Martyr Gordius was born in Caesarea of Cappadocia to Christian parents and was raised in the Orthodox faith. Upon reaching maturity, he became a centurion, but seeing the persecution of Christians, he decided to retreat to the desert, leaving behind all earthly goods.
At that time, the Roman Emperor Licinius raised persecution against Christians, and Gordius, seeing the suffering of his brothers in Christ, returned to the city to confess his faith. He boldly entered the circus, where a festival was taking place, and loudly proclaimed his faith in Jesus Christ.
The governor, learning of his courage, ordered him to be subjected to cruel tortures, but Gordius remained steadfast, praising God and awaiting martyrdom. He rejected all offers of wealth and positions, stating that nothing could compare to the Kingdom of Heaven.
Despite the pleas of friends to renounce Christ, Gordius remained faithful until the end. He urged them not to weep for him, but for those who persecute Christians. In the end, he was beheaded, gaining a blessed life and eternal repose, where together with the angels he glorifies Christ.
