Saint Longinus the Centurion commemorated by Orthodox Church

The Orthodox Church commemorates the feast day of Saint Longinus the Centurion and several associated martyrs on October 16.

According to ecclesiastical tradition, Longinus was a Roman officer serving under Pontius Pilate during the reign of Emperor Tiberius. He is recognized for witnessing the crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Following these events, Longinus reportedly abandoned his military post to preach Christianity in his homeland of Cappadocia. This action led Roman authorities to order his execution. Tradition states that Longinus was beheaded alongside two fellow soldiers who had also embraced the faith.

Other saints honored on this day include the martyrs Domitius, Domninus, Leontius, and Terentius. Some calendars also note the veneration of Saint John the Turkolekas, Saint Malo, and Saint Gall the Wonderworker.