Patriarch
Saint Callinicus was a priest and sacristan of the Church of Blachernae. After the death of Patriarch Paul III, he was elevated to the patriarchal throne.
During that period, Justinian II oppressed Christians and showed no respect for the clergy. He even planned to destroy the Church of Theotokos in order to build a luxurious fountain near his palace. Therefore, he sought the saint’s blessing to demolish the church. Saint Callinicus refused, asserting that the Church could never give its blessing for the destruction of the Lord’s house. He also said:
"Glory to You, my Christ, for You always endure and show patience."
When General Leontius learned of Justinian’s intentions, he intervened with a large force of soldiers to prevent the massacre of the citizens. Justinian was captured and exiled, while Leontius was proclaimed the new emperor and crowned by Saint Callinicus.
However, Justinian gathered another army and returned to Constantinople. He began to take revenge on his enemies, including Saint Callinicus, whom he captured, blinded, and exiled to Rome.
The saint peacefully gave his soul to the Lord in 705.
