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St. Evanthia with her son, St. Eleutherius

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Commemorated on December 15

St. Eleutherius, the wife of an illustrious Roman citizen, raised her son, St. Eleutherius, in Christian piety. His virtue was such that at the age of twenty, he was elevated to Bishop of Illyria.

During the reign of Emperor Hadrian, St. Evanthia and her son were tortured for their bold preaching about Christ and then were beheaded at Rome. The Eparch Caribus, who had tortured St. Eleutherius, also came to believe and was executed when he accepted Christ.

Troparion (Tone 5) –

Adorned with the robe of priest

Stained with the streams of your blood,

O wise and blessed Eleutherius, over-thrower of Satan

You hastened to Christ your Master. Pray unceasingly for those who faithfully honor your contest!

Kontakion (Tone 2) –

We all praise and entreat you,

O Hieromartyr Eleutherius,

Adornment of priests and encouragement of martyrs:

Free from danger those who lovingly celebrate your memory,

And pray unceasingly for us all!

By permission of the Orthodox Church in America (www.oca.org)