Timothy of Sicily

Holy Martyr Timothy of Sicily lived in the third century in the environs of Rome and is remembered together with the Holy Hieromartyr Babylas of Sicily and his disciples Agapius and Timothy. Babylas was born in the city of Reupolis, in a rich family, and was raised by his parents in the Christian faith. From his youth he forsook earthly things, left his parents' house in secret and settled on a mountain, spending his time in fasting, prayer and stillness. The two disciples, Agapius and Timothy, struggled with him.

Avoiding the persecution of the pagans, they withdrew to the island of Sicily, where Babylas brought many unbelievers to Christ. The governor of the island, annoyed by his enlightening work, ordered him to be seized with his disciples and gave them over to cruel torments. The saints bore them patiently and all three died by the sword. Their bodies were thrown into the fire, but the flames did not touch the soldiers of Christ. The local Christians buried them on the island of Sicily.

Saint Timothy is commemorated on 6 February, in the new style.