Severian of Nicomedia

Holy Martyr Severian of Nicomedia suffered in the reign of Emperor Diocletian (284-305), together with the martyrs Victor, Zoticus, Acindynus, Zeno and Caesarius, and was beheaded at Nicomedia around the year 303.

When Diocletian began the cruel persecution of Christians, one of the first to suffer was the holy Great Martyr and Victorious George († 303, commemorated on 23 April). His unshaken faith and courage during his torments brought many pagans to Christ. The holy martyrs above were astonished that George was not harmed by the wheel of torture, and they declared aloud that they too believed in Christ. By the judge's order they were beheaded at Nicomedia.

The saint is commemorated on 1 May, in the new style.