Our Holy Church commemorates today Martyrs Basiliscus, Eutropius, and Cleonicus.
The Holy Martyrs Basiliscus, Eutropius, and Cleonicus came from the city of Pontine Amasea (Asia Minor) and lived during the reign of Emperor Maximian (286-305 AD). They were soldiers and relatives of Great-martyr Theodore the Tyro. Because of their Christian faith, they were brought to the ruler of Amasea, Asclepiodotus, who brutally tortured them.
However, the three martyrs felt the presence of Jesus Christ and Saint Theodore. So, even in prison, the three young men continued to worship the True God. Their preaching, forbearance, endurance, and courage have led many of their fellow prisoners to convert to Christianism. When Asclepiodotus was informed that the three prisoners were preaching the Gospel, he ordered that they be brought before him again.
He tried to make them renounce their faith with flatteries, gifts, and honors. They remained steadfast in their faith. Many pagans who witnessed the miracle converted to Christianism. Not only did Asclepiodotus change his attitude, but he also ordered all the newly enlightened Christians beheaded.
On March 3, 308, Eutropius and Cleonicus were crucified and, thus, received the wreath of martyrdom. Basiliscus remained incarcerated and died a few years later.
Source: Church of Cyprus
