New Martyr Theophilus of Zakynthos (1635)
Commemorated July 24
Born on the Island of Zakinthos, he served on a sea merchant vessel against his will under the Turks. He however did not wish to be known as a Moslem and for his firm confession of Christ after torture he was burnt alive by the Turks on the Island of Chios on July 24, 1635.
Troparion
Thy martyr, O Lord, Theophilus, 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 Theophilus; all the enchantment hast thou extinguished and grantest unto us light, supplicating incessantly for us all.
Source: Crkveni Kalendar
