Martyrs Terence and Neonila, and their children

Commemorated on October 28.

Saint Terence was from Syria, and suffered for Christ with his wife Neonila and their seven children Sabelus, Photius, Theodoulus, Vele, Hierax, Nitus, and Eunice. They were denounced as Christians and brought before the authorities for interrogation.

The saints confessed Christ and mocked the pagan gods, even as their sides were raked with iron hooks. Vinegar was poured into their wounds, which were then set afire. The saints encouraged one another and prayed to God to help them. He sent angels to free them from their bonds and to heal their wounds.

Then the saints were thrown to the wild beasts, who became gentle and did not harm them. Afterward, they were thrown into a cauldron filled with hot pitch, but they were not burned. Seeing that nothing could harm the saints, the pagans beheaded them.

Troparion

Bound together by natural bonds
and clothed with the might of faith,
you walked the path of martyrdom with your seven children.
O holy Martyrs Terence and Neonilla,
pray that those who honor your contest may receive forgiveness of their sins.

Kontakion

(Podoben: “As You were voluntarily raised...”)
The universe rejoices at the honorable commemoration of the martyrs:
Terence the most-wise, his wife Neonila, and their children.
Therefore, let us hasten that we may receive healing;
for he has received grace from the Holy Spirit
to cure the sicknesses and ills of our souls.