Nicephorus of Antioch

Holy Martyr Nicephorus of Antioch lived in Antioch in Syria in the third century and is commemorated on 9 February (new style). His story is a lesson about forgiveness.

Nicephorus was a close friend of the priest Sapricius, so close that they were regarded as brothers. At the enemy's prompting they quarrelled and love turned into hatred. After a time Nicephorus came to himself, repented and asked several times, through friends, for Sapricius's forgiveness, but he refused. Then Nicephorus himself went to his former friend, but Sapricius remained unmoved. At that time the emperors Valerian (253-259) and Gallienus (260-268) began to persecute Christians, and among the first brought to trial was the priest Sapricius. He confessed boldly that he was a Christian, bore tortures and was condemned to be beheaded. As he was being led to death, Nicephorus wept and asked his forgiveness: “O martyr of Christ, forgive me if I have sinned against you in any way.” Sapricius remained unmoved, and the Lord withdrew His blessing from him. At the last moment, seized by fear of death, he agreed to sacrifice to idols and denied Christ. Nicephorus then confessed in his place that he was a Christian and received the crown of martyrdom.