Martyr Apollonius of Sardis (3rd c.)
Commemorated July 10
The Holy Martyr Apollonias came from the city of Sardes, located in Lydia (Asia Minor). He declared himself a Christian and was arrested. When they demanded that he swear an oath on the name of the emperor, he refused, saying that it was improper to swear on the name of a mortal man. They tortured Saint Apollonias for a long time and then crucified him on a cross. This occurred at Iconium either under the emperor Decius (249-251) or the emperor Valerian (253-259).
Troparion
Thy martyr, O Lord, Apollonius, through his suffering, an incorruptible crown did obtain from Thee, our God; for, rejoicing in Thy strength, he laid low his tormentors and did beat off impotent affronts of the demons also; at his intercessions save our souls.
Kontakion
Thou hast appeared as a bright star, uninviting for the world, but a sun announcing Christ with thy rays, O martyr Apollonius; all the enchantment hast thou extinguished and grantest unto us light, supplicating incessantly for us all.
Source: Crkveni Kalendar
