Theodore Stratelates

Saint Theodore Stratelates was born around AD 281 in Euchaita of Asia Minor, of Greek origin, and grew to be a courageous soldier whose strength was matched by a fearless faith. Tradition remembers how he delivered his homeland by slaying a great serpent that had terrorized the countryside. His valor led to high command, and he became military commander at Heraclea Pontica during the reign of Licinius, when persecution of Christians grew fierce. Rather than hide his devotion to Christ, Theodore bore witness with bold wisdom. He invited the emperor to Heraclea, requested the city’s gold and silver idols under the pretense of offering sacrifice, then shattered them and distributed the precious metal to the poor. Arrested for this holy defiance, he endured torture and crucifixion; yet he was found alive the next morning. Refusing to flee, he freely surrendered himself, desiring to complete his testimony, and was beheaded in 319. Venerated as a warrior-martyr, he is honored as patron of Orestiada. His feast day is February 8.