Saint Martyr Artemius was from a noble Roman family, served as a senator and duke of Egypt. He believed in Christ after seeing the holy cross in the sky during the reign of Constantine the Great and served Him faithfully. After the death of Constantine, Artemius continued to serve his son Constantius, carrying out important tasks, including the transfer of the relics of the holy apostles to Constantinople.
With the rise to power of the impious Julian, who restored paganism and began persecutions against Christians, Artemius openly opposed him, defending the faith and condemning the cruel actions of the king. For this, he was captured and subjected to cruel tortures, demonstrating remarkable patience and steadfastness, not uttering a sound from his suffering.
After many tortures, including torture with heated awls and heavy stones, the saint was imprisoned, where Christ appeared to him, encouraging him and promising a crown of glory. Artemius continued to pray and did not partake of food, being nourished by the grace of the Holy Spirit.
Julian, not receiving the desired answers from his gods, accused Christians of burning the temple of Apollo and continued the persecutions. Artemius, remaining steadfast in faith, was sentenced to death. He accepted his martyr's end with joy, praying before his execution and receiving a revelation about his reward in heaven.
Saint Artemius was beheaded on October 20, 363. His relics were buried with honors, and miracles and healings were performed through them. After his death, the prophecy about the imminent demise of Julian was fulfilled, who fell in battle against the Persians, acknowledging the power of Christ.
