Bishop
Born in Nicomedia, he led a virtuous life and was known for his humility. He was ordained as a priest and became the Bishop of Nicomedia after Saint Cyril. During the persecutions against Christians led by the emperors Diocletian and Maximian, he strengthened the faithful for the martyr's struggle, urging them not to fear suffering for Christ.
Many Christians, inspired by his words, boldly confessed their faith, among them were Dorotheus, Mardonius, Migdonis, and others who accepted a martyr's death. The persecutions intensified when pagans accused Christians of setting fire to the royal palaces. Saint Anthimus hid but continued to instruct the faithful through letters.
One of the soldiers, Zenon, rebuked Emperor Maximian, for which he was severely punished. Saint Anthimus, encouraging the Christians, was captured and subjected to torture. He boldly responded to the emperor's threats, not fearing suffering, and joyfully accepted the torments, considering them a path to eternal life.
After enduring many tortures, including heated boots and the wheel, the saint was sentenced to death. Before his execution, he prayed and joyfully accepted beheading by the sword on September 3. His body was secretly buried by the faithful, who glorified the Holy Trinity.
