# Commemoration of Saint Agatonik and companions

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/commemoration-of-saint-agatonik-and-companions
> Updated: 2026-08-22T03:59:08.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2.

The Orthodox Church commemorates the martyrdom of Saint Agatonik (Agatonic) and his companions, including Zotikos, Theoprepius, Akindinos, Severianus, and Zenon. Historical accounts state that Agatonik, a nobleman known for his eloquence, was martyred under the reign of Emperor Maximian after refusing to renounce his Christian faith.

Following arrests in Nicomedia and Carpin, the group was forced to travel on foot toward Thrace. Several believers died from exhaustion and injuries during the journey. Upon reaching Silivria, the Emperor ordered the decapitation of the group.

In addition to the religious commemoration, the date is associated with Bulgarian folk traditions and superstitions. These include seasonal observations, such as weather patterns predicting the nature of autumn or winter, and folklore advising against certain activities like entering forests or lending money to ensure prosperity.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-22: Orthodox Church commemorates Saint Agatonik on August 22

The Orthodox Church commemorates martyrs Saint Agatonik and others on August 22, a day also steeped in Bulgarian folk traditions regarding seasonal predictions and moral conduct.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/orthodox-church-commemorates-saint-agatonik-on-august-22

### 2026-08-21: Saint Agatonic and his companions commemorated

The Orthodox calendar honors the martyrdom of Saint Agatonic and his companions, who were executed under Emperor Maximian for their Christian faith.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/saint-agatonic-and-his-companions-commemorated

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