each other. Basiliscus took the throne for himself, putting to death Verina's lover and candidate, Patricius. He also allowed the mob to kill all of the Isaurians left in Constantinople, an episode that damaged relations with the Isaurian generals Illus and Trocundes. Basiliscus appointed his nephew Armatus magister militum, thus alienating Theodoric Strabo. Since Zeno had left no money, Basiliscus was forced to levy heavy taxes. Finally, he alienated the Church by supporting the Monophysites. The people of Constantinople also put the blame on him for a great fire that burned several parts of the city. With the secret support of the Senate, and bribes paid by Zeno, Illus agreed to switch sides and united his army with Zeno's, marching on Constantinople. Basiliscus tried to recover popular support and sent another army against Zeno, under his nephew Armatus' command. Zeno succeeded in bribing Armatus too, promising to confirm his rank of magister militum praesentalis for life and promoting his son (also called Basiliscus) to the rank of Caesar; Armatus' army failed to intercept Zeno's troops during their march on Constantinople.[19] August 476, Zeno besieged Constantinople. The Senate opened the gates of the city to the Isaurian, allowing the deposed emperor to resume the throne. Basiliscus fled with his family to the baptistery of Hagia Sophia.[21][22] Betrayed by the Patriarch Acacius, he surrendered himself and his family after extracting a solemn promise from Zeno not to shed their blood. Basiliscus and his family were sent to a fortress in Cappadocia, where Zeno had them enclosed in a dry cistern, to die from exposure.[21][23][24] his restoration, Zeno fulfilled his promises, letting Armatus keep his title of magister militum praesentalis (possibly even raising him to the rank of patricius) and appointing his son Basiliscus Caesar in Nicaea.[25] 477, however, Zeno changed his mind, probably at Illus' instigation, as the latter stood to gain from the fall of Armatus, and ordered Armatus' death. Zeno confiscated all of Armatus' properties, deposed his son Basiliscus, and had him ordained as a priest.[26][27][28] of the Western Empire[edit] solidus was minted by Odoacer in the name of Zeno. Odoacer ruled Italy under the formal patronage of the Eastern Emperor. western emperor Olybrius died in the autumn of 472. Gundobad, the western magister militum then proclaimed Glycerius, the comes domesticorum (commander of the Imperial guard) as western emperor in Ravenna. Leo I refused to endorse Glycerius and elevated his nephew Julius Nepos to co-emperor for the west in 473. Expecting resistance, Nepos was forced by bad winter weather to delay his voyage until the next year; it was therefore left to Zeno, as Leo's successor, to support Julius Nepos' installation in Ravenna. Nepos arrived in Italy, quickly deposed Glycerius who offered no resistance, and was proclaimed emperor by the Roman Senate in June 474. Julius was on good terms with Zeno, and he even minted coins in the names of Zeno, Leo II and himself.[29] and the Mediterranean Basin at the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 August 475, during Basiliscus' reign, while Zeno was in Isauria blocked by Illus' army, Orestes, the western magister militum, revolted, forcing Nepos to flee Italy for Dalmatia; Orestes proclaimed his own son Romulus Augustus emperor, but was unable to gain the allegiance of the remnants of the Western Empire outside of Italy.[29] One year later, while Zeno was entering Constantinople to end Basiliscus' brief usurpation, Romulus and Orestes were overthrown by the Chieftain Odoacer. With the support of Odoacer, the Roman Senate sent an envoy to present the imperial insignia to the restored Zeno. They asked Zeno to dissolve the separation of the empire and rule as sole Emperor; also, to appoint Odoacer both patricius and official imperial governor of Italy. At the same time, Zeno received another embassy, sent by Julius Nepos, who asked Zeno to give him the money and the army he needed to resume his control of Italy. Zeno answered that the Roman Senate should welcome back Julius Nepos, their rightful emperor, and that Odoacer should properly receive the patriciate from Nepos, although he allowed that he would also grant it.[30] Odoacer was officially recognised and left in possession of Italy, while Nepos kept his title and the other fragments of the empire's western holdings, but no army. in deference to Zeno, Odoacer recognised Nepos' de jure reign in Italy until his death, ruling and even minting coins in his name, but he never allowed his return. After Nepos' assassination in 480, Odoacer invaded Dalmatia to pursue and punish the assassins (and also to take Dalmatia for himself). Zeno legitimised Odoacer's authority in Dalmatia; Odoacer recognised Zeno as sole emperor of the again unitary Empire, but increasingly started using the title of king for himself.[31] of Marcian (479)[edit] was the son of the Western Roman Emperor Anthemius (467-“472) and a grandson of Emperor Marcian (450-“457). He had married Ariadne's sister Leontia, and was therefore Zeno's brother-in-law; he was twice consul, in 467 and 472. 479 Marcian tried to overthrow Zeno and claim the throne for himself. With the help of his brothers Procopius Anthemius and Romulus, he gathered in Constantinople troops composed of both citizens and foreigners in the house of a Caesarius, south of the Forum of Theodosius, and from there they marched at the same time on the imperial palace and on the house of Illus, who was a supporter of Zeno. The emperor almost fell into the hands of the rebels, who, during the day, overwhelmed the imperial troops, who were also attacked by citizens from the roofs of their houses. During the night, however, Illus moved an Isaurian unit, quartered in nearby Chalcedonia, into Constantinople and also corrupted Marcian's soldiers, who allowed Zeno to flee. The following morning, Marcian, understanding that his situation was desperate and that reinforcements from Theodoric Strabo would not arrive in time, took refuge in the church of the Holy Apostles, but was arrested with his brothers.[32] sent Marcian and his brothers to Caesarea in Cappadocia. They tried to flee, but Marcian was captured and obliged to become a monk in Tarsus (Cilicia),[33] or imprisoned in Isauria, in the fortress of Papurius. He tried to escape a second time, and this time he succeeded, but, after gathering new troops and attacking Ancyra, he was defeated and captured by Trocundus, Illus' brother.[32] of Illus (484-“488)[edit] section needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. (February 2011) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) commanding position and popular favour of Illus rendered him an object of suspicion, and Zeno in various ways sought to rid himself of him. Also Verina, the dowager Empress, plotted against his life. Verina's attempt was unsuccessful, and Zeno, equally jealous of her and of Illus, banished her at the suggestion of the latter, confining her in the fort of Papurius. There is some doubt as to the timing of these events. Candidus of Isauria places the banishment of Verina before the revolt of Marcian, and Theodore Lector assigns as the cause of it her share in the revolt of Basiliscus. It is not unlikely, indeed, that this turbulent woman was twice banished, once before Marcian's revolt, for her connection with Basiliscus, and again after Marcian's revolt, for her plot against Illus. her prison she managed to persuade her daughter Ariadne, the wife of Zeno, to attempt to obtain her release, first from Zeno, and then from Illus, to whom the Emperor referred her. Illus refused her request. Ariadne, like her mother, attempted to assassinate Illus. Jordanes ascribes her hatred to another cause: he says that Illus had infused jealous suspicions into Zeno's mind which had led Zeno to attempt to end her life, and that her knowledge of these things stimulated her to revenge. The assassin whom she employed only wounded Illus; the assassin was taken prisoner and Zeno, who appears to have been privy to the affair, was unable to prevent his execution. with his friend Pamprepius, Leontius and his brother Trocundus,“ now retired from court. They first went to Nicaea and then, on pretence of change of air and of procuring a cure for his wound, into the East where he was made magister militum. Having traversed Asia Minor, they raised the standard of revolt in 484, when Illus declared Leontius Emperor. Zeno sent an army to fight them, but Illus won, obtained possession of Papurius, released Verina, and induced her to crown Leontius at Tarsus. 485 Zeno sent against the rebels a fresh army, said to consist of Macedonians and Scythians (Tillemont conjectures, not unreasonably, that these were Ostrogoths) under John the Hunchback, or, more probably, John the Scythian, and Theoderic the Amal, who was at this time consul. John defeated the rebels near Seleucia and drove them into the fort of Papurius where he blockaded them. After a few months Trocundus died; the fort was taken only after four years of siege, by the treachery of Trocundus's brother-in-law, who had been sent for the purpose from Constantinople by Zeno. Illus and Leontius were beheaded (488) and their heads sent to the Emperor.[34] with the Goths (474-“487)[edit] weight with the name of Theoderic the Great, King of the Ostrogoths and ruler of Italy. Theoderic served under Zeno, fighting against his opponent Theodoric Strabo (476-481), and then was the leader of the army that besieged the fort of Papurius and captured and killed Illus' brother, Trocundus (484). aggressions of the two Ostrogothic leaders, Theoderic the Amal (Theoderic the Great), the son of Theodemir and leader of the Moesian Ostrogoths, and Theodoric Strabo, the leader of the Thracian Ostrogoths, had been a constant source of danger since 472. Although Zeno at times contrived to play them off against each other, they in turn were able to profit by his dynastic rivalries. It was only by offering them pay and high command that he kept them from attacking Constantinople itself. the death of Leo II, Theodoric Strabo rebelled against Zeno. His support was instrumental in overthrowing Zeno and raising Basiliscus to the Byzantine throne (475), but Theodoric and Basiliscus had a falling-out, so when Zeno returned to Constantinople in 476 and defeated Basiliscus, Strabo was reported to have not defended the city.[35][36] 476/477, Zeno allied himself with Strabo's rival, Theoderic the Amal, and ordered him to attack Strabo. The leader of the Thracian Goths sent an embassy to the Emperor, offering peace and blaming the Moesian Theodoric. Zeno understood that this offering was hiding further conspiracies, and convinced the Senate and army to declare Strabo a public enemy.[28] plan was to have the two Theoderics attack each other. He sent the Amal against Strabo, who supported the revolt of Marcian, with the promise of a huge Roman force as reinforcement (478). When Theoderic the Amal arrived through the mountains at Mount Soundis, he did not find the Roman reinforcement army he expected, but instead Theodoric Strabo's army, in a strongly fortified camp. The two Theoderics agreed to put forward a joint request to the Emperor, in order to extend to the south the settlement territory of the Ostrogoths in Moesia.[37] tried to divide the two Theoderics by bribing the Amal, but he refused the bribe. The Imperial army obtained some initial successes, but Zeno did not press his advantage, and allowed the Amal to move westward in Thrace, plundering territories as he went. With the Amal far away, Strabo accepted an agreement with Zeno: Strabo was to be given back his wealth, money to pay 13,000 soldiers, the command of two palatinae units, and the title once more of magister militum.[37] However, the army of Theodoric Strabo, 30,000-men strong was still a menace for Zeno, who convinced the Bulgars to attack the Thracian Goths in their own base. Strabo defeated the Bulgars in 480/481, and moved towards Constantinople, but he had to deal with problems with his own men, so he could not capitalise upon his victory and was forced to return to Greece. On his way back, he died in an accident.[37] Theodoric Strabo died in 481, the future Theoderic the Great became king of the entire Ostrogoth nation and continued to be a source of trouble in the Balkan peninsula. Zeno allied to Theoderic, whom he appointed magister militum praesentalis and even consul for the year 484, the first time a barbarian who was not a citizen of the Empire reached such a high distinction. Zeno had Theoderic fight against Illus and the usurper Leontius, besieging them at Papurius in 484-“488. However, in 486 Theoderic revolted again and attacked Constantinople, severing the city's water supply. Zeno bought a peace and agreed with Theoderic that the Ostrogoths should have gone to invade Italy to fight Odoacer, who had allegedly supported Leontius, and to establish his new kingdom there (487). This all but eliminated the Germanic presence in the east.[38] of the Henotikon (482)[edit] religious matters, Zeno is famous for his Henotikon, or "Act of Union", issued in 482 to mediate between Chalcedonian and Miaphysite views about the nature of Christ. The Chalcedonians recognised two natures (physis) in Christ, the Miaphysites only one; the Council of Chalcedon (451) had issued the Chalcedonian Creed and condemned the Miaphysite position, but the Miaphysites were still strong, especially in the Eastern provinces of the Empire, and the Patriarch of Alexandria, Peter Mongus, was a Miaphysite. Supporting the Miaphysites was one of the mistakes made by Basiliscus, as the people of Constantinople were Chalcedonian, but Zeno needed the support of the Miaphysite provinces: ”Egypt, Syria, Palestine and Asia Minor; also, the Patriarch of Constantinople, Acacius, was interested in reducing the distance between the two positions. in 482 Zeno issued the Henotikon, a document he had developed with the support of Acacius and addressed to the factions in Egypt. The edict affirmed the Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed (i.e., the Creed of Nicaea completed at Constantinople) as affording a common, final and united symbol or expression of faith. All other symbola or mathemata were excluded; Eutyches and Nestorius were unmistakably condemned in an anathema, while the twelve chapters of Cyril of Alexandria were accepted. The teaching of Chalcedon was not so much repudiated as passed over in silence; Jesus Christ was described as the "only-begotten Son of God [...] one and not two" and there was no explicit reference to the two natures.[39] bishop of Rome, Pope Felix III, refused to accept the document and excommunicated Acacius (484), thus beginning the Acacian schism, which lasted until 519.[40] 488 the patriarch of Antioch, Peter the Fuller, came to Constantinople to have his right to the Church of Cyprus confirmed. Zeno called the bishop of Cyprus, Anthemius, to answer the accusations. The bishop claimed that before his departure, he had had a vision of St. Barnabas, in which the position of the tomb of the apostle had been revealed to him. In the tomb, Anthemius had found the relics of the apostle and a copy of the Gospel of Matthew written in Hebrew by Barnabas himself. Zeno received the relics and the manuscript, and in exchange he proclaimed the autonomy of the Church of Cyprus.[41] 489 Zeno closed the Persian school of Edessa, Mesopotamia, by request of bishop Cyrus II of Edessa, because it promoted Nestorian teachings, and built a church in its place. The school relocated to its original home of Nisibis, becoming again the School of Nisibis, and leading to a wave of Nestorian immigration into Persia.[42] the Samaritan revolt (484)[edit] Gerizim, where Samaritan sources have Zeno buried. to Samaritan sources, Zeno (whom the sources call "Zait the King of Edom") persecuted the Samaritans. The Emperor went to Sichem (Neapolis), gathered the elders and asked them to convert; when they refused, Zeno had many Samaritans killed, and converted the synagogue to a church. Zeno then took for himself Mount Gerizim, where the Samaritans worshipped God, and built several edifices, among which a tomb for his recently deceased son, on which he put a cross, so that the Samaritans, worshipping God, would prostrate in front of the tomb. According to these same sources, Zeno was buried on Mount Gerizim. in 484, the Samaritans revolted. The rebels attacked Sichem, burnt five churches built on Samaritan holy places and cut off the fingers of bishop Terebinthus, who was officiating the ceremony of Whitsun. They elected Justa (or Justasa/Justasus) as their king and moved to Caesarea, where a significant Samaritan community lived. Here several Christians were killed and the church of St. Sebastian was destroyed. Justa celebrated the victory with games in the circus. According to John Malalas, the dux Palestinae Asclepiades, whose troops were reinforced by the Caesarea-based Arcadiani of Rheges, defeated Justa, killed him and sent his head to Zeno.[43] According to Procopius of Caesarea, Terebinthus went to Zeno to ask for revenge; the Emperor personally went to Samaria to quell the rebellion.[44] historians believe that the order of the facts preserved by Samaritan sources should be inverted, as the persecution of Zeno was a consequence of the rebellion rather than its cause, and should have happened after 484, around 489. Zeno rebuilt the church of St. Procopius in Neapolis (Sichem) and the Samaritans were banned from Mount Gerizim, on whose top a signalling tower was built to alert in case of civil unrest.[45] and succession[edit] Zeno died on 9 April 491,[46] of dysentery[47] or of epilepsy,[48] after ruling for 17 years and 2 months. No sons were to succeed him: Leo had died in 474, Zenon, the first son, in his youth, while living at court.[6] Ariadne then chose a favoured member of the Imperial court, Anastasius, to succeed Zeno, whose brother Longinus revolted, starting the Isaurian War. to a popular legend recorded by two 11th century and 12th century writers, Zeno was buried alive after becoming insensible due to drinking or an illness.[49] For three days cries of "have pity on me!" could be heard from within his verd antique sarcophagus, but because of the hatred of his wife and subjects, Ariadne refused to open the tomb.[50] This tale is not likely, as earlier and contemporary sources do not mention it, even though they too were hostile to his memory.[50] Rome, 474, Emperor, Leo II, infant son of Zeno; Rome, 451-474, Emperor in the East, Leo I the Thracian; Rome, 450-457, Emperor in the East, Marcian;

Rome, 475-480, Emperor, Julius Nepos, Ruling from Dalmatia, supported by Zeno in the East
Roman Emperor, 475-480, Julius Nepos, Ruling from Dalmatia ; Julius Nepos (c. AD 430 â€“ 480) was de jure and de facto Roman emperor of the West from 474 to 475 and then only de jure until his death in 480. Born to a distinguished family, he succeeded his uncle, Marcellinus, as military governor of the province of Dalmatia in 468. With support of the Eastern Empire, Nepos overthrew his predecessor Glycerius without a fight and proclaimed himself western emperor in June 474. Orestes, the Magister Militum, turned his forces on Nepos in August 475, forcing him to flee by ship to Dalmatia.[1] Orestes crowned his son Romulus as Emperor in Nepos's absence, but neither the Eastern Emperor Zeno nor many Western provinces recognized Romulus, regarding him as a usurper.[2][3] Nepos never relinquished his imperial title and sought a compromise with the barbarian king Odoacer who deposed Romulus. Odoacer ambiguously recognized his claim but refused him any role in government outside of Dalmatia.[4] Nepos was assassinated in 480 while plotting his own restoration, and Zeno formally abolished the Western division of the Empire.

Rome, 475-526, Gothic king, Theodoric the G, lived in Constantinople, allied with Zeno and Nepos
Rome, Gothic king, 475-526, Theodoric the Great ; ----------------------------------------- Theodoric the Great (454 -“ 30 August 526), also spelled Theoderic or called Theodoric the Amal, was king of the Ostrogoths (471-“526), and ruler of the independent Ostrogothic Kingdom of Italy between 493-“526,[3] regent of the Visigoths (511-“526), and a patrician of the East Roman Empire. As ruler of the combined Gothic realms, Theodoric controlled an empire stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Adriatic Sea. As a young child of an Ostrogothic nobleman, Theodoric was taken as a hostage in Constantinople, where he spent his formative years and received an east Roman education. Theodoric returned to Pannonia around 470, and throughout the 470s he campaigned against the Sarmatians and competed for influence among the Goths of the Roman Balkans. The emperor Zeno made him a commander of the Eastern Roman forces in 483, and in 484 he was named consul. Nevertheless, Theodoric remained in constant hostilities with the emperor and frequently raided East Roman lands. At the behest of Zeno, Theodoric attacked Odoacer in 489, emerging victorious in 493. As the new ruler of Italy, he upheld a Roman legal administration and scholarly culture and promoted a major building program across Italy.[4] In 505 he expanded into the Balkans, and by 511 he had brought the Visigothic Kingdom under his direct control and established hegemony over the Burgundian and Vandal kingdoms. Theodoric died in 526 and was buried in a grand mausoleum in Ravenna. BENEDICT. FOUNDER OF WESTERN MONASTICISM (11 JULY 540); St Eutychius of Nursia, Commemorated on August 23; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12; Venerable Benedict of Nursia, Commemorated on March 14 ; Womanmartyr Thomais of Alexandria, Commemorated on April 13; St Agapitus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on April 17; Blessed Child Musa of Rome, Commemorated on May 16 ; St Severus the Presbyter of Interocrea in Italy, Commemorated on June 27;

Rome, 476, Fall of the Western Roman Empire, to Theodoric allied with Zeno in the East
Fall of the Western Roman Empire, 476; Rome, Gothic king, 475-526, Theodoric the Great ; St Eutychius of Nursia, Commemorated on August 23;

Rome, 500-599, 6th Century Folder, after Byzantine victory, Lombard Kingdom

Rome, 501-547, Benedict of Nursia, founded 12 monasteries, his Rule, f of western monasticism, windmills&waterwheels
Roman Saint, 500-547, Benedict of Nursia; of Nursia (c. 2 March 480 - c. 21 March 547 AD) is a Christian saint venerated in the Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, the Oriental Orthodox Churches, the Anglican Communion and Old Catholic Churches.[3] He is a patron saint of Europe.[4] founded twelve communities for monks at Subiaco, Lazio, Italy (about 65 kilometres (40 mi) to the east of Rome), before moving to Monte Cassino in the mountains of southern Italy. The Order of Saint Benedict is of later origin and, moreover, not an "order" as commonly understood but merely a confederation of autonomous congregations.[5] main achievement, his "Rule of Saint Benedict", contains a set of rules for his monks to follow. Heavily influenced by the writings of John Cassian, it shows strong affinity with the Rule of the Master, but it also has a unique spirit of balance, moderation and reasonableness, which persuaded most Christian religious communities founded throughout the Middle Ages to adopt it. As a result, his Rule became one of the most influential religious rules in Western Christendom. For this reason, Giuseppe Carletti regarded Benedict as the founder of Western Christian monasticism.[6] BENEDICT. FOUNDER OF WESTERN MONASTICISM (11 JULY 540); Venerable Benedict of Nursia, Commemorated on March 14;

Rome, 501-547, BENEDICT, FOUNDER OF WESTERN MONASTICISM, Monte Cassino, B's rule prayer reading labor eating sleep
Rome, 501-547, BENEDICT of Nursia (Nera River 1), Northeast of Rome, repelled by dissolute life, to Subiaco, asked to be abbot but too strict, again and 12 communities, Monte Cassino, impacted Totila, B's rule prayer reading labor eating sleep, vows of obedience stability conversion of life, preserved scriptures, windmills, waterwheels, crop rotation, dignity of labor, importance of order and planning; Nursia; BENEDICT, FOUNDER OF WESTERN MONASTICISM (11 JULY 540); was born at Nursia (Norcia) in Umbria, Italy, around 480 AD. was sent to Rome for his studies, but was repelled by the dissolute life of most of the populace, and withdrew to a solitary life at Subiaco. group of monks asked him to be their abbot, but some of them found his rule too strict, and he returned alone to Subiaco. other monks called him to be their abbot, and he agreed, founding twelve communities over an interval of some years. chief founding was Monte Cassino, an abbey which stands to this day as the mother house of the world-wide Benedictine order. of Monte CassinoTotila the Goth visited Benedict, and was so awed by his presence that he fell on his face before him. Benedict raised him from the ground and rebuked him for his cruelty, telling him that it was time that his iniquities should cease. Totila asked Benedict to remember him in his prayers and departed, to exhibit from that time an astonishing clemency and chivalry in his treatment of conquered peoples. drew up a rule of life for monastics, a rule which he calls "a school of the Lord's service, in which we hope to order nothing harsh or rigorous." Rule gives instructions for how the monastic community is to be organized, and how the monks are to spend their time. average day includes about four hours to be spent in liturgical prayer (called the Divinum Officium -- the Divine Office), five hours in spiritual reading and study, six hours of labor, one hour for eating, and about eight hours for sleep. The Book of Psalms is to be recited in its entirety every week as a part of the Office. Benedictine monk takes vows of "obedience, stability, and conversion of life. That is, he vows to live in accordance with the Benedictine Rule, not to leave his community without grave cause, and to seek to follow the teaching and example of Christ in all things. procedure today for a prospective monk is to spend a week or more at the monastery as a visitor. He then applies as a postulant, and agrees not to leave for six months without the consent of the Abbot. that time, he may suspect that he has made a mistake, and the abbot may say, "Yes, I think you have. Go in peace." Alternately, he may say, "It is normal to have jitters at this stage. I urge you to stick it out a while longer and see whether they go away." Many postulants leave before the six months are up.) six months, he may leave or become a novice, with vows for one year. the year, he may leave or take vows for three more years. three years, he may leave, take life vows, or take vows for a second three years. After that, a third three years. After that, he must leave or take life vows (fish or cut bait). he takes life vows after four and a half to ten and a half years in the monastery. At any point in the proceedings at which he has the option of leaving, the community has the option of dismissing him. St. Benedict, by Fra Angelico effect of the monastic movement, both of the Benedictine order and of similar orders that grew out of it, has been enormous. owe the preservation of the Holy Scriptures and other ancient writings in large measure to the patience and diligence of monastic scribes. purely secular terms, their contribution was considerable. Benedict's time, the chief source of power was muscle, whether human or animal. Ancient scholars apparently did not worry about labor-saving devices. The labor could always be done by oxen or slaves. monks were both scholars and workers. A monk, after spending a few hours doing some laborious task by hand, was likely to think, "There must be a better way of doing this." result was the systematic development of windmills and water wheels for grinding grain, sawing wood, pumping water, and so on. The rotation of crops (including legumes) and other agricultural advances were also originated or promoted by monastic farms. monks, by their example, taught the dignity of labor and the importance of order and planning. details, see The Mediaeval Machine: The Industrial Revolution of the Middle Age, by Jean Gimpel, (Holt Rinehart & Winston, 1976; Penguin, 1977, ISBN 0-14-00-4514-7). by James Kiefer Venerable Benedict of Nursia, Commemorated on March 14; Benedict, founder of Western monasticism, was born in the Italian city of Nursia in the year 480. he was fourteen years of age, the saint’s parents sent him to Rome to study. by the immorality around him, he decided to devote himself to a different sort of life. first Saint Benedict settled near the church of the holy Apostle Peter in the village of Effedum, news of his ascetic life compelled him to go farther into the mountains. he encountered the hermit Romanus, who tonsured him into monasticism and directed him to live in a remote cave at Subiaco. From time to time, the hermit would bring him food. three years the saint waged a harsh struggle with temptations and conquered them. soon began to gather to him, thirsting to live under his guidance. number of disciples grew so much, that the saint divided them into twelve communities. community was comprised of twelve monks and was a separate skete. The saint gave each skete an igumen from among his experienced and only the novice monks remained with Saint Benedict for instruction. strict monastic Rule Saint Benedict established for the monks was not accepted by everyone, and more than once he was criticized and abused by dissenters. he settled in Campagna and on Mount Cassino he founded the Monte Cassino monastery, for a long time was a center of theological education for the Western Church. monastery possessed a remarkable library. Benedict wrote his Rule, based on the experience of life of the Eastern desert-dwellers and the precepts of Saint John Cassian the Roman (February 29). Rule of Saint Benedict dominated Western monasticism for centuries (by the year 1595 it had appeared in more than 100 editions). Rule prescribed the renunciation of personal possessions, as well as unconditional obedience, and constant work. was considered the duty of older monks to teach the younger and to copy ancient manuscripts. This helped to preserve many memorable writings from the first centuries of Christianity. new monk was required to live as a novice for a year, to learn the monastic Rule and to become acclimated to monastic life. deed required a blessing. head of this cenobitic monastery is the igumen. He discerns, teaches, and explains. The igumen solicits the advice of the older, experienced brethren, but he makes the final decisions. the monastic Rule was strictly binding for everyone and was regarded as an important step on the way to perfection. Benedict was granted by the Lord the gift of foresight and wonderworking. He healed many by his prayers. The monk foretold the day of his death in 547. The main source for his Life is the second Dialogue of Saint Gregory. Benedict’s sister, Saint Scholastica (February 10), also became famous for her strict ascetic life and was numbered among the saints.

Rome, 527-565, Emperor, Justinian 1, the Great, Restore of E, over Vandals&OGoths,Persia
Rome, Byzantine Emperor, 553-568, Justinian I; GREGORY THE GREAT, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (12 MAR 604) ; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12;

Rome, 526-534, Goth King, Athalaric, regency by his m, heavy drinker
Rome, Goth King, 526-534, Athalaric ; Venerable Benedict of Nursia, Commemorated on March 14 ;

Rome, 534-536, Goth King, Theodahad, imprisoned the regent Amalafrida, B intervened
Rome, Goth King, 534-536, Theodahad; Venerable Benedict of Nursia, Commemorated on March 14 ;

Rome, 535-536, Pope Agapetus I, deposed Byzantine Patriarch Anthimus, consecrated Menas and Jewish child oven story
Rome, 535-536, Pope Agapetus I; St Menas the Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on August 25; Menas, Patriarch of Constantinople (536-552), was at first a presbyter at Constantinople and supervisor there of the Home of Saint Sampson the Hospitable for the poor and needy during the reign of Saint Justinian I (527-565). After the removal of the heretic Anthimus (535-536), the holy presbyter Menas was raised to the patriarchal throne of Constantinople as one worthy to be bishop, because of his profound virtue and firm confession of Orthodoxy. Agapitus, the Bishop of Rome (535-536), participated in the consecration of Saint Menas. He had come to Constantinople in order to depose the heretic Anthimus. During the patriarchate of Saint Menas a miracle occurred at Constantinople, which was known to the whole city. certain Jewish child went with other children to church and he partook of the Holy Mysteries of Christ. At home, he told his father about this. In a terrible rage, he seized the child and threw him into a red-hot oven (the father was a glass-blower). He said nothing to his wife. For three days, the mother tearfully searched for her son, calling loudly for him. On the third day, he emerged from the red-hot oven. When she pulled the child out, she found that he was unharmed. boy said that a most radiant Lady had come to him, cooling the fire and bringing him water and food. This incident became known to Saint Menas and the emperor Justinian I. The boy and his mother received Baptism, but the father of the child was obdurate and did not wish to repent, in spite of the great miracle that he had seen. Then the emperor ordered that the father be tried as a child-killer, and sentenced him to death. holy Patriarch Menas ruled the Church of Constantinople for sixteen years. During his patriarchate at Constantinople, the famous church of Hagia Sophia, the Wisdom of God, was consecrated. The saint died peacefully in the year 552. St. Agapitus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on April 17 ;

Rome, 536-540, Goth King, Vitiges, married queen Amalaswintha's daughter Matasuntha, K Theodahad
Rome, Goth King, 536-540, Vitiges; Venerable Benedict of Nursia, Commemorated on March 14 ;

Rome, 537-555, Pope Vigilius, first Pope of the Byzantine Papacy
Rome, 537-555, Pope Vigilius; St Gregory the Bishop of Agrigentum, Commemorated on November 23;

Rome, 540-541, Goth King, Ildibad, lost teritories to B E & Justinian I, after wife taken to C, end of Ostrogoths
Rome, Goth King, 540-541, Ildibad; (sometimes rendered Hildebad or Heldebadus) (died 541) was a king of the Ostrogoths in Italy in 540–541. was a nephew of Theudis, an Ostrogoth king of the Visigoths in Spain. This relationship led Peter Heather to suggest that both belonged to a powerful, non-royal clan.[1] In the 540, the Ostrogothic king Witiges was taken prisoner by Belisarius in Ravenna. Ildibad's children were also taken prisoner.[2] Ildibad was one of the Goths north of the Po river who still refused to surrender to Roman authority. Following Witiges' capture, however, Ildibad had attempted to negotiate terms of surrender with Belisarius, perhaps because of the fate of his children.[2] Witiges's capture, the leading candidate for the Ostrogothic throne became Uraias, who was Witiges' nephew, a skilled military commander and in charge of Ticinum (Pavia). Uraias, however, declined because his family lacked "royal fortune", and instead suggested Ildibad, who was at that time in charge of Verona.[2] These were the only cities still held by the Ostrogoths at this time.[3] After being elected king in 540, Ildibad moved his capital to Pavia. Ildibad again attempted to negotiate a surrender, but after Belisarius sailed to Constantinople along with Witiges and Ildibad's family, the war resumed.[2] The Gothic territory at this time consisted only of a narrow strip of land between Pavia and Verona, while the army consisted of barely 1,000 men, although this number was growing.[2] lack of coordination among the remaining Byzantine commanders enabled Ildibad to extend his authority throughout Liguria and Venetia.[3] In 541 AD he was engaged outside the heavily defended city of Treviso by its military commander Vitalius and a sizable body of Herules.[2] The battle was a decisive victory for the Goths, with Vitalius barely escaping while the Heruli leader was killed.[3] His nephew Totila then became military commander of Treviso.[2] Ildibad was subsequently able to extend his authority across the entire Po Valley. The victory gave him increased support among the Goths, while the ruinous Roman taxation of the provinces and lack of coordination among generals enabled him to acquire many Roman deserters.[2] 541, Ildibad had Uraias murdered.[3] According to Procopius, Uraias's murder had been instigated by Ildibad's wife, who felt insulted by the lavish lifestyle of Uraias' wife.[3] Herwig Wolfram suggests that this is an invention by Procopius to "personalize" the causes of political events, and that the real reason for Uraias' murder was that the Witiges clan had allied with non-Gothic barbarians, including the Rugii and probably Gepids, to conspire against Ildibad's rule.[2] In any case, in May 541, Ildibad was murdered at a royal banquet by his Gepid bodyguard Velas whose Gothic lover was married off to someone else by Ildibad while Velas was away.[4][3] The lack of a suitable Gothic successor enabled the Rugians to make their chief Eraric king of the Goths.[2] Eraric, however, betrayed the Goths and secretly offered to surrender the Gothic kingdom to the Byzantines in return for money.[3] As a result, the Goths at Pavia offered Ildibad's nephew Totila the throne.[2] Totila was at that point himself negotiating with the imperial commander at Ravenna, and demanded the killing of Eraric if he was to accept the throne.[2] After Eraric was killed in October 541, Totila became king of the Ostrogoths, a title he held for more than ten years.[2] Venerable Benedict of Nursia, Commemorated on March 14 ;

Rome, 541-541, Goth King, Eraric, made peace with Justinian
Rome, Goth King, 541-541, Eraric; Venerable Benedict of Nursia, Commemorated on March 14 ;

Rome, 541-552, Goth King, Totila the Goth, recovered then lost again in, Battle of Taginae, 552
Rome, Goth King, 541-552, Totila the Goth, Battle of Taginae, 552 ; Battle of Taginae, 552 ; Ostrogoths; BENEDICT, FOUNDER OF WESTERN MONASTICISM (11 JULY 540); St Eutychius of Nursia, Commemorated on August 23; St Menas the Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on August 25; GREGORY THE GREAT, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (12 MAR 604) ; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12; Venerable Benedict of Nursia, Commemorated on March 14 ;

Rome, 552, Battle of Taginae, Byzantines over Ostrogoths in Italy
Rome, 552, Battle of Taginae, Byzantines over Ostrogoths in Italy; Ostrogoths; BENEDICT, FOUNDER OF WESTERN MONASTICISM (11 JULY 540); Totila the Goth; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12;

Rome, 552-553, Goth King, Teia, killed senators, fell during battle at Vesuvius, Ostrogothic k ended
Rome, Goth King, 552-553, Teia; GREGORY THE GREAT, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (12 MAR 604) ; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12;

Rome, 555-561, Pope Pelagius I, Emperor' candidate, opposed then adopted Justinian's position
Rome, 555-561, Pope Pelagius I; St Gregory the Bishop of Agrigentum, Commemorated on November 23;

Rome, 560, Blessed Child Musa of Rome (Aniene River, Tiber River 5), Theotokos dream, do nothing silly for 30 days, I am coming
Rome, 460, Blessed Child Musa of Rome (Aniene River, Tiber River 5), Theotokos dream, do nothing silly for 30 days, I am coming, 6th century because Gregory knew her brother; Rome; Blessed Child Musa of Rome, Commemorated on May 16 ; Musa lived during the fifth (6th) century. She was distinguished for her pure life. Gregory Dialogus included her story in his Dialogues, saying that he had heard these things from Musa’s brother Probus. Most Holy Theotokos once appeared to Musa in a dream, surrounded by girls dressed in white. She asked her, “Do you wish to live together with these maidens in my court?” “Yes, I do,” the girl replied. “Do not do anything silly, as little girls often do. Avoid frivolity and joking. In thirty days I shall come for you and you will be with us.” that moment, Musa’s character was changed. She began to pray earnestly and lived a strict life. In answer to the questions of her astonished parents, Saint Musa told them about the vision. the twenty-fifth day the maiden developed a fever, and on the thirtieth day she again saw the Mother of God coming to her with the same girls as before. The blessed child reposed with the words, “I am coming, I am coming to you, my Lady!” Musa departed this earthly life and was gathered into the heavenly Kingdom, where she glorifies the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit unto ages of ages.

