Translation of the Relics of the Hieromartyr Phocas (403–404)

The Hieromartyr Phocas was born in the Black Sea city of Sinope. He was first a boatman, and later Bishop of the city of Sinope. In the time of the Emperor Trajan (98–117) the head of the city seized the holy hierarch and demanded that he renounce his faith. After many kinds of torture the valiant confessor of Christ was thrown into a red-hot bath, where he gave up his spirit in torment (+117).

In 403–404 the holy relics of the hieromartyr were translated from Sinope to Constantinople. The Church celebrates this event on 22 July (the saint is also commemorated on 22 September).