Holy Martyr Theodotia (†c. 230) — September 17 / September 30 (Julian Calendar)

On this day, September 17 according to the Julian Calendar (September 30 civil calendar), the Georgian Orthodox Church commemorates the Holy Martyr Theodotia.

The holy Martyr Theodotia, a native of Cappadocia, suffered in the city of Nicaea during the reign of Emperor Alexander Severus (222–235). When a certain Simplicius was appointed governor of Cappadocia, it was reported to him that a wealthy lady named Theodotia confessed Christ. The governor summoned this woman who had placed her hope in the Savior and for a long time tried to turn her away from the true faith. The lawless ruler soon became convinced that no persuasion would bear fruit, and he handed the courageous confessor over to the executioners. Theodotia was hung up, cruelly beaten and thrown into prison. Eight days later, when the saint was led out again for torture, barely a trace remained of the torments she had endured. By order of Simplicius the martyr was cast into a blazing furnace.

Some time later the pagan priests opened the furnace to scatter the martyr’s ashes, but the fire consumed the lawless men, and those who survived beheld Theodotia completely unharmed.

The martyr’s steadfastness gave Simplicius no rest. He set out for Byzantium, and on his way back stopped at Ancyra and ordered that Theodotia be brought before him once more. At his command she was immediately thrown onto red-hot iron, but the Lord’s chosen one again remained unharmed. Then the godless ruler ordered the blessed woman to be taken to the city of Nicaea, hoping to persuade her there to offer sacrifice in a pagan temple; but through Theodotia’s prayer the idols fell from their altars and were shattered. The enraged Simplicius ordered that Theodotia be beheaded. Her body was committed to the earth by Sophronius, Bishop of Nicaea.