Virgin Martyr Cecilia and the Holy Martyrs Valerian, Tiburtius and Maximus at Rome
Commemorated on November 22.
The Eparch wanted to confiscate the property of those who had been executed, but when he was told that Saint Cecilia had already given her remaining wealth to the poor and had converted 400 men, he ordered her execution. For three days they tormented her in an overheated bath-house, with the heat and steam, but she was helped by the grace of God. Seeing that Saint Cecilia was still alive, they decided to behead her. The executioner struck her three times with a sword, but only wounded her. The holy Martyr lived three more days in full consciousness, encouraging those around her. Finally, she surrendered her soul to God, and her body was buried with reverence.
Saint Cecilia is regarded as the patron Saint of Church music. St. John Chrysostom extols the benefits of sacred music, and shows how strongly the fire of divine love is kindled in the soul by devout psalmody. (On Psalm 41).
The Holy Relics of Saints Valerian and Tiburtius are in the Roman Catholic Basilica of Saints Valerian and Cecilia in Rome.
Troparion
(Podoben: “Your confession of the divine Faith...”)
In the radiance of your divine way of life,
you were drawn toward everlasting life, attracting a pair of brothers as well.
In harmony with them, Cecilia, you struggled and became worthy of divine glory.
With them, intercede that those who praise you
may be granted pardon of their transgressions and great mercy.
Kontakion
(Podoben: “You were lifted up on the Cross...”)
Let us, the plenitude of the faithful,
sing hymns to her who was freely espoused to Christ,
and adorned her heart with virtues befitting God.
Then, shining like the sun,
she vanquished the boldness of Almachius in the midst of those who sought her.
After these things, she was seen by those on earth
as a divine foundation, strengthening their faith.