Unholy Maximian, ruling the eastern part of the Roman Empire, raised a persecution against Christians. The military commander Antioch, a zealous servant of idols, received the order to torture Christians. Among the thousands of commanders was Saint Andrew, who, not yet baptized, openly confessed his faith in Christ. For his piety, he received extraordinary courage and achieved brilliant victories over enemies.
When the Persians attacked Syria, Antioch entrusted Andrew with the command of the army. The saint, relying on God, chose a small number of warriors and called them to reject idols. As a result of the battle, through the saint's prayers, the Romans achieved victory, and all the warriors believed in Christ.
Envious commanders reported Andrew, and Antioch, enraged, summoned him to trial. The saint boldly confessed Christ and was subjected to torture. On a heated bed, he courageously endured suffering, and the fire did not harm him. Other Christians who were tortured also rejoiced in their sufferings for Christ.
Antioch, not daring to execute Andrew, released him, but then devised a treacherous plan. Upon learning of the plot, Saint Andrew fled with the warriors to Tarsus, where he was baptized by Bishop Peter. After this, they hid in the mountains from persecution.
When Seleucus, sent by Antioch, found them, Saint Andrew gathered his companions and called them to prayer. They were captured and martyred, offering their blood as a sacrifice to Christ. At the place of their death, a healing spring arose.
The saints suffered on August 19, and their bodies were buried with honor. Many people, coming to the spring, were healed through the prayers of the holy martyrs.
