Holy Martyr Cyriaca (IV)

The holy Martyr Cyriaca was the only daughter of pious Christians, Dorotheus and Eusebia. Her parents brought her up in the fear of God and prepared her for the service of the Lord.

When the persecution of the Christians began, the virgin was separated from her mother and father: Dorotheus and Eusebia were brought before the tribunal of the governor Justus, while Cyriaca was sent to Diocletian’s co-ruler, Maximian Hercules (284–305; 307–310), in Nicomedia. The lamb of Christ endured the torments steadfastly. Her being chosen by God was confirmed by many miracles: as soon as Cyriaca was brought into the idol-temple, the statues of the false gods were shattered; the beasts let loose to tear the martyr apart lay down meekly at her feet… Many idol-worshippers who witnessed these wonders turned to Christianity. When the death sentence was read out, Saint Cyriaca asked for time to pray. The all-good God willed to deliver His chosen one from the Roman executioners, and as soon as she finished her prayer He received her soul in peace.