Holy Martyr Conon of Isauria (I)

The holy Martyr Conon of Isauria (I) was born in Bethany, near the city of Isauria in Asia Minor. From his childhood Saint Conon was protected by the Archangel Michael, who appeared to him and helped him in the difficulties of life.

At his parents’ wish Conon was betrothed to a maiden named Anna. After the wedding Conon persuaded Anna of the virtue of virginity, and for a long time the young couple lived as brother and sister. Saint Conon converted his parents to the law of Christ. His father, Saint Nestor, met a martyr’s end for denouncing the idol-worshippers.

Saint Conon lost his mother and his wife while still young. The pagans cruelly tortured Conon for confessing Christ. When the inhabitants of Isauria heard of this, they set out with weapons in their hands to defend the saint. Frightened by the popular uprising, the executioners fled. At the place of torture the Isaurians found the saint, bloodied and half-dead, grieving that he had not received the martyr’s crown as a reward from God.

Two years later Saint Conon reposed in peace. He was buried beside his parents and his wife.