Saint Autonom commemorated by the Orthodox Church

The Orthodox Church commemorates the feast day of Saint Autonom, a holy priest-martyr. According to religious tradition, Autonom served as a bishop in Italy during the persecutions under Emperor Diocletian.

To escape persecution, he relocated to Asia Minor, specifically to Soreos in Bithynia, where he established Christian communities and built a church dedicated to the Archangel Michael. His missionary work extended to regions such as Lycaonia and Isauria, leading many to convert to Christianity.

Tradition holds that Autonom was martyred at the altar of his church by a group of pagans while celebrating the liturgy. Following his death, a temple was erected over his grave during the reign of Emperor Constantine. Legend states that his incorrupt relics were later rediscovered after he appeared in a dream to a soldier, leading to reported miracles and healings.