On this day, July 7 according to the Julian Calendar (July 20 civil calendar), the Georgian Orthodox Church commemorates Hieromartyrs Epictetus the Priest and Astion the Monk.
The Hieromartyrs Epictetus the Priest and Astion the Monk lived during the reign of the impious Emperor Diocletian (284-305) in the eastern part of the Roman Empire.
Epictetus was a priest who fearlessly preached the Gospel and baptized many converts to the Christian faith. He met the young pagan Astion and began to instruct him in the teachings of Christ.
Astion, deeply moved by the words of the priest, received baptism and devoted himself entirely to the monastic life of fasting, prayer and vigil.
When the persecution of Christians intensified under Diocletian, both Epictetus and Astion were arrested. Despite prolonged tortures, they refused to renounce their faith.
They were beheaded around the year 290. Their relics were preserved and became a source of healing for the faithful. The Church venerates them as models of priestly fidelity and monastic perseverance.
May the intercessions of Hieromartyrs Epictetus the Priest and Astion the Monk be with us all.