Blessed Theodore, originally from Mytilene, had a family but, succumbing to temptation, renounced Christ and accepted Islam. Realizing his mistake, he repented and arrived at the Holy Mountain, where he confessed his sin and began to strive in spiritual matters. However, his soul yearned for a higher feat, and, strengthened by the prayer of his spiritual father, he returned to his homeland to profess his faith.
Standing before the judge, he asserted his right to defense, claiming that his Christian faith is the true one. The judge, not understanding him, ordered him to be imprisoned. After several interrogations, failing to obtain a renunciation, the judge sentenced him to death. Blessed Theodore was subjected to cruel tortures but remained steadfast in his faith.
At the place of execution, he prayed and, asking forgiveness from the Christians, ascended the gallows himself. His holy relics were thrown into the sea, but soon they were found and buried by Christians at the church of Saint John the Baptist. The relics of the saint disappeared, and their whereabouts remain unknown. Glory to God in His saints forever. Amen.
St. martyr Theodore suffered in 1784.