Rome, 561-574, Pope John III, Lombard invasion of Italy
Rome, 561-574, Pope John III; St Gregory the Bishop of Agrigentum, Commemorated on November 23;

Rome, 568-571, Byzantine Emperor, Justin II, Justinian's nephew
Rome, Byzantine Emperor, 568-571, Justin II; II or Justin the Younger (c. 520 -“ 5 October 578) was Eastern Roman Emperor from 565 to 574. He was the nephew of Justinian I and the husband of Sophia, the niece of the Empress Theodora, and was therefore a member of the Justinian Dynasty. His reign was marked by war with the Sassanid Empire, and the loss of the greater part of Italy. He presented the Cross of Justin II to Saint Peter's, Rome. GREGORY THE GREAT, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (12 MAR 604) ; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12;

Rome, 568-572, Lombard, Alboin, crossed Alps in 68, took Milan, blocked by Pavia and Tuscany, coup by wife
Rome, Lombard King, 568-572, Alboin; (530s – 28 June 572) was king of the Lombards from about 560 until 572. During his reign the Lombards ended their migrations by settling in Italy, the northern part of which Alboin conquered between 569 and 572. He had a lasting effect on Italy and the Pannonian Basin; in the former his invasion marked the beginning of centuries of Lombard rule, and in the latter his defeat of the Gepids and his departure from Pannonia ended the dominance there of the Germanic peoples. The period of Alboin's reign as king in Pannonia following the death of his father, Audoin, was one of confrontation and conflict between the Lombards and their main neighbors, the Gepids. The Gepids initially gained the upper hand, but in 567, thanks to his alliance with the Avars, Alboin inflicted a decisive defeat on his enemies, whose lands the Avars subsequently occupied. The increasing power of his new neighbours caused Alboin some unease however, and he therefore decided to leave Pannonia for Italy, hoping to take advantage of the Byzantine Empire's reduced ability to defend its territory in the wake of the Gothic War. gathering a large coalition of peoples, Alboin crossed the Julian Alps in 568, entering an almost undefended Italy. He rapidly took control of most of Venetia and Liguria. In 569, unopposed, he took northern Italy's main city, Milan. Pavia offered stiff resistance however, and was taken only after a siege lasting three years. During that time Alboin turned his attention to Tuscany, but signs of factionalism among his supporters and Alboin's diminishing control over his army increasingly began to manifest themselves. was assassinated on 28 June 572, in a coup d'état instigated by the Byzantines. It was organized by the king's foster brother, Helmichis, with the support of Alboin's wife, Rosamund, daughter of the Gepid king whom Alboin had killed some years earlier. The coup failed in the face of opposition from a majority of the Lombards, who elected Cleph as Alboin's successor, forcing Helmichis and Rosamund to flee to Ravenna under imperial protection. Alboin's death deprived the Lombards of the only leader who could have kept the newborn Germanic entity together, the last in the line of hero-kings who had led the Lombards through their migrations from the vale of the Elbe to Italy. For many centuries following his death Alboin's heroism and his success in battle were celebrated in Saxon and Bavarian epic poetry. GREGORY THE GREAT, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (12 MAR 604) ; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12;

Rome, 572-574, Lombard, Cleph, violent&terrifying to Romans&Byzantns, finished dominate N Italy, assinated, Dukes Rule
Rome, Lombard King, 572-574, Cleph; (also Clef, Clepho, or Kleph) was king of the Lombards from 572 to 574. succeeded Alboin, to whom he was not related by blood. was a violent and terrifying figure to the Romans and Byzantines struggling to maintain control of the Italian Peninsula. extended Lombard dominion over all of Northern Italy, finishing the conquest of Tuscany and bringing Lombard authority to the gates of Ravenna. was assassinated after an 18-month reign by a young guard, a slave whom he had mistreated. death was followed by a 10-year interregnum, known as the Rule of the Dukes because the territorial dukes were supreme. son, Authari, eventually took the throne in 585.[2] GREGORY THE GREAT, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (12 MAR 604) ; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12;

Rome, 574-584, Rule of the Lombard Dukes, Lombard Interregnum
Rome, Rule of the Dukes, 574-584, Lombard Dukes, Lombard Interregnum; 440 Martyrs slain by the Lombards in Sicily, Commemorated on March 2 ; GREGORY THE GREAT, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (12 MAR 604) ; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12;

Rome, 584-590, Lombard, Authari, adopted roman-ness, wars w Franks, Byzantns, Lombard rebels, m burgundy
Rome, Lombard King, 584-590, Authari; (c. 540 – 5 September 590) was king of the Lombards from 584 to his death. He was considered as the first Lombard king to have adopted some level of "Roman-ness" and introduced policies that led to drastic changes particularly in the treatment of the Romans and Christianity.[1] was the son of Cleph, King of the Lombards. When the latter died in 574, the Lombard nobility refused to appoint a successor, resulting in a ten-years-long interregnum known as the Rule of the Dukes. 574 and 575 the Lombards invaded Provence, then part of the kingdom of Burgundy of the Merovingian Guntram. The latter, in alliance with his nephew, the king of Austrasia Childebert II, replied by invading Northern Italy. The Austrasian army descended the valley of the Adige and took Trent. The Byzantine emperor, Tiberius II, began to negotiate an alliance with the Franks, and so the Lombards, fearful of a pincer movement, elected another king. 584, they elected Duke Authari and ceded him the capital of Pavia as well as half of their ducal domains as a demesne. spent his entire reign in wars with the Franks, the Byzantines, and Lombard rebels. His first major test was the quashing of the rebel duke Droctulf of Brescello, who had allied with the Romans and was ruling the Po valley. Having expelled him, he spent most of the rest of his six years on the throne fighting the exarch of Ravenna, Smaragdus, or the Merovingian kings. and Childebert were still not satisfied with their successes in Italy and they many times threatened invasion, following through on their threats twice. The memory of Theudebert I of Austrasia's campaigns in Italy, the urging of Childebert's warlike mother Brunhilda and the Byzantine emperor and exarch, as well as the wrongs done Guntram in the past undoubtedly fueled their quarrelsomeness. In 588, Authari defeated them handily, but in 590, the uncle and nephew led two armies across the Alps, respectively over Mont Cenis and the Brenner to Milan and Verona. Though Authari shut himself up in Pavia, the Franks accomplished little as the exarch's army did not meet them and they could not even join up with each other. Pestilence and the Breach at Cucca flood turned them around and they left the Lombards much chastened, but hardly defeated. when not controlled by foreign armies, expanded the Lombard dominion at the expense of Byzantium. He took the fortress of Comacchio and cut off communication between Padua and Ravenna. Faroald, duke of Spoleto, captured the Ravennan seaport of Classis and utterly devastated it. Authari swept through the peninsula all the way to Reggio, vowing to take Calabria — a vow never to be kept by any Lombard. married Theodelinda, daughter of the Bavarian duke Garibald I, on 15 May 589 at Verona. A Catholic, she had great influence among the Lombards for her virtue. A detailed account of the courtship by the eighth-century historian Paul the Deacon revealed that the marriage was also a political alliance designed to provide additional sanction to Authari's royal position.[2] In addition, Theodelinda was also chosen due to the long-standing ties between the Lombards and the Bavarians as well as their mutual hostility toward the Franks.[3] She also claimed descent from the ancient Lombard royal line.[3] Authari died in Pavia in 590, possibly by poison, he was succeeded as king by Agilulf, duke of Turin, on the advice, sought by the dukes, of Theodelinda, who married the new king.[4] GREGORY THE GREAT, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (12 MAR 604) ; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12;

Rome, 590-604, Pope Gregory I (Dialogus), first Monastic p, Gregorian mission to Britain, Dialogues, presanctified gifts litergy
Rome, 590-604, Pope Gregory I (Dialogus), first Monastic p, Gregorian mission to Britain, Dialogues, litergy of presanctified gifts; Gregory I (c. 540 - 12 March 604), commonly known as Saint Gregory the Great, was Bishop of Rome from 3 September 590 to his death.[1][a] is known for instigating the first recorded large-scale mission from Rome, the Gregorian Mission, to convert the then largely pagan Anglo-Saxons to Christianity.[2] is also well known for his writings, which were more prolific than those of any of his predecessors as pope.[3] epithet Saint Gregory the Dialogist has been attached to him in Eastern Christianity because of his Dialogues. translations of Eastern texts sometimes list him as Gregory "Dialogos", or the Anglo-Latinate equivalent "Dialogus".[4] Roman senator's son and himself the prefect of Rome at 30, Gregory lived in a monastery he established on his family estate before becoming a papal ambassador and then pope. Although he was the first pope from a monastic background, his prior political experiences may have helped him to be a talented administrator. During his papacy, his administration greatly surpassed that of the emperors in improving the welfare of the people of Rome, and he challenged the theological views of Patriarch Eutychius of Constantinople before the emperor Tiberius II. Gregory regained papal authority in Spain and France and sent missionaries to England, including Augustine of Canterbury and Paulinus of York. The realignment of barbarian allegiance to Rome from their Arian Christian alliances shaped medieval Europe. Gregory saw Franks, Lombards, and Visigoths align with Rome in religion. He also combated the Donatist heresy, popular particularly in North Africa at the time.[4] the Middle Ages, he was known as "the Father of Christian Worship" because of his exceptional efforts in revising the Roman worship of his day.[5] His contributions to the development of the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, still in use in the Byzantine Rite, were so significant that he is generally recognized as its de facto author. is one of the Latin Fathers and a Doctor of the Church.[6] He is considered a saint in the Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, Anglican Communion, various Lutheran denominations, and other Protestant denominations. Immediately after his death, Gregory was canonized by popular acclaim.[7] The Protestant reformer John Calvin admired Gregory greatly and declared in his Institutes that Gregory was the last good Pope.[8][9] He is the patron saint of musicians, singers, students, and teachers.[10] St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12; Gregory Dialogus, Pope of Rome, was born in Rome around the year 540. His grandfather was Pope Felix, and his mother Sylvia (November 4) and aunts Tarsilla and Emiliana were also numbered among the saints by the Roman Church. Having received a most excellent secular education, he attained high government positions. a God-pleasing life, he yearned for monasticism with all his soul. After the death of his father, Saint Gregory used his inheritance to establish six monasteries. At Rome he founded a monastery dedicated to the holy Apostle Andrew the First-Called, where he received monastic tonsure. Later, on a commission of Pope Pelagius II, Saint Gregory lived for a while in Constantinople. There he wrote his Commentary on the Book of Job. the death of Pope Pelagius, Saint Gregory was chosen to the Roman See. For seven months he would not consent to accept this service, considering himself unworthy. He finally accepted consecration only after the persistent entreaties of the clergy and flock. leading the Church, Saint Gregory worked tirelessly in propagating the Word of God. Saint Gregory compiled the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts in the Latin language, which before him was known only in the verbal tradition. Affirmed by the Sixth Ecumenical Council, this liturgical service was accepted by all the Orthodox Church. zealously struggled against the Donatist heresy; he also converted the inhabitants of Brittany, pagans and Goths, who had been adhering to the Arian heresy, to the True Faith. Gregory has left behind numerous written works. After the appearance of his book, DIALOGUES CONCERNING THE LIFE AND MIRACLES OF THE ITALIAN FATHERS (DIALOGI DE VITA ET MIRACULIS PATRUM ITALIORUM), the saint was called “Dialogus.” His PASTORAL RULE (or LIBER REGULAE PASTORALIS) was well-known. In this work, Saint Gregory describes the model of the true pastor. His letters (848), dealing with moral guidance, have also survived. Gregory headed the Church for thirteen years, ministering to all the needs of his flock. He was characterized by an extraordinary love of poverty, for which he was granted a vision of the Lord Himself. Saint Gregory the Great, as he is known, died in the year 604, and his relics rest in the cathedral of the holy Apostle Peter in the Vatican.

Rome, 590-604, Pope, Gregory I, Gregory Dialogus, the Great, monolingual during his time
Roman Pope, 590-604, Gregory I, Gregory Dialogus, Byzantine Saint; Gregory I (c. 540 - 12 March 604), commonly known as Saint Gregory the Great, was Bishop of Rome from 3 September 590 to his death.[1][a] is known for instigating the first recorded large-scale mission from Rome, the Gregorian Mission, to convert the then largely pagan Anglo-Saxons to Christianity.[2] is also well known for his writings, which were more prolific than those of any of his predecessors as pope.[3] epithet Saint Gregory the Dialogist has been attached to him in Eastern Christianity because of his Dialogues. translations of Eastern texts sometimes list him as Gregory "Dialogos", or the Anglo-Latinate equivalent "Dialogus".[4] Roman senator's son and himself the prefect of Rome at 30, Gregory lived in a monastery he established on his family estate before becoming a papal ambassador and then pope. Although he was the first pope from a monastic background, his prior political experiences may have helped him to be a talented administrator. During his papacy, his administration greatly surpassed that of the emperors in improving the welfare of the people of Rome, and he challenged the theological views of Patriarch Eutychius of Constantinople before the emperor Tiberius II. Gregory regained papal authority in Spain and France and sent missionaries to England, including Augustine of Canterbury and Paulinus of York. The realignment of barbarian allegiance to Rome from their Arian Christian alliances shaped medieval Europe. Gregory saw Franks, Lombards, and Visigoths align with Rome in religion. He also combated the Donatist heresy, popular particularly in North Africa at the time.[4] the Middle Ages, he was known as "the Father of Christian Worship" because of his exceptional efforts in revising the Roman worship of his day.[5] His contributions to the development of the Divine Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, still in use in the Byzantine Rite, were so significant that he is generally recognized as its de facto author. is one of the Latin Fathers and a Doctor of the Church.[6] He is considered a saint in the Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, Anglican Communion, various Lutheran denominations, and other Protestant denominations. Immediately after his death, Gregory was canonized by popular acclaim.[7] The Protestant reformer John Calvin admired Gregory greatly and declared in his Institutes that Gregory was the last good Pope.[8][9] He is the patron saint of musicians, singers, students, and teachers.[10] Byzantine Saint, 560-604, Gregory Dialogus, Pope of Rome; St Eulogius the Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on February 13; GREGORY THE GREAT, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (12 MAR 604) ; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12; Gregory Dialogus, Pope of Rome, was born in Rome around the year 540. His grandfather was Pope Felix, and his mother Sylvia (November 4) and aunts Tarsilla and Emiliana were also numbered among the saints by the Roman Church. Having received a most excellent secular education, he attained high government positions. a God-pleasing life, he yearned for monasticism with all his soul. After the death of his father, Saint Gregory used his inheritance to establish six monasteries. At Rome he founded a monastery dedicated to the holy Apostle Andrew the First-Called, where he received monastic tonsure. Later, on a commission of Pope Pelagius II, Saint Gregory lived for a while in Constantinople. There he wrote his Commentary on the Book of Job. the death of Pope Pelagius, Saint Gregory was chosen to the Roman See. For seven months he would not consent to accept this service, considering himself unworthy. He finally accepted consecration only after the persistent entreaties of the clergy and flock. leading the Church, Saint Gregory worked tirelessly in propagating the Word of God. Saint Gregory compiled the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts in the Latin language, which before him was known only in the verbal tradition. Affirmed by the Sixth Ecumenical Council, this liturgical service was accepted by all the Orthodox Church. zealously struggled against the Donatist heresy; he also converted the inhabitants of Brittany, pagans and Goths, who had been adhering to the Arian heresy, to the True Faith. Gregory has left behind numerous written works. After the appearance of his book, DIALOGUES CONCERNING THE LIFE AND MIRACLES OF THE ITALIAN FATHERS (DIALOGI DE VITA ET MIRACULIS PATRUM ITALIORUM), the saint was called “Dialogus.” His PASTORAL RULE (or LIBER REGULAE PASTORALIS) was well-known. In this work, Saint Gregory describes the model of the true pastor. His letters (848), dealing with moral guidance, have also survived. Gregory headed the Church for thirteen years, ministering to all the needs of his flock. He was characterized by an extraordinary love of poverty, for which he was granted a vision of the Lord Himself. Saint Gregory the Great, as he is known, died in the year 604, and his relics rest in the cathedral of the holy Apostle Peter in the Vatican. AUGUSTINE OF CANTERBURY, BISHOP AND MISSIONARY (26 MAY 605);

Rome, 590-604, Gregory the Great declared oecumenical (exclusive) popes the Antichrist
Roman Pope, 590-604, Gregory I, Gregory Dialogus, Byzantine Saint; Byzantine Saint, 560-604, Gregory Dialogus, Pope of Rome; St Eulogius the Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on February 13; GREGORY THE GREAT, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (12 MAR 604) ; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12; AUGUSTINE OF CANTERBURY, BISHOP AND MISSIONARY (26 MAY 605);

Rome, 590-616, Lombard King, Agilulf, Baptised Arian for his wife, then Catholic
Rome, Lombard King, 590-616, Agilulf; GREGORY THE GREAT, BISHOP AND DOCTOR (12 MAR 604) ; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12;

Rome, 595-606, Patriarch, Cyriacus II of Constantinople, used term oecumenical bishop, meaning universal or exclusive
Constantinople Patriarch, 595-606, Cyriacus II of Constantinople; (? – 29 October 606) was the thirtieth Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople (595–606). He was previously presbyter and steward, oikonomos, of the great church at Constantinople (Chronicon Paschale, p. 378). Gregory the Great received the legates bearing the synodal letters which announced his consecration, partly from a desire not to disturb the peace of the church, and partly from the personal respect which he entertained for Cyriac; but in his reply he warned him against the sin of causing divisions in the church, clearly alluding to the use of the term oecumenical bishop, which Gregory interpreted as meaning "universal" or even "exclusive" bishop (Gregory, Ep. lib. vii. 4, Patrologia Latina lxxvii. 853). The personal feelings of Gregory towards Cyriac appear most friendly. did not attend to Gregory's entreaties that he abstain from using the title, for Gregory wrote afterwards both to him and to the emperor Maurice, declaring that he could not allow his legates to remain in communion with Cyriac as long as he retained it. In the latter of these letters he compares the assumption of the title to the sin of Antichrist, since both exhibit a spirit of lawless pride. "Quisquis se universalem sacerdotem vocat, vel vocari desiderat, in elatione sua Antichristum praecurrit" (whosoever calls himself universal priest, or desires to be called so, is the forerunner of the Antichrist) (Gregory Ep. 28, 30). In a letter to Anastasius I of Antioch, who had written to him to remonstrate against disturbing the peace of the church, Gregory defends his conduct on the ground of the injury which Cyriac had done to all other patriarchs by the assumption of the title, and reminds Anastasius that not only heretics but heresiarchs had before this been patriarchs of Constantinople. He also deprecates the use of the term on more general grounds (Ep. 24). In spite of all this Cyriacus was firm in his retention of the title, and appears to have summoned, or to have meditated summoning, a council to authorize its use. For in 599 Gregory wrote to Eusebius of Thessalonica and some other bishops, stating that he had heard they were about to be summoned to a council at Constantinople, and most urgently entreating them to yield neither to force nor to persuasion, but to be steadfast in their refusal to recognize the offensive title (ib. lib. ix. 68 in Patr. Lat.). appears to have shared in that unpopularity of the emperor Maurice which caused his deposition and death (Theophanes Chronicle, A.M. 6094; Niceph. Callis. H. E. xviii. 40; Theophylact. Hist. viii. 9). still, however, had influence enough to exact from Phocas at his coronation a confession of the orthodox faith and a pledge not to disturb the church (Theophanes Chronicle, A.M. 6094). also nobly resisted the attempt of Phocas to drag the empress Constantina and her daughters from their sanctuary in a church of Constantinople (ibid., A.M. 6098). some resentment at this opposition to his will may have induced Phocas to accede more readily to the claims of Pope Boniface III that Rome should be considered to be the head of all the church, in exclusion of the claims of Constantinople to the oecumenical bishopric (Vita Bonifacii III, in Labbe, Acta Concil. t. v. 1615). died in 606, and was interred in the church of the Holy Apostles (Chronicon Paschale, p. 381). He appears to have been a man of remarkable piety and earnestness, able to win the esteem of all parties. He built a church dedicated to the theotokos in a street of Constantinople called Diaconissa (Theophanes Chronicle, A.M. 6090; Niceph. Callis. H. E. xviii. 42). St Thomas the Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on March 21; St Pausicacus the Bishop of Synnada, Commemorated on May 13 ;

Rome, 596, Gregorian Mission to Kent, England
England, 601, Gregorian mission ; England, 600-644, Paulinus of York; England, 600-671, James the Deacon; St James the Deacon, Commemorated on October 18; BERTHA and ETHELBERT, QUEEN & KING OF KENT, 616, Commemorated May 27 ;

Rome, 599, Miraculous Transfer Bartholomew's Relics Trebizond, Armenia, Black Sea to Lipari Island, Sicily
Lipari, Italy ; Return of the Relics of the Apostle Bartholomew from Anastasiopolis to Lipari, Commemorated August 25 : By the power of God the chests did not sink into the depths of the sea, but miraculously floated upon the waves and reached Italy. The chest with the relics of the Apostle Bartholomew came to land at the island of Lipari, and the remaining chests continued their journey and came to land at various places in Italy. The chest with the relics of the Martyr Papian halted at Sicily, the Martyr Lucian at Messina, the Martyr Gregory at Calabria, and the Martyr Acacius at Askalon. ; Apostle Bartholomew of the Twelve, Commemorated on June 11;

Rome, 600-699, 7th Century Folder, Lombard Kingdom, all Italy from Lombardy near Milan

Rome, 610, St Eustolia, from Rome, Constantinople monastic, people came to her for advice and consolation
Rome; St Eustolia of Constantinople, Commemorated on November 9 ; Eustolia, a native of Rome, had come to Constantinople and entered one of the women’s monasteries. virtuous and strict monastic life of the saint gained her the love and respect of the sisters. Not only monastics, but also many laypeople came to her for advice and consolation. Eustolia died in the year 610.

Rome, 616-626, Lombard King, Adaloald
Rome, Lombard King, 616-626, Adaloald; St Zosimus the Bishop of Syracuse, Commemorated on March 30;

Rome, 626-636, Lombard King, Arioald
Rome, Lombard King, 626-636, Arioald; St Zosimus the Bishop of Syracuse, Commemorated on March 30;

Rome, 636-652, Lombard King, Rothari
Rome, Lombard King, 636-652, Rothari; St Zosimus the Bishop of Syracuse, Commemorated on March 30; St Martin the Confessor the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on April 14;

Rome, 641-649, Roman Pope, Theodore, Syrian, from Jerusalem, struggle against Monotheism, planned Lateran Council
Roman Pope, 641-649, Theodore ; Theodore I (Latin: Theodorus I; died 14 May 649) was the bishop of Rome from 24 November 642 to his death. His pontificate was dominated by the struggle with Monothelitism. 1 Early career 2 Pontificate 3 Notes 4 References 5 External links career[edit] to the Liber Pontificalis, Theodore was a Greek man from Jerusalem whose father, Theodore, had been a bishop in the city.[2] He was among the many Syrian clergy who fled to Rome following the Muslim conquest of the Levant.[3] He was made a cardinal deacon possibly around 640 and a full cardinal by Pope John IV. I's election was supported by the exarch of Ravenna, who governed Italy in the name of the emperor in Constantinople. He was installed on 24 November 642, succeeding John IV. [4] The main focus of his pontificate was the continued struggle against the heretical Monothelites. He refused to recognize Paul II as the patriarch of Constantinople because Paul's predecessor, Pyrrhus I, had not been correctly replaced. He pressed Emperor Constans II to withdraw the Ecthesis of Heraclius. While his efforts made little impression on Constantinople, it increased the opposition to the teaching in the West; Pyrrhus even briefly recanted Monothelitism in 645, but was excommunicated in 648. Paul was excommunicated in 649. In response, Paul destroyed the Roman altar in the palace of Placidia and exiled or imprisoned the papal apocrisiarius. He also sought to end the issue with the emperor by promulgating the Type of Constans, ordering that the Ecthesis be taken down and seeking to end discussion on the doctrine.[5] planned the Lateran Council of 649 to condemn the Ecthesis, but died before he could convene it. His successor, Martin I, did so instead. Theodore was buried in St. Peter's Basilica. [5] His feast day in the Orthodox Church is on 18 May.[6] Translation of the relics of St Maximus the Confessor, Commemorated on August 13; St Zosimus the Bishop of Syracuse, Commemorated on March 30 ;

Rome, 649-655, Roman Pope, Pope Martin I
Roman Pope, 649-655, Pope Martin I; St Martin the Confessor the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on April 14;

Rome, 649, Lateran Council of 649, condemned Emperor's Monotheism, in Eastern Tradition
Rome, 649, Lateran Council of 649 ; Lateran Council of 649 was a synod held in the Basilica of St. John Lateran to condemn Monothelitism, a Christology espoused by many Eastern Christians. The Council did not achieve ecumenical status in either East or West, but represented the first attempt of a pope to convene an ecumenical council independent of the Roman emperor. to Andrew Ekonomou, the irony of the council was that the denunciation of the theology of Constantinople came from the "collaboration of a Greco-Palestinian pope and a Constantinopolitan monk employing a style of theological discourse whose tradition was purely Eastern."[1] Although Pope Martin I and Maximus the Confessor were abducted by Constans II and tried in Constantinople for their role in the council (Martin I being replaced as pope before dying in exile), their position was ultimately endorsed by the Third Council of Constantinople in 680. Translation of the relics of St Maximus the Confessor, Commemorated on August 13; St Maximus the Confessor, Commemorated January 21 ;

Rome, 652-653, Lombard King, Rodoald
Rome, Lombard King, 652-653, Rodoald; St Zosimus the Bishop of Syracuse, Commemorated on March 30;

Rome, 653-661, Lombard King, Aripert I
Rome, Lombard King, 653-661, Aripert I; St Zosimus the Bishop of Syracuse, Commemorated on March 30;

Rome, 661-688, Lombard King, Perctarit
Rome, Lombard King, 661-688, Perctarit; St Zosimus the Bishop of Syracuse, Commemorated on March 30;

Rome, 678-681, Pope, Agathon, Pope Agatho, heard Wilfrid of York, 6th Ecumenical Council, Monothelitism, two wills
Pope, 678-681, Agathon, Pope Agatho; Agatho (died January 681) served as the bishop of Rome from 27 June 678 until his death.[2] heard the appeal of Wilfrid of York, who had been displaced from his See by the division of the Archdiocese ordered by Theodore of Canterbury. Agatho's tenure, the Sixth Ecumenical Council was convened which dealt with the monothelitism controversy. He is venerated as a saint by both the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Churches. St Agathon the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on February 20 ;

Rome, 700-799, 8th Century Folder, Lombards till 774, then Franks and HRE

Rome, 708-716, Pope Gregory II
Pope, 708-716, Pope Gregory II; Translation of the Image ""Â of our Lord Jesus Christ from Edessa to Constantinople, the Third "œFeast of the Savior in August"Â, Commemorated on August 16;

Pope731-741, Pope Gregory III, Iconoclasm, Lombards
Pope731-741, Pope Gregory III; Gregory III (Latin: Gregorius III; died 28 November 741) was the bishop of Rome from 11 February 731 to his death. pontificate, like that of his predecessor, was disturbed by Byzantine iconoclasm and the advance of the Lombards, in which he invoked the intervention of Charles Martel, although ultimately in vain. He was the last pope to seek the consent of the Byzantine exarch of Ravenna for his election.

Rome, 774, Siege of Pavia (773–74), Frankish Invasion, Ended Lombard Kingdom
Rome, 774, Siege of Pavia (773–74); Venerable Joseph the Hymnographer, Commemorated on April 4;

Rome, 774, Lombards flee to Ligura, to eventually form Republic of Genoa, 774-1797
Lombards flee to Ligura, to eventually form Republic of Genoa; Venerable Joseph the Hymnographer, Commemorated on April 4;

Rome, 795-816, Roman Pope, Leo III, Crowned Charlemagne HRE Emperor, but could not help the Iconodules
Roman Pope, 795-816, Leo III ; Leo III (Latin: Leo; fl. 12 June 816) was the bishop of Rome and ruler of the Papal States from 26 December 795 to his death. by Charlemagne from the supporters of his predecessor, Adrian I, Leo subsequently strengthened Charlemagne's position by crowning him emperor. The coronation was not approved in Constantinople, although the Byzantines, occupied with their own defenses, were in no position to offer much opposition. Venerable Joseph the Hymnographer, Commemorated on April 4 ; Gregory and Joseph fearlessly defended the veneration of holy icons. They preached in the city squares and visited in the homes of the Orthodox, encouraging them against the heretics. The Church of Constantinople was in a most grievous position. Not only the emperor, but also the patriarch were iconoclast heretics. that time the Roman bishops were in communion with the Eastern Church, and Pope Leo III, who was not under the dominion of the Byzantine Emperor, was able to render great help to the Orthodox. The Orthodox monks chose Saint Joseph as a steadfast and eloquent messenger to the Pope. Saint Gregory blessed him to journey to Rome and to report on the plight of the Church of Constantinople, the atrocities of the iconoclasts, and the dangers threatening Orthodoxy. HE DID NOT MAKE IT TO ROME the journey, Saint Joseph was captured by Arab brigands who had been bribed by the iconoclasts. They took him to the island of Crete, where they handed him over to the iconoclasts, who locked him up in prison. enduring all the deprivations, he encouraged the other prisoners. By his prayers, a certain Orthodox bishop who had begun to waver was strengthened in spirit and courageously accepted martyrdom. Joseph spent six years in prison. On the night of the Nativity of Christ in 820 he was granted a vision of Saint Nicholas of Myra, who told him about the death of the iconoclast Leo the Armenian, and the end of the persecution. Nicholas gave him a paper scroll and said, “Take this scroll and eat it.â€ On the scroll was written: “Hasten, O Gracious One, and come to our aid if possible and as You will, for You are the Merciful One.â€ The monk read the scroll, ate it and said, “How sweet are Thine oracles to my throatâ€ (Ps 118/119:103). Saint Nicholas bade him to sing these words. this the fetters fell off the saint, the doors of the prison opened, and he emerged from it. He was transported through the air and set down on a large road near Constantinople, leading into the city. he reached Constantinople, Saint Joseph found that Saint Gregory the Dekapolite was no longer among the living, leaving behind his disciple John (April 18), who soon died. Saint Joseph built a church dedicated to Saint Nicholas and transferred the relics of Saints Gregory and John there. A monastery was founded near the church. Joseph received a portion of the relics of the Apostle Bartholomew from a certain virtuous man. He built a church in memory of the holy apostle. He loved and honored Saint Bartholomew, and he was distressed that there was no Canon glorifying the holy Apostle. He desired to adorn the Feast of Saint Bartholomew with hymns, but he did not dare to compose them himself. forty days Saint Joseph prayed with tears, preparing for the Feast of the holy apostle. On the eve of the Feast the Apostle Bartholomew appeared to him in the altar. He pressed the holy Gospel to Joseph’s bosom, and blessed him to write church hymns with the words: “May the right hand of the Almighty God bless you, may your tongue pour forth waters of heavenly wisdom, may your heart be a temple of the Holy Spirit, and may your hymnody delight the entire world.â€ this miraculous appearance, Saint Joseph composed a Canon to the Apostle Bartholomew, and from that time he began to compose hymns and Canons in honor of the Mother of God, of the saints, and in honor of Saint Nicholas, who liberated him from prison. the revival of the iconoclast heresy under the emperor Theophilus (829-842), Saint Joseph suffered a second time from the heretics. He was exiled to Cherson [Chersonessus] for eleven years. The Orthodox veneration of holy icons was restored under the holy empress Theodora (February 11) in 842, and Saint Joseph was made keeper of sacred vessels at Hagia Sophia in Constantinople. Because of his bold denunciation of the brother of the empress, Bardas, for unlawful cohabitation, the saint was again sent into exile and returned only after Bardas died in 867.

