The Orthodox Church commemorates Martyrs Callistratus and Gaiana.
Saint Callistratus was born to virtuous parents who nurtured him in faith and piety. When he enlisted in the army, he continued to pray as he learned from a very young age.
He was accused of being a Christian. He publicly confessed his faith in the Lord knowing that they will brutally torture him for not renouncing his faith. Although he was brutally beaten, the grace of the Holy Spirit gave him the strength to retain the firm will and brave endurance of the martyr.
He was thrown into the sea and rescued by two dolphins. Many soldiers who witnessed this miracle believed and confessed their faith in Jesus Christ as their Savior and Redeemer. Then they were all thrown into prison, where Saint Callistratus explained the truths of the Holy Gospel to the new believers.
Although they were bound hand and foot and thrown into the sea, they were saved once again by the grace of the Holy Spirit. Eventually, they were martyred in prison.
The steadfastness and readiness of the true disciples of Christ, such as the martyrs we celebrate today, offer strength and courage to those with weak faith, thereby rebuilding their strength and driving away all sorrow and frustration.
Source: Church of Cyprus
