Zoticus of Nicomedia

Holy Martyr Zoticus of Nicomedia was one of the six martyrs, Victor, Zoticus, Acindynus, Zeno, Severian and Caesarius, who suffered under Emperor Diocletian (284-305).

When Diocletian began his fierce persecution, one of the first condemned was the holy Great Martyr George, who died about 303 and is commemorated on 23 April. His unshaken faith and courage under torment brought many pagans to Christ. The six, astonished that George had suffered nothing from the torture wheel, declared in the hearing of all that they too believed in Christ. By the judge's order their heads were cut off at Nicomedia, about 303.

Saint Zoticus is commemorated on 1 May, in the new style, together with the five.