Rome, 800, 9th Century on, Folder, Holy Roman Empire, Kingdom and Republic

Rome, 800-814, Charlemagne, a Frank, Holy Roman Emperor
Roman Emperor, 800-814, Charlemagne, a Frank, Holy Roman Emperor; CYRIL AND METHODIUS, MISSIONARIES TO THE SLAVS (14 FEB 869); Venerable Joseph the Hymnographer, Commemorated on April 4; St Methodius, Equal of the Apostles and Archbishop of Moravia, Enlightener of the Slavs, Commemorated on April 6;

Rome, 814-840, HRE Emperor, Louis the Pious, Aquitaine, v over muslim Barcelona, sons civil war
Belgium, Holy Roman Emperor, 814-840, Louis the Pious; St Theophanes the Confessor and Hymnographer, Bishop of Nicea, Commemorated on October 11 ; ANSKAR, BISHOP AND MISSIONARY TO DENMARK AND SWEDEN (3 FEB 865); Icon of the Mother of God ÃƒÂ¢Ã‚Â€Ã‚ÂœIveronÃƒÂ¢Ã‚Â€Ã‚ÂÂÂÂ, Commemorated on February 12; Venerable Joseph the Hymnographer, Commemorated on April 4; St Methodius, Equal of the Apostles and Archbishop of Moravia, Enlightener of the Slavs, Commemorated on April 6;

Rome, 844-875, Louis II of Italy, Holy Roman Emperor
Roman Emperor, 844-875, Louis II of Italy, Holy Roman Emperor ; Venerable Lazarus the Iconographer, of Constantinople, Commemorated on November 17; Venerable Joseph the Hymnographer, Commemorated on April 4; St Methodius, Equal of the Apostles and Archbishop of Moravia, Enlightener of the Slavs, Commemorated on April 6; Equal of the Apostles and Teacher of the Slavs, Methodius, Commemorated on May 11; St Boris (in Holy Baptism Michael), Equal of the Apostles, Prince and Baptizer of Bulgaria, Commemorated on May 2;

Rome, 855-858, Pope, Benedict III, elected, schism, imprisoned by emperor, restored
Roman Pope. 855-858, Pope Benedict III; Venerable Lazarus the Iconographer, of Constantinople, Commemorated on November 17 ;

Rome, 858-867, Roman Pope, Pope Nicholas I
Roman Pope. 858-867, Pope Nicholas I; St Photius the Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on February 6;

Rome, 867-872, Pope, Adrian II, received Cyril and Methodius with great honor
Pope, 867-872, Adrian II ; holy brothers were then summoned to Rome at the invitation of the Roman Pope. Pope Adrian received them with great honor, since they brought with them the relics of the Hieromartyr Clement. Sickly by nature and in poor health, Saint Cyril soon fell ill from his many labors, and after taking the schema, he died in the year 869 at the age of forty-two. Before his death, he expressed his wish for his brother to continue the Christian enlightenment of the Slavs. Saint Cyril was buried in the Roman church of Saint Clement, whose own relics also rest there, brought to Italy from Cherson by the Enlighteners of the Slavs. Adrian II (792 – 14 December 872) was the bishop of Rome and ruler of the Papal States from 867 to his death. He continued the policy of his predecessor, Nicholas I. Despite seeking good relations with Louis II of Italy, he was placed under surveillance, and his wife and daughters were killed by Louis' supporters. 1 Family 2 Pontificate 3 See also 4 References 5 Further reading 6 External links was a member of a noble Roman family. In his youth, he married a woman named Stephania and had a daughter with her.[2] Adrian was selected to become pope on 14 December 867. He was already at an advanced age, and objected to assuming the papacy.[3] His wife and daughter moved with him to the Lateran Palace.[4] II maintained, but with less energy, the policies of his predecessor, Nicholas I. King Lothair II of Lotharingia, who died in 869, left Adrian to mediate between the Frankish kings with a view to secure the imperial inheritance to Lothair's brother Louis II of Italy.[5] Adrian sought to maintain good relations with Louis, since the latter's campaigns in southern Italy had the potential to free the papacy from the threat posed by the Muslims.[6] Photius I of Constantinople, shortly after the council in which he had pronounced sentence of deposition against Pope Nicholas I, was driven from the patriarchate by a new Byzantine emperor, Basil the Macedonian, who favoured Photius' rival, Ignatius. The Fourth Council of Constantinople was convoked to decide this matter. At this council Adrian was represented by legates who presided at the condemnation of Photius as a heretic, but did not succeed in coming to an understanding with Ignatius on the subject of jurisdiction over the Bulgarian Church.[5] Nicholas I, Adrian was forced to submit in temporal affairs to the interference of Emperor Louis II, who placed him under the surveillance of Bishop Arsenius of Orte, his confidential adviser, and Arsenius' nephew Anastasius the Librarian.[5] In 868, Adrian's wife and daughter were carried off and murdered by Arsenius' son Eleutherius, who had forcibly married the daughter.[7] died on 14 December 872, after exactly five years of pontificate.[5] CYRIL AND METHODIUS, MISSIONARIES TO THE SLAVS (14 FEB 869); St Boris (in Holy Baptism Michael), Equal of the Apostles, Prince and Baptizer of Bulgaria, Commemorated on May 2;

Rome, 872-882, Pope, John VIII, resisted Muslims in S. Italy, supported Methodius for Slavs, assinated
Rome, 872-882, Pope, John VIII; John VIII (Latin: Ioannes VIII; died 16 December 882) was the bishop of Rome and ruler of the Papal States from 14 December 872 to his death. He is often considered one of the ablest popes of the 9th century.[1] devoted much of his papacy attempting to halt and reverse the Muslim gains in southern Italy and their march northwards. When his efforts to obtain assistance from either the Franks or the Byzantines failed, John strengthened the defenses of Rome. He supported Methodius of Thessalonica in his mission to the Slavs, defended him against the Carolingian rulers and Bavarian clergy, and authorized the translation of the Bible into Slavonic. John also extended diplomatic recognition to the Duchy of Croatia and resolved the Photian schism. John's pontificate ended with his assassination, and the papacy became significantly weaker in the aftermath. 1 Slavonic liturgy 2 Saracen incursions 3 Constantinople problems 4 Death 5 See also 6 References 7 Bibliography 8 Further reading 9 External links liturgy[edit] VIII's letter to Svatopluk I of Moravia Adrian II consecrated Methodius of Thessalonica as archbishop and supported his mission to the Slavs. Unbeknownst to Rome, Methodius was imprisoned in 870 by the Carolingian King Louis the German and Bavarian bishops, who objected to his use of the Slavonic language in the liturgy and his encroachment on their jurisdiction in Moravia.[2] Adrian II died in 872, and John VIII, a Roman native,[3] was selected to succeed him. When Bishop Anno of Freising visited Rome, John inquired about the whereabouts of the missing Methodius, but Anno lied to him. In the summer of 873, John finally learned the truth. Furious, he forbade the celebration of mass in Bavaria until Methodius was released.[4] After his release, Methodius came to Rome and convinced John to allow him to translate the Bible to Slavonic as well as to perform liturgy in Slavonic. John wrote: "He who made three main languages - Hebrew, Greek, and Roman - also made all other languages to sing his praise and glory."[5] incursions[edit] a young man, John witnessed the Arab raid against Rome. Their expansion into Italy was severely affecting the economy of the Papal States.[3] After the raids against Campania and the Sabine Hills, Pope John asked for military aid from Emperor Charles the Bald and later Count Boso of Provence.[6] His efforts failed and he was forced to pay tribute to the Emirate of Sicily.[7] The threatening Muslim military presence (which he believed was God's punishment against "bad Christians"),[8] coupled with alliances they formed with the local Christians, prompted John to promote "a new and uncompromisingly hostile view of the Saracens." This included a ban on forming alliances with the Muslims. However, his efforts proved unsuccessful,[9] partly because Christian leaders viewed his calls for unity as an excuse to assert papal authority in southern Italy.[8] 876 bull of John VIII 876, John VIII traveled throughout Campania in an effort to form an alliance among the cities of Salerno, Capua, Naples, Gaeta and Amalfi against Muslim raids. By 877, all five cities sent delegates to Traietto to formalize an alliance.[10] Pope John VIII urged Charles to come to his defence in Italy. Charles again crossed the Alps, but this expedition was received with little enthusiasm by the nobles, and even by his regent in Lombardy, Boso, and they refused to join his army. At the same time Carloman of Bavaria, son of Louis the German, entered northern Italy. Charles, ill and in great distress, started on his way back to Gaul, but died while crossing the pass of Mont Cenis on 6 October 877.[11] relatively little support from outside sources, John fell back on what resources he could command. He reinforced the walls previously restored by Pope Leo IV. As the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls was located outside the Aurelian Walls, and had been damaged in a Saracen raid, the pope fortified the basilica, the monastery, and the nearby dwellings of the peasants. He also founded a papal fleet.[5] problems[edit] 879, John recognised the reinstatement of Photios I as the legitimate patriarch of Constantinople. Photius had been condemned in 869 by Adrian II. This was undertaken mainly to appease the Byzantines, since in them he saw the only hope of removing the Arabs from Italy.[12] Some time afterward, John VIII re-confirmed the excommunication of Photius, which eventually enabled Emperor Leo VI to move against Photius.[13] was anxious that the Duchy of Croatia would follow in the steps of Bulgaria, which had recently accepted the spiritual authority of Constantinople rather than that of Rome. After the overthrow of the pro-Byzantine Zdeslav in 879, John thanked the new duke, Branimir, for returning Croatia to papal jurisdiction. In return, John recognized Croatian independence from the Carolingians.[14] VIII was assassinated in 882 by his own clerics; he was first poisoned, and then clubbed to death.[5] The motives may have been his exhaustion of the papal treasury, his lack of support among the Carolingians, his gestures towards the Byzantines, and his failure to stop the Saracen raids.[15] Without the protection of powerful magnates or the Carolingian emperor, the papacy after John VIII's reign became increasingly subject to the machinations and greedy ambition of the rival clans of the local nobility.[5] St. Photius the Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on February 6; CYRIL AND METHODIUS, MISSIONARIES TO THE SLAVS (14 FEB 869);

Rome, 896-897, Pope Steven VI, Cadaver Synod, which led to his downfall and death, prohibited Slavonic in c
Rome, 896-897, Pope Steven VI; St Clement the Bishop of Ochrid and Enlightener of the Bulgarians, Commemorated on November 25; Equal of the Apostles Clement of Ochrid, Bishop of Greater Macedonia, and his companions, Commemorated on July 27; Clement, Bishop of Ochrid, Equal of the Apostles, Nahum, Savva, Gorazd and Angelar were Slavs, disciples of Saints Cyril and Methodius (May 11). first they lived as ascetics in Moravia, where Saint Gorazd succeded Saint Methodius as bishop. He was fluent in Slavonic, Greek and Latin. Saints Clement, Nahum, Angelar and Savva were priests. Enlighteners of the Slavs were opposed by German missionaries, who had the support of the Pope and the patronage of the Moravian prince Svyatopolk. The struggle centered around the questions of the need for divine services in Slavonic, the Filioque and Saturday fasting. Pope Stephen VI prohibited the use of Slavonic in church. proponents of the three-tongued heresy (who wanted to use only Hebrew, Greek, or Latin for Church purposes), after setting aside the ancestral language of the Slavic peoples, brought the disciples of Saint Methodius to trial, including Saint Clement. They subjected them to fierce torture: dragging them through thorns, and holding them in prison for a long time, just as they had done with their spiritual Father, Saint Methodius. 886, some of the prisoners were sold to slave-traders, and ended up in the Venice marketplace. The ambassador of the Byzantine Emperor Basil the Macedonian went to Venice, ransomed the saints and brought them to Constantinople. The older confessors were banished. It is not known where Saint Gorazd went, nor where Saint Savva found shelter. Nahum and Angelar went to Bulgaria. 907 Moravia collapsed under the onslaught of the Magyars, and Moravian refugees escaped along those same paths followed earlier by the saints they had exiled. Bulgarians received the Slavonic confessors with respect and requested them to conduct divine services in the Slavonic language. The Bulgarian prince Boris sought out such people as the disciples of Saint Methodius, who labored for the enlightenment of his nation. The saints immediately began to study Slavonic books collected by the Bulgarian nobles. Angelar soon died, and Saint Clement received the appointment to teach at Kutmichivitsa, a region in southwest Macedonia. In the Eastern Church a worthy man was chosen to be a teacher, someone known for his devout life, and possessed with a gift of words. Saint Clement was a teacher while he was still in Moravia. In Bulgaria, Saint Clement worked as an instructor until 893. He organized a school at the princely court, which attained high esteem during the reign of Simeon. In southwest Macedonia he created separate schools for adults and for children. Clement instructed the children in reading and in writing. The total number of his students was enormous. Those chosen and accepted for the clergy amounted to 3500 men. In the year 893, Saint Clement became Bishop of Dremvitsa, or Velitsa, and Saint Nahum took his place. Clement was the first Bulgarian hierarch to serve, preach and write in the Slavonic language. To this end he systematically prepared clergy from among the Slavic people. The holy bishop labored for the glory of God into his old age. When his strength failed, and he was unable to fulfill his responsibilities in the cathedral, he asked Tsar Simeon to let him retire. Tsar urged the saint not to forsake the cathedral, and Saint Clement agreed to continue his episcopal service. After this he went to Ochrid, to a monastery he founded. There the saint continued with his translation activities and translated important parts of the Pentecostarion. the saint became seriously ill and departed to the Lord in the year 916. The saint’s body was placed in a coffin he made with his own hands, and was buried in Ochrid’s Saint Panteleimon monastery. Clement is considered the first Slavonic author. He not only continued the translation work begun by Saints Cyril and Methodius, but also left behind works of his own composition, the first samples of Slavonic spiritual literature. of the lessons and sermons of Saint Clement were brought to Russia, where they were read and lovingly copied by pious Russian Christians. relics of Saints Gorazd and Angelar rest near Berat in Albania, and Saint Nahum’s relics are in the monastery bearing his name, near Lake Ochrid. Saint Clement is also commemorated on November 25.

Rome, 901-915, Holy Roman Emperor, Louis the Blind
Roman Emperor, 901-915, Louis the Blind, Holy Roman Emperor; EARLY ABBOTS of CLUNY, 30 April 909 ;

Rome, 1032-1048, Holy Roman Pope, Benedict IX, Sold the Papacy early, then reconsidered
Rome, 1048-1049, Holy Roman Pope, Damasus II; St. Procopius, Commemorated on September 16 ;

Rome, 1048-1049, Holy Roman Pope, Damasus II
Rome, 1048-1049, Holy Roman Pope, Damasus II; St. Procopius, Commemorated on September 16 ;

Rome, 1049-1055, Holy Roman Pope, Leo IX
Rome, 1049-1055, Holy Roman Pope, Leo IX; St. Procopius, Commemorated on September 16 ;

Rome, 1055-1057, Holy Roman Pope, Victor II
Rome, 1055-1057, Holy Roman Pope, Victor II;

Rome, 1057-1059, Holy Roman Pope, Stephen IX

Rome, 1059-1061, Holy Roman Pope, Nicholas II
Rome, 1059-1061, Holy Roman Pope, Nicholas II;

Rome, 1061-1073, Holy Roman Pope, Alexander II, cardinals only selected him,
Rome, 1061-1073, Holy Roman Pope, Alexander II; Alexander II (1010/1015 - 21 April 1073), born Anselm of Baggio,[1] was the head of the Roman Catholic Church and ruler of the Papal States from 1061 to his death in 1073. in Milan, Anselm was deeply involved in the Pataria reform movement. Elected according to the terms of his predecessor's bull, In nomine Domini, Anselm's was the first election by the cardinals without the participation of the people and minor clergy of Rome. life and work[edit] was born in the parish of Cesano Boscone in the town of Corsico some 7km (5mi) from Milan of a noble family. The family took its name from Baggio. a suburb of Milan, where the family held the office of "captain".[2] According to the Liber pontificalis,[3] his father's name was Anselmus or Ardericus. sources do not provide any information where Anselm might have obtained his education.[4] It was traditionally believed that Anselm de Baggio studied under Lanfranc at Bec Abbey. However, modern historiography rejects the assertion.[5] He became a member of the clergy of the cathedral of Milan,[6] and was ordained a priest by Archbishop Wido (Guido) of Milan.[7] was one of the founders of the Pataria,[8] a movement in the Archdiocese of Milan, aimed at reforming the clergy and ecclesiastic government in the province, and supportive of Papal sanctions against simony and clerical marriage.[9] They contested the ancient rights of the cathedral clergy of Milan and supported the Gregorian reforms. Anselm was one of four "upright and honest" priests suggested to succeed Ariberto da Intimiano as prince bishop of Milan.[dubious – discuss] When the Emperor Henry III chose instead the more worldly Guido da Velate, protests followed. In order to silence a vocal critic, Bishop Guido sent Anselm to the Imperial Court.[10] emperor instead, in 1056 or 1057, named Anselm bishop of Lucca.[11] The earliest testimony of his activity as bishop is on 23 March 1057.[12] On 20 August 1057, he was with the imperial court at Trebur, and on 27 December at Pöhlde.[13] As bishop, he was an energetic associate of Hildebrand of Sovana in endeavouring to suppress simony and enforce clerical celibacy.[14] So bad was the state of things at Milan, that benefices were openly bought and sold, and the clergy publicly married the women with whom they lived. With the increased prestige of his office, he reappeared twice in Milan as legate of the Holy See, in 1057 in the company of Hildebrand, and in 1059 with Peter Damian.[9] Anselm attended the Roman council of Pope Nicholas II in the first half of April 1059, and another synod of uncertain date.[15] He was in Rome again in April 1060, for a synod in the Lateran palace, when he subscribed two papal bulls dated 14 April 1060.[16] as pope[edit] Nicholas II died on 27 July 1061. The cardinals met, and sent a representative, the former monk of Cluny, Cardinal Stephen, to seek permission of the imperial court to conduct an election. After a five-day wait during which he was not received in audience, the Cardinal returned to Italy, without having received the congé d'élire.[17] The cardinal bishops then proceeded to an election, having forced their way into the city of Rome with the aid of Prince Richard I of Capua and his Norman troops. On 1 October 1061, they chose Bishop Anselmo de Baggio of Lucca, one of the leaders of the reform party, who took the name Pope Alexander II.[9] previous papal elections, the assent of the Holy Roman Emperor to the election was not sought,[disputed – discuss][18] and cardinal bishops were the sole electors of the pope for the first time in the history of the Catholic Church; in accordance with Nicholas II's bull, In Nomine Domini.[19] The bull effectively removed the control held by the Roman metropolitan church over the election of the pontiff, unilaterally abrogating the rights of the emperor, the nobles of Rome, the clergy, and the people of Rome. new Pope Alexander II was crowned at nightfall on October 1, 1061 in the Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli, because opposition to the election on the part of the Romans and German sympathizers made a coronation in St. Peter's Basilica impossible.[18] The German court nominated another candidate, Cadalus, bishop of Parma, who was proclaimed Pope at a council held at Basel under the name of Honorius II. He marched to Rome and for a long time threatened his rival's position. length, due to a coup-d-état in the German court which replaced the Empress Agnes with Archbishop Hatto (Atto) of Cologne, Honorius was forsaken by the German court and deposed by a council held at Mantua on 31 May and 1 June 1064.;[14][20] Alexander II's position continued to be challenged by Honorius until the latter's death in 1072. The next sixty years exhibited one schism after another.[21] Normans of south Italy[edit] early as 1063, the Normans. taking advantage of the schism, successfully expanded their empire by attacking and seizing the city of Gaeta, an important port leading into the southern part of the Roman campagna. In 1066, Richard of Capua, who had helped Alexander enter Rome and secure a coronation in October 1061, suddenly changed sides. With the Germans abandoning Cadalo and embracing Alexander, the Normans were no longer the mainstay and support of the papacy, and were faced with a competitor which had designs on the same territories ans the Normans. The barons of the Roman campagna, too, saw an advantage to be gained (or at least revenge to be extracted) by joining the Normans against Alexander and the reform party of Hildebrand, which had robbed them of their rights in papal elections and the civil government of the Church. Moving north, Prince Richard seized Ceprano, devastated Lazio, and encamped outside Rome, from which he demanded the title of Patricius.[22] the meantime, the frantic Cardinal Hildebrand repeatedly called upon Marquis Godfrey of Tuscany, who was with King Henry in Germany, to come to the aid of Rome.[23] In spring 1067, he collected an army, lifed the siege of Rome, and caused Prince Richard to withdraw to Capua. Richard left his son Jordanus in charge of the army in the plain below Aquino, to bar the way of the forces of Godfrey. But it was shortage of supplies, sickness, and bribery on the part of the Normans, that brought Godfrey to negotiate with Jordanus, and finally to return north. A new treaty between the papacy and the Normans was negotiated, and, at the synod held at Melfi by Pope Alexander on 1 August 1067, Prince Richard returned to his allegiance and was confirmed as Duke of Apulia and Calabria.[24] the second half of April 1063, Pope Alexander held a synod at the Lateran Basilica in Rome, attended by more than a hundred bishops. During the synod, he excommunicated Honorius II (Bishop Cadalo). The pope and bishops also decreed: that no mercy was to be shown to simoniacs by preserving their dignity; that those who had been ordained by simoniacs were to be retained in their orders; in the case of a knowing consecration of a simoniac, both simoniac and consecrator were to be deprived of their offices; that a priest who has a wife or mistress should not say Mass; that no cleric should receive a church from a layman whether gratis or for pay; that no priest should hold two churches; that no one should be made a monk on the understanding that he would become abbot; and that a layman who becomes a cleric should change his costume.[25] a letter of 15 May 1063, Pope Alexander ordered the archbishops of Reims, Sens, Tours, Bourges, and Bordeaux to obey his legate Cardinal Peter Damiani, Bishop of Ostia, "who is our own eye and the immoveable foundation of the apostolic see."[26] He also forbade Gervase, Archbishop of Reims, from consecrating Jocelyn as bishop of Soissons, on the grounds that he was a simoniac.[27] 6 May 1065, Pope Alexander held a council in Rome, attended by at least eight cardinals and forty-three bishops. It is known that the privileges of the monastery of Saint Denis in Paris were confirmed, and it was granted the privilege of being exempt from the jurisdiction of the bishop of Paris.[28] In 1067, he made a tour of the southern cities of the Papal States and of the Kingdom of Naples, holding a synod in Melfi in October and then later in the year at Siponto.[29] In this council held at Siponto, Pope Alexander deposed Bishop Lando of Nucerino, Landolf of Tortiboli, and Benedict of Biccari, all on accusations of simony.[30] an attempt to curtail simony (the buying and selling of sacred things), Alexander II sent out many legates and archbishops across Europe to enforce reform among local synods. Any clergy suspected of simony were then investigated. Any clergy who was invested in his office by a lay person were required to undergo a new investiture by a papal legate. A well-known victim of these campaigns included the bishop of Constance, who was removed from office for simony.[31] 30 March 1068, Alexander held a synod in Rome, in which he absolved the bishop of Tortosa of a charge of homicide, but deposed the bishop of Florence on the grounds of simony; a charge of simony was laid against the bishop of Chiusi, who begged for absolution. The pope also ordered that churches not be held by lay persons, and that ecclesiastical goods not be transmitted from parents to children as though they were subject to the laws of inheritance.[32] 1071, the future Emperor Henry IV, though only 21 (and still only German King and Roman Patrician), was vigorously at work recovering the powers, privileges and properties which had been allowed to slip away from imperial control during his regencies. crushed a riot in Saxony in 1069, and overcame the rebellion of the Saxon aristocrat Otto of Nordheim in 1071. But in 1071, the reforming activities of Pope Alexander's resulted in an open rupture with the King. Archbishop Guido of Milan recently died so Henry IV appointed Godfrey (Goffredo) de Castiglione as successor to Guido. Alexander II declared this investiture void, and appointed a Milanese priest named Attone (Atto), who had already been elected archbishop on 6 January 1072, in an electoral meeting sanctioned by Pope Alexander.[33] February 1072, he held a synod in Rome, in which he anathematized Goffredo, and confirmed Atto as archbishop. He wrote a letter to Henry IV, informing him of the papal actions.[34] Henry IV sent five men to Rome to discuss the issue, but Alexander rejected and subsequently excommunicated them. This led to increased pressure between Henry IV and the popes.[31] 1 October 1071, Pope Alexander consecrated the high altar of the new basilica dedicated to Saint Benedict at the monastery of Montecassino. He was assisted by Cardinal Hildebrand and other cardinals, by ten archbishops, and forty-four bishops, as well as abbots, clergy, nobles, and people.[35] He had already, perhaps at the beginning of his reign, granted Abbot Desiderius personally the lordship over Terracina.[36] Alexander also reformed the administration of the church of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme in Rome and of the Lateran Basilica, by replacing the monks of the Order of Montecassino with Canons Regular of the Congregation of S. Frediano of Lucca.[37] liturgical matters, Alexander II ended the practice of singing or reciting the "Alleluia" during the Latin Church's observance of Lent.[38] This reform was permanent.[39] on Jews[edit] 1065, Pope Alexander II wrote to Béranger, Viscount of Narbonne, and to Guifred, bishop of the city, praising them for having prevented the massacre of the Jews in their district, and reminding them that God does not approve of the shedding of innocent blood. On 11 June in that same year, he wrote a letter, admonishing Landulf VI of Benevento "that the conversion of Jews is not to be obtained by force."[40] was warm in his praise, however, for Spanish bishops, who protected the Jews against those who came to Spain crusading against the Moors.[41] against the Moors[edit] in the same year, Alexander called for the Crusade of Barbastro against the Moors in Spain.[42][43] Alexander II issued orders to the Bishops of Narbonne, instructing crusaders en route "that you protect the Jews who live among you, so that they may not be killed by those who are setting out for Spain against the Saracens ... for the situation of the Jews is greatly different from that of the Saracens. One may justly fight against those [the Saracens] who persecute Christians and drive them from their towns and their own homes."[44] and William the Conqueror[edit] Bayeux Tapestry: William the Conqueror holds a papal gonfalon with a golden cross, a gift from Pope Alexander II. 1066, Pope Alexander received an embassy from William, Duke of Normandy, after his successful invasion of Brittany. The embassy had been sent to obtain his blessing for William's prospective invasion of Anglo-Saxon England. Alexander gave it, along with a papal ring, the Standard of St. George,[45] and an edict to the autonomous Old English clergy guiding them to submit to the new regime. These favors were instrumental in the submission of the English church following the Battle of Hastings. Count Eustace carried his papal insignia, a gonfanon with three tails charged with a cross, which William of Poitiers says was given to William I to signify the pope's blessing of his invasion to secure a submission to Rome.[46] successes in England brought the native English church into much greater control from Rome. William even agreed to Alexander's request to restore the payment of the Peter's Pence, which had lapsed in the time of Edward the Confessor. At the same time, William requested that the pope send him legates, to carry out a ceremonial crowning of the king. Alexander therefore sent Bishop Ermenfried of Sion (Sitten in Switzerland) and two "clerici cardinales" to England, who, at Eastertide 1070, presided at the coronation at Winchester.[47] archbishop of Canterbury, Stigand, however, even though he made his peace with William, was a problem for Pope Alexander. Stigand had helped to drive the legitimate archbishop, Robert of Jumièges, from his see, and usurped the archbishopric for himself; he even dared to wear Archbishop Robert's pallium.[48] additionally, he continued to hold the diocese of Winchester, of which he was the legitimate incumbent, along with the archbishopric of Canterbury.[49] Five successive popes, Leo, Victor, Stephanus, Nicholas, and Alexander himself, had sent legates to England, who excommunicated Stigand. Stigand was therefore not able to crown William king, as was the right of the archbishop of Canterbury.[50] Nonetheless, Stigand and William remained on good terms, until, during a visit of William to the continent in 1067, the Normans in England behaved with particular brutality. Stigand switched sides, and with Edgar the Atheling fled to safety in the camp of refuge in Ely. They were besieged by the Conqueror, and Stigand was captured.[51] Pope Alexander's legates, as instructed, demanded the deposition of Stigand, and at a general council held at Winchester after King William's cooronation, the deposition was duly voted.[52] William determined that he would not have his brother, Bishop Odo of Bayeux, as his new archbishop, nor would he promote his chaplain and chancellor, Herfast. He assembled a council of bishops, abbots and other notables, in order to discuss a suitable candidate for the vacant archbishopric. After this consultation, William offered the archbishopric to Lanfranc, the Abbot of the royal monastery of St. Stephen at Caen, to whom he had once offered the archbishopric of Rouen, which Lanfranc had refused. When Lanfranc also refused the see of Canterbury, the determined king sent his queen, Matilda, and his son Robert (a former pupil of Lanfranc), accompanied by a contingent of Norman nobles, to persuade him, to no avail. Abbot Herluin of Bec was called upon to exert his influence, again without result. William then ordered the papal legates to go to Normandy, convene a council of bishops, abbots, and nobles, to prevail upon Lanfranc to accept the king's offer. Reluctantly, Lanfranc crossed to England, where he engaged in intense talks with William, who only persuaded him by invoking the recommendation which had been expressed by Pipe Alexander.[53] Lanfranc was finally elected by a council on 15 August 1070, the Feast of the Assumption, and consecrated on 29 August, the Feast of St. John the Baptist.[54] Lanfranc wrote to Pope Alexander and to the Archdeacon Hildebrand that they defend him against the pretensions of the archbishop of York, and that they send him the pallium as his symbol of primacy, Hildebrand wrote a letter in reply, claiming that it was not the custom to send the pallium, but that the recipient come to Rome to have it bestowed; and besides, he and the pope wanted to confer personally with Lanfranc about pressing matters. In 1071, therefore, Lanfranc and Archbishop Thomas of York travelled to Rome to receive their pallia.[55] Pope Alexander wrote to Archbishop Lanfranc, ordering him to see to the state of the monastery of Winchester, and expressing annoyance that he had not yet procured the release of the bishop (Stigand), perhaps out of negligence, perhaps out of disobedience, perhaps fearing punishment by King William.[56] 1068, German King Henry IV attempted to divorce Bertha of Savoy. The Papal legate Peter Damian hinted that any further attempt at a divorce would lead the Pope to refuse to perform his coronation. Henry obeyed, and his wife, who had retired to Lorsch Abbey returned to Court.[9] 1072 Alexander commanded[citation needed] the reluctant Canon of the cathedral of Kraków, Stanislaus of Szczepanów, who had been elected unanimously by the cathedral chapter, to accept appointment as the ninth Bishop of Kraków in succession to Bishop Lampert.[57] Stanislaus became one of the earliest native Polish bishops. This turned out to be a significant decision for the Polish Church. Once appointed, Stanislaus was a highly assertive bishop who got into conflict with Polish king Bolesław II the Bold, pro suis actibus sceleratis ('because of his wicked deeds'). Bolesław and his nobles assassinated Bishop Stanislaus in the church of St. Michael in Rupella on 11 April 1179, and cut up his corpse into seventy-two pieces. Poland was laid under the interdict for four years, and the see of Kraków remained vacant. In 1088, the body of Bishop Stanislaus was transferred to his cathedral in Kraków, and eventually he was venerated as a saint.[58] series of disputes broke out between the bishop Gerhard (Iaromirus, Jaromi) of Prague and the bishop John (Brewnow) of Olmouc in Bohemia. Duke Wratislaus of Bohemia drew this to the attention of Pope Alexander II when he happened to be at the papal court in 1073. Alexander sent nuntii to Prague to sort the matter out, but they were captured, mutilated, and then murdered. Socked at the enormity of the offense, Pope Alexander sent Cardinal Rudolph to Prague. When Gerhard refused to cooperate with the cardinal, he was deposed and Prague was laid under the interdict; when the situation quieted down, he restored the bishop and lifted the interdict, but ordered both bishops to present themselves before the papal court. When they appeared, Pope Alexander confirmed the deposition of the bishop of Prague, though he restored him once again at the pleading of Countess Mathilda of Tuscany.[59] Alexander II died at the Lateran Palace on 21 April 1073, and was buried in the Lateran Basilica.[60]

Rome, 1073-1085, Holy Roman Pope, Gregory VII, reformer, investiture c with Henry IV
Roman Pope, 1073-1085, Gregory VII; St Yaropolk the Prince of Vladimir-Volhynia, Commemorated on October 10;

Rome, 1084-1105, Henry IV, HRE Emperor, German, controversial, appointed commoners, walk to C, Inv c
Roman Emperor, 1084-1105, Henry IV, Holy Roman Emperor; IV (German: Heinrich IV; 11 November 1050 - 7 August 1106) was Holy Roman Emperor from 1084 to 1105, King of Germany from 1054 to 1105, King of Italy and Burgundy from 1056 to 1105, and Duke of Bavaria from 1052 to 1054. was the son of Henry III, Holy Roman Emperor—the second monarch of the Salian dynasty—and Agnes of Poitou. his father's death on 5 October 1056, Henry was placed under his mother's guardianship. She made grants to German aristocrats to secure their support. Unlike her late husband, she could not control the election of the popes, thus the idea of the "liberty of the Church" strengthened during her rule. Taking advantage of her weakness, Archbishop Anno II of Cologne kidnapped Henry in April 1062. He administered Germany until Henry came of age in 1065. endeavoured to recover the royal estates that had been lost during his minority. He employed low-ranking officials to carry out his new policies, causing discontent in Saxony and Thuringia. Henry crushed a riot in Saxony in 1069 and overcame the rebellion of the Saxon aristocrat Otto of Nordheim in 1071. appointment of commoners to high office offended German aristocrats, and many of them withdrew from Henry's court. insisted on his royal prerogative to appoint bishops and abbots, although the reformist clerics condemned this practice as simony (a forbidden sale of church offices). Pope Alexander II blamed Henry's advisors for his acts and excommunicated them in early 1073. Henry's conflicts with the Holy See and the German dukes weakened his position and the Saxons rose up in open rebellion in the summer of 1074. Taking advantage of a quarrel between the Saxon aristocrats and peasantry, he forced the rebels into submission in October 1075. adopted an active policy in Italy, alarming Pope Alexander II's successor, Gregory VII, who threatened him with excommunication for simony. Henry persuaded most of the German bishops to declare the Pope's election invalid on 24 January 1076. In response, the Pope excommunicated Henry and released his subjects from their allegiance. German aristocrats who were hostile to Henry called for the Pope to hold an assembly in Germany to hear Henry's case. prevent the Pope from sitting in judgement on him, Henry went to Italy as far as Canossa to meet with the Pope. His penitential "Walk to Canossa" was a success and Gregory VII had no choice but to absolve him in January 1077. Henry's German opponents ignored his absolution and elected an antiking, Rudolf of Rheinfelden, on 14 March 1077. Pope was initially neutral in the two kings' conflict, enabling Henry to consolidate his position. Henry continued to appoint high-ranking clerics, for which the Pope again excommunicated him on 7 March 1080. Most German and northern Italian bishops remained loyal to Henry and they elected the antipope Clement III. Rudolf of Rheinfelden was killed in battle and his successor, Hermann of Salm, could only exert royal authority in Saxony. From 1081, Henry launched a series of military campaigns to Italy, and Clement III crowned him emperor in Rome on 1 April 1084. of Salm died and Henry pacified Saxony with the local aristocrats' assistance in 1088. launched an invasion against the pope's principal Italian ally, Matilda of Tuscany, in 1089. She convinced Henry's elder son, Conrad II, to take up arms against his father in 1093. Her alliance with Welf I, Duke of Bavaria, prevented Henry's return to Germany until 1096 when he was reconciled with Welf. After Clement III's death, Henry did not support new antipopes, but did not make peace with Pope Paschal II. proclaimed the first Reichsfriede (imperial peace) which covered the whole territory of Germany in 1103. younger son, Henry V, forced him to abdicate on 31 December 1105. He tried to regain his throne with the assistance of Lotharingian aristocrats, but became ill and died without receiving absolution from his excommunication. preeminent role in the Investiture Controversy, his "Walk to Canossa" and his conflicts with his sons and wife established his controversial reputation, with some regarding him as the stereotype of a tyrant, and others describing him as an exemplary monarch who protected the poor. Venerable Anthony the Roman and Abbot of Novgorod, Commemorated on August 3; BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX, ABBOT, THEOLOGIAN, AND POET (20 AUGUST 1153); St Yaropolk the Prince of Vladimir-Volhynia, Commemorated on October 10; Martyr Nicholas Dvali in Jerusalem, Commemorated on February 12;

Rome, 1088-1099, Pope Urban II
Rome, 1088-1099, Pope Urban II; Translation of the relics of St Nicholas the Wonderworker from Myra to Bari, Commemorated on May ;

First Crusade, 1096
First Crusade, 1096 ; GEORGE, SOLDIER and MARTYR, 23 APRIL 303, Commemorated April 23;

Rome, 1130-1143, Pope Innocent II, election controversy, he was north of alps, Second Latern council
Rome, 1130-1143, Pope Innocent II; Innocent II (Latin: Innocentius II; died 23 September 1143), born Gregorio Papareschi, was head of the Catholic Church and ruler of the Papal States from 14 February 1130 to his death in 1143. election as pope was controversial and the first eight years of his reign were marked by a struggle for recognition against the supporters of Anacletus II. He reached an understanding with King Lothair III of Germany who supported him against Anacletus and whom he crowned as Holy Roman emperor. Innocent went on to preside over the Second Lateran council. Rome, 1130-1138, Antipope Anacletus II; BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX, ABBOT, THEOLOGIAN, AND POET (20 AUGUST 1153);

Rome, 1130-1138, Antipope Anacletus II, roman, south of alps, cardinal court packing
Rome, 1130-1138, Antipope Anacletus II; II (died January 25, 1138), born Pietro Pierleoni, was an antipope who ruled in opposition to Pope Innocent II from 1130 until his death in 1138. the death of Pope Honorius II, the college of cardinals was divided over his successor. Unusually, the election was entrusted to eight cardinals, who elected Papareschi (Innocent II). A larger body of cardinals then elected Pierleoni, which led to a major schism in the Roman Catholic Church. Anacletus had the support of most Romans, including the Frangipani family, and Innocent was forced to flee to France. North of the Alps, Innocent gained the crucial support of Bernard of Clairvaux, Peter the Venerable, and the Emperor Lothar III, leaving Anacletus with few patrons. Anacletus, with little remaining support, lived for several years and died with the crisis unresolved. In 1139 the second Lateran Council ended the schism, although opinion remained divided.[1] Rome, 1130-1143, Pope Innocent II; BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX, ABBOT, THEOLOGIAN, AND POET (20 AUGUST 1153);

Roman Emperor, 1137-1190, Frederick 1, Rome
Roman Emperor, 1137-1190, Frederick 1, Rome;

Rome, 1145-1153, Pope Eugene III, Papal States ruler, checked out Hildegard, first Cistercian, Second Crusade to Edessa
Rome, 1145-1153, Pope Eugene III ; Eugene III (c. 1080 - 8 July 1153), born Bernardo Pignatelli,[2] or possibly Paganelli, called Bernardo da Pisa, was head of the Catholic Church and ruler of the Papal States from 15 February 1145 to his death in 1153. was the first Cistercian to become pope. response to the fall of Edessa to the Muslims in 1144, Eugene proclaimed the Second Crusade. The crusade failed to recapture Edessa, which was the first of many failures by the Christians in the crusades to recapture lands won in the First Crusade. was beatified in 1872 by Pope Pius IX. BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX, ABBOT, THEOLOGIAN, AND POET (20 AUGUST 1153); HILDEGARD OF BINGEN, VISIONARY (17 SEP 1179);

