St. Melitina of Marcianopolis

Commemorated on September 16

The Holy Martyr Melitina lived in the city of Marcianopolis in Thrace during the rule of Emperor Antoninus Pius (138-161). She was a fervent Christian, and the Lord blessed her with the gift of wonderworking. By the power of her prayers, she shattered the idols of Apollo and Herakles.

Her fiery preaching converted many pagans to Christ. Antiochus, the governor of Marcianopolis, ordered that she be tortured, since she could not be persuaded to deny Christ. She was handed over to the governor’s women who tried to change her by flattery and kindness. Not only was St. Melitina not deceived or softened, but she converted the governor’s women to Christianity. When the governor learned of this, he had St. Melitina brought to trial and sentenced her to be beheaded.

After her death, a Christian named Acacius reverently took the martyr’s body with the intention of burying her in Macedonia. However, during the voyage, Acacius became sick and died. The ship stopped at the island of Limnos, where the body of St. Melitina was buried. Acacius was laid to rest beside her grave.

By permission of the Orthodox Church in America (www.oca.org)