Zosimus the Soldier

The Holy Martyr Zosimus the Soldier lived in the city of Apollonia in Thrace during the reign of Emperor Trajan (89 to 117), a fierce persecutor of Christians. The saint was consumed with the desire to become a Christian. When he heard that the persecution of Christians had begun, he forsook the military, was baptized and devoted himself to prayer and good works. It was reported to the prefect Domitian of Antioch that Zosimus had betrayed the emperor by removing his military insignia and allying himself with the Christians. At his trial Zosimus confessed his faith in Christ and refused to offer sacrifice to the pagan "gods." He was subjected to fierce torments but, strengthened by God's grace, felt no pain. Then the prefect ordered a copper bed heated red-⁠hot and the saint placed on it. The martyr made the sign of the Cross, lay down on the bed and remained unharmed.

Departing the city, Domitian ordered soldiers to place the martyr's feet in iron sandals with sharp nails sticking up in the soles and to make him follow. The Lord strengthened Zosimus to follow after the horses. The martyr was locked in prison, where he was tormented with hunger and thirst, but an angel of the Lord fortified him with bread and water, and he still refused to offer sacrifice to the idols. When these means failed, he was beheaded and received the imperishable crown of martyrdom. He is commemorated on 19 June (new style; 2 July on the old calendar).