Glaphyra of Amasea

Holy Virgin Glaphyra of Amasea lived in the fourth century and was the maidservant of the Empress Constantia, wife of Licinius. The emperor burned with desire for her; Glaphyra told the empress, received money and men's clothing from her, and was sent to Pontus with a faithful servant. They told the emperor that Glaphyra had gone mad and lay near death.

Arriving in Amasea on her way to Armenia, she was received by Bishop Basil, who was then building a church in the city. Glaphyra gave all the money she had received from the empress toward the building and wrote to Constantia to send more to complete it, which the empress did. The letter, however, fell into Licinius' hands; he was enraged and ordered the governor of Amasea to send him the bishop and the maidservant. Glaphyra reposed in peace before the order came, and Bishop Basil was sent to the emperor and received the crown of martyrdom.

Glaphyra is commemorated on 26 April, with Saint Basil of Amasea. The year of her death is reckoned as 324.