May 19, 2018

Synaxarion of the Holy Martyr Akolouthos of the Thebaid

St. Akolouthos the Martyr (Feast Day - May 19);
photo shows a ruined temple in Hermopolis

Verses

The Martyr Akolouthos as to a bridal chamber,
Complies as he is carried off to the flames.
*

This Saint lived during the reign of Emperor Maximian (286-385), and was from the Thebaid in Egypt, in Hermopolis. Because of his faith and confession in Christ, he was brought before the governor of that area. And not being enticed by flatteries, nor made timid by threats, first they hung a heavy rock from his neck. Then they decided to put him to death by fire, and when the renowned one was cast therein, he acquired the crown of martyrdom.

Notes:

* The name "Akolouthos" in Greek means "to follow" or "comply". Koloutho, or Colutho, was a common name in Egypt. There was a certain schismatic in Egypt named Kolouthos, or Coluthus, in the time of Saint Athanasius, who often mentions him in his Apologia; and Gregory of Nyssa names the same man Akolouthos. For some reason, in the Slavic tradition, this Saint is named Caluf or Kalifa.