Martyr Zosimus the Soldier at Antioch, in Pisidia

Commemorated on June 19.

The Holy Martyr Zosimos the Soldier lived in the city of Apollonia in Thrace during the reign of Emperor Trajan, a fierce persecutor of Christians (89-117). The Saint was consumed with the desire to become a Christian. When he heard that the persecution of Christians had begun, he forsook the military, was baptized, and devoted himself to prayer and good works.

It was reported to the prefect Domitian of Antioch that Zosimos had betrayed the Emperor by removing his military insignia and allying himself with the Christians. At his trial, Saint Zosimos confessed his faith in Christ and refused to offer sacrifice to the pagan "gods." He was subjected to fierce torments, but strengthened by God's grace, he did not feel any pain. Then the prefect ordered a copper bed to be heated red-hot, and to place the Saint upon it. The Martyr made the Sign of the Cross, lay down on the bed, but remained unharmed.

Departing the city, Domitian ordered soldiers to place the Martyr’s feet in iron sandals with sharp nails sticking up in the soles, and to make Zosimos follow after him. The Lord strengthened Saint Zosimos to follow after the horses.

The Holy Martyr was locked in prison, where he was tormented with hunger and thirst, but an Angel of the Lord fortified him with bread and water, and Saint Zosimos still refused to offer sacrifice to the idols. When these did not work, he was beheaded, and thus he received the imperishable crown of martyrdom.