Phocas of Sinope, Bishop

Saint Foka was born in the city of Sinope and from his youth led a virtuous Christian life. In his mature years, he was appointed as the Bishop of Sinope, converting many pagans to the faith of Christ. During the persecutions of Christians under Emperor Trajan, the governor forced the saint to renounce Christ. After severe tortures, Saint Foka was imprisoned in a hot bath, where he suffered martyrdom in the year 117. In 404, the relics of the saint were transferred to Constantinople. Saint Foka is venerated as a protector against fires and as a helper to those who are drowning.