By Bishop Gregorios of Mesaoria
Today, the Church celebrates the memory of the Holy Martyr Emilian, who came from the Thracian city of Dorostolum and lived during the reign of Emperor Julian the Apostate. We also celebrate the memory of Saint Onesiphoros, who practiced asceticism near Anarita in Paphos, as well as the memory of Saint Photius, who practiced asceticism near Athienou.
Martyr Emilian was a slave of a prominent idolater, who, when he learned that Emilian was a Christian, he was so enraged that he abused him and threatened him to renounce Christianity.
Instead of being intimidated by these threats, he went to the pagan temple and smashed all the idols with a hammer. This action infuriated the pagan priests, who managed to seize him and bring him to court.
The constant confession of faith in Jesus Christ of Emilian drew the wrath of the idolaters including his master, who humiliated and cruelly tortured him.
The unwavering faith and bravery of Saint Emilian, even when they cast him to the fire. Saint Emilian gave up his soul to the Lord. The wife of the pagan ruler gathered up the saint’s relics and buried them.
SOURCE: Church of Cyprus