Martyr Polycarp of Alexandria
early 4th century
A Christian of Alexandria who, moved by zeal for God, openly denounced the emperor Maximian for his bloody persecution of Christians and was put to death for his confession.
The Holy Martyr Polycarp of Alexandria
Life
Polycarp of Alexandria was a Christian of the Egyptian city of Alexandria who was put to death during the persecution under the emperor Maximian (305-313). According to his synaxarion account, he was unable to remain silent while he daily witnessed fellow Christians arrested and tortured for refusing to deny Christ and reject the worship of idols.
Moved by zeal, Polycarp confronted the ruler directly, rebuking him for shedding the blood of his own countrymen because they confessed the one true God. His open denunciation angered the authorities, and he was arrested, tortured, and finally beheaded. He is commemorated on April 2.
He is distinct from the better-known Hieromartyr Polycarp of Smyrna, the second-century bishop and disciple of the Apostle John.
Kontakion & Troparion2 hymnsReadHide
(Podoben: “You sought the heights...”) You appeared as a bright star announcing Christ with your radiance,
which is repulsive to this world, O Martyr Polycarp;
extinguishing the allure of false gods,
you enlighten the faithful,
always interceding for us all.
Text used with permission of the Orthodox Church in America (oca.org).
Your holy martyr Polycarp, O Lord,
through his suffering has received an incorruptible crown from You, our God.
For having Your strength, he laid low his adversaries,
and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.
Through his intercessions, save our souls!
Text used with permission of the Orthodox Church in America (oca.org).
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