Memory of Holy Martyrs and Confessors Gurias, Samonas, and Abibus of Edessa

Our Church commemorates the three Holy Martyrs and Confessors Gurias, Samonas, and Abibus.

Saints Gurias the Glorious and Samonas the Magnificent were martyred while struggling for their Christian faith during the reign of Emperor Diocletian. They were arrested by the ruler Antoninus and persuaded many not to sacrifice to the idols. They suffered with great patience and, in the end, they were beheaded.

Saint Abibus the Wise was born in Edessa and lived during the reign of Emperor Licinius a few years later. He was ordained a Deacon and was distinguished for his great piety and his devotion to preaching the Holy Gospel.

Emperor Licinius ordered to arrest Saint Abibus for his zealous spreading of Christianity. Saint Abibus was sentenced to be burned at the stake. After much torture, he was deemed worthy to receive the crown of martyrdom.

Source: Church of Cyprus