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The Holy Martyr Nicephoros Commemorated on February 9 The Holy Martyr
Nicephoros lived in the city of Syrian Antioch. In this city lived also the
presbyter Sapricios, with whom Nicephoros was very friendly, such that they
were considered like kindred brothers. Through the onset of a disagreement they
quarreled, and their former love changed into enmity and hate. After a certain
while Nicephoros came to his senses, repented of his sin and more than once
through mutual friends asked forgiveness of Sapricios, who did not wish to
forgive him. Nicephoros then went himself to his former friend and fervently
asked forgiveness, but Sapricios was adamant. At this time the emperors
Valerian (253-259) and Gallius (260-268) started up persecutions against
christians, and one of the first taken before the judgement court was presbyter
Sapricios. He firmly confessed himself a Christian, underwent tortures for his
faith and was condemned to death by beheading with a sword. When they took him
to execution, Nicephoros tearfully entreated his forgiveness, calling on him as
an holy martyr who would soon stand before the Lord and receive of Him a crown. © 1996-2001 by translator Fr. S. Janos. |
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