Eugene, Candidus, Valerian and Aquila

The Holy Martyrs Eugene, Candidus, Valerian and Aquila suffered for their faith in Christ at Trebizond, in the reigns of Diocletian (284 to 305) and Maximian (305 to 311), under the regimental commander Lycius. Valerian, Candidus and Aquila had hidden in the hills near the city, preferring life among wild beasts to life among pagans. They were found, however, and brought to Trebizond.

For their steadfast confession they were whipped with ox thongs, scraped with iron claws and burned with fire. Several days later Eugene was also arrested and underwent the same tortures; vinegar mixed with salt was poured into his wounds. The four were then thrown into a red-⁠hot oven, from which they came out unharmed, and they were beheaded, receiving their unfading crowns. They are commemorated on 21 January (new style; 3 February on the old calendar).