Rome, 1195-1242, Northern Crusades, ordered by Pope, Battle of the Ice, Pskov Lake
Russia, Novgorod, 1195-1242, Northern Crusades, ordered by Pope Celestine III; Rome, 1191-1198, Pope, Celestine III; Novgorod, 1242, Great Battle of the Ice of Pskov Lake, defeat of Teutonic Knights; Repose of St Alexander Nevsky, Commemorated on November 23;

Rome, 1202-1226, Francis of Assisi, Franciscans, Lady Poverty, no money, no property
Rome, 1202-1226, Francis of Assisi, Franciscans, Lady Poverty, no money, no property; Assisi; FRANCIS OF ASSISI, FRIAR (4 OCT 1226); was born in 1182, the son of a wealthy cloth merchant. His early years were frivolous, but an experience of sickness and another of military service were instrumental in leading him to reflect on the purpose of life. day, in the church of San Damiano, he seemed to hear Christ saying to him, "Francis, repair my falling house." He took the words literally, and sold a bale of silk from his father's warehouse to pay for repairs to the church of San Damiano. His father was outraged, and there was a public confrontation at which his father disinherited and disowned him, and he in turn renounced his father's wealth--one account says that he not only handed his father his purse, but also took off his expensive clothes, laid them at his father's feet, and walked away naked. He declared himself "wedded to Lady Poverty", renounced all material possessions, and devoted himself to serving the poor. his day the most dreaded of all diseases was something known as leprosy. (It is probably not the same as either the modern or the Biblical disease of that name.) Lepers were kept at a distance and regarded with fear and disgust. Francis cared for them, fed them, bathed their sores, and kissed them. Since he could not pay for repairs to the Church of San Damiano, he undertook to repair it by his own labors. He moved in with the priest, and begged stones lying useless in fields, shaping them for use in repairing the church. He got his meals, not by asking for money so that he might live at the expense of others, but by scrounging crusts and discarded vegetable from trash-bins, and by working as a day laborer, insisting on being paid in bread, milk, eggs, or vegetables rather than in money. Soon a few companions joined him. Dante in his Paradiso has Aquinas say of him: me tell you of a youth whose aristocratic father disowned him because of his love for a beautiful lady. She had been married before, to Christ, and was so faithful a spouse to Him that, while Mary only stood at the foot of the Cross, she leaped up to be with Him on the Cross. These two of whom I speak are Francis and the Lady Poverty. As they walked along together, the sight of their mutual love drew men's hearts after them. Bernard saw them and ran after them, kicking off his shoes to run faster to so great a peace. Giles and Sylvester saw them, kicked off their shoes and ran to join them.... three years, in 1210, the Pope authorized the forming of the Order of Friars Minor, commonly called the Franciscans. ("Friar" means "brother," as in "fraternity", and "minor" means "lesser" or "younger." I take the meaning to be that a Franciscan, meeting another Christian, is to think, "I am your brother in Christ, and your younger brother at that, bound to defer to you and to give you precedence over myself." and his companions took literally the words of Christ when he sent his disciples out to preach (M 10:7-10): as you go, saying, "The kingdom of Heaven is at hand." ... You have received the Gospel without payment, give it to others as freely. Take no gold, or silver, or copper in your belts, no bag for your journey, no spare garment, nor sandals, nor staff. would have no money, and no property, individually or collectively. Their task was to preach, "using words if necessary," but declaring by word and action the love of God in Christ. Francis was partial to a touch of the dramatic (see his parting from his father, for example), and it was probably he who set up the first Christmas manger scene, to bring home the Good News of God made man for our salvation, home to men's hearts and imaginations as well as to their intellects. 1219, Francis went to the Holy Land to preach to the moslems. He was given a pass through the enemy lines, and spoke to the Sultan, Melek-al-Kamil. Francis proclaimed the Gospel to the Sultan, who replied that he had his own beliefs, and that moslems were as firmly convinced of the truth of Islam as Francis was of the truth of Christianity. Francis proposed that a fire be built, and that he and a moslem volunteer would walk side by side into the fire to show whose faith was stronger. The Sultan said he was not sure that a moslem volunteer could be found. Francis then offered to walk into the fire alone. The Sultan who was deeply impressed but remained unconverted. Francis proposed an armistice between the two warring sides, and drew up terms for one; the Sultan agreed, but, to Francis's deep disappointment, the Christian leaders would not. Francis returned to Italy, but a permanent result was that the Franciscans were given custody of the Christian shrines then in moslem hands. preaching to the birds, by giottoBack in Italy and neighboring countries, the Order was suffering from its own success. Then, as now, many persons were deeply attracted by Francis and his air of joy, abandonment, and freedom. What is overlooked is that these were made possible only by his willingness to accept total poverty, not picturesque poverty but real dirt, rags, cold, and hunger, and lepers with real pus oozing from their sores and a real danger of infection. Many idealistic young men were joining the Order in a burst of enthusiasm and then finding themselves not so sure that such extremes of poverty were really necessary. When there were only a few friars, they were all known to Francis personally, and the force of his personality kept the original ideals of the Order alive in them. Now that the Order was larger, this was no longer enough. In 1220 Francis resigned as minister-general of the Order, and in 1221 he agreed to a new and modified rule, which he did not approve, but could not resist. He died on 4 October 1226. The Franciscan split into the Conventual Franciscans, who held a limited amount of property in common, and the Spiritual Franciscans, who disavowed all property. They taught that Christ and the twelve apostles had held no property, singly or jointly. This view offended those who held property, and was declared to be heretical (proof text, J 18:10; Jesus said to Peter, "Put up THY sword...."). In 1318, several Spiritual Franciscans were burned at the stake in Marseilles. story is told of the days when the friars first began to have permanent houses. A beggar came by when Brother Juniper was at the gate and asked for a little money. Brother Juniper said, "There is no money in the house. But wait a minute. Last week someone gave us an altar cloth with little silver bells attached. We don't need those. I will cut them off for you. They will be as good as money." And he did. When the sacristan learned what had happened, he complained to the prior, who said, "We are fortunate that he did not give away the cloth itself. But send him to me, and I will scold him." Brother Juniper came, and the prior scolded him until he was hoarse. Brother Juniper noticed that the prior was hoarse, and went to the kitchen and cooked him some mint sauce. He brought it to the prior, who had gone to bed. He said, "Father Prior, get up and eat this mint sauce. It will be good for your throat." The prior said, "I don't want any mint sauce. Go away and let me sleep." Brother Juniper said, "It's good sauce, and will be good for your throat." The prior said, "Go away, I don't want it." Brother Juniper said, "Well, if you won't eat it, how about holding the candle while I eat it?" This was too much for the prior. He got up and they both ate. the first known letter from Francis to all Christians: how happy and blessed are those who love the Lord and do as the Lord himself said in the gospel: You shall love the Lord your God with your whole heart and your whole soul, and your neighbor as yourself. Thereofore, let us love God and adore him with pure heart and mind. This is his particular desire when he says: True worshipers adore the Father in spirit and truth. For all who adore him must do so in the spirit of truth. Let us also direct to him our praises and prayers, saying: "Our Father, who are in heaven," since we must always pray and never grow slack. Furthermore, let us produce worthy fruits of penance. Let us also love our neightbors as ourselves. Let us have charity and humility. Let us give alms because these cleanse our souls from the stains of sin. Men lose all the material things they leave behind in this world, but they carry with them the reward of their charity and the alms they give. For these they will recieve from the Lord the reward and recompense they deserve. We must not be wise and prudent according to the flesh. Rather we must be sinple, humble and pure. We should never desire to be over others. Instead, we ought to be servants who are submissive to every human being for God's sake. The Spirit of the Lord will rest on all who live in this way and persevere in it to the end. He will permanently dwell in them. They will be the Father's children who do his work. They are the spouses, brothers and mothers of our Lord Jesus Christ. Many readers are enthusiastic about St. Francis of Assisi, a biography of Francis by G K Chesterton. A reader of these essays has also recommended The Biography of Saint Francis of Assisi by Englebert by James Kiefer

Rome, 1214-1253, Holy Roman Saint, Clare of Assisi, Poor Clares
Belgium, 1214-1253, Holy Roman Saint, Clare of Assisi; DOMINIC, PREACHER, FRIAR, MISSIONARY (8 AUGUST 1221); CLARE OF ASSISI, NUN (11 AUGUST 1253) ; Offreduccio, born in 1194, was the daughter of a wealthy family in Assisi. she was eighteen years old, she heard a sermon by Francis of Assisi, and was moved by it to follow the example of the Franciscan brothers and vow herself to a life of poverty. Her family was horrified, and brought her back home by force; but one night, in a gesture both tactical and symbolic, she slipped out of her house through "the door of the dead" (a small side door that was traditionally opened only to carry out a corpse) and returned to the house of the Franciscans. Francis cut off her hair, and placed her in a nearby convent. Later a house was found for her, and she was eventually joined by two of her sisters, her widowed mother, and several members of the wealthy Ubaldini family of Florence. Clare's best friend, Pacifica, could not resist, and joined them, too. sisters of her order came to be known informally as Minoresses (Franciscan brothers are Friars Minor = "lesser brothers") or as Poor Clares. When the order was formed, Francis suggested Clare for the Superior. But she refused the position until she turned twenty-one. They devoted themselves to prayer, nursing the sick, and works of mercy for the poor and neglected. adopted a rule of life of extreme austerity (more so than of any other order of women up to that time) and of absolute poverty, both individually and collectively. They had no beds. They slept on twigs with patched hemp for blankets. Wind and rain seeped through cracks in the ceilings. They ate very little, with no meat at all. Whatever they ate was food they begged for. Clare made sure she fasted more than anyone else. Despite this way of life, or perhaps because of it, the followers of Clare were the most beautiful young girls from the best families of Assisi. community of Poor Clares continues to this day, both in the Roman and in the Anglican communions. by James Kiefer FRANCIS OF ASSISI, FRIAR (4 OCT 1226);

Rome, 1243-1254, Pope Innocent IV, conflicts w Fred II, burning Talmuds, then not, Lyon
Rome, 1243-1254, Pope Innocent IV ; ROBERT GROSSETESTE, BISHOP OF LINCOLN (9 OCT 1253) Commemorated November 17;

Rome, 1245-1274, Holy Roman Saint, Thomas Aquias
Belgium, 1245-1274, Holy Roman Saint, Thomas Aquias; LOUIS IX, KING OF FRANCE (25 AUGUST 1270); THOMAS AQUINAS, PRIEST, FRIAR, AND THEOLOGIAN (28 JAN 1274);

Rome, 1250-1273, Holy Roman Interregnum, No Emperor, several weak kings, anti kings, Avignon Papacy
Belgium, 1250-1273, Holy Roman Interregnum, No Emperor; There were many imperial interregna in the history of the Holy Roman Empire, when there was no emperor. Interregna in which there was no emperor-elect (king of the Romans) were rarer. Among the longest periods without an emperor were between 924 and 962 (38 years), between 1245 and 1312 (67 years), and between 1378 and 1433 (55 years). The crisis of government of the Holy Roman Empire and the German kingdom thus lasted throughout the late medieval period, and ended only with the rise of the House of Habsburg on the eve of the German Reformation and the Renaissance. The term Great Interregnum is occasionally used for the period between 1250 (death of Frederick II) and 1273 (accession of Rudolf I). Great Interregnum[edit] Or three leopards sable.svg Staufen party Arms of the Holy Roman Emperor (Hohenstaufen).svg Frederick II (1245-“50) Arms of the Holy Roman Emperor (Hohenstaufen).svg Conrad IV (1245-“54) Royal Coat of Arms of the Crown of Castile (1284-1390).svg Alfonso X of Castile (1257-“75) Arms of Rudolph I of Germany.svg Rudolf of Habsburg (1273-“75) Coat of arms of the House of Welf-Brunswick (Braunschweig).svg Welf party Thuringia armor.svg Henry of Thuringia (1246-“47) Wapen graafschap Holland.svg William II of Holland (1247-“56) Richard of Cornwall Arms.svg Richard of Cornwall (1257-“72) Blason Bo Bohame.svg Ottokar II of Bohemia Result: compromise Unanimous election of Rudolf in 1273 Alfonso X of Castile renounced claim in 1275 After the deposition of Frederick II by Pope Innocent IV in 1245, Henry Raspe, Landgrave of Thuringia was set up as anti-king to Frederick's son Conrad IV (d. 1254). Henry was killed in 1247 and succeeded as anti-king by William of Holland (died 1256). After 1257, the crown was contested between Richard of Cornwall, who was supported by the Guelph party, and Alfonso X of Castile, who was recognized by the Hohenstaufen party but never set foot on German soil. After Richard's death in 1273, Rudolf I of Germany, a minor pro-Staufen count, was elected. He was the first of the Habsburgs to hold a royal title, but he was never crowned emperor. After Rudolf's death in 1291, Adolf and Albert were two further weak kings who were never crowned emperor. Albert was assassinated in 1308. Almost immediately, King Philip IV of France began aggressively seeking support for his brother, Charles of Valois, to be elected the next King of the Romans.[1] Philip thought he had the backing of the French Pope Clement V (established at Avignon in 1309), and that his prospects of bringing the empire into the orbit of the French royal house were good. He lavishly spread French money in the hope of bribing the German electors.[2] Although Charles of Valois had the backing of Henry, Archbishop of Cologne, a French supporter, many were not keen to see an expansion of French power, least of all Clement V.[2][3] The principal rival to Charles appeared to be Rudolf, the Count Palatine. Instead, Henry VII, of the House of Luxembourg, was elected with six votes at Frankfurt on 27 November 1308.[2] Given his background, although he was a vassal of king Philip,[2] Henry was bound by few national ties, an aspect of his suitability as a compromise candidate among the electors,[4] the great territorial magnates who had lived without a crowned emperor for decades, and who were unhappy with both Charles and Rudolf. Henry of Cologne's brother, Baldwin, Archbishop of Trier, won over a number of the electors, including Henry, in exchange for some substantial concessions.[2] Henry VII was crowned king at Aachen on 6 January 1309, and emperor by Pope Clement V on 29 June 1312 in Rome, ending the interregnum. LOUIS IX, KING OF FRANCE (25 AUGUST 1270); 26 Martyrs of the Zographou Monastery on Mt. Athos at the hands of the Crusaders, Commemorated on October 10; THOMAS AQUINAS, PRIEST, FRIAR, AND THEOLOGIAN (28 JAN 1274); Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Rome, 1254-1261, Pope Alexander IV, a count of Sergni, Cardinal Dean, efforts to reunite Church
Rome, 1254-1261, Pope Alexander IV ; Alexander IV (1199 or c. 1185 – 25 May 1261) was head of the Catholic Church and ruler of the Papal States from 12 December 1254 to his death in 1261. 1 Early career 2 Pontificate 3 See also 4 References 5 Bibliography 6 See also career[edit] was born as Rinaldo di Jenne in Jenne[1] (now in the Province of Rome), he was, on his mother's side, a member of the family de' Conti di Segni, the counts of Segni, like Pope Innocent III and Pope Gregory IX. uncle Gregory IX made him cardinal deacon and Protector of the Order of Franciscans in 1227, Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church from 1227 until 1231 and Bishop of Ostia in 1231 (or 1232). became Dean of the College of Cardinals in 1244 (or 1240). On the death of Pope Innocent IV in 1254 he was elected pope at Naples on 12 December 1254. pontificate was signaled by efforts to reunite the Eastern Orthodox churches with the Catholic Church, by the establishment of the Inquisition in France, by favours shown to the mendicant orders, and by an attempt to organize a crusade against the Tatars after the second raid against Poland in 1259. 26 September 1255, Alexander IV canonized Saint Clare of Assisi (Santa Chiara in Italian), founder of the religious order for women called the Poor Clares.[2] On 29 October 1255, in the papal bull Benigna Operatio, Alexander declared "his own knowledge" of the stigmata attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi.[3][4] 1256, Alexander IV condemned theories of Joachim of Fiore,[5] a millenarian prophet who had died in 1202 and whose ideas were taken up by the Fraticelli strand of the Franciscan Order. On the basis on his interpretation of the Book of Revelation, Joachim had postulated that 1260 would see the beginning of a Third Age, an age governed by the Holy Spirit, in which the hierarchy of the Church would become unnecessary - an idea which was obviously unwelcome to the Pope. In the event, 1260 - still in Alexander IV 's lifetime - came and went with no such Third Age materializing, but Joachim's ideas would in later centuries be taken up by the Cult of the Holy Spirit which had a major impact in Portugal and its colonies. pontiff also, on 27 September 1258, declared in the bull Quod super nonnullis that "divination or sorcery" was not to be investigated by Inquisitors of the Church, who were tasked with investigating heresy. Crimes involving magic should be left to local authorities unless they had "knowledge of manifest heresy to be involved", wherein "manifest heresy" included "praying at the altars of idols, to offer sacrifices, to consult demons, [or] to elicit responses from them". At this period in Church history, the use of magic was not seen as inherently heretical, but rather rooted in superstition or erroneous beliefs. [6][7][8] 14 May 1254,[9] shortly before his death, Innocent IV had granted Sicily, a papal fiefdom, to Edmund, second son of King Henry III of England. Alexander confirmed the grant on 9 April 1255,[10] in return for 2000 ounces of gold per annum, the service of 300 knights for three months when required, and 135,541 marks to reimburse the pope for the money he had expended attempting to oust Manfred from Sicily.[11] Henry's unsuccessful attempts to persuade his subjects to pay the taxes required to meet Alexander's demands were one of the factors in the conflict between the king and parliament which culminated in the Second Barons' War.[12] On 12 April 1261, shortly before his death, Alexander issued a papal bull for King Henry that absolved him and the magnates of his realm from the oaths taken in the Provisions of Oxford, which was instrumental in the War.[13] IV succeeded Innocent IV as guardian of Conradin, the last of the Hohenstaufens, promising him protection; but in less than three weeks he conspired against him and bitterly opposed Conradin's uncle Manfred.[14] Alexander IV threatened excommunication and interdict against the party of Manfred without effect. Nor could he enlist the kings of England and Norway in a crusade against the Hohenstaufens. Rome itself became too Ghibelline for the Pope, who withdrew to Viterbo, where he died in 1261. He was buried in Viterbo Cathedral, but his tomb was destroyed during sixteenth-century renovations. Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Rome, 1261-1265, Pope Urban IV, not a Cardinal,Tennhauser Legend, tried to restore Latin Empire
Rome, 1261-1265, Pope Urban IV; Urban IV (Latin: Urbanus IV; c. 1195 – 2 October 1264), born Jacques Pantaléon,[1] was the head of the Catholic Church and ruler of the Papal States from 29 August 1261 to his death. was not a cardinal; only a few popes since his time have not been cardinals, including Gregory X, Urban V and Urban VI. Contents 1 Early career 2 Pontificate 3 Legend of Tannhäuser 4 See also 5 Notes 6 References 7 External links Early career[edit] Pantaléon was the son of a cobbler of Troyes, France.[1] He studied theology and common law in Paris and was appointed a canon of Laon and later Archdeacon of Liège. At the First Council of Lyon (1245) he attracted the attention of Pope Innocent IV, who sent him on two missions in Germany.[1] One of the missions was to negotiate the Treaty of Christburg between the pagan Prussians and the Teutonic Knights. He became Bishop of Verdun in 1253. In 1255, Pope Alexander IV made him Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem.[1] Pantaléon had returned from Jerusalem, which was in dire straits,[1] and was at Viterbo seeking help for the oppressed Christians in the East when Alexander IV died. After a three-month vacancy, Pantaléon was chosen by the eight cardinals of the Sacred College to succeed him in a papal election that concluded on 29 August 1261. He chose the regnal name of Urban IV. Pontificate[edit] fortnight before Urban's election, the Latin Empire of Constantinople, founded during the ill-fated Fourth Crusade against the Byzantines, fell to the Byzantines led by Emperor Michael VIII Palaiologos. IV endeavoured without success to stir up a crusade to restore the Latin Empire.[citation needed] initiated construction of the Basilica of St. Urbain, Troyes, in 1262.[2] festival of Corpus Christi ("the Body of Christ") was instituted by Urban on 11 August, 1264, with the publication of the papal bull Transiturus.[3][4] asked Thomas Aquinas, the Dominican theologian, to write the texts for the Mass and Office of the feast.[5] This included such famous hymns as the Pange lingua, Tantum ergo, and Panis angelicus. became involved in the affairs of Denmark. Jakob Erlandsen, Archbishop of Lund, wanted to make the Danish Church independent of the Royal power – which put him in direct confrontation with the Dowager Queen Margaret Sambiria, acting as regent for her son, King Eric V of Denmark. Queen imprisoned the Archbishop, who responded by issuing an interdict. Both sides tried to get the Pope's support. The Pope agreed to several items that the Queen wanted – especially, he issued a dispensation to alter the terms of the Danish succession that would permit women to inherit the Danish throne. the main issues remained unsolved by Urban's death, with the case continuing at the papal court in Rome and the exiled Archbishop Erlandsen coming to Italy to pursue it in person. fact, the convoluted affairs of distant Denmark were of only a minor concern to the Pope. It was Italy which commanded Urban's near full attention: the long confrontation with the late Hohenstaufen German Emperor Frederick II had not been pressed during the mild pontificate of Alexander IV, during which it devolved into inter-urban struggles between nominally pro-Imperial Ghibellines and even more nominally pro-papal Guelf factions. Frederick II's heir Manfred was immersed in these struggles. military captain was the condottiere Azzo d'Este, nominally at the head of a loose league of cities that included Mantua and Ferrara. Any Hohenstaufen in Sicily was bound to have claims over the cities of Lombardy, and as a check to Manfred, Urban introduced Charles of Anjou into the equation to place the crown of the Kingdom of Sicily in the hands of a monarch amenable to papal control. Charles was Count of Provence by right of his wife, maintaining a rich base for projecting what would be an expensive Italian war. two years, Urban negotiated with Manfred regarding whether Manfred would aid the Latins in regaining Constantinople in return for papal confirmation of the Hohenstaufen rights in the realm. Meanwhile, the papal pact solidified with Charles a promise of papal ships and men, produced by a crusading tithe, and Charles's promise not to lay claims on Imperial lands in northern Italy, nor in the Papal States. Charles promised to restore the annual census or feudal tribute due the Pope as overlord, some 10,000 ounces of gold being agreed upon, while the Pope would work to block Conradin from election as King of the Germans. the arrival in Italy of his candidate Charles, Urban IV died at Perugia on 2 October 1264. His successor was Pope Clement IV, who immediately took up the papal side of the arrangement. is a story that the pope's death was related to Great Comet of 1264 which he fell sick at sometime near the arrival of the comet and then he died when the comet disappeared. of Tannhäuser[edit] a prominent German Minnesanger and poet, was a contemporary of Urban—the pope died in 1264, and the Minnesanger died shortly after 1265. Two centuries later, the pope became a major character in a legend which grew up about the Minnesanger, which is first attested in 1430 and propagated in ballads from 1450.[6] legendary account makes Tannhäuser a knight and poet who found the Venusberg, the subterranean home of Venus, and spent a year there worshipping the goddess. After leaving the Venusberg, Tannhauser is filled with remorse and travels to Rome to ask Pope Urban IV if it is possible to be absolved of his sins. Urban replies that forgiveness is as impossible as it would be for his papal staff to send forth green leaves. Three days after Tannhauser's departure Urban's staff begins to grow new leaves; messengers are sent to retrieve the knight, but he has already returned to Venusberg, never to be seen again; while the Pope, for refusing a penitent, is damned eternally.[7] There is, however, no historical evidence for the events in the legend. Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Rome, 1265-1271, Pope Clement IV, patron of Thoman Aquinas and Roger Bacon(Optics and scientific method)
Rome, 1265-1271, Pope Clement IV; Clement IV (c. 23 November 1190 - 29 November 1268), also known as Guy the Fat, was bishop of Le Puy (1257–1260), archbishop of Narbonne (1259–1261), cardinal of Sabina (1261–1265), and bishop of Rome from 5 February 1265 until his death. election as pope occurred at a conclave held at Perugia that lasted four months while cardinals argued over whether to call in Charles I of Anjou, the youngest brother of Louis IX of France, to carry on the papal war against the Hohenstaufens. Clement was a patron of Thomas Aquinas and of Roger Bacon, encouraging Bacon in the writing of his Opus Majus, which included important treatises on optics and the scientific method. Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Rome, 1271-1276, Pope Gregory X, a Franciscan, long 3 yr election, new conclave regs, for cardinals, against Italians
Rome, 1271-1276, Pope Gregory X; Gregory X (c. 1210 - 10 January 1276), born Teobaldo Visconti, was Bishop of Rome and hence head of the Catholic Church and ruler of the Papal States from 1 September 1271 to his death and was a member of the Secular Franciscan Order. He was elected at the conclusion of a papal election that ran from 1268 to 1271, the longest papal election in the history of the Catholic Church. convened the Second Council of Lyon and also made new regulations in regards to the papal conclave. Gregory was beatified by Pope Clement XI in 1713 after the confirmation of his cultus. to Gregory's regulations on the conduct of the conclave, though briefly annulled by Adrian V and John XXI, they remained in force until the 20th century. 1798 Pope Pius VI, in consideration of the occupation of Rome by the French, dispensed the Cardinals from many of the conclave regulations, including those of Gregory X,[1] while in 1878 Pope Pius IX, fearing that the Italians might invade the Vatican on his death and try to prevent or dominate a conclave, gave Cardinals great latitude in the regulating of the next conclave.[2] A radical revision was undertaken by Paul VI. Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Rome, 1276-1276, Pope Innocent V, preacher, UofParis chair, cardinal, brief tenure, facilitated Genoa Sicily peace
Rome, 1276-1276, Pope Innocent V; Innocent V (c. 1225 - 22 June 1276), born Pierre de Tarentaise, was head of the Catholic Church and ruler of the Papal States from 21 January to 22 June 1276. member of the Order of Preachers, he acquired a reputation as an effective preacher. held one of the two "Dominican Chairs" at the university of Paris, and was instrumental in helping with drawing up the "program of studies" for the Order. 1269, Peter of Tarentaise was Provincial of the French Province of Dominicans. He was a close collaborator of Pope Gregory X, who named him Bishop of Ostia and raised him to cardinal in 1273. the death of Gregory in 1276, Peter was elected pope, taking the name Innocent V. He died about five months later, but during his brief tenure facilitated a peace between Genoa and King Charles I of Sicily. Peter of Tarentaise was beatified in 1898 by Pope Leo XIII. Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Rome, 1276-1276, Pope Adrian V, one month tenure, envoy to England for baron king disputes, died naturally
Rome, 1276-1276, Pope Adrian V; Adrian V (c. 1210/1220 - 18 August 1276), born Ottobuono de' Fieschi, was the head of the Catholic Church from 11 July 1276 to his death on 18 August 1276. was an envoy of Pope Clement IV sent to England in May 1265 who successfully completed his task of resolving disputes between King Henry III of England and his barons. Pope Adrian V was assigned the papal sit following the death of his uncle, Pope Innocent V, but died of natural illness before being ordained to the priesthood. the Divine Comedy, Dante meets Adrian V in the fifth terrace of Purgatorio where Adrian V cleanses for the vice of avarice. Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Rome, 1276-1277, Pope John XXI, Portuguese pope, physician, short tenure
Rome, 1276-1277, Pope John XXI; John XXI (c. 1215 - 20 May 1277), born Peter Juliani, was head of the Catholic Church and ruler of the Papal States from 8 September 1276 to his death. from Damasus I (from Roman Lusitania), he has been the only Portuguese pope.[1] He is sometimes identified with the logician and herbalist Peter of Spain, which would make him the only pope to have been a physician.[1] Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Rome, 1277-1281, Pope Nicholas III, roman nobleman, cardinal, Franciscan protector
Rome, 1277-1281, Pope Nicholas III; Nicholas III (c. 1225 - 22 August 1280), born Giovanni Gaetano Orsini,[1] was head of the Catholic Church and ruler of the Papal States from 25 November 1277 to his death. was a Roman nobleman who had served under eight popes, been made Cardinal-Deacon of St. Nicola in Carcere Tulliano by Pope Innocent IV (1243–54), protector of the Franciscans by Pope Alexander IV (1254–61), inquisitor-general by Pope Urban IV (1261–64), and succeeded Pope John XXI (1276–77) after a six-month vacancy in the Holy See resolved in the papal election of 1277,[2] largely through family influence. Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Rome, 1281-1285, Pope Martin IV, last french pope in Rome, stalemate, mob stole 2 cardinals, then Martin elected
Rome, 1281-1285, Pope Martin IV ; Martin IV (c. 1210/1220 - 6 March 1285), born Simon de Brion, was the head of the Catholic Church and ruler of the Papal States from 22 February 1281[1] to his death. was the last French pope to have held court in Rome; all subsequent French popes held court in Avignon (the Avignon Papacy). 1 Early life 2 Cardinal Simon de Brion 3 Three Conclaves of 1276 4 Election of Nicholas III 5 Conclave of 1280–1281 6 Pope Martin IV 7 Death 8 See also 9 Notes 10 Bibliography life[edit] de Brion, son of Jean, sieur de Brion, was born at the château of Meinpincien,[2] Île-de-France, France, in the decade following 1210. had a brother named Gilo, who was a knight in diocese of Sens.[3] The seigneurial family of Brion, who took their name from Brion near Joigny, flourished in the Brie français.[4] spent time at the University of Paris,[5] and is said to have then studied law at Padua and Bologna. -------------------------Through papal favour he received a canonry at Saint-Quentin in 1238 and spent the period 1248-1259 as a canon of the cathedral chapter in Rouen, finally as archdeacon.[6] At the same time he was appointed treasurer of the church of St. Martin in Tours by King Louis IX of France,[7] an office he held until he was elected pope in 1281. 1255–1259, King Louis IX founded the French royal convent at Longchamps for the Poor Clares (Minoresses); the King's sister Isabelle was the patroness (though she never entered the cloister herself),[8] and Simon de Brion was the Guardian.[9] In 1259, he was appointed to the council of the king, who made him keeper of the great seal, chancellor of France, one of the great officers in the household of the king. He became Chancellor of Louis IX of France (1260–1261).[10] Simon de Brion[edit] 17 December 1261,[11] the new French Pope, Urban IV (Jacques Pantaléon), made Chancellor de Brion cardinal-priest, with the titulus of the church of St. Cecilia. would have entailed Simon de Brion's residence in Rome, but the affairs of Pope Urban required that he send a representative of the highest level to France to deal personally with King Louis IX and his brother Charles of Anjou and Provence. previous experience at the French Court made him the perfect choice as Legate. Simon therefore returned to France as Papal Legate for Urban IV and also for his successor Pope Clement IV in 1264–1268.[12] 1264, on the eve of S. Bartholomew, he held a general synod at Paris.[13] He was appointed again, by Pope Gregory X on 1 August 1274, and he served continuously in France until 1279. first task was to raise support and money for a Crusade against Manfred, the Hohenstaufen candidate for the Imperial Crown.[14] immediately became deeply involved in the negotiations for papal support for the assumption of the crown of Sicily by Charles of Anjou. As Legate he presided over several synods on reform, and on the raising of funds for Pope Gregory's crusade. The most important of these was held at Bourges on 13 September 1276.[15] Signatures on papal bulls indicate that Cardinal Simon was back in Viterbo by 11 January 1268. In a letter of 14 or 15 January 1268,[16] Pope Clement IV wrote to Cardinal Simon de Brion that he had heard that the Cardinal had fallen from his horse and in the accident had injured his leg. also wrote that Conradin and Ludwig Duke of Bavaria were at Verona, and were pressing for Pavia. A general war was likely. Cardinal Simon's injury must not have been severe, since, on 3 April 1268, the Pope wrote to him with the request (not an order) that he undertake a legation to Germany (Teutonia), if he wished and if it were possible. The Pope needed a prudent and faithful man, who had clean hands and eyes wide open, who could stay centered on the business and let himself stray neither right nor left, who could preserve the Empire, keep the Apostolic See free from scandal, and the neighboring kingdoms free from danger. In vetting names, Simon seemed the most suitable.[17] Clement IV (Guy Foulques) fell ill on the Feast of S. Cecilia (22 November), and died at Viterbo on 29 November 1268. He had governed the Church for three years, nine months, and twenty-four days. The See of Peter was vacant for two years and nine months. Cardinal Simon de Brion came from France to attend the Conclave, which took place in the Episcopal Palace, next to the Cathedral of S. Lorenzo in Viterbo.[18] He was the senior cardinal-priest. Around Pentecost of 1270 (1 June), Cardinal Simon and Cardinal Riccardo Annibaldi of S. Angelo had to leave the Conclave and retire to their residences for the sake of their health. On 22 August 1270, he was one of the signatories to the letter of protest sent by the Cardinals to Raynerius Gatti, Captain of the City of Viterbo, to cease and desist from their harassment of the Cardinals and their suites.[19] He was one of the cardinals who signed the electoral compact on September, 1270, to leave the election of a new pope to a committee of six, promising to accept the committee's decision.[20] He was not, however, one of the six cardinals elected to the Compromise Committee that selected Archdeacon Teobaldo Visconti as pope on 1 September 1270. newly elected pope was not present in Viterbo, but was serving on Crusade with King Edward I of England. He arrived in Italy on 1 January 1271, and travelled to Viterbo, where he arrived early in February. He accepted the election, and chose to be called Gregory X. He and the Curia travelled to Rome, arriving on 13 March. On 19 March he was ordained a priest, and on 27 March he was consecrated bishop, and then crowned by Cardinal Giovanni Gaetano Orsini. Conclaves of 1276[edit] Simon de Brion's appointment as Legate in France, made by Pope Gregory on 1 August 1274[21] continued throughout 1276. He was unable to be present for the Conclave of 1 January 1276,[22] which elected Peter of Tarantaise as Pope Innocent V. Nor was he present for the Conclave of 2–11 July,[23] which elected Ottobono Fieschi as Pope Adrian V. Nor was he present at the September Conclave, which, on 8 September, elected Peter Julian as Pope John XXI.[24] In each case the election was completed before he could have been notified, and before he could have travelled from France to central Italy. This was one of the defects of Gregory X's regulations on the holding of a Conclave. of Nicholas III[edit] John XXI was in contact with Cardinal Simon. He had written to him on 3 March 1277, ordering him to speak with the king of France about matters connected with Alfonso of Castile.[25] But the Pope died rather suddenly, after a reign of only eight months. He was still living in the Episcopal Palace in Viterbo, where Adrian V (Fieschi) had died and where he had been elected. The palace was still under construction, when suddenly the roof of one of the chambers collapsed. The Pope was in the room at the time, and he was severely injured. He died three (or six) days later, on 20 May 1277. Cardinal Simon de Brion was still in France when the Conclave began, but he was unable to predict that the Conclave would last until 25 November, and therefore he was not present. were only seven cardinals in Viterbo, since neither Innocent V, nor Adrian V, nor John XXI had named any new cardinals.[26] They argued on and on, trying to choose a pope.[27] There were three cardinals who favored the Angevin Charles I and his designs. There were three who opposed him. Cardinal Bertrand de Saint Martin, Bishop of Sabina, the only surviving Cardinal Bishop, held a middle course, or perhaps one should say he saw too clearly to be willing to commit to either party.[28] Finally, they chose Cardinal Giovanni Gaetani (Orsini), a native Roman, the Deacon of S. Nicola in Carcere and senior Deacon, and Archpriest of the Vatican Basilica. Nicholas III immediately set out for Rome, where he was ordained a priest on 18 December 1277, and consecrated Bishop of Rome on 19 December. He was crowned on the Feast of S. Stephen, 26 December 1277 at the Vatican Basilica. person, at least, was deeply unhappy about the outcome of this Conclave, King Charles I of Sicily.[29] The new Orsini pope was an enemy of the Angevins, and Charles knew he would have nothing but trouble from Nicholas III. week after the election of Nicholas III, the new pope wrote to Simon, who was still Legate in France, urging him to effect a reconciliation between the King of France, Philip III, and the King of Leon and Castile, Alfonso the Wise.[30] the King of Aragon, Peter III (who was married to Constance of Sicily) was involved in the struggle over Sicily with Charles I, this peace initiative threatened King Charles directly. 22 April 1279, Pope Nicholas wrote to Cardinal Simon about King Philip. The Pope had issued a prohibition on tournaments, and King Philip and his barons were flagrantly violating the prohibition. Cardinal Simon was ordered to excommunicate the King of France.[31] ensure that his victory against the Angevins would stand, Nicholas III decided to go forward with a much needed addition to the Sacred College of Cardinals. At his first opportunity, on 12 March 1278, he created ten cardinals. Five cardinal bishops were named: Latino Frangipani Malabranca, OP, of Rome (Nicholas III's nephew by his sister Mabilia); Erhard de Lessines (Lesigny), of Langres, son of Guillaume, Marshal of Champagne; Bentivenga de Bentivengis, O.Min., of Aquasparta; Robert Kilwardby, OP, Archbishop of Canterbury; and Ordoño (Ordeonio) Ãlvarez, Bishop of Braga. Two cardinal-priests were named: Gerardo Bianchi of Parma, and Girolamo Masci d' Ascoli, O.Min., of Picenum. He also appointed three cardinal-deacons: Giordano Orsini, brother of Pope Nicholas III, of Rome; Giacomo Colonna of Rome; and Gerardo Cupalates, O.Min., of Piacenza.[32] The effect of these creations was to seriously dilute the Angevin influence in the Sacred College, and to considerably increase the monastic element, especially the Franciscan one. It needs to be recalled that Nicholas III was the Governor, Corrector, and Protector of the Franciscans. The Roman influence was also strengthened. The inevitable consequence would be that the next pope too would not be a creature of Charles I of Sicily. though, by 19 October 1279, Pope Nicholas recalled Cardinal Simon de Brion.[33] of 1280–1281[edit] article: Papal election, 1280–81 Cathedral and Episcopal Palace, Viterbo Nicholas III (Giovanni Caetano Orsini) died at Castro Soriano in the diocese of Viterbo on 22 August 1280 of an apoplectic stroke which had left him without speech.[34] story was circulated nonetheless that he had been poisoned. At the time of his death on 22 August 1280, there were thirteen cardinals.[35] This would be the fifth Conclave in five years. Charles had taken the trouble to make friends with the Annibaldi faction, led by Riccardo Annibaldi, who were enemies of the Orsini and who had been driven out of Rome in street fighting following the death of Nicholas III.[36] had taken refuge in Viterbo, and now, by coincidence, they were present and entrenched and ready to make trouble on behalf of Charles I and themselves. Annibaldi led a coup in Viterbo, which drove out the governor of the city, Orso Orsini, the dead pope's nephew. The Angevins thereupon dominated the Conclave, in which the regulations of Gregory X were still in abayence. But the Conclave still required a two-thirds vote to elect a pope, in according with the Constitution of Alexander III, which was still in effect. Neither the Orsini faction nor the French faction had sufficient votes to elect, but each had sufficient votes to block an election. The stalemate continued throughout the winter. On 2 February 1280, the Feast of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a mob broke into the Episcopal palace, where the Conclave was in progress, and abducted two of the cardinals, Matteo Rosso Orsini and Giordano Orsini (the late pope's brother).[37] Without their opposition, Simon de Brion was unanimously elected to the papacy on 22 February 1281, taking the name Martin IV,[38] the third time in fifteen years Viterbo had hosted a papal conclave. And for the third time there were disorders which had threatened the validity of the election and the lives of the participants. was placed under the ban of excommunication and of the interdict for the imprisonment of the cardinals. It was not possible, therefore, for the Coronation to take place in Viterbo. Rome was not at all inclined to accept a hated Frenchman as Pope. IV sent two cardinals, Latino Orsini and Goffredo da Alatri, to Rome with a letter, proposing that he be crowned in Rome on Quadragesima Sunday.[39] The Romans positively refused to allow the Coronation to take place in Rome. But they did hold a public meeting, and elected Giovanni Caetani Orsini in his purely personal capacity as their Senator, and authorized him to appoint anyone he chose as his substitute. Martin IV was crowned instead at Orvieto on 23 March 1281.[40] He never visited Rome during his Pontificate. Instead he immediately sent his Vicar, Peter of Lavagna, to Rome. But on 30 April 1281, Pope Martin handed the senatorial power over to King Charles for the rest of his reign.[41] Martin IV[edit] bulla of Martin IV on Charles of Anjou in nearly everything, the new Pope quickly appointed him to the position of Senator of Rome.[42] the insistence of Charles, Martin IV excommunicated the Eastern Roman Emperor Michael VIII Palaeologus, who stood in the way of Charles's plans to restore the Latin Empire of the East that had been established in the aftermath of the Fourth Crusade. thus broke the tenuous union which had been reached between the Greek and the Latin Churches at the Second Council of Lyons in 1274 and further compromise was rendered impossible. 1282, Charles lost control of the island of Sicily in the violent massacre known as the Sicilian Vespers.[43] Sicilians had elected Peter III of Aragon as their king and sought papal confirmation, in vain, though they were willing to reconfirm Sicily as a vassal state of the papacy. IV used all the spiritual and material resources at his command against the Aragonese in order to preserve Sicily for the House of Anjou. ---------------------------He excommunicated Peter III, declared his kingdom of Aragon forfeit, and ordered a crusade against him,[44] but it was all in vain. to the hostility of Raynerius, the Captain of Orvieto, in the repeated struggles between Guelphs and Ghibbelines, Pope Martin was unable to remain at Orvieto.[45] He removed himself and the Papal Curia from Orvieto on 26 June 1284, and arrived in Perugia on 4 October.[46] He died at Perugia on 28 March 1285. cathedral and town of Orvieto the example of Nicholas III, Pope Martin IV created new cardinals at his first opportunity, on the Quattuor Tempora of Lent, 12 April 1281. His new cardinals included: Bernardus de Languissello of Nîmes, the Archbishop of Arles since 1273; Hugh of Evesham, Canon of York and Archdeacon of Worcester; Gervasius de Glincamp of Mans, Archdeacon of Paris; Comes Giusianus, Conte de Casate, of Milan, Auditor of the Rota; Gaufridus (Geoffroy) de Barro or Barbeau, of Burgundy, Dean of the Cathedral of Paris; Johannes Chauleti (Cholet), of the village of Nointre in the diocese of Beauvais, a personal friend of Philip III, Philip IV, and Pope Martin IV; and Benedetto Gaetano of Anagni, who was elected Pope Boniface VIII on 24 December 1295. French influence is strongly in evidence, and only Cardinal Gaetano came from the neighborhood of Rome.[citation needed] Martin IV celebrated a solemn Mass in the Cathedral at Perugia on Easter Sunday, 25 March 1285, which was also the Feast of the Annunciation. After his usual lunch with his chaplains he was stricken with a sudden illness. On the following Wednesday, 28 March, around the fifth hour of the night, he died. He was buried in the Cathedral of San Lorenzo in Perugia. He had reigned four years and one month. His successor was elected four days later, on 2 April. the Divine Comedy, Dante sees Martin IV in Purgatory, where the reader is reminded of the former pontiff's fondness for Lake Bolsena eels and Vernaccia wine. 26 Martyrs of the Zographou Monastery on Mount Athos at the hands of the Crusaders, Commemorated on October 10; Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Rome, 1285-1288, Pope Honorius IV
Rome, 1285-1288, Pope Honorius IV; Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Rome, 1288-1294, Pope Nicholas IV
Rome, 1288-1294, Pope Nicholas IV; Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Rome, 1294-1294, Pope Celestine V
Rome, 1294-1294, Pope Celestine V; Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Rome, 1294-1303, Pope Boniface VIII
Rome, 1294-1303, Pope Boniface VIII; Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Rome, 1303-1305, Pope Benedict XI
Rome, 1303-1305, Pope Benedict XI; Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Rome, 1305-1316, Pope Clement V
Rome, 1305-1316, Pope Clement V; Martyrs killed by the Latins at the Iveron Monastery on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on May 13;

