Holy Martyr John the Soldier (IV)

The holy Martyr John the Soldier served in the army of the Emperor Julian the Apostate (361–363). He was a secret Christian and pleased God by prayer, fasting and a pious life. Apparently no one noticed all this, for by order of the lawless emperor he too was sent with others to one of the regions of the country to arrest Christians. Instead of persecuting them, John protected the Christians in every way, comforting and encouraging them. When he learned of this, the enraged Julian ordered him to be seized and brought at once to Constantinople to be put to death. On the way the saint had to endure many torments: the pagan guards beat the king’s disobedient soldier, tightened iron fetters on him, kept him barefoot, and tormented him with cold and hunger. When they reached the royal city, the emperor had gone out to war with the Persians. Until his return the Lord’s chosen one was locked in prison.

Meanwhile, in 363, Julian the Apostate perished in battle with the Persians. The throne passed to the right-believing Christian Jovian, who revoked all the orders his predecessor had issued against the Orthodox: he freed those imprisoned for confessing Christ and gave the exiled bishops back their sees. John too gained his freedom. After this the saint, tempered by torments, devoted himself to the service of God and his neighbour. The blessed John reposed in peace in deep old age. Before his death he asked to be buried in the cemetery of the common people and the poor. The saint’s request was granted. His grave was lost, but John revealed to a pious woman where his holy remains lay. After their uncovering the incorrupt relics were laid in Constantinople, in the church of John the Theologian. Many miraculous healings took place at them.