Hieromartyr Phocas of Sinope

Today we honor the memory of the Hieromartyr Phocas of Sinope. His parents Pamphylos, who worked as a shipbuilder, and Maria, spread Christianity to Phocas. He himself nurtured the flame of pure Faith and warm piety in his heart. Phocas, from a young child, was zealously immersed in reading the Scriptures. He was distinguished for his love for God and for people.

“Whoever loves his brother remains in the light … but whoever hates his brother is in darkness.” (1 John 2:10–11)

The above proposition was one that Saint Phocas held close to his heart, trying to follow the teachings of the scriptures. Phocas became Bishop of Sinope, developing missionary activity. This event fueled fanatical pagans, who arrested him and threw him into a hot bath where he died in 117 AD.