Embroidered Epigonation with Saint Emilian the Martyr

Embroidered Epigonation with Saint Emilian the Martyr

The Emperor Julian the Apostate (361–363) initiated a severe persecution against Christians. He sent harsh magistrates to all the cities of the empire. In Durostorum, he dispatched a merciless tormentor named Capitolin, a destroyer of people and a worshiper of idols.

Upon arriving in Durostorum, he entered the idolatrous temple. He offered sacrifices to the gods and bowed before the lifeless idols. On another day, he went to the court. Sitting on a high chair with great pride, he asked, “Is there anyone in the city who confesses to being a Christian?” The citizens swore that there was no one.

The governor was very pleased. He called his subjects and held a great feast. However, in Durostorum, there was a Christian named Emilian. While the pagans were reveling, he entered the idolatrous temple. He carried an iron hammer and smashed all the idols, overturning the altar.

For his deed and for confessing his faith, Saint Emilian was severely beaten. Then the governor ordered him to be thrown into the fire. The saint made the sign of the cross in the midst of the flames. The fire did not harm him. He prayed to God and entrusted his soul into His hands.

Seeing what had happened, the governor became enraged. He sent his servants to find the culprit. Emilian bravely confessed to the deed. The pagans had captured another innocent man whom they intended to judge.

Sfântul Mucenic Emilian de la Durostorum; Sfântul Cuvios Pamvo (ziarullumina.ro)