Rome, 1316-1334, Pope Benedict XII
Rome, 1316-1334, Pope Benedict XII;

Rome, 1334-1342, Pope Benedict XII
Rome, 1334-1342, Pope Benedict XII;

Rome, 1342-1352, Pope Clement VI
Rome, 1342-1352, Pope Clement VI ; CATHERINE OF SIENA, REFORMER AND SPIRITUAL TEACHER (29 APR 1380);

Rome, 1367-1380, CATHERINE OF SIENA, REFORMER AND SPIRITUAL TEACHER, vision of Christ at 6, leprosy cancer nurse, Avigon Papacy
Rome, 1367-1380, SCATHERINE OF SIENA, (a Tuscan hill town, irrigation), REFORMER AND SPIRITUAL TEACHER, vision of Christ at 6, leprosy cancer nurse, Avigon Papacy, persuaded Gregory XI back to R, ambassador to Florence, retired to Sienna, Dialog book visions advice, arrogant Urban VI, new Clement VII at Avigon, papal Schism till 1417; Siena; CATHERINE OF SIENA, REFORMER AND SPIRITUAL TEACHER (29 APR 1380); Benincasa, born in 1347, was the youngest (one of my sources says the 23rd) of twenty-five children of a wealthy dyer of Sienna (or Siena). the age of six, she had a vision of Christ in glory, surrounded by His saints. that time on, she spent most of her time in prayer and meditation, over the opposition of her parents, who wanted her to be more like the average girl of her social class. they gave in, and at the age of sixteen she joined the Third Order of St. Dominic (First Order = friars, Second Order = nuns, Third Order = laypersons), where she became a nurse, caring for patients with leprosy and advanced cancer whom other nurses disliked to treat. began to acquire a reputation as a person of insight and sound judgement, and many persons from all walks of life sought her spiritual advice, both in person and by letter. have a book containing about four hundred letters from her to bishops, kings, scholars, merchants, and obscure peasants.) persuaded many priests who were living iacn luxury to give away their goods and to live simply. her day, the popes, officially Bishops of Rome, had been living for about seventy years, not at Rome but at Avignon in France, where they were under the political control of the King of France Avignon Papacy, sometimes called the Babylonian Captivity of the Papacy, began when Philip the Fair, King of France, captured Rome and the Pope in 1303). visited Avignon in 1376 and told Pope Gregory XI that he had no business to live away from Rome. He heeded her advice, and moved to Rome. then acted as his ambassador to Florence, and was able to reconcile a quarrel between the Pope and the leaders of that city. She then retired to Sienna, where she wrote a book called the Dialog, an account of her visions and other spiritual experiences, with advice on cultivating a life of prayer. Gregory's death in 1378, the Cardinals, mostly French, elected an Italian Pope, Urban VI, who on attaining office turned out to be arrogant and abrasive and tyrannical, and perhaps to have other faults as well. Cardinals met again elsewhere, declared that the first election had been under duress from the Roman mob and therefore invalid, and elected a new Pope, Clement VII, who established his residence at Avignon. worked tirelessly, both to persuade Urban to mend his ways letters to him are respectful but severe and uncompromising -- as one historian has said, she perfected the art of kissing the Pope's feet while simultaneously twisting his arm), to persuade others that the peace and unity of the Church required the recognition of Urban as lawful Pope. Despite her efforts, the Papal Schism continued until 1417. greatly weakened the prestige of the Bishops of Rome, and thus helped to pave the way for the Protestant Reformation a century later. is known (1) as a mystic, a contemplative who devoted herself to prayer, (2) as a humanitarian, a nurse who undertook to alleviate the suffering of the poor and the sick; (3) as an activist, a renewer of Church and society, who took a strong stand on the issues affecting society in her day, and who never hesitated (in the old Quaker phrase) "to speak truth to power"; (4) as an adviser and counselor, with a wide range of interests, who always made time for troubled and uncertain persons who told her their problems -- large and trivial, religious and secular. by James Kiefer

Rome, 1370-1378, Roman Pope, Gregory XI, the last of the Avignon Popes
Pope, 1370-1378, Gregory XI, the last of the Avignon Popes; JOHN WYCLIF, TRANSLATOR AND CONTROVERSIALIST, 30 OCT. 1384; CATHERINE OF SIENA, REFORMER AND SPIRITUAL TEACHER (29 APR 1380) ; JAN HUS, PRIEST and MARTYR, 6 July 1415;

Rome, 1378-1389, Roman Pope, Pope Urban VI
Roman Pope, 1378-1389, Pope Urban VI; CATHERINE OF SIENA, REFORMER AND SPIRITUAL TEACHER (29 APR 1380) ;

Rome, 1389-1404, Pope Boniface IX
Roman Pope, 1389-1404, Pope Boniface IX; JAN HUS, PRIEST and MARTYR, 6 July 1415;

Roman Pope, 1404-1406, Pope Innocent VII
Roman Pope, 1404-1406, Pope Innocent VII; JAN HUS, PRIEST and MARTYR, 6 July 1415;

Roman Pope, 1406-1415, Pope Gregory XII
Roman Pope, 1406-1415, Pope Gregory XII ; JAN HUS, PRIEST and MARTYR, 6 July 1415;

Roman Catholic Council, 1431-1444, Council of Florence
Roman Catholic Council, 1431-1444, Council of Florence; St Mark the Archbishop of Ephesus, Commemorated on January 19;

Rome, 1494-1559, Italian Wars
Rome, 1494-1559, Italian Wars;

Rome, 1519-1556, Charles V from Belgium, Holy Roman Emperor
Roman Emperor, 1519-1556, Charles V from Belgium, Holy Roman Emperor; St Macarius the Roman, Commemorated on August 15; St Zosimas II of Kumurdo, Commemorated on May 1;

Rome, 1534-1549, Pope, Paul III, Jesuits
Pope, 1534-1549, Paul III ; IGNATIUS LOYOLA, MYSTIC, EDUCATOR, PREACHER, AND FOUNDER OF THE JESUITS (31 JULY 1556) ; 1537 the Jesuits (now ten in number) gathered in Venice and (having found that renewed war in Palestine made journeying there impossible) offered their services to Pope Paul III. Ignatius and some of the others were ordained to the priesthood, and they were assigned various tasks. 1540 they became a formal organization, with the usual monastic vows, plus a fourth vow of personal obedience to the Pope. In order to have more time for preaching and study the order abolished the practice (followed by almost all previous orders) of reciting the monastic Hours in community. Its chief goals were: (a) renewal of the Roman Catholic Church through extensive education and the encouragement of frequent use of the sacraments, (b) extensive missionary work in non-Christian countries, and (c) a suitable response to the growing challenge of Protestantism. St Zosimas II of Kumurdo, Commemorated on May 1; St Macarius the Roman, Commemorated on August 15;

Rome, 1559-1713, Spanish Domination of Italy
Rome, 1559-1713, Spanish Domination of Italy;

Rome, 1592-1605, Pope, Clement VIII
Pope, 1592-1605, Clement VIII; RICHARD HOOKER, PRIEST AND THEOLOGIAN (3 NOV 1600);

Rome, 1713-1796, Austrian Domination of Italy
Rome, 1713-1796, Austrian Domination of Italy;

Rome, 1796-1814, French Domination of Italy
Rome, 1796-1814, French Domination of Italy;

Rome, 1805-1814, Kingdom of Italy (Napoleonic)
Rome, 1805-1814, Kingdom of Italy (Napoleonic);

Rome, 1835-1888, JOHN BOSCO, Turin, Salesian Society, work w disadvantaged youth, priest, educator, writer
Northern Italy, 1835-1888, JOHN BOSCO, Turin (Po River 1), the Salesian Society, work w disadvantaged youth, priest, educator, writer; Turin (Po River 1); JOHN BOSCO, Commemorated January 31 ; Bosco (16 August 1815 — 31 January 1888), born Giovanni Melchiorre Bosco, also called Don Bosco, was an Italian Catholic priest and educator, who put into practice the dogma of his religion, employing teaching methods based on love rather than punishment. He placed his works under the protection of Francis de Sales, thus his followers styled themselves the Salesian Society. Bosco succeeded in establishing a network of centers to carry on his work. In recognition of his work with disadvantaged youth, he was canonized by Pope Pius XI in 1934. more from Wikipedia Melchior Bosco (16 August 1815,- 1 January 1888),[5][6][7] popularly known as Don Bosco,[8] was an Italian Roman Catholic priest, educator, and writer of the 19th century. While working in Turin, where the population suffered many of the ill-effects of industrialization and urbanization, he dedicated his life to the betterment and education of street children, juvenile delinquents, and other disadvantaged youth. He developed teaching methods based on love rather than punishment, a method that became known as the Salesian Preventive System.[9] follower of the spirituality and philosophy of Francis de Sales, Bosco was an ardent devotee of Mary, mother of Jesus, under the title Mary Help of Christians. He later dedicated his works to de Sales when he founded the Salesians of Don Bosco, based in Turin.[10] Together with Maria Domenica Mazzarello, he founded the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, now commonly known as the Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco, a religious congregation of nuns dedicated to the care and education of poor girls. He taught Dominic Savio, of whom he wrote a biography that helped the young boy be canonized. is one of the pioneers of Mutual Aid Societies that were initiated as collaborative financial support to young migrant Catholic Workers in the city of Turin. In 1850 he drew up regulations to assist apprentices and their companions when any of them was involuntary without work or fell ill.[11] 18 April 1869, one year after the construction of the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Turin, Don Bosco established the Association of Mary Help of Christians (ADMA) connecting it with commitments easily fulfilled by most common people, to the spirituality and the mission of the Salesian Congregation (CG 24 SDB, 1996, NR. 80). The ADMA was founded to promote the veneration of the Most Holy Sacrament and Mary Help of Christians (Don Bosco, Association of the Devotees of Mary Help of Christians, San Benigno Canavese, 1890, page 33).[12] 1875, he began to publish the Salesian Bulletin.[13][14] The Bulletin has remained in continuous publication, and is currently published in 50 different editions and 30 languages.[13] In 1876, Bosco founded a movement of laity, the Association of Salesian Cooperators, with the same educational mission to the poor.[15] established a network of organizations and centres to carry on his work. Following his beatification in 1929, he was canonized as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church by Pope Pius XI in 1934. the archives of the Salesian Congregation is a contract of apprenticeship, dated November 1851; another one on stamped paper costing 40 cents, dated 8 February 1852; and others have later dates. They are among the first contracts of apprenticeship to be found in Turin. All of them are signed by the employer, the apprentice, and Don Bosco. In those contracts, Don Bosco touched on many sensitive issues. Some employers customarily made servants and scullery boys of the apprentices. Don Bosco obliged them to agree to employ the boys only in their acknowledged trade. Employers used to beat the boys. Don Bosco required them to agree that corrections be made only verbally. He cared for their health and demanded that they be given rest on feast days and an annual holiday. Despite all the efforts and contracts, however, the situation of the apprentices of the time remained difficult.[30] influential friend was Piedmontese Justice Minister Urbano Rattazzi. He was anticlerical in his politics but saw some value in Bosco's work.[32][33] While Rattazzi was pushing a bill through the Sardanian legislature to suppress religious orders, he advised Bosco on how to get around the law. He found a religious order to keep the oratory going after its founder's death.[32] Bosco had been thinking about that problem too and had been slowly organizing his helpers into a loose "Congregation of St. Francis de Sales". He was also training select older boys for the priesthood. Another supporter of the idea to establish a religious order to carry out Bosco's vision was the reigning pope, Pope Pius IX. in 1934.

Rome, 1846-1878, Pius IX, first Vatican Council 1868, lost control Papal States 1870 to Italy, reform champion then concervative
Rome, 1846-1878, Pope, Pius IX; Pius IX (Italian: Pio IX, Pio Nono; born Giovanni Maria Mastai Ferretti;[a] 13 May 1792 – 7 February 1878) was head of the Catholic Church from 1846 to 1878, the longest verified papal reign. was notable for convoking the First Vatican Council in 1868 and for permanently losing control of the Papal States in 1870 to the Kingdom of Italy. Thereafter he refused to leave Vatican City, declaring himself a "prisoner of the Vatican". the time of his election, he was seen as a champion of liberalism and reform, but the Revolutions of 1848 decisively reversed his policies. Upon the assassination of his Prime Minister Rossi, Pius escaped Rome and excommunicated all participants in the short-lived Roman Republic. After its suppression and his return in 1850, his policies and doctrinal pronouncements became increasingly conservative, seeking to stem the revolutionary tide. his encyclical Ubi primum he emphasized Mary's role in salvation.[4] In 1854, he promulgated the dogma of the Immaculate Conception, articulating a long-held Catholic belief that Mary, the Mother of God, was conceived without original sin. His 1864 Syllabus of Errors was a strong condemnation against liberalism, modernism, moral relativism, secularization, separation of church and state, and other Enlightenment ideas. Pius definitively reaffirmed Catholic teaching in favor of the establishment of the Catholic faith as the state religion where possible. His appeal for financial support resulted in the successful revival of donations known as Peter's Pence. He centralized power in the church in the Holy See and Roman Curia, while also clearly defining the Pope's doctrinal authority. His chief legacy is the dogma of papal infallibility. Pope John Paul II beatified him in 2000. JOHN HENRY NEWMAN, PRIEST AND THEOLOGIAN, 1890, Commemorated February 21;

Rome, 1848, Revolutions of 1848, Springtime of Nations, 50 Countries, for democracy, free press, Potato Famine, L forced into exile
Rome, 1848, Revolutions of 1848; Revolutions of 1848, known in some countries as the Springtime of the Peoples[2] or the Springtime of Nations, were a series of political upheavals throughout Europe in 1848. It remains the most widespread revolutionary wave in European history. revolutions were essentially democratic and liberal in nature, with the aim of removing the old monarchical structures and creating independent nation-states.[citation needed] revolutions spread across Europe after an initial revolution began in France in February. Over 50 countries were affected, but with no significant coordination or cooperation among their respective revolutionaries. of the major contributing factors were widespread dissatisfaction with political leadership, demands for more participation in government and democracy, demands for freedom of the press, other demands made by the working class, the upsurge of nationalism, the regrouping of established government forces,[3] and the European Potato Failure, which triggered mass starvation, migration, and civil unrest.[4] uprisings were led by temporary coalitions of reformers, the middle classes ("the bourgeoisie") and workers.[5] the coalitions did not hold together for long. Many of the revolutions were quickly suppressed; tens of thousands of people were killed, and many more were forced into exile. lasting reforms included the abolition of serfdom in Austria and Hungary, the end of absolute monarchy in Denmark, and the introduction of representative democracy in the Netherlands. The revolutions were most important in France, the Netherlands, Italy, the Austrian Empire, and the states of the German Confederation that would make up the German Empire in the late 19th and early 20th century. JOHN HENRY NEWMAN, PRIEST AND THEOLOGIAN, 1890, Commemorated February 21;

Rome, 1861-1946, Kingdom of Italy
Rome, 1861-1946, Kingdom of Italy; Kingdom of Italy (Italian: Regno d'Italia) was a state which existed from 1861 – when King Victor Emmanuel II of Sardinia was proclaimed King of Italy – until 1946, when civil discontent led an institutional referendum to abandon the monarchy and form the modern Italian Republic. The state was founded as a result of the unification of Italy under the influence of the Savoy-led Kingdom of Sardinia, which can be considered its legal predecessor state. Italy declared war on Austria in alliance with Prussia in 1866 and received the region of Veneto following their victory. Italian troops entered Rome in 1870, thereby ending more than one thousand years of Papal temporal power. Italy entered into a Triple Alliance with Germany and Austria-Hungary in 1882, following strong disagreements with France about the respective colonial expansions. However, even if relations with Berlin became very friendly, the alliance with Vienna remained purely formal as the Italians were keen to acquire Trentino and Trieste, corners of Austria-Hungary populated by Italians. So during World War I, Italy accepted the British invitation to join the Allied Powers, as the western powers promised territorial compensation (at the expense of Austria-Hungary) for participation that was more generous than Vienna's offer in exchange for Italian neutrality. Victory in the war gave Italy a permanent seat in the Council of the League of Nations. "Fascist Italy" is the era of National Fascist Party government from 1922 to 1943 with Benito Mussolini as head of government. The fascists imposed totalitarian rule and crushed the political and intellectual opposition, while promoting economic modernization, traditional social values and a rapprochement with the Roman Catholic Church. According to Payne (1996), "[the] Fascist government passed through several relatively distinct phases". The first phase (1923–1925) was nominally a continuation of the parliamentary system, albeit with a "legally-organized executive dictatorship". Then came the second phase, "the construction of the Fascist dictatorship proper, from 1925 to 1929". The third phase, with less activism, was 1929 to 1934. The fourth phase, 1935–1940, was characterized by an aggressive foreign policy: war against Ethiopia, launched from Italian Eritrea and Italian Somaliland, which resulted in its annexation;[3] confrontations with the League of Nations, leading to sanctions; growing economic autarky; and the signing of the Pact of Steel. The war itself (1940–1943) was the fifth phase with its disasters and defeats, while the rump Salò Government under German control was the final stage (1943–1945).[4] Italy was an important member of the Axis powers in World War II, battling on several fronts with initial success. However, after the German-Italian defeat in Africa and in the Soviet Union and the subsequent Allied landings in Sicily, King Victor Emmanuel III placed Mussolini under arrest, and the Fascist Party in areas (south of Rome) controlled by the Allied invaders was shut down. The new government signed an armistice in September 1943. German forces immediately occupied northern Italy with Fascists' help, setting up the Italian Social Republic, a collaborationist puppet state still led by Mussolini and his Fascist loyalists. As a consequence, the country descended into civil war, with the Italian Co-belligerent Army and the resistance movement contended the Social Republic's forces and its German allies. Shortly after the war and the liberation of the country, civil discontent led to the institutional referendum on whether Italy would remain a monarchy or become a republic. Italians decided to abandon the monarchy and form the Italian Republic, the present-day Italian state. JOHN HENRY NEWMAN, PRIEST AND THEOLOGIAN, 1890, Commemorated February 21; EMILY MALBONE MORGAN, PROPHETIC WITNESS, 1937, Commemorated February 26 ;

Rome, 1869-1870, First Vatican Council
First Vatican Council (1869-1870); Second Vatican Council ; JOHN XXIII (Angelo Guiseppe Roncalli), BISHOP OF ROME, 1963, Commemorated June 3 ;

Rome, 1878-1903, Pope Leo XIII
Rome, 1878-1903, Pope Leo XIII; GREGORIO AGLIPAY, PRIEST AND FOUNDER OF THE PHILIPINE INDEPENDENT CHURCH, 5 Sept. 1940; JOHN HENRY NEWMAN, PRIEST AND THEOLOGIAN, 1890, Commemorated February 21;

Rome, 1958-1963, Roman Pope, Pope John XXIII
Roman Pope, 1958-1963, Pope John XXIII; JOHN XXIII (Angelo Guiseppe Roncalli), BISHOP OF ROME, 1963, Commemorated June 4;

Rome, 1962-1965, Second Vatican Council
Second Vatican Council ; David du Plessis, PENTECOSTAL SAINT, 1987, Commemorated February 2 ; JOHN XXIII (Angelo Guiseppe Roncalli), BISHOP OF ROME, 1963, Commemorated June 3 ;

Rome, 1963, Peace on Earth (Pacem in Terris, 1963)
Pacem in Terris (1963); Vatican City ; JOHN XXIII (Angelo Guiseppe Roncalli), BISHOP OF ROME, 1963, Commemorated June 3 ;

Rome, Central Italy, Tiber River Folder

Tiber River

Tiber River Source (Mount Fumaiolo)
Mount Fumaiolo;

Apennine Mountains
Apennine Mountains; St Isaac the Syrian, Abbot of Spoleto, Commemorated on April 12;

Tiber River 1 (Unbria Region, Assisi)

San Damiano, Assisi Church, 1150 or 12th Century
San Damiano, Assisi ; BENEDICT. FOUNDER OF WESTERN MONASTICISM (11 JULY 540); CLARE OF ASSISI, NUN (11 AUGUST 1253) ; FRANCIS OF ASSISI;

Umbria Region, Italy (Tiber River 1) Lake Trasimeno, Marmore Falls
Umbria Region; is a region of central Italy. It includes Lake Trasimeno and Marmore Falls, and is crossed by the River Tiber. The regional capital is Perugia. region is characterized by hills, mountains, valleys and historical towns such as the university centre of Perugia, Assisi, a World Heritage Site associated with St. Francis of Assisi, Terni, Norcia, Citta di Castello, Gubbio, Spoleto, Orvieto, Todi, Castiglione del Lago, Narni, Amelia, Spello and other small cities. Hieromartyr Valentine the Bishop of Interamna, Terni in Italy, Commemorated on July 30 ; CLARE OF ASSISI, NUN (11 AUGUST 1253) ;

Assisi, Umbria, Italy (Tiber River 1), Franciscans, Francis of Assisi
Assisi; BENEDICT, FOUNDER OF WESTERN MONASTICISM (11 JULY 540); was born at Nursia (Norcia) in Umbria, Italy, around 480 AD. He was sent to Rome for his studies, but was repelled by the dissolute life of most of the populace, and withdrew to a solitary life at Subiaco. A group of monks asked him to be their abbot, but some of them found his rule too strict, and he returned alone to Subiaco. Again, other monks called him to be their abbot, and he agreed, founding twelve communities over an interval of some years. His chief founding was Monte Cassino, an abbey which stands to this day as the mother house of the world-wide Benedictine order. of Monte CassinoTotila the Goth visited Benedict, and was so awed by his presence that he fell on his face before him. Benedict raised him from the ground and rebuked him for his cruelty, telling him that it was time that his iniquities should cease. Totila asked Benedict to remember him in his prayers and departed, to exhibit from that time an astonishing clemency and chivalry in his treatment of conquered peoples. drew up a rule of life for monastics, a rule which he calls "a school of the Lord's service, in which we hope to order nothing harsh or rigorous." The Rule gives instructions for how the monastic community is to be organized, and how the monks are to spend their time. An average day includes about four hours to be spent in liturgical prayer (called the Divinum Officium -- the Divine Office), five hours in spiritual reading and study, six hours of labor, one hour for eating, and about eight hours for sleep. The Book of Psalms is to be recited in its entirety every week as a part of the Office. Benedictine monk takes vows of "obedience, stability, and conversion of life." That is, he vows to live in accordance with the Benedictine Rule, not to leave his community without grave cause, and to seek to follow the teaching and example of Christ in all things. Normal procedure today for a prospective monk is to spend a week or more at the monastery as a visitor. He then applies as a postulant, and agrees not to leave for six months without the consent of the Abbot. (During that time, he may suspect that he has made a mistake, and the abbot may say, "Yes, I think you have. Go in peace." Alternately, he may say, "It is normal to have jitters at this stage. I urge you to stick it out a while longer and see whether they go away." Many postulants leave before the six months are up.) After six months, he may leave or become a novice, with vows for one year. After the year, he may leave or take vows for three more years. After three years, he may leave, take life vows, or take vows for a second three years. After that, a third three years. After that, he must leave or take life vows (fish or cut bait). Thus, he takes life vows after four and a half to ten and a half years in the monastery. At any point in the proceedings at which he has the option of leaving, the community has the option of dismissing him. Benedict, by Fra AngelicoThe effect of the monastic movement, both of the Benedictine order and of similar orders that grew out of it, has been enormous. We owe the preservation of the Holy Scriptures and other ancient writings in large measure to the patience and diligence of monastic scribes. In purely secular terms, their contribution was considerable. In Benedict's time, the chief source of power was muscle, whether human or animal. Ancient scholars apparently did not worry about labor-saving devices. The labor could always be done by oxen or slaves. But monks were both scholars and workers. A monk, after spending a few hours doing some laborious task by hand, was likely to think, "There must be a better way of doing this." The result was the systematic development of windmills and water wheels for grinding grain, sawing wood, pumping water, and so on. The rotation of crops (including legumes) and other agricultural advances were also originated or promoted by monastic farms. The monks, by their example, taught the dignity of labor and the importance of order and planning. For details, see The Mediaeval Machine: The Industrial Revolution of the Middle Age, by Jean Gimpel, (Holt Rinehart & Winston, 1976; Penguin, 1977, ISBN 0-14-00-4514-7). by James Kiefer CLARE OF ASSISI, NUN (11 AUGUST 1253) ; Offreduccio, born in 1194, was the daughter of a wealthy family in Assisi. she was eighteen years old, she heard a sermon by Francis of Assisi, and was moved by it to follow the example of the Franciscan brothers and vow herself to a life of poverty. Her family was horrified, and brought her back home by force; but one night, in a gesture both tactical and symbolic, she slipped out of her house through "the door of the dead" (a small side door that was traditionally opened only to carry out a corpse) and returned to the house of the Franciscans. Francis cut off her hair, and placed her in a nearby convent. Later a house was found for her, and she was eventually joined by two of her sisters, her widowed mother, and several members of the wealthy Ubaldini family of Florence. Clare's best friend, Pacifica, could not resist, and joined them, too. sisters of her order came to be known informally as Minoresses (Franciscan brothers are Friars Minor = "lesser brothers") or as Poor Clares. When the order was formed, Francis suggested Clare for the Superior. But she refused the position until she turned twenty-one. They devoted themselves to prayer, nursing the sick, and works of mercy for the poor and neglected. adopted a rule of life of extreme austerity (more so than of any other order of women up to that time) and of absolute poverty, both individually and collectively. They had no beds. They slept on twigs with patched hemp for blankets. Wind and rain seeped through cracks in the ceilings. They ate very little, with no meat at all. Whatever they ate was food they begged for. Clare made sure she fasted more than anyone else. Despite this way of life, or perhaps because of it, the followers of Clare were the most beautiful young girls from the best families of Assisi. community of Poor Clares continues to this day, both in the Roman and in the Anglican communions. by James Kiefer FRANCIS OF ASSISI, FRIAR (4 OCT 1226); was born in 1182, the son of a wealthy cloth merchant. His early years were frivolous, but an experience of sickness and another of military service were instrumental in leading him to reflect on the purpose of life. day, in the church of San Damiano, he seemed to hear Christ saying to him, "Francis, repair my falling house." He took the words literally, and sold a bale of silk from his father's warehouse to pay for repairs to the church of San Damiano. His father was outraged, and there was a public confrontation at which his father disinherited and disowned him, and he in turn renounced his father's wealth--one account says that he not only handed his father his purse, but also took off his expensive clothes, laid them at his father's feet, and walked away naked. He declared himself "wedded to Lady Poverty", renounced all material possessions, and devoted himself to serving the poor. his day the most dreaded of all diseases was something known as leprosy. (It is probably not the same as either the modern or the Biblical disease of that name.) Lepers were kept at a distance and regarded with fear and disgust. Francis cared for them, fed them, bathed their sores, and kissed them. Since he could not pay for repairs to the Church of San Damiano, he undertook to repair it by his own labors. He moved in with the priest, and begged stones lying useless in fields, shaping them for use in repairing the church. He got his meals, not by asking for money so that he might live at the expense of others, but by scrounging crusts and discarded vegetable from trash-bins, and by working as a day laborer, insisting on being paid in bread, milk, eggs, or vegetables rather than in money. Soon a few companions joined him. Dante in his Paradiso has Aquinas say of him: me tell you of a youth whose aristocratic father disowned him because of his love for a beautiful lady. She had been married before, to Christ, and was so faithful a spouse to Him that, while Mary only stood at the foot of the Cross, she leaped up to be with Him on the Cross. These two of whom I speak are Francis and the Lady Poverty. As they walked along together, the sight of their mutual love drew men's hearts after them. Bernard saw them and ran after them, kicking off his shoes to run faster to so great a peace. Giles and Sylvester saw them, kicked off their shoes and ran to join them.... three years, in 1210, the Pope authorized the forming of the Order of Friars Minor, commonly called the Franciscans. ("Friar" means "brother," as in "fraternity", and "minor" means "lesser" or "younger." I take the meaning to be that a Franciscan, meeting another Christian, is to think, "I am your brother in Christ, and your younger brother at that, bound to defer to you and to give you precedence over myself." and his companions took literally the words of Christ when he sent his disciples out to preach (M 10:7-10): as you go, saying, "The kingdom of Heaven is at hand." ... You have received the Gospel without payment, give it to others as freely. Take no gold, or silver, or copper in your belts, no bag for your journey, no spare garment, nor sandals, nor staff. would have no money, and no property, individually or collectively. Their task was to preach, "using words if necessary," but declaring by word and action the love of God in Christ. Francis was partial to a touch of the dramatic (see his parting from his father, for example), and it was probably he who set up the first Christmas manger scene, to bring home the Good News of God made man for our salvation, home to men's hearts and imaginations as well as to their intellects. 1219, Francis went to the Holy Land to preach to the moslems. He was given a pass through the enemy lines, and spoke to the Sultan, Melek-al-Kamil. Francis proclaimed the Gospel to the Sultan, who replied that he had his own beliefs, and that moslems were as firmly convinced of the truth of Islam as Francis was of the truth of Christianity. Francis proposed that a fire be built, and that he and a moslem volunteer would walk side by side into the fire to show whose faith was stronger. The Sultan said he was not sure that a moslem volunteer could be found. Francis then offered to walk into the fire alone. The Sultan who was deeply impressed but remained unconverted. Francis proposed an armistice between the two warring sides, and drew up terms for one; the Sultan agreed, but, to Francis's deep disappointment, the Christian leaders would not. Francis returned to Italy, but a permanent result was that the Franciscans were given custody of the Christian shrines then in moslem hands. preaching to the birds, by giottoBack in Italy and neighboring countries, the Order was suffering from its own success. Then, as now, many persons were deeply attracted by Francis and his air of joy, abandonment, and freedom. What is overlooked is that these were made possible only by his willingness to accept total poverty, not picturesque poverty but real dirt, rags, cold, and hunger, and lepers with real pus oozing from their sores and a real danger of infection. Many idealistic young men were joining the Order in a burst of enthusiasm and then finding themselves not so sure that such extremes of poverty were really necessary. When there were only a few friars, they were all known to Francis personally, and the force of his personality kept the original ideals of the Order alive in them. Now that the Order was larger, this was no longer enough. In 1220 Francis resigned as minister-general of the Order, and in 1221 he agreed to a new and modified rule, which he did not approve, but could not resist. He died on 4 October 1226. The Franciscan split into the Conventual Franciscans, who held a limited amount of property in common, and the Spiritual Franciscans, who disavowed all property. They taught that Christ and the twelve apostles had held no property, singly or jointly. This view offended those who held property, and was declared to be heretical (proof text, J 18:10; Jesus said to Peter, "Put up THY sword...."). In 1318, several Spiritual Franciscans were burned at the stake in Marseilles. story is told of the days when the friars first began to have permanent houses. A beggar came by when Brother Juniper was at the gate and asked for a little money. Brother Juniper said, "There is no money in the house. But wait a minute. Last week someone gave us an altar cloth with little silver bells attached. We don't need those. I will cut them off for you. They will be as good as money." And he did. When the sacristan learned what had happened, he complained to the prior, who said, "We are fortunate that he did not give away the cloth itself. But send him to me, and I will scold him." Brother Juniper came, and the prior scolded him until he was hoarse. Brother Juniper noticed that the prior was hoarse, and went to the kitchen and cooked him some mint sauce. He brought it to the prior, who had gone to bed. He said, "Father Prior, get up and eat this mint sauce. It will be good for your throat." The prior said, "I don't want any mint sauce. Go away and let me sleep." Brother Juniper said, "It's good sauce, and will be good for your throat." The prior said, "Go away, I don't want it." Brother Juniper said, "Well, if you won't eat it, how about holding the candle while I eat it?" This was too much for the prior. He got up and they both ate. the first known letter from Francis to all Christians: how happy and blessed are those who love the Lord and do as the Lord himself said in the gospel: You shall love the Lord your God with your whole heart and your whole soul, and your neighbor as yourself. Thereofore, let us love God and adore him with pure heart and mind. This is his particular desire when he says: True worshipers adore the Father in spirit and truth. For all who adore him must do so in the spirit of truth. Let us also direct to him our praises and prayers, saying: "Our Father, who are in heaven," since we must always pray and never grow slack. Furthermore, let us produce worthy fruits of penance. Let us also love our neightbors as ourselves. Let us have charity and humility. Let us give alms because these cleanse our souls from the stains of sin. Men lose all the material things they leave behind in this world, but they carry with them the reward of their charity and the alms they give. For these they will recieve from the Lord the reward and recompense they deserve. We must not be wise and prudent according to the flesh. Rather we must be sinple, humble and pure. We should never desire to be over others. Instead, we ought to be servants who are submissive to every human being for God's sake. The Spirit of the Lord will rest on all who live in this way and persevere in it to the end. He will permanently dwell in them. They will be the Father's children who do his work. They are the spouses, brothers and mothers of our Lord Jesus Christ. Many readers are enthusiastic about St. Francis of Assisi, a biography of Francis by G K Chesterton. A reader of these essays has also recommended The Biography of Saint Francis of Assisi by Englebert by James Kiefer

