Marcellus

Holy Hieromartyr Marcellus was bishop of Sicily and a disciple of the holy Apostle Peter, like Saint Philagrius of Cyprus and Saint Pancratius of Tauromenium.

While Christ was still walking on earth in the flesh and working miracles, Marcellus, hearing of Him, went from Antioch to Jerusalem with Pancratius to see Him. From then on Pancratius became known to Saint Peter and, after Christ's Ascension, followed him; Peter made him bishop of Tauromenium (Taormina), and he was killed in secret by pagans. Marcellus was likewise ordained bishop, of Sicily, turned many unbelievers to the Lord and departed this life. In the same way Philagrius, who became bishop of Cyprus, taught there too in the name of Christ and, after suffering many torments for the true faith, passed to the Lord.

Marcellus is commemorated on 9 February, according to the new calendar.