On this day, June 8 according to the Julian Calendar (June 21 civil calendar), the Georgian Orthodox Church commemorates the Translation of the Relics of the Holy Great Martyr Theodore Stratelates (the General), which took place in 319 AD.
The Holy Great Martyr Theodore Stratelates suffered martyrdom for Christ in Heraclea on February 8, 319 AD. During his martyrdom, the holy one asked his servant Uarus to bury his body in his parents’ estate in Euchaita. Uarus fulfilled his master’s request.
After Theodore’s martyrdom was accomplished, his relics were transferred with great honor to Euchaita, his hometown. The translation of his holy relics is commemorated today, June 8 by the Julian Calendar, while his main feast — the day of his martyrdom — is celebrated on February 8.
Theodore Stratelates served as a high military commander under the Roman Emperor Licinius. He was renowned for his bravery and military prowess, but even more for his Christian faith and virtuous life. When Licinius ordered him to offer sacrifice to idols, Theodore refused. He was tortured with great cruelty — his body was torn with iron hooks, he was crucified, and his limbs were cut off. Throughout all these torments, the holy martyr remained steadfast in his faith, strengthened by heavenly visions.
His relics became a source of many miracles and healings for the faithful who venerated them at Euchaita.
May the intercessions of the Holy Great Martyr Theodore Stratelates be with us all.