Celebrating 13 December: Saints Honoured Today and Name Day Blessings

According to the Greek Orthodox calendar, today, 13 December, we honour the following names and Saints.

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Happy Name Day to everyone celebrating on this special day!

Name Day Celebrations on 13 December

According to the Greek Orthodox calendar, today, 13 December, we honour the following names:

Men:

  • Aris
  • Efstratios, Efstratis, Stratis, Stratos, Efstratas, Stratas
  • Afxentios, Afxentis
  • Eugenios, Eugenis
  • Mardarios, Mardaris, Mardas
  • Orestes

Women:

  • Efstratia, Stratoula, Strata, Efstratoula
  • Afxentia, Afxentula
  • Lucia, Loukitsa
  • Orestias, Orestia, Orestiada

Celebrants for 14 December:
Tomorrow, we honour those named Arrian, Leucius, and Lefki.

Saints Honoured on 13 December

The Orthodox Church commemorates the lives and sacrifices of several saints today, including:

  • Saints Efstratios, Afxentius, Eugenius, Mardarius, and Orestes, Martyrs
  • Saint Ares the Wise
  • Saint Juvenal
  • Saint Lucia the Virgin

The Lives of Saints Efstratios, Afxentios, Eugenius, Mardarios, and Orestes

These five Christian martyrs, celebrated for their unwavering faith, endured persecution under Roman emperors in the 3rd or 4th century. Originating from the region of Armenia, they are remembered for their courage and steadfast devotion to Christ.

Saint Efstratios

A nobleman and Roman army officer, Efstratios converted to Christianity, leading to his arrest and brutal torture. He remained resolute in his faith and was ultimately martyred by beheading.

Saint Afxentios

A fellow soldier and companion of Efstratios, Afxentios was arrested for his beliefs and martyred by fire, exemplifying ultimate sacrifice for his faith.

Saint Eugenios

A priest who provided strength and guidance to Christians during intense persecution, Eugenios was arrested, tortured, and martyred by beheading for his unwavering commitment to his faith.

Saint Mardarios

A devout layman, Mardarios supported and inspired his fellow Christians with his faith and example. He endured excruciating torture and succumbed to his injuries in martyrdom.

Saint Orestes

The youngest of the five, Orestes was a soldier who boldly confessed his Christian faith despite threats of torture. He endured great suffering and gave his life for Christ.

Legacy of the Five Martyrs

The lives of Saints Efstratios, Afxentios, Eugenius, Mardarios, and Orestes are a testament to courage, unity, and faith. Their sacrifices are celebrated every 13 December, offering enduring inspiration to Christians to remain steadfast in their beliefs during times of hardship.

May their examples guide and strengthen us all.

.

Read also What Your Favourite Greek Myth Says About You

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