Saint Joasaph commemorated as a martyr

Saint Joasaph, a disciple of Saint Niphon, Patriarch of Constantinople, is honored for his martyrdom. Of unknown origin, Joasaph accompanied Saint Niphon and his companion Macarius to Wallachia to preach.

Following their travels through Macedonia and stays at Mount Athos, including the Vatopedi monastery, Joasaph sought martyrdom in Constantinople as foretold by his spiritual father. After preaching the mysteries of the Holy Trinity, he was tortured and beheaded by Ottoman authorities.

Historical records clarify that his martyrdom occurred on October 26, 1516, correcting previous erroneous accounts that cited the year 1536. His memory is specifically honored on October 26, with additional commemorations at the Vatopedi monastery.