Bishop
Born in Nicomedia, Saint Anthimus lived a virtuous life. He was distinguished for his humility and was ordained a priest. Later, he became a bishop, succeeding Saint Cyril on the episcopal throne. During the persecutions carried out by the emperors Diocletian and Maximian, the saint strengthened the faithful in their martyrdom, urging them not to be afraid and to endure every humiliation for the love of Jesus Christ.
Many Christians, inspired by his words, courageously confessed their faith. Among them, there were Dorotheus, Mardonius, Mygdonius, and many others, who endured martyrdom. The persecutions intensified when the pagans accused Christians of attacking the imperial court and setting fire to the imperial residences. Saint Anthimus was then forced to hide, yet he never ceased to guide his flock through the letters he secretly used to send.
When he was eventually discovered, he was arrested and subjected to terrible tortures. Nevertheless, he responded courageously to the emperor’s threats and accepted his end with joy, considering it a path to the eternal life.
After many sufferings, he was condemned to death. He prayed and was executed by beheading on September 3rd. His body was secretly buried by faithful Christians.
