The Holy Martyrs Vasilissa and Anastasia
Commemorated April 15
The Holy Women Martyrs Basilissa and Anastasia lived in Rome and were converted to Christianity by the holy Apostles Peter and Paul. They devoted themselves to the service of the Lord.
When the emperor Nero (54-68) persecuted Christians and gave them over to torture and execution, Sts Basilissa and Anastasia took the bodies of the holy martyrs and gave them reverent burial. Rumors of this reached Nero, so Sts Basilissa and Anastasia were locked up in prison. They subjected them to cruel tortures: they scourged them with whips, scraped their skin with hooks, and burned them with fire. The holy martyrs remained unyielding, however, and bravely confessed their faith in Christ the Savior. By Nero's command, they were beheaded with the sword (+ ca. 68).
Troparion
Ye reasonable lambs unto Christ, the Lamb and Shepherd, were conducted through martyrdom; having finished your course and preserved the faith; wherefore with gladsome hearts do we recall to-day your, O wonderworthy, holy memory, magnifying Christ.
Kontakion
Of Christ's female martyrs the memory we are now celebrating and in faith praying for help, that from every affliction may be delivered we all that call out: With us is our God that hath glorified these as He willed.
Source: Crkveni Kalendar