Monte Subasio
Monte Subasio;

Lake Trasimeno

Tiber River 2 (Spoleto)

Tiber River 3 (Nera River Mouth)

Rome, Central Italy, Tiber River 3, Nera River Folder

Nera River

Sibillini Mountains
Sibillini Mountains;

Nera Rvier Source (Sibillini Mountains)

Nera River 1 (Nurisa)

Nursia (Nera River 1), Northeast of Rome
Nursia; BENEDICT, FOUNDER OF WESTERN MONASTICISM (11 JULY 540); Benedict of Nursia; St Eutychius of Nursia, Commemorated on August 23; Venerable Benedict of Nursia, Commemorated on March 14;

Nera River 2

Trebium (Nera River 2)
Trebium Hieromartyr Emilian, Commemorated on August 18;

Nera River 3

Nera River 4 (near Spoleto)

Spoleto (Nera River 4, foothills Apennine Mountains)
Spoleto; Hieromartyr Emilian, Commemorated on August 18 ; St Isaac the Syrian, Abbot of Spoleto, Commemorated on April 12; Martyr Concordius of Spoleto, Commemorated on June 4;

Nera River 5

Nera River 9 (Nera River Plain)

Terni (Nera River Plain, NR 9)
Terni (Nera River Plain) ; Hieromartyr Valentine the Bishop of Interamna, Terni in Italy, Commemorated July 30

Interamna, Terni, Italy (Nera River 9)
Interamna; Hieromartyr Valentine the Bishop of Interamna, Terni in Italy, Commemorated July 30

Nera River Mouth (Tiber River 3)

Tiber River 4

Tiber River 5 (Rome, Aniene River Mouth)

Rome, Central Italy, Tiber River 5, Aniene River Folder

Aniene River

Aniene River Source (Trevi nel Lazio, Monti Ernici Mountains)
Trevi nel Lazio; Monti Ernici Mountains;

Monti Ernici Mountains
Monti Ernici Mountains;

Ferentino (Monti Ernici Mountains)
Ferentino (Monti Ernici Mountains); St Boniface the Merciful the Bishop of Ferentino, Commemorated on December 19 ;

Aniene River 1

Aniene River 2 (Subiaco)

Subiaco (Aniene River 2), East of Rome
Subiaco, Lazio; BENEDICT. FOUNDER OF WESTERN MONASTICISM (11 JULY 540); Benedict of Nursia; Venerable Benedict of Nursia, Commemorated on March 14;

Aniene River 3

Aniene River 4

Aniene River Mouth (Rome, Tiber River 5)

Mausoleum of St Agnes at Rome (Aniene River Mouth area) 306
mausoleum of St Agnes at Rome; Commemoration of the Weeping Icon of the Mother of God "œof the Sign"Â at Novgorod, Commemorated on November 27 ; AGNES OF ROME, MARTYR (21 JAN 304);

St Agnes Church of Rome (Aniene River Mouth area) 306
mausoleum of St Agnes at Rome; Commemoration of the Weeping Icon of the Mother of God "œof the Sign"Â at Novgorod, Commemorated on November 27 ; AGNES OF ROME, MARTYR (21 JAN 304);

Tiber River 6 (Rome)

Tiber River Mouth (Ostia, Tyrrhenian Sea, Mediterranean Sea)

Ostia (the port city of Rome, Tiber River Mouth)
Ostia (the port city of Rome) ; Virginmartyr Susanna, Commemorated on August 11 ; Martyr Felix Beheaded at Ostia; Hieromartyr Hippolytus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated January 30 ; MONNICA, MOTHER OF AUGUSTINE OF HIPPO (4 MAY 387); St Monica, Commemorated on May 4 ;

Rome, Italy, Vatican Folder

Vatican City
Vatican City ; JOHN XXIII (Angelo Guiseppe Roncalli), BISHOP OF ROME, 1963, Commemorated June 3 ; Icon of the Mother of God of Lydda orœthe RomanÂÂÂ, Commemorated on June 26; PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES AND MARTYRS (29 JUN 64);

Saint Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, Rome, 1626
Saint Peter's Basilica in the Vatican; Icon œNot Made by HandsÂ from Lydda, Commemorated on March 12; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12; Venerable Alexis the Man of God, Commemorated on March 17; Martyr Processus of Rome, Commemorated on April 11 ; JOHN XXIII (Angelo Guiseppe Roncalli), BISHOP OF ROME, 1963, Commemorated June 3 ; Venerable Peter of Mt. Athos, Commemorated on June 12 ; Icon of the Mother of God of Lydda or œthe RomanÂ, Commemorated on June 26; PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES AND MARTYRS (29 JUN 64);

Bacilica of the Twelve Holy Apostles, Rome, 560 Approx
Bacilica of the Twelve Holy Apostles; James of PHILIP AND JAMES, APOSTLES (1 MAY NT);

Porta San Pancrazio (Via Aurelian Gate, near Vatican)
Porta San Pancrazio; Martyr Pancratius, Commemorated on May 12;

St Boniface Church, P.za di Sant'Alessio, 23, 00153 Roma RM, Italy
St Boniface Church, P.za di Sant'Alessio, 23, 00153 Roma RM, Italy; Saint Gregory, Archbishop of Omirits, Commemorated on December 19;

Piazza Farnese (Rome, near Vatican)
Piazza Farnese, Saint Jerome's hand is enshrined in a Church near Piazza Farnese; St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15;

Uniates - Eastern Catholic Churches
Uniates - Eastern Catholic Churches ; Repose of St Theodosius of Chernigov, Commemorated on February 5;

Jesuits, Society of Jesus, Originated in Spain, 1540
Jesuits, Society of Jesus, Originated in Spain; St. Athanasius of Lubensk the Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on May 2;

Rome, Italy, Latern Hill Folder

Lateran hill, Rome
Lateran hill; Myrrhbearer and Equal of the Apostles Mary Magdalene, Commemorated on July 22; Martyr Pancratius, Commemorated on May 12;

Latern Palace
Latern Palace; Latern Council; Myrrhbearer and Equal of the Apostles Mary Magdalene, Commemorated on July 22; St Maximus the Confessor, Commemorated January 21;

Lateran Cathedral, 324
Lateran Cathedral; Myrrhbearer and Equal of the Apostles Mary Magdalene, Commemorated on July 22;

church of the holy Martyrs Laurence and Pope Damasus at Rome, 258
church of the holy Martyrs Laurence and Pope Damasus at Rome; Hieromartyr Hippolytus, and those with him, Commemorated on January 30;

Rome, Italy, Coliseum area Folder

Coliseum, Rome
Coliseum; EMILY MALBONE MORGAN, PROPHETIC WITNESS, 1937, Comemorated February 26 ;

Mamertine Prison, Rome, 640 BC
Mamertine Prison; Martyr Processus of Rome, Commemorated on April 11;

Roman Senate (Curia Julia)
Roman Senate (Curia Julia); Apostle Pudens of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15;

Basilica (Church) of San Clemente, Rome
Church of San Clemente, Rome; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated December 20 ; CYRIL AND METHODIUS, MISSIONARIES TO THE SLAVS (14 FEB 869) ; Repose of St Cyril, Equal of the Apostles and Teacher of the Slavs, Commemorated on February 14; CYRIL AND METHODIUS, MISSIONARIES TO THE SLAVS (14 FEB 869) ; St Methodius, Equal of the Apostles and Archbishop of Moravia, Enlightener of the Slavs, Commemorated on April 6; Equal of the Apostles and Teacher of the Slavs, Methodius, Commemorated on May 11; Equal of the Apostles and Teacher of the Slavs, Cyril, Commemorated on May 11 ;

Church (Basilica) of San Clemente, Rome
Church of San Clemente, Rome; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated December 20 ; CYRIL AND METHODIUS, MISSIONARIES TO THE SLAVS (14 FEB 869) ; Repose of St Cyril, Equal of the Apostles and Teacher of the Slavs, Commemorated on February 14; CYRIL AND METHODIUS, MISSIONARIES TO THE SLAVS (14 FEB 869) ; St Methodius, Equal of the Apostles and Archbishop of Moravia, Enlightener of the Slavs, Commemorated on April 6; Equal of the Apostles and Teacher of the Slavs, Methodius, Commemorated on May 11; Equal of the Apostles and Teacher of the Slavs, Cyril, Commemorated on May 11 ;

Saint Sebastian's Basilica (near Rome)
Saint Sebastian's Basilica at the catacombs in Rome; Martyr Sebastian at Rome, and his companions, Commemorated on December 18 ;

Catacombs of Rome, Catacomb of Callixtus
Catacombs of Rome, Catacomb of Callixtus; Martyr Marinus, his wife Martha, their children, and those with them at Rome, Commemorated on July 6;

Rome, Italy, Corsica and Sardinia Islands Folder

Corsica
Corsica; REMIGIUS OF RHEIMS, BISHOP, APOSTLE OF THE FRANKS (1 OCTOBER 530) ; Virginmartyr Julia of Carthage, Commemorated July 16 ;

Sardinia
Sardinia ; REMIGIUS OF RHEIMS, BISHOP, APOSTLE OF THE FRANKS (1 OCTOBER 530) ;

Rome, Roman Roads Folder

Rome, Roman Roads, Italy, Appian Way Folder

Appian Way 336 Miles or 540 Kilometers
Appian Way;

Appian Way Route 2

Terracina (Appian Way, south of Rome)
Terracina, near Rome ; Martyr Julian the Presbyter at Terracina, Commemorated October 7 ;

Appian Way (Rome)
Appian Way;

Appian Way (Naples)

Appian Way (Bari)

Appian Way (Brindisi)

Appian Way (Trullo)

Rome, Roman Roads, Italy, Via Aurelia Folder

Via Aurelia (Roman Road, Pisa to Rome)
Via Aurelia;

Via Aurelia 1 (Pisa)
Via Aurelia, Roman Road from Pisa to Rome; Pisa;

Via Aurelia 2 (Cosa)
Via Aurelia 2 (Cosa);

Via Aurelia 3 - Alsium

Via Aurelia 4 - Aurelian gate, Porta St Pancrazio
Via Aurelia, Roman Road from Pisa to Rome - Aurelian gate, Rome aka Porta Pia. The Aurelian gate is known today as the Porta St Pancrazio. Martyr Pancratius, Commemorated on May 12;

Rome, Roman Roads, Italy, Via Salaria Folder

Salarian Way, Via Salaria
Via Salaria;

Via Nomentana (ancient road from Rome to Nomentana, only 23 K)
Via Nomentana (ancient road from Rome to Nomentana, only 23 K, probably same route as the longer Via Salaria (Salt Road)); Virginmartyr Agnes of Rome, Commemorated January 21 ;

Via Salaria 1 (Porta Salaria Gate, Aurelain Walls)
Porta Salaria Gate, Gardens of Sallust, Aurelian Walls;

Via Salaria 2 (Rieti)
Rieti;

Interocrea (Antrodoco, between the mountains, Via Salaria) Severus brings back dead man in 6th C
Interocrea (Antrodoco, between the mountains); St Severus the Presbyter of Interocrea in Italy, Commemorated on June 27; Severus the Presbyter during the sixth century served in a church of the Most Holy Theotokos in the village of Interocrea in Central Italy. He was noted for his virtuous and God-pleasing life. One time, when the saint was working in his garden, cutting grapes in the vineyard, they summoned him to administer the Holy Mysteries for the dying. Saint Severus said: “Go back, and I’ll catch up with you soon.â€ remained only but a few more grapes to cut off, and Saint Severus dallied for awhile in the garden to finish the work. When he arrived at the sick person’s home, they told him that the person was already dead. Saint Severus, regarding himself as guilty in the death of a man without absolution, started to tremble and loudly he began to weep. He went into the house where the deceased lay. loud groans and calling himself a murderer, in tears he fell down before the dead person. Suddenly the dead man came alive and related to everyone that the demons wanted to seize his soul, but one of the angels said, “Give him back, since the priest Severus weeps over him, and on account of his tears the Lord has granted him this man.â€ Saint Severus, giving thanks to the Lord, confessed and communed the resurrected man with the Holy Mysteries. That man survived for another seven days, then joyfully went to the Lord.

Via Salaria 3 (Asculum, Ascoli Piceno)
Ascoli Piceno;

Via Salaria 4 (Castrum Truentinum, Adriatic Sea)
Castrum Truentinum;

Adrianium, Italy (Hadrianium)
Adrianium, Italy (Hadrianium) ; Apostle Epaphroditus of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 30;

Theato, Italy
Theato, Italy; Martyr Eleutherius of Constantinople, Commemorated August 14

Via Salaria 5 (Ancona)
Ancona;

Rome, Roman Roads, Roman Empire Folder

Rome, Roman Roads, Roman Empire, Jerusalem Folder

Judea (West Bank)
Judea;

Samaria (West Bank)
Samaria;

Benjamin, between Roads to Jericho on West Bank
Jericho West Bank;

Road to Gilgal - Galilee to Jericho Road

Rome, Roman Roads, Roman Empire, Egypt Folder

Nile River Way

Cataracts of the Nile

Kings Highway (Nile River, Egypt to Euphrates River, Syria)

Way of the Sea (Egypt to Syria)

Rome, Roman Roads, Roman Empire, Italy Folder

Rome, Italy, Appian Way Folder

Rome, Italy, Via Aurelia Folder

Rome, Italy, Via Salaria Folder

Rome, Roman Roads, Roman Empire, England Folder

The Roman Wall - Hadrian's Wall

Great North Road

Rome, Roman Roads, Roman Empire, Gaul Folder

Gaul, German Frontier Folder- Roman Limes Germanticus
Frontier (Limes) Germanticus;

Gaul, German Frontier, Lower Rhine Frontier Folder

Roman German Frontier - Lower Limes Germanica

Roman German Frontier - Katwijk, South Holland, Netherlands
Roman German Frontier - Katwijk;

Roman German Frontier- Valkenburg, South Holland
Valkenburg, South Holland

Roman German Frontier - Leiden, South Holland
Leiden, South Holland, Netherlands;

Roman German Frontier - Alphen aan den Rijn, South Holland
Alphen aan den Rijn;

Roman German Frontier - Zwammerdam
Roman German Frontier - Zwammerdam;

Roman German Frontier - Bodegraven, South Holland

Roman German Frontier - Woerden, Central Netherlands
Woerden, Central Netherlands;

Roman German Frontier - Vleuten, Central Netherlands
Vleuten, Central Netherlands;

Roman German Frontier - Utrecht, Central Netherlands
Utrecht, Netherlands;

Roman German Frontier - Fectio, Central Netherlands
Roman German Frontier - Fectio, Central Netherlands;

Roman German Frontier - Rijswijk, Gelderland
Rijswijk, Gelderland; Central Eastern Netherlands

Roman German Frontier - Maurik, Gelderland
Maurik, Gelderland, Central Eastern Netherlands;

Roman German Frontier - Kesteren, Gelderland
Kesteren, Gelderland;

Roman German Frontier - Arnhem, Gelderland
Arnhem, Gelderland, Eastern Netherlands;

Roman German Frontier - Duiven, Eastern Netherlands
Duiven, Eastern Netherlands;

Roman German Frontier - Herwen, Eastern Netherlands
Herwen, Gelderland, Eastern Netherlands;

Roman German Frontier - Kleve, Germany
Kleve, Northwest Rineland, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Bedburg-Hau, Germany
Bedburg-Hau, Northwest Rineland, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Kalkar, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Kalkar, Northwest Rineland, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Xanten, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Xanten, Northwest Rineland, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Moers, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Moers, Rhine River 10, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Krefeld, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Krefeld, Rhine River 9.5, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Neuss, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Neuss, Rhine River 9, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Monheim am Rhein, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Monheim am Rhein, Rhine River 8.5, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Dormagen, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Dormagen, Rhine River 8.5, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Cologne, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Cologne, Rhine River 8, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Bonn, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Bonn, Rhine River 7, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Remagen, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Remagen, Rhine River 6.5, Germany;

Gaul, German Frontier, Upper Rhine Frontier Folder

Roman German Frontier - Upper Limes Germanticus

Roman German Frontier - Rheinbrohl, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Rheinbrohl, Rhineland Palentine, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Bad Ems, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Bad Ems, Rhineland Plaz, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Bad Schwalbach, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Bad Schwalbach, Hesse, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Bad Homburg vor der HÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¶he, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Bad Homburg vor der HÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¶he, Hesse, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Wetterau, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Wetterau, Hesse, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Grobkrotzenburg, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Grobkrotzenburg, Hesse, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Miltenberg, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Miltenberg, Bavaria, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Rehberg (Harz) Mountain, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Rehberg (Harz) Mountain, Lower Saxony, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Buchen, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Buchen, Badem Wurttemburg, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Osterburken, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Osterburken, Baden Wurttemburg, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Jagsthausen, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Jagsthausen, Baden Wurttemburg, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Welzheim, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Welzheim, Baden Wurttemburg, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Lorch (Wurttemberg), Germany
Roman German Frontier - Lorch (Wurttemberg), Baden Wurttemburg, Germany:

Gaul, German Frontier, Rhaetian Frontier Folder
Roman Province of Rhaetia; Reschen Pass;

Roman German Frontier - Rhaetian Limes Germaticus

Roman German Frontier - Aalen, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Aalen, Baden Wurttemburg, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Gunzenhausen, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Gunzenhausen, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Weibenburg in Bayern, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Weibenburg in Bayern, Middle Franconia, Germany;

Roman German Frontier, Kipfenberg, Germany
Roman German Frontier, Kipfenberg, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Regensburg, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Regensburg, Bavaria, Germany;

Roman German Frontier - Pfunz Roman Fort, Germany
Roman German Frontier - Pfunz Roman Fort, Bavaria, Germany;

Rome, Roman Roads, Roman Empire, Ephesus Folder

Great Road from Ephesus thru Colossae to the Euphrates at Melitine

Rome, Roman Roads, Roman Empire, Phrygia Folder

Phrygia - Connecting Rivers Folder (a North South Route dividing Turkey)

Connecting Rivers Route (Akarcay and Sakarya Rivers)

Connecting Rivers Route (Akarcay and Sakarya) - Sakarya Mouth

Connecting Rivers Route - Sogut

Connecting River Route - Kotyaeion

Connecting Rivers Route - Synnada

Connecting Rivers Route - Polybotum

Connecting Rivers Route - Antioch, Pisidia

Connecting Rivers Route - Lake Beysehir

Connecting Rivers Route - Seleucia

Connecting Rivers Route - Akarcay River Mouth

Rome, Roman Roads, Roman Empire, Naples Italy Folder

Naples, Appian Way Folder

Terracina (Appian Way, north of Naples)
Terracina, near Rome ; Martyr Julian the Presbyter at Terracina, Commemorated October 7 ;

Gaeta, Naples (Roman Road Appian Way)
Gaeto or Gaeta, Italy; Hieromartyr Marcian the Bishop of Syracuse, Commemorated on October 30 ; Greatmartyr Theodore the Tyro (œthe RecruitÂ), Commemorated on February 17;

Formia, Naples (on the Appian Way between Rome and Naples)
Formia, Lazio, bordering Campania, half way between Rome and Naples; Hieromartyr Marcian the Bishop of Syracuse, Commemorated on October 30 ; Hieromartyr Erasmus the Bishop of Formia in Campania, Commemorated on May 4;

Sinuessa (on the Appian Way)
Sinuessa (in Campania); Sinuessa was a city on the line of the Via Appia, and was the last place where that great highroad touched on the sea-coast. Hieromartyr Marcellinus the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on June 7;

Thracian Italy, Capua Gladiator School, Spartacus the Thracian
Thracian Italy, Capua Gladiator School, Spartacus the Thracian, The Third Servile War 73 BC; Hieromartyr Cornelius the Centurion, Commemorated on September 13;

Mount Garganus (north of Appian Way)
Mount Garganus; The Gargano peninsula is partly covered by the remains of an ancient forest, Foresta Umbra, the only remaining part in Italy of the ancient oak and beech forest that once covered much of Central Europe as well as the Apennine deciduous montane forests biome. Horace spoke of the oaks of Garganus in Ode II, ix.; Martyr Potitus at Naples, Commemorated on July 1;

Gargano, Mount Garganus (Adriatic Sea, east northeast of Naples)
Gargano, Mount Garganus; Martyr Potitus at Naples, Commemorated on July 1; Holy Martyr Potitus suffered under the emperor Antoninus Pius (reigned 138-161). Having become familiar with the Christian teaching, the young Potitus believed in the true God and accepted holy Baptism at thirteen years of age. When he learned of this, his pagan father was extremely upset and tried, first by endearments, and then by threats to dissuade his son from his faith in Christ the Savior, but his efforts were in vain. Impressed by the boy’s firmness of faith, the father also came to believe in the Son of God and became a Christian himself. Potitus traveled through many lands preaching about Christ, and by the power of God he worked wondrous miracles. the region of Epiros, lived the illustrious woman Kyriake, the wife of a senator; she was afflicted with leprosy. Hearing of Saint Potitus, she summoned him and asked him to heal her. The saint declared that if she believed in Christ, she would be healed. The woman accepted holy Baptism and was immediately made well. Seeing such a miracle, her husband and all their household believed in Christ and were baptized as well. this, the saint settled on Mount Garganus and lived in solitude, among the animals. He was found there by servants of the emperor Antoninus, whose daughter was possessed by a demon. Through the lips of the maiden, the devil said that he would come out of her only if Potitus should come. They brought the holy youth to the emperor, and through the prayers of Saint Potitus the demon released the girl. But instead of being grateful, the emperor treated the saint with inhuman cruelty. For his firm confession of faith in Christ the Savior, and for his refusal to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods, to whom the emperor imputed the healing of his daughter, he ordered that the saint’s tongue be torn out, and that he be blinded. After lengthy torture, Saint Potitus was finally beheaded.

Aecae, Italy (Appian Way)
Aecae, Italy (Appian Way) ; Martyr Cecilia at Rome, Commemorated on November 22 ;

Brindisi, Italy (Appian Way, K Triangle)
Brindisi; Martyr Cecilia at Rome, Commemorated on November 22 ; St Leucius the Bishop of Brindisi, Commemorated on June 20; St Angelina of Serbia, Commemorated on July 1;

Adriatic Sea
Adriatic Sea; Translation of the relics of St Nicholas the Wonderworker from Myra to Bari, Commemorated on May 9;

Appian Way (Bari)
Bari, Italy;

Via Egnatia Folder (Main East West Roman Road)

Via Egnatia (The East West Roman Road)
Key towns along the Via Egnatia East West Roman Road Listed from west to east: Ancient name Modern name Modern country Dyrrachium, later Epidamnos DurrÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â«s Albania Claudiana Peqin Albania Apollonia By the village of Pojani (7 km W of Fier) Albania Masio Scampa Elbasan Albania Lychnida Ohrid North Macedonia Resen Resen North Macedonia Heraclea Bitola North Macedonia Florina Florina Greece Edessa Edessa Greece Pella Pella Greece Thessalonike Thessaloniki Greece Pydna Possibly Kitros, 6 km SW of modern Pydna Greece Amphipolis Amfipoli Greece Philippi 14 km NW of Kavala Greece Neapolis Kavala Greece Traianoupolis Traianoupoli Greece Kypsela ÃƒÂ„Ã‚Â°psala Turkey Aenus Enez Turkey Aproi (Apros, Apris, AprÃƒÂ„Ã‚Â«) Village of Kermeyan Turkey Adrianople Edirne (not on the main Via Egnatia) Turkey Perinthus, later Heraclea Village of MarmaraereÃƒÂ„Ã‚ÂŸlisi Turkey Caenophrurium Sinekli in Silivri district Turkey Selymbria Silivri Turkey Melantias Turkey Rhegion KÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¼ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â§ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¼kÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â§ekmece, 15 km W of Istanbul Turkey Byzantium, later Constantinople Istanbul Turkey

Via Egnatia - Bari, Italy
Bari, Italy;

Bari, Italy ( on Appian Way and Via Egnatia, across Adriatic from K Triangle Via)
Bari, Italy; Arab Muslim Conquest of Southern Italy 827; St Nicholas the Wonderworker and Archbishop of Myra in Lycia, Commemorated December 6 ; NICHOLAS OF MYRA, FRIEND OF CHILDREN, GIVER OF GIFTS, CLIMBER OF CHIMNEYS, ETC. (6 DEC 326) ; Blessed John the King of Serbia and his parents, Commemorated on December 10: Blessed Stephen the Prince of Serbia, Commemorated on December 10 ; Translation of the relics of St Nicholas the Wonderworker from Myra to Bari, Commemorated on May 9;

Via Egnatia - Dyrrachium
Via Egnatia - Dyrrachium;

Via Egnatia - Claudiana
Via Egnatia - Claudiana ;

Via Egnatia - Bottom of the K Triangle Claudiana to Thessalonica

Via Egnatia - Thessalonica
Via Egnatia - Thessalonica;

Via Egnatia - Pydna
Via Egnatia - Pydna;

Via Egnatia - Pydna to Thessalonica

Via Egnatia - Amphipolis
Via Egnatia - Amphipolis;

Via Egnatia - Philippi
Via Egnatia - Philippi;

Via Egnatia - Neapolis
Via Egnatia - Neapolis;

Via Egnatia - Traianoupolis
Via Egnatia - Traianoupolis;

Via Egnatia - Kypsela
Via Egnatia - Kypsela ;

Via Egnatia - Kypsela to Perinthus

Via Egnatia - Aenus or Enos
Via Egnatia - Aenus or Enos;

Via Egnatia - Enos to Kypsela

Via Egnatia - Apros
Via Egnatia - Apros;

Via Egnatia - Adrianople
Via Egnatia - Adrianople ;

Via Egnatia - Drizipara
Drizipara, Bulgaria (on Via Egnatia, Martyr Alexander of Rome); Martyr Alexander of Rome, Commemorated on May 13;

Drizipara, Bulgaria (on Via Egnatia, Martyr Alexander of Rome)
Drizipara, Bulgaria (on Via Egnatia, Martyr Alexander of Rome); Martyr Alexander of Rome, Commemorated on May 13;

Via Egnatia - Perinthus or Heraclea Thracia
Via Egnatia - Perinthus or Heraclea;

Via Egnatia - Caenophrurium
Via Egnatia - Caenophrurium;

Via Egnatia - Selymbria
Via Egnatia - Selymbria ;

Via Egnatia - Melantias
Via Egnatia - Melantias;

Via Egnatia - Rhegion
Via Egnatia - Rhegion;

Via Egnatia - Byzantium
Via Egnatia - Byzantium;

Trullo, Appian Way east of Naples
Council in Trullo in 692; The Annunciation of our Most Holy Lady, the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary, Commemorated on March 25;

Rome, Roman Roads, Roman Empire, Greece, Macedonia Folder

Greece, Macedonia, K Triangle area of Macedonia Folder, Kutmichivitsa, Albania, Via Egnatia

Kutmichevitsa, Southwest Macedonia or Albania (K Triangle Area)
Kutmichevitsa, (K Triangle Area), the northwestern part of the region of Macedonia and the southern part of Albania, broadly taken to be the area included in the triangle ; Equal of the Apostles Clement of Ochrid the Bishop of Greater Macedonia, Commemorated on July 27 ;

Ochrid, Greater Macedonia and Albania (Roman Roads, largest city on Lake Ochrid)
Ochrid (largest city on Lake Ochrid); Equal of the Apostles Clement of Ochrid the Bishop of Greater Macedonia, Commemorated July 27 ; Slavs; St Clement the Bishop of Ochrid and Enlightener of the Bulgarians, Commemorated on November 25 ; St Nahum of Ochrid, the Disciple of St Cyril and Methodius, Equal of the Apostles, Commemorated December 23 ; Venerable Gregory of Ochrid; Venerable Maximus Kavsokalyvites of Mt Athos; Repose of St Nicholas of Zhicha, Commemorated on March 18; St Boris (in Holy Baptism Michael), Equal of the Apostles, Prince and Baptizer of Bulgaria, Commemorated on May 2; St Nahum of Ochrid, the Disciple of St Cyril and Methodius, Equals of the Apostles, Commemorated on June 20;

Bitolya, Center of K Triangle, Macedonia (Pelagonia Valley) Capital of First Bulgarian Empire
Bitolya ; Venerable Nectarius of Bitolya and Mt Athos, Commemorated December 5 ; St Nectarius of Bitel, Commemorated on December 15 ;

Heraclea Lyncestis, Macedonia (center of K Triangle)
Heraclea Lyncestis;

Galatea Region of West Macedonia
Galatea Region; Translation of the relics of St Theodore the Sykeote, Commemorated on June 15;

Verroia, Macedonia (Beroea, west of Axios River Mouth, K Triangle, Via Egnatia Roman Road)
Verroia; Venerable Theophanes of Dochiariou of Mt Athos, Commemorated August 19 ; Repose of the New-Hieromartyr Cosmas of Aitolia, Equal of the Apostles, Commemorated August 24; Apostle Carpus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Venerable Dionysius of Olympus, Commemorated January 24 ; Apostle Carpus of the Seventy, Commemorated on May 26;

Kastoria, K Triangle, Macedonia
Kastoria, Macedonia; Venerable Theodosius the Metropolitan of Trebizond, Commemorated on January 11 ;

Kastorian Hills, K Triangle, Macedonia, Greece
Kastoria, Macedonia; Venerable Theodosius the Metropolitan of Trebizond, Commemorated on January 11 ;

Koritsa (Kastorian hills, right on Via Egnatia of K Triangle)
Koritsa (Kastorian hills) ; Venerable Theodosius the Metropolitan of Trebizond, Commemorated on January 11 ;

Pidna, Macedonia
Pidna; St Gregory Dialogus, the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on March 12; Martyr Alexander of Macedonia, Commemorated on March 13 ;

Mount Peristeros, Macedonia
Mount Peristeros; Venerable Euthymius the New of Thessalonica, and Monk of Mt Athos, Commemorated on October 15;

Prespa Lakes Region, Macedonia, Greece and Albania
Prespa Lakes (Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa); St Achilles the Bishop of Larissa, Commemorated on May 15;

