Saint Akakios, in holy baptism Athanasius, was born in the village of Neochori in Macedonia. Due to poverty, his family moved to the city of Serres, where he was apprenticed to a shoemaker. However, subjected to severe beatings, he eventually renounced the Christian faith and accepted Islam. After living in wealth for nine years, he rejected the sinful relationship with the bey’s wife and was expelled from his home.
Returning to his parents, he decided to repent and went to the Holy Mountain of Athos, where he embraced monasticism under the name Akakios. Under the guidance of his spiritual father Nikiforos, he aspired to a martyr's end, wishing to atone for his renunciation of Christ. After preparation, he went to Constantinople, where, confessing his faith, he was arrested and subjected to torture.
Despite threats and beatings, Akakios remained steadfast in his confession of Christ. As a result, he was sentenced to death and beheaded on May 1, 1816. His relics were honorably transferred to the Holy Mountain and buried in the church dedicated to the martyrs Euphemios and Ignatios.
The memory of the saint is celebrated on May 1, together with the memory of the holy preeminent martyrs Euphemios and Ignatios.
