Saint Leontios and his fellow martyrs lived during the reign of Emperor Diocletian in the city of Perge in Pamphylia, which was governed by Flavian. They all came from humble Christian families, most of whom were engaged in agriculture.
Determined to bear witness for Christ, they destroyed one night the altars and sacred objects in the temple of Artemis. For this act they were arrested and subjected to severe tortures. Their bodies were brutally beaten, thrown into fire, while their eyes were put out. They were also kept imprisoned for a long time without any food. They were even handed over to wild beasts, which, however, became subdued before them, striking terror into the spectators. Then a great storm broke out. The saints heard the voice of God and got filled with joy.
By order of the governor, they were beheaded, thus completing their martyrdom. The Church celebrates their memory on August 1st.