Rome, Roman Roads, Roman Empire, Armenia Folder

Armenia, Kizilirmak River Folder, Great Road from Ephesus to Euphrates, Cappadocia

Kizilirmak River

Kizilirmak River Source (Imranli)
Imranli;

Kizilirmak River 1 (Sivas or Sebastea)

Sebaste, Armenia (high point, Iris River Source, Kizilirmak River 1)
Sebaste, Cappadocia; Hieromartyr Athenogenes the Bishop of Heracleopolis, Commemorated on July 16; Martyr Antiochus the Physician of Sebaste, Commemorated on July 16; MACRINA THE YOUNGER, MONASTIC AND TEACHER (19 JUL 379); Martyr Severian of Sebaste, Commemorated on September 9; Martyr Irenarchus at Sebaste, Commemorated on November 28 ; Martyr Eustratius at Sebaste, Commemorated December 13 ; St Modestus the Archbishop of Jerusalem, Commemorated December 18 ; St Emilia, the Mother of St Basil the Great, Commemorated on January 1 ; St Peter the Bishop of Sebaste, in Armenia, Commemorated on January 9 ; 40 Holy Martyrs of Sebaste, Commemorated on March 9;

Kizilirmak River 2 (near Charsianon Fortress)

Kizilirmak River 3 (near Pinarbasi, Cappadocia)

Kizilirmak River 4 (Caesurea (Kayseri), Cappadocia)

Cappadocia, Armenia (Central Anatolia)
Cappadocia; Martyr Hilary of Ancyra, Commemorated July 12 ; Venerable Michael of Maleinus, Commemorated on July 12 ; Martyr Marcian of Iconium, Commemorated on July 13 ; Hieromartyr Athenogenes the Bishop of Heracleopolis, Commemorated on July 16; Martyr Antiochus the Physician of Sebaste, Commemorated on July 16; MACRINA THE YOUNGER, MONASTIC AND TEACHER (19 JUL 379) ; Venerable Macrina the Sister of St Basil the Great, Commemorated on July 19 ; Venerable Anthusa the Abbess of Mantinea in Asia Minor, Commemorated on July 27; St Irene Chrysovolantou, Commemorated on July 28; Martyr Julitta at Caesarea, Commemorated July 31 ; Righteous Eudocimus of Cappadocia, Commemorated on July 31; Apostle Matthias of the Seventy, Commemorated on August 9; Hieromartyr Alexander the Bishop of Comana, Commemorated on August 12; St Simeon Stylites, the Elder, Commemorated September 1 ; Martyr Eupsychius of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on September 7 ; Martyr Severian of Sebaste, Commemorated on September 9 ; Martyr Theodota at Nicea, Commemorated on September 17 ; Hieromartyr Gregory the Bishop of Greater Armenia, Equal of the Apostles and Enlightener of Armenia, Commemorated on September 30; Martyr Orestes of Cappadocia, Commemorated on November 10 ; Greatmartyr Mercurius of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on November 24 ; Venerable Macrina the Sister of St Basil the Great, Commemorated on July 19; Martyr Julitta at Caesarea, Commemorated on July 31 ; Righteous Eudocimus of Cappadocia, Commemorated on July 31; St Meletius the New, Commemorated September 1 ; Martyr Mamas of Caesarea in Cappadocia, Commemorated on September 2 ; Martyr Theodotus of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on September 2 ; Martyr Theodota at Nicea, Commemorated September 17 ; Venerable Igantius the Abbot in Asia Minor, Commemorated September 27 ; 33 Holy Martyrs of Melitene, Commemorated November 6 ; Martyr Orestes of Cappadocia, Commemorated on November 10 ; St Proclus the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated on November 20 ; Icon of the Mother of God of Damascus, Commemorated on December 4 ; Venerable Sava the Sanctified, Commemorated on December 5 ; Hieromartyr Alexander the Bishop of Jerusalem, Commemorated December 12 ; Venerable Theodora of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated December 30 ; Martyr Basil of Ancyra, Commemorated January 1 ; St Basil the Great the Archbishop of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated January 1 ; St Emilia, the Mother of St Basil the Great, Commemorated on January 1 ; St Peter the Bishop of Sebaste, in Armenia, Commemorated January 9 ; Venerable Theodosius the Great, the Cenobiarch, Commemorated on January 11 ; St Nino (Nina), Equal of the Apostles and Enlightener of Georgia, Commemorated January 14 ; Martyr Speusippus in Cappadocia, Commemorated on January 16 ; St Macarius the Stylite of Martkobsk, Georgia, Commemorated on January 19 ; St Gregory the Theologian the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated on January 25 ; Translation of the relics of St John Chrysostom the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated January 27 ; Venerable Ephraim the Syrian, Commemorated on January 28 ; The Meeting of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the Temple, Commemorated on February 2 ; Martyr Eubulus at Caesarea, Cappadocia, February 2 ; Martyr Blaise of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated February 3 ; Virginmartyr Dorothy at Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated Febuary 6 ; Greatmartyr Theodore Stratelates œthe GeneralÂ, Commemorated on February 8 ; Venerable Shio Mgvime, Commemorated February 9 ; Martyr Pamphilius the Presbyter at Caesarea, in Palestine, Commemorated on February 16; St Agapitus the Confessor the Bishop of Synnada in Phrygia, Commemorated February 18 ; Martyr Victor of Phrygia, Commemorated on February 18; St Agapitus the Confessor the Bishop of Synnada in Phrygia, Commemorated February 18; St Leo of Cappadocia, Commemorated on February 28; Hieromartyr Theodotus the Bishop of Cyrenia, Commemorated on March 2; GREGORY OF NYSSA, (9 MAR 395); GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332); St Hypatius the Wonderworker and Bishop of Gangra, Commemorated on March 31; Martyr Sava the Goth of Wallachia, Commemorated on April 15; GREGORY OF NAZIANZUS, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (9 MAY 389); Martyr Quadratus and the rest of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 10; Martyr Eupsychius of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on April 9; Greatmartyr, Victory-bearer and Wonderworker George, Commemorated on April 23; Venerable Thomas the Fool of Syria, Commemorated on April 24; GREGORY OF NAZIANZUS, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (9 MAY 389); St Akaki Asistavi of Georgia, Commemorated on May 7; St Alexander the Archbishop of Jerusalem, Commemorated on May 16 ; Glorification of the Venerable Zebulon, the father of St Nino Enlightener of Georgia, Commemorated on May 20; Martyr Basiliscus the Bishop of Comana, Commemorated on May 22; Hieromartyr Therapon the Bishop of Sardis, Commemorated on May 27; St John the Russian and Confessor, whose relics are on the island of Euboia, Commemorated on May 27; Martyr Hermias at Comana, Commemorated on May 31 ; BASIL THE GREAT, BISHOP, THEOLOGIAN (14 JUNE 379); Hieromartyr Terence the Bishop of Iconium, Commemorated on June 21; Martyr Hyacinthus of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on July 3; Martyr Theodotus at Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on July 4; Martyr Kyriake of Nicomedia, Commemorated on July 7;

Caesurea (Kayseri), Armenia, Cappadocian Capital (Great Road, Kizilirmak River 4)
Caesurea, Cappadocia; Martyr Antiochus the Physician of Sebaste, Commemorated on July 16; Martyr Julitta at Caesarea, Commemorated on July 31; Martyr Mamas of Caesarea in Cappadocia, Commemorated on September 2 ; Martyr Theodotus of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on September 2; Martyr Theodotus of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on September 2 ; Martyr Eupsychius of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated September 2 ; Martyr Eupsychius of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on September 7 ; Martyr Theodota at Nicea, Commemorated September 17 ; Hieromartyr Gregory the Bishop of Greater Armenia, Equal of the Apostles and Enlightener of Armenia, Commemorated on September 30; Martyr Barlaam of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated November 19 ; St Amphilochius the Bishop of Iconium, Commemorated on November 23 ; Greatmartyr Mercurius of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on November 24 ; Venerable Theodora of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated December 30 ; Martyr Basil of Ancyra, Commemorated January 1 ; St Basil the Great the Archbishop of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated January 1 ; St Emilia, the Mother of St Basil the Great, Commemorated January 1 ; Martyr Gordius at Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated January 3 ; St Carterius of Caesarea in Cappadocia, Commemorated January 8 ; St Gregory the Theologian the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated January 25 ; Venerable Ephraim the Syrian, Commemorated on January 28 ; Martyr Eubulus at Caesarea, Cappadocia, February 2 ; Martyr Blaise of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated February 3 ; Virginmartyr Dorothy at Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated Febuary 6 ; GREGORY OF NYSSA, (9 MAR 395); Martyr Quadratus and the rest of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 10; GREGORY THE ILLUMINATOR, APOSTLE TO ARMENIA (23 March 332); Martyr Eupsychius of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on April 9; Venerable Thomas the Fool of Syria, Commemorated on April 24; GREGORY OF NAZIANZUS, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (9 MAY 389); BASIL THE GREAT, BISHOP, THEOLOGIAN (14 JUNE 379); Martyr Hyacinthus of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on July 3; Martyr Theodotus at Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on July 4;

Maza, temporary name of Caesarea (Kayseri) Armenia, by Julian the Apostate
Maza, temporary name of Caesarea (Kayseri) Armenia, by Julian the Apostate Eupsychius was filled with zeal for the Lord, and he destroyed the temple. He knew that this would inevitably result in his punishment. Saint Eupsychius distributed all his possessions to the poor and prepared himself for martyrdom. enraged emperor Julian loosed his wrath not only upon Saint Eupsychius, but against all the inhabitants of this city. Some of the citizens were executed, while the more respectable were sent into exile. Christian clergy were drafted into military service, and he looted the churches of anything valuable. The city was deprived of its title Caesarea [i.e. “Imperialâ€] and resumed its original name of Maza. He also imposed a severe tax on the inhabitants. The emperor threatened to annihilate the city altogether, if the people did not build a new pagan temple in place of the one destroyed. tried to compel Saint Eupsychius to offer sacrifice to idols. For many days they tormented the saint on a rack, and also with iron claws. But his faith was firm, and the judge sentenced the martyr to be beheaded with a sword. Julian embarked on a campaign against the Persians, marching through Cappadocia and approaching Caesarea. Danger threatened the city, since the emperor intended to raze it to its foundations. But then Saint Basil the Great (January 1), showing Julian the proper respect as sovereign authority, came out to meet him carrying with him three loaves of barley bread, which he ate. The emperor ordered his retainers to take the loaves, and to give Saint Basil a pinch of hay saying, “You have given us barley, cattle fodder. Now receive hay from us in return.â€ saint answered, “O Emperor, we bring you that which we ourselves eat, and you give us cattle feed. You mock us, since you, by your might, are not able to transform hay into bread, the essential food of mankind.â€ angrily retorted, “I’ll shove this hay down your throat when I return here from Persia. I shall raze this city to its very foundations, and plow over this ground and turn it into a field. I know that it was on your advice that the people dared to destroy the statues and temple of Fortuna.â€ this the emperor continued on his way, but soon perished in his campaign against the Persians. He was struck down in the year 363 by the holy Great Martyr Mercurius (November 24). the emperor’s demise, the Christians of the city of Caesarea built a splendid church over the grave of Saint Eupsychius, and from his holy relics they received help and healing. Caesurea, Cappadocia; Martyr Eupsychius of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated on April 9; Holy Martyr Eupsychius was born in the city of Caesarea in Cappadocia and received a Christian upbringing by his illustrious parents. the reign of Julian the Apostate (361-363), Saint Eupsychius entered into a Christian marriage. Caesarea there was a pagan temple to the goddess Fortuna, whom Julian the Apostate revered. As Eupsychius was going to his wedding, the pagans were offering sacrifice to the goddess Fortuna. Eupsychius was filled with zeal for the Lord, and he destroyed the temple. He knew that this would inevitably result in his punishment. Saint Eupsychius distributed all his possessions to the poor and prepared himself for martyrdom. enraged emperor Julian loosed his wrath not only upon Saint Eupsychius, but against all the inhabitants of this city. Some of the citizens were executed, while the more respectable were sent into exile. Christian clergy were drafted into military service, and he looted the churches of anything valuable. The city was deprived of its title Caesarea [i.e. “Imperialâ€] and resumed its original name of Maza. He also imposed a severe tax on the inhabitants. The emperor threatened to annihilate the city altogether, if the people did not build a new pagan temple in place of the one destroyed. tried to compel Saint Eupsychius to offer sacrifice to idols. For many days they tormented the saint on a rack, and also with iron claws. But his faith was firm, and the judge sentenced the martyr to be beheaded with a sword. Julian embarked on a campaign against the Persians, marching through Cappadocia and approaching Caesarea. Danger threatened the city, since the emperor intended to raze it to its foundations. But then Saint Basil the Great (January 1), showing Julian the proper respect as sovereign authority, came out to meet him carrying with him three loaves of barley bread, which he ate. The emperor ordered his retainers to take the loaves, and to give Saint Basil a pinch of hay saying, “You have given us barley, cattle fodder. Now receive hay from us in return.â€ saint answered, “O Emperor, we bring you that which we ourselves eat, and you give us cattle feed. You mock us, since you, by your might, are not able to transform hay into bread, the essential food of mankind.â€ angrily retorted, “I’ll shove this hay down your throat when I return here from Persia. I shall raze this city to its very foundations, and plow over this ground and turn it into a field. I know that it was on your advice that the people dared to destroy the statues and temple of Fortuna.â€ this the emperor continued on his way, but soon perished in his campaign against the Persians. He was struck down in the year 363 by the holy Great Martyr Mercurius (November 24). the emperor’s demise, the Christians of the city of Caesarea built a splendid church over the grave of Saint Eupsychius, and from his holy relics they received help and healing.

Comana, Armenia (Pontica, Armenia, Cappadocia or Cilicia, Zamanti Seyhan River Valley)
Comana (Cappadocia); Hieromartyr Alexander the Bishop of Comana, Commemorated on August 12; St Proclus the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated on November 20 ; Translation of the relics of St John Chrysostom the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated January 27 ; Martyr Basiliscus the Bishop of Comana, Commemorated on May 22; Third Finding of the Honorable Head of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John, Commemorated on May 25; Martyr Hermias at Comana, Commemorated on May 31;

Mount Argeos, Armenia
Mount Argeos; Hieromartyr Blaise the Bishop of Sebaste, Commemorated February 11;

Prokopion, Armenia, Asia Minor
Prokopion (renamed Urgup by the Turks) ; St John the Russian and Confessor, whose relics are on the island of Euboia, Commemorated on May 27;

Sasima, Armenia
Sasima, St Basil the Great made St Gregory bishop of the city of Sasima, a small town between Caesarea and Tyana. ; St Gregory the Theologian the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated January 25 ; GREGORY OF NAZIANZUS, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (9 MAY 389) ;

Nazianzos, Cappadocia, Armenia (Great Road from Ephesus)
Nazianzos; St Gregory the Theologian the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated January 25 ; GREGORY OF NYSSA, (9 MAR 395); GREGORY OF NAZIANZUS, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (9 MAY 389) ; Saint Caesarius, brother of Saint Gregory the Theologian, Commemorated on March 9;

Tyana, Armenia, Cappadocia and Cilicia
Tyana the Hittite Capital; Martyr Orestes of Cappadocia, Commemorated on November 10 ; St Gregory the Theologian the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated January 25 ; BASIL THE GREAT, BISHOP, THEOLOGIAN (14 JUNE 379) ; GREGORY OF NAZIANZUS, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (9 MAY 389);

Kizilrmak River 5 (Nyssa, Cappadocia)

Nyssa, Cappadocia, Armenia (Kizilirmak River 5)
Nyssa, Cappadocia; MACRINA THE YOUNGER, MONASTIC AND TEACHER (19 JUL 379) ; Venerable Macrina the Sister of St Basil the Great, Commemorated on July 19 ; St Gregory the Wonderworker of Neocaesarea, Commemorated November 17 ; St Emilia, the Mother of St Basil the Great, Commemorated on January 1 ; St Peter the Bishop of Sebaste, in Armenia, Commemorated January 9 ; St Gregory the Bishop of Nyssa, Commemorated January 10; Blessed Theosebia the Deaconess, sister of Sts Basil the Great and Gregory of Nyssa, Commemorated January 10 ; The Meeting of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the Temple, Commemorated on February 2 ; GREGORY OF NYSSA, (9 MAR 395);

Kizilirmak River 6 (Paphlagonia)

Armenia, Euphrates Kizilirmak Rivers Folder, Great Road, Syria

Euphrates River

Euphrates River Route

Euphrates River - Western Euphrates

Euphrates River Source (Murat River)

Euphrates River Source

Euphrates River 1

Arabrak (Arabraces), Armenia (Euphreates River 1)
Arabrak (Arabraces), Armenia ; Martyr Eustratius at Sebaste, Commemorated on December 13 ;

Euphrates River 2 (Melitene)

Armenia, Edessa and Melitene area Folder, Top Left of the Fertile Crescent

Edessa area of Euphrates River

Armenia, Edessa and Melitene, Euphrates River Folder, Great Road

Melitene, Armenia (Intersection Road from Ephesus and Euphrates River 2)
Malatya; Finding of the Icon of the Mother of God at the Miasena Monastery, Commemorated September 1 ; Uncovering of the relics St Acacius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on September 15; Martyr Polyeuctus of Melitene, in Armenia, Commemorated on January 9 ; Martyr Kyriake of Nicomedia; Martyr Eudoxius; St Acacius the Confessor, Commemorated on March 31; St Acacius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on April 17; St Eutychius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on May 28;

Erevan (Yerevan Fortress, Melitene)
Erevan (Yerevan Fortress, Melitene); Arab Muslim Conquest of Armenia 639;

Euphrates River 3 (Samosata and Edessa)

Samosata, Armenia (Euphrates River 3)
Samosata; Martyr Lucian the Presbyter of Antioch, Commemorated on October 15; St Gregory the Wonderworker of Neocaesarea, Commemorated on November 17 ; Venerable Daniel the Stylite of Constantinople, Commemorated on December 11 ; Martyr Romanus at Samosata, Commemorated January 29 ; St Rabulas of Samosata, Commemorated February 19 ; Hieromartyr Eusebius the Bishop of Samosata, Commemorated on June 22;

Edessa, Armenia (Intersection and Euphrates River 3)
Edessa, Syria; St Theodore the Bishop of Edessa, Commemorated on July 9 ; Venerable Simeon of Emessa the Fool-For-Christ, Commemorated on July 21; Apostle Matthias of the Seventy, Commemorated on August 9; Translation of the Image "œNot-Made-By-Hands"Â of our Lord Jesus Christ from Edessa to Constantinople, the Third œFeast of the Savior in August, Commemorated on August 16; Translation of the Image "œNot-Made-By-Hands"Â of our Lord Jesus Christ from Edessa to Constantinople, the Third œFeast of the Savior in AugustÂ, Commemorated on August 16 ; BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX, ABBOT, THEOLOGIAN, AND POET (20 AUGUST 1153); Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated August 21 ; Thaddeus, Apostle of the Seventy, was by descent a Hebrew, and he was born in the Syrian city of Edessa. The holy Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy must be distinguished from Saint Jude, also called Thaddeus or Levi (June 19), who was one of the Twelve Apostles. he came to Jerusalem for a feastday, he heard the preaching of John the Forerunner. After being baptized by him in the Jordan, he remained in Palestine. He saw the Savior, and became His follower. He was chosen by the Lord to be one of the Seventy Disciples, whom He sent by twos to preach in the cities and places where He intended to visit (Luke. 10: 1). the Ascension of the Savior to Heaven, Saint Thaddeus preached the good news in Syria and Mesopotamia. He came preaching the Gospel to Edessa and he converted King Abgar, the people and the pagan priests to Christ. He backed up his preaching with many miracles (about which Abgar wrote to the Assyrian emperor Nerses). He established priests there and built up the Edessa Church. Abgar wanted to reward Saint Thaddeus with rich gifts, but he refused and went preaching to other cities, converting many pagans to the Christian Faith. He went to the city of Beirut to preach, and he founded a church there. It was in this city that he peacefully died in the year 44. (The place of his death is indicated as Beirut in the Slavonic MENAION, but according to other sources he died in Edessa. According to an ancient Armenian tradition, Saint Thaddeus, after various tortures, was beheaded by the sword on December 21 in the Artaz region in the year 50). Martyr Bassa of Edessa, and her sons, Commemorated on August 21; St Barses the Confessor, Commemorated August 25 ; Finding of the Icon of the Mother of God at the Miasena Monastery, Commemorated on September 1 ; Martyr Juventinus the Soldier at Antioch, Commemorated on September 5 ; Martyr Sarbelus of Edessa, Commemorated September 5 ; Martyr Eudoxius, Commemorated September 6 ; Forefeast of the Nativity of the Mother of God. Commemorated September 7 ; Martyr Domnina with her daughters of Syria, Commemorated on October 4; Virginmartyr Pelagia of Antioch, Commemorated October 8 ; Apostle James the Son of Alphaeus, Commemorated on October 9; Martyr Lucian the Presbyter of Antioch, Commemorated on October 15 ; Martyr Sarbelus of Edessa, Commemorated October 15 ; Venerable Abramius the Recluse of Mesopotamia, Commemorated on October 29 ; Martyr and Confessor Gurias of Edessa, Commemorated on November 15 ; St Theodoulus the Eparch of Constantinople, Commemorated December 3 ; Martyr Gemellus of Paphlagonia, Commemorated December 10 ; St Theodore the Bishop of Edessa; Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; St Eustratius the Wonderworker, Commemorated on January 9 ; Venerable Ephraim the Syrian, Commemorated on January 28 ; St Aphraates of Persia, Commemorated on January 29 ; St Sarbelus of Edessa, January 29 ; Wonderworker and Unmercenary Cyrus, Commemorated on January 31 ; Martyr Bassa of Edessa, and her sons; Martyr Domnina with her daughters of Syria; Venerable Alexander the founder of the Monastery, of the "Unsleeping Ones", Commemorated February 23 ; St John Zedazneli of Zaden, in Georgia with his 12 Disciples, Commemorated on May 7; Venerable Alexis the Man of God, Commemorated on March 17; Venerable Hilarion the New the Abbot of Pelecete, Commemorated on March 28 ; Apostle Trophimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15 ; Greatmartyr Irene of Thessalonica, Commemorated on May 5; EARLY ABBOTS of CLUNY, 30 April 909 ; EPHREM OF EDESSA, DEACON AND HYMN-WRITER (10 JUNE 373); Apostle Jude the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on June 19; St Alexander the Founder of the Monastery of the "œUnsleeping Ones"Â, Commemorated on July 3 ;

Edessa, Armenia (abundant water)
Edessa in Syria which is also called upper Messopotamia. County of Edessa; St Theodore the Bishop of Edessa, Commemorated on July 9 ; Venerable Simeon of Emessa the Fool-For-Christ, Commemorated on July 21; Apostle Matthias of the Seventy, Commemorated on August 9 ; Translation of the Image "œNot-Made-By-Hands"Â of our Lord Jesus Christ from Edessa to Constantinople, the Third œFeast of the Savior in August"Â, Commemorated on August 16; Translation of the Image "Not-Made-By-Hands" of our Lord Jesus Christ from Edessa to Constantinople, the Third œFeast of the Savior in AugustÂ, Commemorated on August 16 ; BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX, ABBOT, THEOLOGIAN, AND POET (20 AUGUST 1153); Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated August 21 ; Martyr Bassa of Edessa, and her sons, Commemorated on August 21; St Barses the Confessor, Commemorated August 25 ; Martyr Sarbelus of Edessa, Commemorated September 5 ; Forefeast of the Nativity of the Mother of God. Commemorated September 7 ; Martyr Domnina with her daughters of Syria, Commemorated on October 4; Virginmartyr Pelagia of Antioch, Commemorated October 8 ; Apostle James the Son of Alphaeus, Commemorated on October 9; Martyr Lucian the Presbyter of Antioch, Commemorated on October 15 ; Martyr Sarbelus of Edessa, Commemorated October 15 ; Venerable Abramius the Recluse of Mesopotamia, Commemorated on October 29 ; Martyr and Confessor Gurias of Edessa, Commemorated on November 15 ; St Theodoulus the Eparch of Constantinople, Commemorated December 3 ; Martyr Gemellus of Paphlagonia, Commemorated December 10 ; Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; St Eustratius the Wonderworker, Commemorated on January 9 ; Venerable Ephraim the Syrian, Commemorated on January 28 ; Abgar monastery; St Aphraates of Persia, Commemorated on January 29 ; St Sarbelus of Edessa, January 29 ; Wonderworker and Unmercenary Cyrus, Commemorated on January 31 ; Venerable Alexis the Man of God, Commemorated on March 17; Venerable Hilarion the New the Abbot of Pelecete, Commemorated on March 28; Apostle Trophimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15 ; EARLY ABBOTS of CLUNY, 30 April 909 ; Greatmartyr Irene of Thessalonica, Commemorated on May 5; St John Zedazneli of Zaden, in Georgia with his 12 Disciples, Commemorated on May 7; Martyr Michael "œthe Black-Robed"Â of St Sava Monastery, Commemorated on May 23; EPHREM OF EDESSA, DEACON AND HYMN-WRITER (10 JUNE 373); Apostle Jude the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on June 19; St Alexander the Founder of the Monastery of the "œUnsleeping Ones"Â, Commemorated on July 3 ; St Theodore the Bishop of Edessa, Commemorated on July 9;

Unsleeping Ones Monastery, Edessa, Armenia, about 400 (Euphrates River 3)
Unsleepinge Ones Monastery, Edessa, Armenia advanced through all the degrees of monastic obedience, he received a blessing from the igumen to dwell in the wilderness. The saint lived an ascetical life in the wilderness, taking only the Holy Gospel with him. Afterwards, the Lord summoned him to preach to pagans. He converted to the faith the local city-head Rabbul, who afterwards prospered in the service of the Church, attaining the rank of bishop, and for thirty years, he occupied the bishop’s cathedra in the city of Edessa. Saint Alexander settled not far from the Euphrates River. Monks gathered around him, attracted by the loftiness of his prayerful asceticism and spiritual experience. A monastery of 400 monks eventually sprang up there. the holy igumen in his prayerful zeal decided to offer never-ceasing praise to the Lord at the monastery both by day and by night. For three years the holy abba prayed that God might reveal to him whether it was pleasing to Him to establish such a monastic rule. He received an answer by divine revelation. All the monks were divided into twenty-four watches of prayer. Changing shifts each hour, two choirs sang the holy Psalms both day and night, except when divine services were celebrated in church. Hence the name “Monastery of Unsleeping Ones,â€ since the ascetics offered unceasing praise to God. Alexander guided the monastery on the Euphrates for twelve years. Thereafter, having left the experienced Elder Trophimus as igumen, he set off with some chosen brethren through the cities bordering on Persia, to preach the Gospel. Having arrived at Constantinople, capital of the Byzantine Empire, he also established a monastery there with his Rule of unceasing praise. The abba died at a great old age after fifty years of monastic struggles. His death occurred in the year 430. Venerable Alexander, founder of the Monastery of the “Unsleeping Onesâ€, Commemorated on February 23

Hellenopolis, Syria (Edessa area)
Hellenopolis ; Venerable Patermuthius the Ascetic of Egypt, Commemorated on July 9;

Jacob's Ladder, Haran, Edessa, Syria
Jacob's Ladder, Haran ; Forefeast of the Nativity of the Mother of God, Commorated on September 7 ;

Carrhae, Armenia (modern Harran, near Edessa)
Carrhae (modern Harran) ; St Barses the Confessor, Commemorated August 25; St Abraham the Bishop of Charres in Mesopotamia, Commemorated on February 14 ;

Constantina, Armenia and Syria (Kurdish Turkey, NE of Edessa)
Constantina; Great Martyr Irene, Commemorated on May 5; was deposed by his son Sapor, who persecuted Christians with an even greater zeal than his father had done. Saint Irene went to her home town of Magedon in Persia to meet Sapor and his army, and ask him to end the persecution. When he refused, Saint Irene prayed and his entire army was blinded. She prayed again and they received their sight once more. In spite of this, Sapor refused to recognize the power of God. Because of his insolence, he was struck and killed by a bolt of lightning. this, Saint Irene walked into the city and performed many miracles. She returned to the tower built by her father, accompanied by the priest Timothy. Through her teaching, she converted five thousand people to Christ. Next, the saint went to the city of Callinicus, or Callinicum (possibly on the Euphrates River in Syria). The ruler of that place was King Numerian, the son of Sebastian. When she began to teach about Christ, she was arrested and tortured by the pagan authorities. They enclosed her inside three bronze oxen, one after another, which were heated until they were red-hot. When the Great Martyr was placed within the third ox, it began to walk about, and then it split asunder. Saint Irene emerged from it as if from the fires of hell. This resulted in thousands of souls converting to the faith of Christ. the approach of death, Numerian instructed his eparch Babdonus to continue torturing the saint in order to force her to sacrifice to idols. Once again, the tortures were ineffective, and many people turned to Christ. ’s holy martyr then traveled to the city of Constantina, forty miles northeast of Edessa. By 330, the Persian king Sapor II (309-379) had heard of Saint Irene’s great miracles. To prevent her from winning more people to Christ, she was arrested, beheaded, and then buried. However, God sent an angel to raise her up again, and she went into the city of Mesembria. After seeing her alive and hearing her preach, the local king was baptized with many of his subjects. Wishing to convert even more pagans to Christianity, Saint Irene went to Ephesus, where she taught the people and performed many miracles. The Lord revealed to her that the end of her life was approaching. Then Saint Irene left the city accompanied by six people, including her former teacher Apellian. On the outskirts of the town, she found a new tomb in which no one had ever been buried. After making the Sign of the Cross, she went inside, directing her companions to seal the entrance to the cave with a large stone, which they did. She also told them that that no one should move the stone until four days had passed. returned after only two days, and found that the stone had been rolled away and the tomb was empty. There are conflicting accounts about her holy relics being taken to Constantinople and other places, including Patras, Samos, and Patmos. According to the Western Martyrologies, Saint Irene was martyred in Thessaloniki after being thrown into the fire, while according to the Menologion of Emperor Basil II, Saint Irene completed her martyric contest by being beheaded. Irene led thousands of people to Christ through her preaching, and by her example. The Church continues to honor her memory and to seek her heavenly intercession. She is invoked by those wishing to effect a swift and happy marriage. In Greece, she is also the patron saint of policemen. Saint Irene is also one of the twelve Virgin Martyrs who appeared to Saint Seraphim of Sarov (January 2) and the Diveyevo nun Eupraxia on the Feast of the Annunciation in 1831. By her holy prayers, may the Lord have mercy upon us and save us. Amen.

Zeugma, Syria (Euphrates River 3.5)
Zeugma, Syria; St Publius the Ascetic of Syria, Commemorated January 25 ;

Kobane, Syria (Euphrates River 3.5)
Kobane, Syria;

Euphrates River 4 (Hieropolis, Syria)

Armenia, Edessa and Melitene, Euphrates River 4, Sajur River Folder

Sajur River 1

Sajur River 2

Sajur River 3

Sajur River Source (two streams at Gaziantep)

Sajur River Mouth (Hieropolis and Pethor, Euphrates River 4)

Hieropolis in Syria (Sajur River Mouth, Euphrates River 4)
Hieropolis in Syria (Euphrates River 4) 30 kilometers west of the Euphrates; Martyr Domnina with her daughters of Syria, Commemorated on October 4; Holy, All-Praised Apostle Philip, Commemorated November 14 ;

Pethor (Sajur River Mouth, Euphrates River 4)
Pethor (Sajur River Mouth, Euphrates River 4); Numbers 22:1-21. Balak Summons Balaam (from Pethor) to Curse Israel;

Euphrates River 5 (Kings Highway)

Callinicus, or Callinicum, Armenia or Syria (Euphrates River 5)
Callinicus, or Callinicum; Great Martyr Irene, Commemorated on May 5; was deposed by his son Sapor, who persecuted Christians with an even greater zeal than his father had done. Saint Irene went to her home town of Magedon in Persia to meet Sapor and his army, and ask him to end the persecution. When he refused, Saint Irene prayed and his entire army was blinded. She prayed again and they received their sight once more. In spite of this, Sapor refused to recognize the power of God. Because of his insolence, he was struck and killed by a bolt of lightning. this, Saint Irene walked into the city and performed many miracles. She returned to the tower built by her father, accompanied by the priest Timothy. Through her teaching, she converted five thousand people to Christ. Next, the saint went to the city of Callinicus, or Callinicum (possibly on the Euphrates River in Syria). The ruler of that place was King Numerian, the son of Sebastian. When she began to teach about Christ, she was arrested and tortured by the pagan authorities. They enclosed her inside three bronze oxen, one after another, which were heated until they were red-hot. When the Great Martyr was placed within the third ox, it began to walk about, and then it split asunder. Saint Irene emerged from it as if from the fires of hell. This resulted in thousands of souls converting to the faith of Christ. the approach of death, Numerian instructed his eparch Babdonus to continue torturing the saint in order to force her to sacrifice to idols. Once again, the tortures were ineffective, and many people turned to Christ. ’s holy martyr then traveled to the city of Constantina, forty miles northeast of Edessa. By 330, the Persian king Sapor II (309-379) had heard of Saint Irene’s great miracles. To prevent her from winning more people to Christ, she was arrested, beheaded, and then buried. However, God sent an angel to raise her up again, and she went into the city of Mesembria. After seeing her alive and hearing her preach, the local king was baptized with many of his subjects.

