Holy Martyr Callinicus — July 29 / August 11 (Julian Calendar)

On this day, July 29 according to the Julian Calendar (August 11 civil calendar), the Georgian Orthodox Church commemorates Holy Martyr Callinicus (III–IV century).

Saint Callinicus the Martyr was born in Cilicia. His devout parents raised him in faithfulness to the faith of Christ. At every step the saint beheld the folly of idol-worship, and he resolved to take upon himself an apostolic labor. Untiringly he traveled from village to village and from city to city, ceaselessly preaching the teaching of the Gospel.

During one such journey, in the city of Ancyra, blessed Callinicus was brought to trial before Sacerdon, a cruel persecutor of Christians. With threats of torture and death the godless ruler tried to compel the Lord’s chosen one to offer sacrifice to the idols, but the saint stood firm in the faith. At the command of the enraged governor, Saint Callinicus was mercilessly scourged with ox sinews, yet he endured the pain with calm and patience. This only further enraged Sacerdon, who ordered that boots pierced through with sharp nails be put upon the martyr’s feet, and that he be driven with whips to the place of burning.

Weakened by torture, his feet torn and bleeding, Callinicus followed the mounted soldiers without a murmur. In the terrible drought the executioners grew faint with thirst, and they told their captive to ask the Lord to bring forth water as proof of the truth. Callinicus prayed, and from a rock there truly burst forth a wondrous spring. Stunned by the miracle, the soldiers were filled with compassion for the saint and even thought to release him, but they could not overcome their fear of punishment and continued on their way.

When they reached the place of execution, the torturers kindled a great fire to burn Callinicus. Filled with joy, he gave thanks to the Lord for granting him a martyr’s end, and walked into the flames of his own accord. The faithful buried his incorrupt body with honor.