Martyrs Christopher, Theonas and Antoninus (+303)

The holy Martyrs Christopher, Theonas and Antoninus (+303) served in the army of the Emperor Diocletian (284–305). They were present at the martyrdom of the holy Great Martyr George (commemorated 23 April); they saw the miracles that took place and the saint’s faith, and believed in the true God. The soldiers chose to serve in the army of Christ rather than in the service of the pagan king; they took off their golden belts and declared before the emperor that they too were Christians. The new confessors of Christ were thrown into prison. The next day the emperor demanded that the soldiers renounce their faith, but the saints held firmly to their faith and glorified the Saviour. By Diocletian’s order Christopher, Theonas and Antoninus were beaten and then burned in fire. This happened in 303.