Saint Autonomos: The life and martyrdom of an early Christian bishop

The life and martyrdom of Saint Autonomos, an early Christian bishop, are commemorated on September 12. According to ecclesiastical tradition, Autonomos served as a bishop in Italy during the late 3rd and early 4th centuries.

To escape the persecutions led by Emperor Diocletian, he traveled to Bithynia in Asia Minor, settling in the Soreoi region near Nicomedia. While hosted by a Christian named Cornelius, Autonomos continued his missionary work, established a Christian community, and built a temple dedicated to Archangel Michael.

During his time in Asia Minor, he ordained Cornelius through several stages, including deacon, priest, and eventually bishop. His successful preaching drew significant numbers of converts, which reportedly incited hostility from local idol worshippers. The conflict culminated in 313 AD when a group attacked the temple during a Divine Liturgy, killing Autonomos by stoning him inside the sanctuary.