Martyr Apollonius of Sardis

Commemorated on July 10.

The Holy Martyr Apollonius came from the city of Sardis, located in Lydia (Asia Minor). He declared himself a Christian and was arrested. When they demanded that he swear an oath on the name of the emperor, he refused, saying that it was improper to swear on the name of a mortal man. They tortured Apollonius for a long time and then crucified him. This occurred at Iconium either under the emperor Decius (249-251) or the emperor Valerian (253-259).

Troparion

Your holy martyr Apollonius, O Lord,
through his sufferings has received an incorruptible crown from You, our God.
For having Your strength, he laid low his adversaries,
and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.
Through his intercessions, save our souls!

Kontakion

(Podoben: “You sought the heights...”)
You appeared as a bright star announcing Christ with your radiance,
which is repulsive to this world, O Martyr Apollonius;
extinguishing the allure of false gods,
you enlighten the faithful,
always interceding for us all.