Martha of Asia

Holy Martyr Martha of Asia was a virgin and the sister of the Holy Martyr Mary; they lived in Asia (Asia Minor) and burned with the wish to suffer for the Lord Jesus Christ. They suffered together with their brother, the youth Lycarion.

Once a pagan commander passed by their house. The sisters went out to him and cried aloud that they were Christians. At first the commander paid them no heed, but they kept crying after him, repeating their confession. Then both were seized, together with their brother, the boy Lycarion. All three were crucified, and at the execution their mother was present, strengthening them in their suffering for Christ. The sisters were pierced with spears, and the youth Lycarion was beheaded.

They are commemorated on 19 February, in the new style.