St. Jer. Averchie, the bishop of Hierapolis, the one with the Apostles; The holy 7 young men of Ephesustranslated

Orthodox calendar, October 22 Saint Averchius The holy Hierarch Averchius, the same as the Apostles, was a bishop in Hierapolis during the time of Emperor Marcus Aurelius (161-180), when the god Apollo was honored by the pagans of that city.

One night, Averchie destroyed all the statues that adorned the god's church. Although he was hated by the pagans for his deed, he had the courage to go out and preach the Savior Jesus Christ.

By the wonderful healing of three young men he succeeded in appeasing the anger of many pagans and baptizing five hundred of them. Bishop Averchie also healed in Rome Lucilia, the daughter of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, who was engaged to Lucius Verus. From Rome, Averchius traveled to Syria, Antioch, Apamia, and the other cities around them.

Crossing the Euphrates, he went to the Churches of Nisibe and Mesopotamia. From here he returned to Cilicia, Pisidia and Sinad. Returning to his bishopric in Hieropolis, he passed peacefully to the Lord in the year 167, when he was 72 years old.

Troparion, Voice 4:

Straightener of faith and example of meekness, teacher of self-restraint, he showed you, your flock, the truth of things. For this you humbly acquired…