Presbyter
The great Emperor Constantine and his son Constantius built and adorned the cathedral church in Antioch, known as the Golden Church. The presbyter of this church was Saint Theodorit, who lived a virtuous life and fulfilled the commandments of God. After the death of Constantius, Julian the Apostate ascended to the throne, who at first seemed pious but soon began to persecute Christians and desecrate temples. He plundered the Antiochian church and tortured Saint Theodorit, demanding that he renounce Christ.
Saint Theodorit, despite the cruel tortures, remained faithful to Christ and rebuked Julian for his idolatry. The torturer ordered him to be severely tortured, but the saint did not lose courage and continued to confess his faith. In response to threats, Julian ordered him to be beheaded, and the saint joyfully accepted the martyr's death, praying for himself and for peace.
After his death, the prophecies of the saint about the punishment of Julian and his uncle were fulfilled, who soon died from diseases and misfortunes. Julian, having set out on a campaign against the Persians, also perished, as the holy Theodorit had predicted. Faithful Christians glorified God for the fulfillment of the prophecy and for the courage of the holy martyr.
