Virgin Martyrs Martha and Mary, and their brother Lycarion, in Egypt

Commemorated on February 6.

The holy virgin martyrs Martha and Mary were sisters who lived in Asia Minor, and fervently desired to suffer for the Lord Jesus Christ. Once, a pagan military commander marched past their house. The sisters went out to him and loudly declared that they were Christians. At first the commander paid no attention to them, but they persistently shouted after him, repeating their confession.

They were arrested together with their brother Lykarion. All three were crucified, and during the execution their mother came to them, encouraging them in their sufferings for Christ. The sisters were pierced with spears, and Lykarion was beheaded by the sword.

Troparion

(Podoben: “Be quick to anticipate...”)
Your Martyrs, O Lord, in their contest for You
have received as a prize the crowns of incorruption and life from You, our immortal God;
for since they possessed Your strength, they cast down the tyrants
and wholly destroyed the demons' powerless presumption.
O Christ God, by their prayers, save our souls, since You are merciful.

Kontakion

(Podoben: “Seeking the highest...”)
O divine martyrs, you appeared as bright beacons,
illumining all of creation with the radiance of your miracles;
do not cease to entreat Christ to deliver us all from our maladies,
and drive away from us the profound darkness of ignorance.