Saint Maxim, filled with great zeal and love for God, was grieved to see idolaters leading others into the worship of idols. He prayed fervently for the end of the persecutions against Christians and baptized many who came to believe. During the time of paganism, unable to endure the sight of sacrifices to idols, he reproached the idolaters and called them to repentance. For this, he was seized and beaten until he surrendered his soul to God.
On the same day, we also commemorate Saint Isidore, the Fool for Christ and miracle-worker of Rostov, who reposed in 1474.
We also commemorate Saint Nikitas of the Kiev Caves, Bishop of Novgorod, who reposed in 1108.
Saint Maxim received the crown of martyrdom during the persecution of Emperor Decius, on May 14, 250.
