Valerian of Tomis

Holy Martyr Valerian of Tomis, also called Valerian of Constanta, is remembered together with Gordian, Macrobius, Elias, Zoticus and Lucian. They suffered at the beginning of the fourth century in Paphlagonia, in Asia Minor, under the emperor Licinius (307-324). Gordian was from Cappadocia, Macrobius from Paphlagonia. They were handsome young men at the emperor's court, held in particular favour. For their steadfast confession of faith in Christ they were sent into exile in Scythia, where they met Zoticus, Lucian and Elias, equally courageous confessors of the Name of Christ.

Gordian and Macrobius were the first to suffer. After them, in the city of Tomis in Scythia, Elias, Zoticus, Lucian and Valerian were tortured and beheaded. Saint Valerian is commemorated on 26 September, in the new style.