Holy Hieromartyr Antipas, Bishop of Pergamum (+68)

The holy Hieromartyr Antipas of Pergamum (+68), a disciple of Saint John the Theologian (commemorated 26 September), was Bishop of Pergamum in the time of the Emperor Nero (54–68). By the emperor’s order all who would not offer sacrifice to the idols were punished or exiled. The holy Apostle John the Theologian too was exiled to the island of Patmos, where the Lord revealed to him the future of the world and of the holy Church.

“And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges;

I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan’s seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth” (Rev. 2:12–13).

By his example, firm faith and tireless preaching Saint Antipas brought the inhabitants of Pergamum to abandon idol-worship.

The enraged priests brought the holy Hieromartyr Antipas into the temple of Artemis and threw him into a red-hot bronze bull, in which sacrifices used to be offered. The saint prayed aloud, beseeching the Lord to receive his soul and to strengthen the faith of the Christians. The holy bishop met his end in peace, as if falling asleep (+68).

At night the Christians took up the hieromartyr’s body, untouched by the fire, and buried it with honour in Pergamum. Many miracles and healings took place at the tomb of Saint Antipas.