The city of Kyzikos, located in Mysia on the shores of the Dardanelles, came to know Christianity through the Apostle Paul. During the time of persecution against Christians, the nine holy martyrs, Theognis, Rufus, Antipater, Theostichus, Artemas, Magnus, Theodotus, Thavmasius, and Philemon, firmly confessed their faith, rejecting idolatry and opposing the pagans.
The saints were captured and subjected to cruel tortures, yet they did not renounce Christ. For their steadfastness, they were beheaded, and their bodies were buried in Kyzikos. After the end of the persecutions under Emperor Constantine the Great, their relics were found to be incorrupt. Numerous miracles began to occur in the city, leading many pagans to convert to Christianity.
Following the death of Constantine, during the reign of Julian the Apostate, Christians faced renewed oppression. However, when Bishop Eleusius was released, the light of faith shone once again in the city. Since then, the nine martyrs have been protectors and defenders of the Orthodox faith.
