Saint Antiochos was a physician from Sebasteia in Cappadocia. He took care of the sick and of all those in need until he was arrested by order of the governor Hadrian.
After enduring many tortures, he was thrown into a cauldron of boiling water, from which he emerged unharmed. He was also cast into the arena with wild beasts, which, upon seeing him, rejoiced and approached him to lick his feet. One of the animals even spoke with a human voice, reproaching the saint’s tormentors. Moreover, through his prayers, idols and pagan shrines were brought down.
In the end, he was executed by beheading. From the wound of his body, blood flowed as white as milk. The executioner, named Kyriakos, repented upon witnessing the miracle, boldly confessed his faith in Christ, and was likewise put to death.
Saint Antiochos and Saint Kyriakos were both martyred during the reign of Diocletian. Their memory is celebrated on 16 July.
