Agathonicus
Saint Agathonicus was a 3rd-century Christian from Nicomedia who taught Christianity in Greece. He is remembered for his martyrdom alongside his companions during the persecution of Christians ordered by Emperor Maximian. Agathonicus and his followers were tortured and ultimately beheaded in Thrace.
- Feast Day
- 21
- Century
- 3rd century
- Country Or Region
- Greece
Key Facts
- ›Agathonicus was a 3rd-century citizen of Nicomedia.
- ›He taught Christianity to Greeks while living in Greece.
- ›He was persecuted under Emperor Maximian.
- ›Agathonicus and his companions were taken to Byzantium and then to Thrace.
- ›They were tortured and beheaded in Selymbria.
- ›His feast day is observed on August 21 in the Catholic Church and August 22 in the Eastern Orthodox Church.
About Agathonicus
Saint Agathonicus
Saint Agathonicus was a Christian of the 3rd century, originally from Nicomedia. During his time, he actively taught Christianity to the Greeks while residing in Greece.
Life and Persecution
Agathonicus' ministry occurred during a period of intense Christian persecution, initiated by the imperial governor under the orders of Emperor Maximian. His companion, Zoticus, was captured in Carpe and his followers were crucified. Agathonicus himself was sent to Nicomedia, where he, along with his companions Princeps, Theoprepius, Acyndinus, Severian, Zeno, and many others, were transported to Byzantium. The journey was arduous, with many companions succumbing to exhaustion and abuse. Those who survived were killed in Chalcedon.
Martyrdom in Thrace
The remaining survivors were taken to Thrace, specifically to Selymbria. There, they were subjected to torture in front of the Greek Emperor before being beheaded. This ultimate sacrifice marked them as martyrs for their faith.
Veneration
Saint Agathonicus is commemorated with a feast day on August 21 in the Catholic Church and on August 22 in the Eastern Orthodox Churches.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Saint Agathonicus?
Saint Agathonicus was a 3rd-century Christian from Nicomedia who taught Christianity in Greece. He is known for his martyrdom along with his companions during the persecution of Christians.
What happened to Saint Agathonicus?
During the persecution of Christians ordered by Emperor Maximian, Agathonicus and his companions were seized. They were taken to Byzantium, then to Thrace where they were tortured and ultimately beheaded.
When is Saint Agathonicus' feast day?
Saint Agathonicus' feast day is celebrated on August 21 in the Catholic Church and on August 22 in the Eastern Orthodox Churches.
Where did Saint Agathonicus live and teach?
Agathonicus was a citizen of Nicomedia. While living in Greece, he taught the Greeks about Christianity.
Who were Agathonicus' companions?
Agathonicus' companions mentioned in the text include Zoticus, Princeps, Theoprepius, Acyndinus, and Severian, along with many others. Some died from exhaustion and abuse on the journey, while others were killed in Chalcedon and the survivors were beheaded.
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