Saint Cosmas, a man of God and great teacher of the Church, was born in Aitolia. He was the son of devout and honorable parents. He was raised according to the principles of Christian faith and he received great education. As he grew older, he continued his studies at the Athonite Academy of Mount Athos. There he became a monk and later a hieromonk. Filled with deep love for the Lord and desiring to serve the Church of Christ, he began to preach the Gospel, having the blessing of his spiritual fathers in Mount Athos.
He preached in Constantinople, Nafpaktos, Messolonghi, and many other places, eventually returning to his monastic community. He also preached in Macedonia and on the islands, where his teaching brought great spiritual benefit to the people. In Cephalonia, he performed miracles, healing the sick and drawing people ever closer to the Lord.
Crowds gathered around the cross that the saint would plant in the ground, calling them to listen and believe in the teachings of the Church. The places through which he passed became sites of miracles.
After many unsuccessful attempts to admonish the people of Zakynthos, the saint returned to Cephalonia and from there traveled to Albania. He continued to teach the Christians, founding schools and encouraging the practice of virtues.
He openly rebuked those who had gone astray, calling them to repentance. His words created hatred among his enemies, so that his arrest and execution were ordered. The saint joyfully accepted his martyrdom, blessing the people, praying, and glorifying the Lord.
He was hanged on August 24, 1779, while his body was thrown into the river. Christians recovered it and buried it with honor.
His relics remained incorrupt. Many miracles were performed afterwards through their grace and blessing.
His life and martyrdom became an example to many. The Ecumenical Patriarchate officially recognised him among the New Martyrs of the Church on April 20, 1961.
