By Bishop Grigorios of Mesaoria
On January 5, one day before the Feast of Epiphany, the Orthodox Church commemorates Martyr Theopemptus and Martyr Theonas.
Saint Theopemptus was a Bishop under Emperor Diocletia, who signed the decree of merciless persecution against Christians. At that time, the first to confess his faith to Jesus Christ was Bishop Theopemptus. He went through a series of cruel tortures but he managed to stay alive. In the meantime, he performed many miracles and, therefore, he was beheaded. His steadfastness impressed former sorcerer Theonas, who also confessed his faith in the Lord. The pagans buried him alive. However, Saint Theonas had a glorious death and went to Heaven.
Today it is one day before the Feast of Theophany, and, therefore, in the Orthodox Church, the Orthros is being performed as well as the Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom. Then, the Service of the Great Hours on the Eve of Theophany is being performed.
Source: Church of Cyprus
