“On January 9, Orthodox Christians honor the memory of the holy martyr Polievktus. It is a day about choice, faith and inner strength, when a person did not renounce his convictions even in the face of the threat of death. The story of Polyeuctus is one of those that still sounds surprisingly modern today. January 9 in the church calendar is the Day of Remembrance of the Holy Martyr Polievktus. He lived in the 3rd century”, — write on: ua.news
On January 9, Orthodox Christians honor the memory of the holy martyr Polievktus. It is a day about choice, faith and inner strength, when a person did not renounce his convictions even in the face of the threat of death. The story of Polyeuctus is one of those that still sounds surprisingly modern today.
January 9 in the church calendar is the Day of Remembrance of the Holy Martyr Polievktus. He lived in the III century in the city of Melitini, on the territory of modern Armenia, and was a soldier in the Roman army. During his life, Polyeuctus was not a Christian, but it was the events around him that forced him to make a choice that determined his fate.
A close friend of Polyeuctus was Nearchus, a Christian. When the persecution of believers began in the empire, Polyeuctus witnessed the dignity and calmness with which Christians accepted suffering. This made a strong impression on him. According to church traditions, he was baptized and openly declared his faith.
The most famous episode from his life happened in the city square. Polyeuctus publicly broke the royal decree, which obliged the inhabitants to worship pagan idols. This act was a direct challenge to the authorities and the system, where such acts were punished without mercy.
The ruler of the city was his father-in-law, who tried to save Polyeuctus. He was persuaded, persuaded, his wife turned to him with tears. But Polyeuctus remained adamant. He openly said that he would not renounce his faith because he believed it to be true. “I chose the kingdom of heaven, not earthly honors,” – this is how church sources convey the essence of his position.
For refusing to worship idols, Polyeuktus was subjected to cruel torture, and later executed. He became the first martyr in Melitina and a symbol of how faith can change a person in a very short time.
In the church tradition, St. Polyeuctus is considered an example of inner courage, faithfulness to convictions and the ability not to betray oneself even in the most difficult moment. His life is a reminder that true faith is not words, but a choice that sometimes comes at a high price.
Read us on Telegram and Sends
