Holy Martyr Marcian (+258)

The holy Martyr Marcian was born in Iconium in Lycaonia. While still a youth he converted many pagans to the law of Christ by his fervent preaching. For this the idol-worshippers tortured the saint and then sent him to Cappadocia, to the governor Perennius. The lawless ruler tried now with flattery, now with threats to turn the young man aside from the way of salvation, but he steadfastly confessed Christ and exposed the folly of the governor, who put his hope in soulless idols. The enraged Perennius ordered the blessed martyr to be cruelly tortured, but torments could not bend the Lord’s chosen one. At last the godless sentenced Marcian to be beheaded (+258).