During the reign of Emperor Numerianos, the governor Theodoros began a persecution against the Christians. Among the martyrs there was the young Thallelaios, a physician who took care of his patients without accepting payment. He was arrested and brought to trial, during which he openly confessed his faith in Christ. Seeing his inner strength, the governor attempted to force him to offer sacrifice to the gods of the pagans. However, he refused, steadfastly declaring that he would not worship demons.
Enraged, the governor ordered that he be tortured. Yet, through divine intervention, the saint endured every humiliation. His body continually healed from its wounds, allowing him to bear the pain with ease. His torturers eventually hung him from a tree. Two believers who witnessed his martyrdom confessed Christ and were beheaded. Saint Thallelaios continued praying to Christ. When they threw him into the sea, expecting him to be drown, he returned clothed in white garments, a sight that terrified the governor and all who were present.
Finally, it was decided that the saint be thrown to wild animals. Sensing his holiness, they would not touch him. Even a bear approached him and lay peacefully at his feet. Furious, the governor ordered that he be killed with a sword. Accepting his martyr’s end, the saint died on May 20, gaining eternal life in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ.
