Virgin Martyrs Zenaΐda and Philonίlla, of Tarsus in Cilicia

Commemorated on October 11.

The Martyrs Zenaida (Zenais) and Philonilla lived in Tarsus in Cilicia during the first century, and were related to the holy Apostle Paul. They were pious Christian women, and both of them shared a love of learning. By whatever means were available to them at that time, they acquired medical knowledge.

The two sisters left their home and settled in a cave near the city of Demetriada, where they lived in constant prayer and work. The citizens of Demetriada soon learned that there were two women doctors who gladly treated everyone who turned to them for help, yet did not require payment for their services. They also healed people’s souls by converting them to Christ.

One night, some pagans went to their cave and stoned them. Saints Zenaida and Philonilla suffered martyrdom for Christ, thereby receiving incorruptible crowns of glory from the Lord.

Troparion

Let us honor the most wondrous Tarsus,
which blossomed forth the precious flowers, the wise Zenaΐda and Philonίlla,
for they possessed an unshakable foundation of faith
and overthrew the hordes of demons.
Therefore, they rejoice with the Angels, and always intercede for us.

Kontakion

Having obtained your all-holy temple as a source of healing for our souls,
all the faithful cry out to you:
“O Virgin Martyr Zenaΐda, whose name is glorious,
never cease to entreat Christ God for all of us.”