Saint Agatonic and his companions commemorated

The Orthodox calendar commemorates the martyrdom of Saint Agatonic and his companions, who suffered during the reign of Emperor Maximian (286–305). The persecutions were led by the official Evtolmie, who was tasked with capturing Christians in Nicomedia.

Agatonic, a disciple of Christ who converted many to the faith, was arrested alongside the ruler of Nicomedia, who served as Agatonic’s spiritual guide. Other Christians, including Zotic, Teoprepie, Achindin, Zinon, and Severian, were also apprehended. Following arrests in Nicomedia and Carpin, the group was forced to endure a long and arduous journey on foot toward Thrace to face judgment before the emperor.

During the journey, several of the believers died due to their injuries and physical exhaustion. Upon reaching Silivria, Emperor Maximian ordered the decapitation of Agatonic and his companions after they refused to renounce their faith despite various tortures.