Heraclius

Holy Martyr Heraclius is commemorated on 31 August (new style) in the synaxis of the four martyrs Andrew, Heraclius, Faustus and Menas. The Greek synaxarion knows nothing about their lives except that they confessed Christ through suffering.

The name Heraclius means “glory of Hera” in ancient Greek and was borne by several saints, and by a Byzantine emperor who recovered the Holy Cross in 622. This martyr should not be confused with him. The Church honours him for his sacrifice, without further historical details.