Martyr Polycarp of Alexandria (4th c.)
Commemorated April 2
The Holy Martyr Polycarp suffered for his bold denunciation of the emperor Maxmian (305-313) for the spilling of innocent Christian blood in the city of Alexandria.
He openly confessed himself a Christian and went to voluntary torture. After cruel sufferings the martyr was beheaded.
Troparion
Thy martyr, O Lord, Polycarp, 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 Polycarp; all the enchantment hast thou extinguished and grantest unto us light, supplicating incessantly for us all.
Source: Crkveni Kalendar
