The Saints Cosmas and Damian the Unmercenaries were born in ancient Rome to the same parents. They were raised with piety and were trained in the science of medicine. They healed people’s illnesses and took care of those in need without ever receiving any payment. The guiding principles of their lives were their faith in Christ and their love for God.
They were slandered by those who hated them and were summoned to Rome in order to appear before the emperor. He demanded that they renounce Christ and acknowledge the pagan gods. The saints refused with courage. When the emperor began to threaten them, they sought to admonish him by calling the name of the Lord.
Suddenly, his neck was twisted in such a way that he could no longer turn his head. Fear seized both the emperor himself and many of those who witnessed the event. He repented before all and publicly confessed his faith in Christ. He was immediately healed, and Saints Cosmas and Damian were set free.
Returning to their village in Rome, they continued their God-pleasing work. Their daily struggles and unceasing spiritual prayer made them models of holiness.
They ended their lives when a physician, envious of their gift, sought to take revenge. He lured them to a secluded spot high in the mountains, murdered them, and threw their bodies into a river. However, by Divine Providence, their holy relics were found intact some time later and were buried with great honor.
Through their God-pleasing lives and their martyrdom, Saints Cosmas and Damian attained the heavenly Kingdom of the Lord.
