On this day, July 7 according to the Julian Calendar (July 20 civil calendar), the Georgian Orthodox Church commemorates Holy Martyr Kyriake.
The Holy Martyr Kyriake was the only daughter of devout Christians named Dorotheus and Eusebia. Her parents raised her in the fear of God and in love for the Lord, and from childhood she was dedicated to prayer and fasting.
Kyriake was born on a Sunday — the Lord’s Day — and was therefore given the name Kyriake, meaning ‘of the Lord.’ From her earliest years she devoted herself entirely to Christ.
When the persecution of Christians broke out under Emperor Maximian (285-305), Kyriake was brought before the authorities for her refusal to worship idols. She boldly confessed her faith in Christ and endured terrible torments.
No torture could break her resolve. Finally she was beheaded, receiving the crown of martyrdom in the fourth century.
Saint Kyriake is especially venerated in the Orthodox Church as a model of virginal courage and unwavering faith.
May the intercessions of Holy Martyr Kyriake be with us all.