Today, October 20, the Church remembers the holy martyrs Sergius and Bacchustranslated

The memory of the holy martyrs of the first centuries of Christianity Sergius and Bacchus is celebrated by the Orthodox Church on October 20.

During the reign of Emperor Maximian (284-305), they were appointed to high military positions, not knowing that they were secret Christians.

However, soon the saints were denounced, and the emperor, wanting to verify the veracity of the denunciation, ordered Sergius and Bacchus to sacrifice to idols.

They, in turn, replied that they honor the One God and worship only Him, and not pagan false gods.

Maximian ordered the martyrs to be stripped of their military insignia, dressed in women's clothing, and led around the city with iron hoops around their necks so that the people would laugh at them.

Then he again called Sergius and Bacchus to him and friendly advised them to believe not in Christ, but to turn to the Roman gods, but the saints were adamant.

Then the emperor ordered them to be sent to the ruler of the eastern part of Syria, Antiochus, who hated Christians.

–  My fathers and benefactors! Be merciful not only to yourself, but also to me: I would not like to give you up to torture,” Antiochus, who received his position with their help, said to Sergius and Bacchus.

The martyrs answered that for them life is Christ, and death for Him is gain. Then angry...