Abibus the New

Holy Martyr Abibus the New lived in the time of the emperor Licinius (307 to 323) and was a deacon in the city of Thalsei. He is commemorated on 2 December (new style, the Greek calendar).

Because he travelled through cities and villages teaching the word of God, he was arrested. He confessed Christ before the eparch and was condemned to be burned alive. The Christians took his holy relics and buried them with honour, together with those of the martyrs Gurias and Samonas (commemorated on 15 November), at a place called Bethelakla. A verse puts on his lips the words that he feels no pain from the fire, for the Master of fire is with him.