Saint Eusebius honored on August 5 in Bulgaria

The Bulgarian Orthodox Church marks August 5 as the feast day of Saint Eusebius, a 4th‑century martyr born in Antioch, Syria. After serving more than six decades as a Roman soldier under emperors Diocletian, Maximian, Constantine the Great and his sons, he retired, embraced Christianity and became a witness to the heavenly sign of the cross that inspired Constantine before decisive battles. During the reign of Julian the Apostate, Eusebius was condemned for refusing to renounce his faith and was beheaded at the age of 110.

In Bulgaria the day is observed with church services, candle lighting and prayers for the protection of soldiers. It is also the eve of the Transfiguration feast on August 6, prompting believers to fast, avoid heavy work and refrain from starting new, risky endeavors.