Synaxarion of the Holy Martyrs Onesiphoros and Porphyrios

Sts. Onesiphoros and Porphyrios (Feast Day - November 9)

Verses

Onesiphoros by horses runs to God,
Having as a fellow rider your household servant.
On the ninth you dashed to the heavenly finishing line O athletes.

These Saints contested during the time of Christian persecution, which took place in the reign of the emperors Diocletian and Maximian, in the year 290. Being accused of being Christians before the tyrant, and standing before his judgment seat, they confessed Christ as true God and the Maker of heaven and earth, with great bravery. Because of this confession, they endured various torments throughout their bodies. After this they were spread out over fiery coals. The renowned ones rejoiced over all these tortures and gave thanks to God, seeing that through these they would receive the rest of eternal good things. Because of this the pain of their bodies became lightened.

Those austere and double-impious tyrants, seeing how the Saints rejoiced and remained above the torments, became even more enraged. Therefore they tied their honorable feet to wild horses. Then these were sent off for a long time along thorns and thistles and jagged grounds. Thus the flesh of the brave strugglers became torn and scattered. This became the cause for their holy souls to ascend to their longed-for Lord. Then some Christians secretly took their holy relics, and buried them in a place called Pagkeanon, glorifying and blessing God.

Apolytikion in the Third Tone

You sought the delights of heaven, and became martyrs of the Lord, O renowned Onesiphoros and Porphyrios. Wherefore you drove God's golden chariot on the heavenly course. O divine Martyrs, entreat Christ our God to grant us His great mercy.

Kontakion in the Second Tone

The glorious martyrs Onesiphoros and Porphyrios together contested valiantly. They humbled the enemy's arrogance to the earth, and shone with the grace of the uncreated Trinity. Together with the Angels they now intercede for us all.