Euphrates River 6 (Chebar River Mouth)

Euphrates River 7 (Bagdagi)
Euphrates River;

Euphrates River 8 (Faluja)

Euphrates River 9 (Babylon)

Euphrates River 10

Euphrates River 11 (Samara)

Euphrates River 12

Euphrates River 13 (Tigris River)

Euphrates River Mouth (Persian Gulf)

Armenia, Silk Road to Great Road and Yerevan Trade Route Folder

Silk Road Great Road Trade Route

Silk Road Great Road Trade Route 1 - Trebizond, Pontine, Armenia (Black Sea, Silk Road, Harsit River)
Trebizond (Black Sea, Silk Road) ; Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, and those with Him, Commemorated on April 8; looking up Patara in Herodion's story, I discovered the Armenian trade route North to South from Silk Road at Trebizond to Great Road at Melitene, Samosata and Edessa and then East to West from Edessa to Yerevan along the Upper Euphrates. still do not know if this is the correct Patera for Herodion's story, but it was an important high point and fort along an important Trade Route Apostle Matthias of the Seventy, Commemorated on August 9 ; Venerable Theodosius the Metropolitan of Trebizond, Commemorated on January 11 ; Martyr Neophytus of Nicea, Commemorated January 21; Martyr Eugene at Trebizond; Hieromartyr Theodore of Atchara, Commemorated February 17; St George the Bishop of Amastris on the Black Sea, Commemorated February 21 ; New Martyr John the New of Sochi, who suffered at Belgrade, Commemorated on June 2; Venerable Athanasius the Founder of the Great Lavra and Coenobitic Monasticism on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on July 5;

Trebizond, Pontine, Armenia (Black Sea, Silk Road, Harsit River)
Trebizond (Black Sea, Silk Road) ; Apostle Matthias of the Seventy, Commemorated on August 9 ; Venerable Theodosius the Metropolitan of Trebizond, Commemorated on January 11 ; Martyr Neophytus of Nicea, Commemorated January 21; Martyr Eugene at Trebizond; Hieromartyr Theodore of Atchara, Commemorated February 17; St George the Bishop of Amastris on the Black Sea, Commemorated February 21 ; New Martyr John the New of Sochi, who suffered at Belgrade, Commemorated on June 2; Venerable Athanasius the Founder of the Great Lavra and Coenobitic Monasticism on Mt. Athos, Commemorated on July 5;

Sild Road, Great Road Trade Route 2 - Patara (high point, Pontine, Armenia)
Patara (Cappadocia); city lay on the major trade road from Trapezus on the Black Sea to Satala, and thence to Lake Van. Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, and those with Him, Commemorated on April 8; looking up Patara in Herodion's story, I discovered the Armenian trade route North to South from Silk Road at Trebizond to Great Road at Melitene, Samosata and Edessa and then East to West from Edessa to Yerevan along the Upper Euphrates. still do not know if this is the correct Patera for Herodion's story, but it was an important high point and fort along an important Trade Route

Patara (high point on Trade Route connecting Silk Road Trebazond to Great Road at Mietelene to Yaravan)
Patara (Cappadocia); city lay on the major trade road from Trapezus on the Black Sea to Satala, and thence to Lake Van. Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, and those with Him, Commemorated on April 8; looking up Patara in Herodion's story, I discovered the Armenian trade route North to South from Silk Road at Trebizond to Great Road at Melitene, Samosata and Edessa and then East to West from Edessa to Yerevan along the Upper Euphrates. still do not know if this is the correct Patera for Herodion's story, but it was an important high point and fort along an important Trade Route

Silk Road Great Road Trade Route 3 - Satala, Pontine, Armenia (on the road from Trabzon to Samosata and Lake Van)
Satala, Pontine, Armenia; Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, and those with Him, Commemorated on April 8; looking up Patara in Herodion's story, I discovered the Armenian trade route North to South from Silk Road at Trebizond to Great Road at Melitene, Samosata and Edessa and then East to West from Edessa to Yerevan along the Upper Euphrates. still do not know if this is the correct Patera for Herodion's story, but it was an important high point and fort along an important Trade Route

Silk Road to Great Road Trade Route 4 - Kemah Fortress, a high point
Kemah Fortress, a high point ; Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, and those with Him, Commemorated on April 8; looking up Patara in Herodion's story, I discovered the Armenian trade route North to South from Silk Road at Trebizond to Great Road at Melitene, Samosata and Edessa and then East to West from Edessa to Yerevan along the Upper Euphrates. still do not know if this is the correct Patera for Herodion's story, but it was an important high point and fort along an important Trade Route

Silk Road Great Road Trade Route 5 - Melitene, Armenia (Intersection Road from Ephesus and Euphrates River 2)
Malatya; Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, and those with Him, Commemorated on April 8; looking up Patara in Herodion's story, I discovered the Armenian trade route North to South from Silk Road at Trebizond to Great Road at Melitene, Samosata and Edessa and then East to West from Edessa to Yerevan along the Upper Euphrates. still do not know if this is the correct Patera for Herodion's story, but it was an important high point and fort along an important Trade Route Finding of the Icon of the Mother of God at the Miasena Monastery, Commemorated September 1 ; Uncovering of the relics St Acacius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on September 15; Martyr Polyeuctus of Melitene, in Armenia, Commemorated on January 9 ; Martyr Kyriake of Nicomedia; Martyr Eudoxius; St Acacius the Confessor, Commemorated on March 31; St Acacius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on April 17; St Eutychius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on May 28;

Great Road To Yerevan Trade Route Folder - via Upper Euphrates

Great Road to Yerevan Armenia Trade Route via Upper Euphrates River

Great Road to Yerevan Armenia via Euphrates River Trade Route 1 - Samosata and Edessa, Armenia (Euphrates River 3)
Samosata; Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, and those with Him, Commemorated on April 8; looking up Patara in Herodion's story, I discovered the Armenian trade route North to South from Silk Road at Trebizond to Great Road at Melitene, Samosata and Edessa and then East to West from Edessa to Yerevan along the Upper Euphrates. still do not know if this is the correct Patera for Herodion's story, but it was an important high point and fort along an important Trade Route Martyr Lucian the Presbyter of Antioch, Commemorated on October 15; St Gregory the Wonderworker of Neocaesarea, Commemorated on November 17 ; Venerable Daniel the Stylite of Constantinople, Commemorated on December 11 ; Martyr Romanus at Samosata, Commemorated January 29 ; St Rabulas of Samosata, Commemorated February 19 ; Hieromartyr Eusebius the Bishop of Samosata, Commemorated on June 22;

Great Road to Yerevan Trade Route 2 - Melitene, Armenia (Intersection Road from Ephesus and Euphrates River 2)
Malatya; Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, and those with Him, Commemorated on April 8; looking up Patara in Herodion's story, I discovered the Armenian trade route North to South from Silk Road at Trebizond to Great Road at Melitene, Samosata and Edessa and then East to West from Edessa to Yerevan along the Upper Euphrates. still do not know if this is the correct Patera for Herodion's story, but it was an important high point and fort along an important Trade Route Finding of the Icon of the Mother of God at the Miasena Monastery, Commemorated September 1 ; Uncovering of the relics St Acacius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on September 15; Martyr Polyeuctus of Melitene, in Armenia, Commemorated on January 9 ; Martyr Kyriake of Nicomedia; Martyr Eudoxius; St Acacius the Confessor, Commemorated on March 31; St Acacius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on April 17; St Eutychius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on May 28;

Great Road to Yerevan Trade Route 3 - Armenia, 1071, Battle of Manzikert at Lake Van on Upper Euphrates
Armenia, Battle of Manzikert 1071; Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, and those with Him, Commemorated on April 8; looking up Patara in Herodion's story, I discovered the Armenian trade route North to South from Silk Road at Trebizond to Great Road at Melitene, Samosata and Edessa and then East to West from Edessa to Yerevan along the Upper Euphrates. still do not know if this is the correct Patera for Herodion's story, but it was an important high point and fort along an important Trade Route

Great Road to Yerevan Trade Route 3 - Lake Van, Taron Region
Lake Van; Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, and those with Him, Commemorated on April 8; looking up Patara in Herodion's story, I discovered the Armenian trade route North to South from Silk Road at Trebizond to Great Road at Melitene, Samosata and Edessa and then East to West from Edessa to Yerevan along the Upper Euphrates. still do not know if this is the correct Patera for Herodion's story, but it was an important high point and fort along an important Trade Route Taron Region; Arab Muslim Conquest of Armenia 639;

Great Road to Yerevan Trade Route 4 - Euphrates River Source (Murat River Source)
Murat River Source, the Major Source of the Euphrates; Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, and those with Him, Commemorated on April 8; looking up Patara in Herodion's story, I discovered the Armenian trade route North to South from Silk Road at Trebizond to Great Road at Melitene, Samosata and Edessa and then East to West from Edessa to Yerevan along the Upper Euphrates. still do not know if this is the correct Patera for Herodion's story, but it was an important high point and fort along an important Trade Route Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, and those with Him, Commemorated on April 8;

Great Road to Yervan Trade Route 5 - Erevan (Yerevan Fortress, Melitene)
Erevan (Yerevan Fortress, Melitene); Apostle Herodion of the Seventy, and those with Him, Commemorated on April 8; looking up Patara in Herodion's story, I discovered the Armenian trade route North to South from Silk Road at Trebizond to Great Road at Melitene, Samosata and Edessa and then East to West from Edessa to Yerevan along the Upper Euphrates. still do not know if this is the correct Patera for Herodion's story, but it was an important high point and fort along an important Trade Route Arab Muslim Conquest of Armenia 639;

Rome, Roman Roads, Roman Empire, Albania Folder

Albania, K Triangle Folder, Via Egnatia, Western K Triangle

Kutmichevitsa Triangle - K Triangle
Kutmichevitsa triangle Saloniki-Skopje-Vlora; St Clement the Bishop of Ochrid and Enlightener of the Bulgarians, Commemorated on November 25;

K Triangle Saloniki-Skopje-Vlora
Kutmichevitsa triangle Saloniki-Skopje-Vlora; St Clement the Bishop of Ochrid and Enlightener of the Bulgarians, Commemorated on November 25;

K Triangle Skopje-Salonik-Vlora
Kutmichevitsa triangle Saloniki-Skopje-Vlora; St Clement the Bishop of Ochrid and Enlightener of the Bulgarians, Commemorated on November 25;

K Triangle Vlora-Saloniki-Skopje

Valona, Albania (Aous River Mouth. K Triangle, Via Egnatia)
Valona, Albania; Venerable Romilus of Ravenica, Commemorated January 16 ; Greatmartyr Anastasia the œDeliverer from PotionsÂ, Commemorated on December 22 ; Martyr Theodota who suffered under Diocletian, Commemorated December 22 ; Virginmartyr Anysia at Thessalonica, Commemorated on December 30 ;

Via Egnatia (The East West Roman Road)
Key towns along the Via Egnatia East West Roman Road Listed from west to east: Ancient name Modern name Modern country Dyrrachium, later Epidamnos Durras Albania Claudiana Peqin Albania Apollonia By the village of Pojani (7 km W of Fier) Albania Masio Scampa Elbasan Albania Lychnida Ohrid North Macedonia Resen Resen North Macedonia Heraclea Bitola North Macedonia Florina Florina Greece Edessa Edessa Greece Pella Pella Greece Thessalonike Thessaloniki Greece Pydna Possibly Kitros, 6 km SW of modern Pydna Greece Amphipolis Amfipoli Greece Philippi 14 km NW of Kavala Greece Neapolis Kavala Greece Traianoupolis Traianoupoli Greece Kypsela kypsala Turkey Aenus Enez Turkey Aproi Turkey Adrianople Edirne (not on the main Via Egnatia) Turkey Perinthus, later Heraclea Village of Marmaraere Turkey Caenophrurium Sinekli in Silivri district Turkey Selymbria Silivri Turkey Melantias Turkey Rhegion l Turkey Byzantium Turkey

Albania, Via Egnatia Folder (Main East West Roman Road, K Triangle)

Via Egnatia (The East West Roman Road)
Key towns along the Via Egnatia East West Roman Road Listed from west to east: Ancient name Modern name Modern country Dyrrachium, later Epidamnos Durras Albania Claudiana Peqin Albania Apollonia By the village of Pojani (7 km W of Fier) Albania Masio Scampa Elbasan Albania Lychnida Ohrid North Macedonia Resen Resen North Macedonia Heraclea Bitola North Macedonia Florina Florina Greece Edessa Edessa Greece Pella Pella Greece Thessalonike Thessaloniki Greece Pydna Possibly Kitros, 6 km SW of modern Pydna Greece Amphipolis Amfipoli Greece Philippi 14 km NW of Kavala Greece Neapolis Kavala Greece Traianoupolis Traianoupoli Greece Kypsela Turkey Aenus Enez Turkey Aproi Village of Kermeyan Turkey Adrianople Edirne (not on the main Via Egnatia) Turkey Perinthus, later Heraclea Village of MarmaraereaŸlisi Turkey Caenophrurium Sinekli in Silivri district Turkey Selymbria Silivri Turkey Melantias Turkey Rhegion Kaekmece, 15 km W of Istanbul Turkey Byzantium, later Constantinople Istanbul Turkey

Rome, Roman Roads, Roman Empire, Bithynia Folder

Rome, Roman Roads, Roman Empire, Serbia Folder

Serbia, Roman Road, Via Militaris Folder, from Belgrade, Serbia to Adrianopolis, Bulgaia

Roman Road, Via Militarius

Roman Road, Via Militaris 1, Singidunum (Belgrade)
Roman Road, Via Militarius 1, Singidunum (Belgrade); Roman Road, Via Militarius;

Roman Road, Via Militaris 2 , Viminacium, Roman Moesia Superior (Prima) Capitol
Viminacium, capital of Roman Moesia Superior (Prima), on Via Militarius; Saint Donatus, Bishop of Euroea in Epirus, Commemorated on April 30;

Roman Road, Via Militaris 3 (Naissus or Nish, Serbia (South Morava River 5)
Roman Road, Via Militaris 3 (Naissus or Nish, Serbia (South Morava River 5) Nish, Serbia; Equal of the Apostles and Emperor Constantine with his Mother Helen, Commemorated on May 21;

Hemus Pass
Saturninus and Traianus blocked the Goths near the passes of the Haemus, building a line of fortifications that repulsed the Gothic attacks. The two generals hoped to force the Goths to suffer through the cold winter and the scarcity of food in order to force them into submission; alternatively, the two generals planned to call back the sentinels, luring the Goths of Fritigern into an open-field battle in the plains between the Haemus and the Danube, where they were confident of winning.[2] Fritigern did not accept battle, but enlisted Hunnic and Alan reinforcements. Saturninus realised that he could no longer fight the enemy with his troops, lifted the block on the mountain passes, and retired.[3] magister militum per Thracias, Emperor Theodosius I, who had succeeded Valens after his death in the Battle of Adrianople, entrusted Saturninus to negotiate peace with the Goths: in October 382 he signed a treaty according to which the Goths were to live in the Low Danube as foederati. successful negotiation guaranteed Saturninus the imperial favour, and he was appointed consul for the year 383. Themistius dedicated to him a panegyric. 400 Saturninus was serving under the Eastern Emperor Arcadius, when the magister militum Gainas deposed and exiled him.

Roman Road, Via Militaris 5, Philippopolis, Thrace, Bulgaria (Maritza River 5)
Philippoplis; Martyr Severus and 38 Soldiers in Thrace, Commemorated on August 20; Martyr Theodotus of Adrianopolis, Commemorated on September 15 ; New Martyr Ignatius the Monk of Bulgaria, Commemorated October 8 ; Apostle Hermes of the Seventy, Commemorated November 5 ; Apostle Hermas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Hermas of the Seventy, Commemorated on March 8; New Martyr Ignatius the Martyr of Mt Athos, Commemorated on May 1; Martyr Alexander of Rome, Commemorated on May 13; Apostle Hermas of the Seventy, Commemorated on May 31 ; Venerable Paisius of Hilandar, Bulgaria, Commemorated on June 19;

Roman Road, Via Militaris 6, Adrianopolis, Thrace, Bulgaria
Adrianople; Venerable Cosmas the Eunuch and Hermit of Palestine, Commemorated on August 3; Translation of the relics of St Maximus the Confessor, Commemorated on August 13; Martyr Agathonicus of Nicomedia, and others who suffered under Maximian, Commemorated on August 22; 40 Women Martyrs at Heraclea, in Thrace, Commemorated September 1 ; Martyr Theodotus of Adrianopolis, Commemorated on September 15 ; Repose of St. Anthimus, Bishop of Georgia, Commemorated on September 14; St. Stephen of Serbia, œthe blind oneÂ, Commemorated on October 9; St Alexander the Bishop at Adrianopolis, Commemorated on October 22 ; St Athanasius the Patriarch of Constantinople; Venerable Athanasius the Younger the Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated October 28 ; Martyr Maximus of Adrianopolis, Commemorated February 19; Monkmartyr Euthymius of Prodromou of Mt Athos, Commemorated on March 22; New Martyr Euthymius of Mt Athos, Commemorated on May 1; St Anthimus, Bishop of Georgia, Commemorated on June 13;

Rome, Roman Roads, Roman Empire, Crimea, Taurica Folder, later the Varangian Trade Route

Dnieper (Varanigan) Trade Route (Varangia to Constantinople)
The chief trade route of Rus, from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea, was then called œthe Way from the Varangians to the Greeks.

Dnieper (Varangian) Trade Route 1 (Constantinople)

Dnieper (Varangian) Trade Route 2 (Cherson, Korsun, Crimea)

Cherson, Crimea, Taurica, Roman Stone Quarry, Cherson is the Greek Name, till 285
Korsun, Crimea ; Equal of the Apostles Great Prince Vladimir, in Holy Baptism Basil, the Enlightener of the Russian Land, Commemorated on July 15; Icon of the Mother of God of Minsk, Commemorated on August 13 ; Repose of the New-Hieromartyr Cosmas of Aitolia, Equal of the Apostles, Commemorated on August 24; Icon of the Mother of God of Korsun, Commemorated on October 9; St Joachim, First Bishop of Novgorod, Commemorated February 10 ; Korsun, , the Greek name for Cherson; St Methodius, Equal of the Apostles and Archbishop of Moravia, Enlightener of the Slavs, Commemorated on April 6; Equal of the Apostles and Teacher of the Slavs, Methodius, Commemorated on May 11; Icon of the Mother of God of Kasperov, Commemorated on April 5; Equal of the Apostles and Teacher of the Slavs, Methodius, Commemorated on May 11 and April 6 ; St George the Confessor the Bishop of Mitylene, Commemorated on April 7; Equal of the Apostles and Teacher of the Slavs, Cyril, Commemorated on May 11 ; Icon of the Mother of God of Kasperov, Commemorated on June 29; Equal of the Apostles Great Prince Vladimir, in Holy Baptism Basil, the Enlightener of the Russian Land, Commemorated on July 15; The Placing of the Honorable Robe of the Most Holy Mother of God at Blachernae, Commemorated on July 2;

Roman Taurida (Taurica, the Crimean Penninsula and surrounding area, including Odessa and Tomis)
Taurida; Equal of the Apostles Great Prince Vladimir, in Holy Baptism Basil, the Enlightener of the Russian Land, Commemorated on July 15; Vladimir indulged himself in a wild, sensuous life, he was far from the libertine that they sometimes portray him as being. He “shepherded his land with truth, valor and reasonâ€, as a good and diligent master, of necessity he extended and defended its boundaries by force of arms, and in returning from military campaigns, he made for his companions and for all Kiev liberal and merry feasts. the Lord prepared him for another task. Where sin increases, there, in the words of the Apostle, grace abounds (Rom. 5: 20). “And upon him came visitation of the Most High, and the All-Merciful eye of the Good God gazed upon him, and shone forth the thought in his heart, of understanding the vanity of idolous delusion, and of appealing to the One God, Creator of all things both visible and invisible.â€ The matter of accepting Baptism was facilitated through external circumstances. The Byzantine Empire was in upheaval under the blows of the mutinous regiments of Bardas Skliros and Bardas Phocas, each of whom sought to gain the imperial throne. In these difficult circumstances the emperors, the coregent brothers Basil the Bulgar-Slayer and Constantine, turned for help to Vladimir. unfolded quickly. In August 987 Bardas Phocas proclaimed himself Emperor and moved against Constantinople, and in autumn of that same year the emissaries of Emperor Basil were at Kiev. “And having exhausted his (Basil’s) wealth, it compelled him to enter into an alliance with the Emperor of the Russians. They were his enemies, but he besought their help,â€ writes one of the Arab chronicles of events in the 980s. “And the Emperor of the Russians consented to this, and made common cause with him.â€ a reward for his military help, Vladimir asked for the hand of the emperors’ sister Anna, which for the Byzantines was an unheard of audacity. Princesses of the imperial lineage did not marry “barbarianâ€ rulers, even if they were Christians. At the same time the emperor Otto the Great was seeking the hand of Anna for his son, and he was refused. However, in Vladimir’s case Constantinople was obliged to consent. agreement was concluded, according to which Vladimir had to send the emperors six thousand Varangians, and to accept holy Baptism. Under these conditions he would receive the hand of the imperial daughter Anna. Thus in the strife of human events the will of God directed the entering of Rus into the grace-filled bosom of the Ecumenical Church. Great Prince Vladimir accepted Baptism and sent the military assistance to Byzantium. With the aid of the Russians, the mutineers were destroyed and Bardas Phocas killed. But the Greeks, gladdened by their unexpected deliverance, were in no hurry to fulfill their part of the bargain. at the Greek duplicity, Prince Vladimir “hastened to collect his forcesâ€ and he moved “against Korsun, the Greek city,â€ the ancient Chersonessos. The “impenetrableâ€ rampart of the Byzantine realm on the Black Sea fell. It was one of the vitally important hubs of the economic and mercantile links of the empire. This blow was so much felt, that its echo resounded throughout all the regions of Byzantium. again had the upper hand. His emissaries, the commanders Oleg and Sjbern soon arrived in Constantinople for the imperial daughter. Eight days passed in Anna’s preparation, during which time her brothers consoled her, stressing the significance of the opportunity before her: to enable the enlightening of the Russian realm and its lands, and to make them forever friends of the Byzantine realm. At Taurida Saint Vladimir awaited her, and to his titles there was added a new one: Caesar (Tsar). The haughty rulers of Constantinople had to accede also in this, to bestow upon their new brother-in-law the imperial insignia. In certain of the Greek historians, Saint Vladimir is termed from these times as a “mighty basileios-kingâ€, he coins money in the Byzantine style and is depicted on it with the symbols of imperial might: in imperial attire, and on his head the imperial crown, and in his right hand the sceptre with cross. with the empress Anna, there arrived for the Russian See Metropolitan Michael ordained by holy Patriarch Nicholas II Chrysoberges. He came with his retinue and clergy, and many holy relics and other holy things. In ancient Chersonessos, where each stone brings to mind Saint Andrew the First-Called, there took place the marriage-crowning of Saint Vladimir and Blessed Anna, both reminiscent and likewise affirming the oneness of the Gospel of Christ in Rus and in Byzantium. Korsun, the “empress’s dowryâ€, was returned to Byzantium. In the spring of 988 the Great Prince and his wife set out through the Crimea, Taman and the Azov lands, which had come into the complexion of his vast realm on the return trip to Kiev. Leading the princely cortege with frequent Services of Thanksgiving and incessant priestly singing they carried crosses, icons and holy relics. It seemed, that the Ecumenical Holy Church was moving into the spacious Russian land, and renewed in the font of Baptism, Holy Rus came forth to meet Christ and His Church. followed an unforgettable and quite singular event in Russian history: the morning of the Baptism of the Kievans in the waters of the River Dneipr. On the evening before, Saint Vladimir declared throughout the city: “If anyone does not go into the river tomorrow, be they rich or poor, beggar or slave, that one shall be my enemy.â€ The sacred wish of the holy Prince was fulfilled without a murmur: “all our land glorified Christ with the Father and the Holy Spirit at the same time.â€ is difficult to overestimate the deep spiritual transformation of the Russian people effected by the prayers of Saint Vladimir, in every aspect of its life and world-view. In the pure Kievan waters, as in a “bath of regenerationâ€, there was realized a sacramental transfiguration of the Russian spiritual element, the spiritual birth of the nation, called by God to unforeseen deeds of Christian service to mankind. “Then did the darkness of the idols begin to lift from us, and the dawn of Orthodoxy appear, and the Sun of the Gospel illumined our land.â€ In memory of this sacred event, the regeneration of Rus by water and the Spirit, the Russian Church established the custom of an annual church procession “to the waterâ€ on August 1. Later, the Feast of the Procession of the Honorable Wood of the Life-Creating Cross of the Lord, which Russia celebrated with the Greek Church, was combined with the Feast of the All-Merciful Savior and the Most Holy Theotokos (established by Saint Andrew Bogoliubsky in the year 1164). In this combination of feasts there is found a precise expression of the Russian theological consciousness, for which both Baptism and the Cross are inseparable. throughout Holy Rus, from the ancient cities to the far outposts, Saint Vladimir gave orders to destroy the pagan sanctuaries, to flog the idols, and in their place to clear land in the hilly woods for churches, in which altars would be consecrated for the Bloodless Sacrifice. Churches of God grew up along the face of the earth, at high elevated places, and at the bends of the rivers, along the ancient trail “from the Variangians to the Greeksâ€ figuratively as road signs and lamps of national holiness. Concerning the famed church-building activity of Saint Vladimir, the Metropolitan of Kiev Saint Hilarion (author of the “Word on Law and Graceâ€) exclaimed: “They demolished the pagan temples, and built up churches, they destroyed the idols and produced holy icons, the demons have fled, and the Cross has sanctified the cities.â€ the early centuries of Christianity it was the custom to raise up churches upon the ruins of pagan sanctuaries or upon the blood of the holy martyrs. Following this practice, Saint Vladimir built the church of Saint Basil the Great upon a hill, where a sanctuary of Perun had been located, and he built the stone church of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos (Desyatinnaya) on the place of the martyrdom of the holy Varangian Martyrs (July 12). The magnificent temple was intended to become the cathedral for the Metropolitan of Kiev and All Rus, and thus the primal altar of the Russian Church. It was built in five years, and was richly adorned with frescoes, crosses, icons and sacred vessels, brought from Korsun. The day of the consecration of the church of the Most Holy Theotokos, May 12 (in some manuscripts May 11), was ordered by Saint Vladimir to be inserted into the Church calendar as an annual celebration. This event was linked with other events celebrated on May 11, and it provided the new Church a twofold sense of continuity. Under this day in the calendar is noted the churchly Founding of Constantinople “dedicated by the holy emperor Saint Constantine as the new capital of the Roman Empire, the city of Constantine is dedicated to the Most Holy Theotokos (330). On this same day of May 11, the church of Sophia, the Wisdom of God was consecrated at Kiev (in the year 960 under Saint Olga). Saint Vladimir, having had the cathedral church consecrated to the Most Holy Theotokos, followed the example of Saint Constantine in dedicating the capital city of the Russian Land (Kiev) to the Queen of Heaven. a tithe or tenth was bestown on the Church; and since this church had become the center of the All-Russian collection of churchly tithes, they called it the Tithe church. The most ancient text of the grant, or church rule by holy Prince Vladimir spoke thus: “For I do bestow on this church of the Holy Mother of God a tenth of all my principality, and also throughout all the Russian Land from all the princely jurisdiction a tithe of squirrel-pelts, and from the merchant, a tithe of the week, and from households each year, a tenth of every herd and every livelihood, to the wondrous Mother of God and the wondrous Savior.â€ The grant also specified “church peopleâ€ as being free from the jurisdictional power of the prince and his “tiuniâ€ (officials) and placed them under the jurisdiction of the Metropolitan. chronicle has preserved a prayer of Saint Vladimir, with which he turned to the Almighty at the consecration of the Dormition Tithe church: “O Lord God, look down from Heaven and behold, and visit Your vineyard, which Your right hand has planted. And make this new people, whom You have converted in heart and mind to know You, the True God. And look down upon this Your church, which Your unworthy servant has built in the name of the Mother Who gave birth to Thee, the Ever-Virgin Theotokos. And whoever prays in this church, let his prayer be heard, through the prayers of the All-Pure Mother of God.â€ the Tithe church and Bishop Anastasius, certain historians have made a connection with the beginnings of Russian chronicle writing. At it were compiled the Life of Saint Olga and the account of the Varangian Martyrs in their original form, and likewise the “Account, How in the Taking of Korsun, Vladimir came to be Baptized.â€ Here also originated the early Greek redaction of the Lives of the Holy Martyrs Boris and Gleb. the time of Saint Vladimir, the Kiev Metropolitan See was occupied successively by the Metropolitan Saint Michael (September 30), Metropolitan Theophylactus, who transferred to Kiev from the See of Armenian Sebaste (991-997), Metropolitan Leontius (997-1008), and Metropolitan John I (1008-1037). Through their efforts the first dioceses of the Russian Church were opened: at Novgorod (its first representative was Saint Joachim of Korsun (+ 1030), compiler of the Joachimov Chronicle), Vladimir-Volyn (opened May 11, 992), Chernigov, Pereslavl, Belgorod, and Rostov. “And thus throughout all the cities and villages there were set up churches and monasteries, and the clergy increased, and the Orthodox Faith blossomed forth and shone like the sun.â€ advance the Faith among the newly enlightened people, learned people and schools were needed to help prepare them. Therefore, Saint Vladimir and the holy Metropolitan Michael “commanded fathers and mothers to take their young children and send them to schools to learn reading and writing.â€ Saint Joachim of Korsun set up such a school at Novgorod, and they did the same in other cities. “And there were a multitude of schools of scholars, and of these were there a multitude of philosophers.â€ a firm hand Saint Vladimir held in check enemies at the frontiers, and he built fortified cities. He was the first in Russian history to set up a “notched boundary,â€ a line of defensive points against nomadic peoples. “Volodimir began to set up cities along the Desna, along the Vystra, along the Trubezha, along the Sula and along the Stugna. And he settled them with the Novgorodians, the Smolyani, the Chuds and the Vyatichi. He made war against the Pechenegs and defeated them.â€ But the real reason for his success was the peaceful Christian preaching among the pagans of the steppes. the Nikol’sk Chronicles under the year 990 was written: “And in that same year there came to Volodimir at Kiev four princes from the Bulgars and they were illumined with Divine Baptism.â€ In the following year “the Pecheneg prince Kuchug came and accepted the Greek faith, and he was baptized in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and served Vladimir with a pure heart.â€ Under the influence of the holy prince several apparent foreigners were also baptized. For example, the Norwegian “koenigâ€ (king) Olaf Trueggvason (+ 1000) who lived several years at Kiev, and also the renowned Torvald the Wanderer, founder of a monastery of Saint John the Forerunner along the Dneipr near Polotsk, among others. In faraway Iceland the poet-skalds called God the “Protector of the Greeks and Russians.â€ addition to the Christian preaching, there were the renowned feasts of Saint Vladimir. After Liturgy on Sundays and Church Feasts there were put out abundant feasting tables for the Kievans, they rang the bells, choirs sang praise, the “transported infirmâ€ sang bylini-ballads and spiritual verses. On May 12, 996, for example, on the occasion of the consecration of the Tithe church, the prince “made a bright feast.â€ He distributed goods “to many of the poor, and destitute and wanderers, and through the churches and the monasteries. To the sick and the needy he delivered through the streets casks and barrels of mead, and bread, and meat, and fish, and cheese, desiring that all might come and eat, glorifying Godâ€. Feasts were likewise celebrated in honor of the victories of Kievan warriors, and the regiments of Vladimir’s retinue: of Dobrynya, Alexander Popovich, Rogda the Bold. the year 1007 Saint Vladimir transferred the relics of Saint Olga to the Tithe church. Four years later, in 1011, his spouse and companion in many of his undertakings, the Blessed Empress Anna, was also buried there. After her death the prince entered into a new marriage with the young daughter of the German Graf Kuno von Enningen, granddaughter of the emperor Otto the Great. era of Saint Vladimir was a crucial period for the formation of Orthodox Rus. The unification of the Slavic lands and the formation of state boundaries under the domain of the Rurikovichi resulted from a strenuous spiritual and political struggle with neighboring tribes and states. The Baptism of Rus by Orthodox Byzantium was a most important step in its self-definition as a state. The chief enemy of Vladimir became Boleslav the Brave, whose plans included the extensive unification of the West Slavic and East Slavic tribes under the aegis of Catholic Poland. This rivalry arose back when Vladimir was still a pagan: “In the year 6489 (981). Volodimir went against the Lakhs and took their cities, Peremyshl, Cherven, and other cities, which be under Rus.â€ The final years of the tenth century are likewise filled with the wars of Vladimir and Boleslav. a brief lull (the first decade of the eleventh century), the “great stand-offâ€ entered into a new phase: in the year 1013 a conspiracy against Saint Vladimir was discovered at Kiev. Svyatopolk the Accursed, who was married to a daughter of Boleslav, yearned for power. The instigator of the conspiracy was Boleslav’s cleric, the Kolobzheg Catholic bishop Reibern. conspiracy of Svyatopolk and Reibern was an all-out threat to the historical existence of the Russian state and the Russian Church. Saint Vladimir took decisive measures. All the three involved were arrested, and Reibern soon died in prison. Vladimir did not take revenge on those that “opposed and hatedâ€ him. Under the pretense of feigned repentance, Svyatopolk was set free. new misfortune erupted in the North, at Novgorod. Yaroslav, not yet “the Wise,â€ as he was later to be known, in the year 1010 having become ruler of Novgorod, decided to defect from his father the Great Prince of Kiev. He formed his own separate army, moving on Kiev to demand the customary tribute and tithe. The unity of the Russian land, for which Saint Vladimir had struggled all his life, was threatened with ruin. In both anger and in sorrow Saint Vladimir gave orders to “secure the dams and set the bridges,â€ and to prepare for a campaign against Novgorod. His powers were on the decline. In the preparations for his final campaign, happily not undertaken, the Baptizer of Rus fell grievously ill and surrendered his soul to the Lord in the village of Spas-Berestov on July 15, 1015. He had ruled the Russian realm for thirty-seven years (978-1015), twenty-eight of these years after his Baptism. for a new struggle for power and hoping for Polish assistance, and to play for time, Svyatopolk attempted to conceal the death of his father. But patriotically inclined Kievan nobles, by night, secretly removed the body of the deceased sovereign from the Berestov court, where Svyatopolk’s people were guarding it, and they conveyed the body to Kiev. At theTithe church the coffin with the relics of Saint Vladimir was met by Kievan clergy with Metropolitan John at the head of the procession. The holy relics were placed in a marble crypt, set within the Saint Clement chapel of the Dormition church beside the marble crypt of Empress Anna. name and deeds of the holy Equal of the Apostles Saint Vladimir, whom the people called the Splendid Sun, is interwoven with all the successive history of the Russian Church. “Through him we too have come to worship and to know Christ, the True Life,â€ testified Saint Hilarion. His deeds were continued by his sons, and grandsons and descendants, rulers of the Russian land for almost six centuries, from Yaroslav the Wise, who took the first steps towards the independent existence of the Russian Church, down to the last of the Rurikovichi, Tsar Theodore Ioannovich, under whom (in 1589) the Russian Orthodox Church became the fifth independent Patriarchate in the dyptichs of Orthodox Autocephalous Churches. festal celebration of the holy Equal of the Apostles Vladimir was established under Saint Alexander Nevsky, in memory of the intercession of Saint Vladimir on May 15, 1240, for his help in gaining the renowned victory by Nevsky over Swedish crusaders. the first veneration of the holy prince began in Rus rather earlier. The Metropolitan of Kiev Saint Hilarion (+ 1053), in his “Word on Law and Grace,â€ spoken on the day of memory of Saint Vladimir at the saint’s crypt in the Tithe church, calls him “an apostolic sovereignâ€, like Saint Constantine, and he compares his apostolic evangelisation of the Russian Land to the evangelisation by the holy Apostles.

Dnieper (Varangian) Trade Route 3 (Dnieper Gulf)

Dnieper (Varangian) Trade Route 4 (Ekaternoslav)

Dnieper (Varangian) Trade Route 5 (Kiev)

Dnieper (Varangian) Trade Route 6 (Mogilev)

Dnieper (Varangian) Trade Route 7 (Smolensk)

Dnieper (Varangian) Trade Route 8 (Dorogobuzha, Dnieper River 1)

Dnieper (Varangian) Trade Route 9 (Sehzharovo, Volga River 2)

Rome, Roman Roads, Bulgaria Folder

Bulgaria, Roman Road, Via Militaris Folder, from Belgrade, Serbia to Adrianopolis, Bulgaia

Roman Road, Via Militarius 1, Singidunum (Belgrade)
Roman Road, Via Militarius 1, Singidunum (Belgrade); Roman Road, Via Militarius;

Roman Road, Via Militarius 2 , Viminacium, Roman Moesia Superior (Prima) Capitol
Viminacium, capital of Roman Moesia Superior (Prima), on Via Militarius; Saint Donatus, Bishop of Euroea in Epirus, Commemorated on April 30;

Roman Road, Via Militaris 4, Serdica or Sofia, Bulgaria
Roman Road, Via Militaris 4, Sofia, Bulgaria Sofia occupies a strategic position at the centre of the Balkan Peninsula, on Roman Road. Repose of the Venerable John the Abbot of Rila, Commemorated on August 18; Translation of the relics of St Alexander Nevsky, Commemorated August 30; Greatmartyr George the New at Sofia, Bulgaria, Commemorated on May 26;

Bulgaria, Roman Roads Triangle Folder, Via Egnatia, Eastern Triangle

Valona, Albania (Aous River Mouth)
Valona, Albania; Venerable Romilus of Ravenica, Commemorated January 16 ; Greatmartyr Anastasia the œDeliverer from PotionsÂ, Commemorated on December 22 ; Martyr Theodota who suffered under Diocletian, Commemorated December 22 ; Virginmartyr Anysia at Thessalonica, Commemorated on December 30 ;

Via Egnatia Folder (Main East West Roman Road, K Triangle)