Monday, October 19, 2009

Martyr Varus

Commemorated on October 19

Martyr Varus lived in Egypt during the period of several persecutions against Christians (late third to early fourth century). Varus (Ouaros) was a military commander and secretly a Christian. He gave assistance to many of the persecuted and imprisoned Christians, and he visited the prisoners at night. He also brought food to the prisoners, dressed their wounds, and gave them encouragement.

Once Varus spent a whole night talking with seven imprisoned monks. These men were Christian teachers who had been beaten and starved. Varus marched with the teachers when they were led to their execution. The judge, seeing Varus' strong faith, had him fiercely beaten. Varus died during the beating. After his death, the monks were beheaded.

Troparion - Tone 4

Your holy martyr, Varus, O Lord,
For having Your strength, he laid low his adversaries,
and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.
Through his intercessions, save our souls!

Kontakion - Tone 4

Pray for our souls unceasingly.



1 comment:

George Patsourakos said...

Martyr Varus was extremely brave to march with Christian teachers in Egypt early in the fourth century, when they were being led to their execution. He was beaten to death, because of his Christian beliefs.

Few people would have been brave enough to have done what Martyr Varus did in the fourth century.