St. Neonilla with her husband and children

Commemorated on October 28

St. Neonilla was the wife of St. Terence. They suffered martyrdom with their children Sarbelus, Photius, Theodulus, Hierax, Nita, Vele and Eunice during the persecution of Christians under Emperor Decius (249-250).

They zealously confessed Christ and denounced idolatry. For this, the pagans subjected the entire family to terrible tortures, but failed to get them to renounce the true Faith. The holy martyrs were beheaded, and received crowns of martyrdom.

Troparion (Tone 3) –

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 Terrence and Neonilla,

Pray that those who honor your contest may receive forgiveness of their sins.

Kontakion (Tone 4) –

Today the memory of the martyrs

Is bringing gladness to all the faithful.

Let us fervently ask them for healing,

For they received this grace from the Spirit

To heal the infirmities and sickness of our souls.

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