Saint Cyprian was born in the village of Kleisto (also known as Kleitsos or Klitzos) in Epirus. He was raised in a devout family and became acquainted with the principles of the Christian faith from a vrey young age. After the death of his parents, he became a monk and withdrew to Mount Athos, where he struggled in fasting and prayer. He became a spiritual elder to many young monks who practiced asceticism near him. Nevertheless, he was continually tormented by the thought that he was inadequate and unworthy before God.
Seeking the path of salvation and desiring to confess his faith to Christ, he traveled to Constantinople. He appeared at the palace and preached the true faith before the Vizier. He spoke boldly of God’s mercy and urged people to repent. His stance enraged the Muslims, who, after threatening him to change his faith, arrested him and subjected him to horrific tortures. In the end, the saint was condemned to death.
On the way to his execution, he was joyful and full of hope. He knelt and gave thanks to the Lord, who granted him the opportunity to complete his life through martyrdom.
On July 5, 1679, the soul of Saint Cyprian entered the Kingdom of Heaven, earning a place among the saints.
