Martyrs Probus, Tarachus & Andronicus; Holy Hierarch Cosmas, bishop of Maiuma

Holy Martyrs Tarachus, Probus, and Andronicus

They suffered for Christ in the year 304 at Tarsus in Cilicia. When the pagans ordered him to offer sacrifice to idols, the old soldier Tarachus replied that he would offer a pure heart to the one true God instead of sacrifices of blood. Seeing the firmness of the saint’s confession of the true Faith, the proconsul gave them all over to torture.

The tormentors subjected the martyrs to various tortures, and then they tore the bodies of the saints apart. Christians secretly took up the relics of the saints and buried them.

Troparion — Tone 5

The heavenly powers were amazed at the triumph of the holy martyrs Probus, Tarachus, and Andronicus. / For having fought the good fight with their mortal bodies, / they conquered bodiless enemies by the power of the Cross. / Now they intercede with the Lord / that He may save our souls.

Saint Cosmas the Hymnographer, Bishop of Maiuma

He was a native of Jerusalem. He was raised by the parents of Saint John of Damascus (December 4) together with their son, and he received a fine education. When Saint Cosmas came of age, he set out to one of the monasteries of Palestine, where he attained renown for his monastic exploits.

During a time of persecution against holy icons Saint Cosmas, and the venerable John, came forward to defend Orthodoxy. In the year 743, Cosmas was made Bishop of Maiuma. He died in old age, leaving behind many canons for feast days and a Triodion for four days of Holy Week.

Troparion — Tone 8

O Champion of Orthodoxy, teacher of purity and of true worship, / the enlightener of the universe and the adornment of the Hierarchs: / O all-wise Father Cosmas, Your teachings have gleamed with light upon all things. / Intercede before Christ our God to save our souls!

Tr by oca.org

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