Saint Publia the Confessor, Deaconess of Antioch

Commemorated on October 9.

The holy Martyr Publia the Confessor, a deaconess of Antioch, became a widow at a young age and devoted all her strength to raising her son John in the Christian Faith. John became a presbyter, and Publia, for her prudent and ascetic life, was found worthy of becoming a deaconess. She undertook the guidance of widows and young women who wished to devote themselves to the service of God, and she organized a monastery in her home. During the persecution of Christians under the emperor Julian the Apostate (361-363), Saint Publia and the sisters denounced the reprobate.

When the emperor made his way to Publia’s house, the sisters loudly sang Psalm 113/114, denouncing idol-worship. The emperor’s soldiers fiercely beat the venerable abbess, but she endured the beating with forbearance.

Saint Publia did not live long after this, but peacefully fell asleep in the Lord.

Troparion

Your holy martyr Publia, O Lord,
through her sufferings has received an incorruptible crown from You, our God.
For having Your strength, she laid low her adversaries,
and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.
Through her 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 Publia;
extinguishing the allure of false gods,
you enlighten the faithful,
always interceding for us all.