Holy Martyrs Zenaida and Philonella (1st Century) — October 11 / October 24 (Julian Calendar)

On this day, October 11 according to the Julian Calendar (October 24 civil calendar), the Georgian Orthodox Church commemorates the Holy Martyrs Zenaida and Philonella.

The holy martyrs Zenaida and Philonella, sisters by birth, were kinswomen and disciples of the Apostle Paul. The saints left their family home and settled in a cave near the city of Demetrias in Cilicia, where they spent their days in unceasing prayer and tireless spiritual struggle. They were skilled in the art of medicine and healed the sick without payment, and by turning them to the true God they healed their souls as well. The holy life of the blessed women was pleasing to the Lord, and He made them worthy of the martyr’s crown: Saints Zenaida and Philonella were stoned to death (1st century).