Thyrsus of Apollonia

Saint Thyrsus was born at an unknown date and place, and is remembered as a courageous Christian martyr who gave his life for Christ in Apollonia of Phrygia around the year 251. During the persecution under the emperor Decius, Thyrsus was arrested with his companions Leucius and Callinicus. Tradition recounts that Thyrsus endured many cruel torments with steadfast faith, and when he was condemned to be sawn in half, the instrument itself became too heavy for the executioners to wield—an arresting sign of God’s mysterious power amid suffering. Leucius, after boldly reproaching the governor Cumbricius, was tortured and beheaded. Callinicus, a pagan priest, was moved by Thyrsus’ witness, converted to Christ, and was likewise beheaded. Thyrsus’ relics were later brought to Constantinople, and devotion to him spread widely, especially in the Iberian Peninsula. He is honored as the patron saint of Sisteron, whose cathedral bears his name. His feast day is December 14.