Saint Ananias the Persian

Born in Arbela (now Erbil, Iraq) in Persia, a layman, he became renowned for his virtues and steadfastness of faith. Enduring torment, Saint Ananias did not renounce his faith and was executed.

According to tradition, before his death he exclaimed: “Offer prayers to God, for I see a ladder leading from heaven to earth, and Angels, who say to me: ‘Come with us, and we will lead you into a city filled with light and joy.’”

The time of his martyrdom is unknown.