Demetrian

Holy Martyr Demetrian was a deacon in Salamis of Cyprus and suffered in the year 302, in the persecution of Maximian and Diocletian, together with the priest Aristocles and the reader Athanasius. All three were Cypriots.

Aristocles, from Tamassos, did not wish at first to endanger his life, since he wanted to continue the spiritual building-⁠up of his brothers in Christ. He went up a mountain and hid in a cave. From there he heard that in the cities many faithful were shedding their blood courageously for the faith in Christ. After a vision as well, he judged that he, as a priest, was not permitted to be safe while laymen, women and children faced the sword and the fire. He made the sign of the Cross and went down to Salamis. In the city's church he found the deacon Demetrian and the reader Athanasius at prayer. They prayed together, agreed, and all three went out to strengthen the persecuted brethren.

Learning of it, the pagan governor arrested them. After failing to overcome them with promises and threats, he tortured them greatly and beheaded them. They are commemorated on 23 June, according to the calendar of the Church of Greece (new style). Their veneration is chiefly in Cyprus.