Bishop
Saint Nikon lived in the city of Neapolis. He was a noble warrior, raised by his pious mother. During a war, while he was in great danger, he called upon Jesus Christ for help. He made the sign of the cross and achieved victory over his enemies. After the war, he was convinced to become a Christian. He got baptized and became a monk.
Nikon showed great humility and persistence in prayer. He was ordained bishop and went to Sicily, where he founded a monastery together with other monks. However, persecutions against Christians continued. Nikon and his disciples were captured by the governor Quintian.
Saint Nikon and his 199 fellow monks endured severe tortures but remained faithful to Christ. Nikon was beheaded, while his body was left unburied. Later, by the will of God, it was found and honorably buried by the bishop of Messina along with the bodies of his disciples.
Reports of miracles associated with saint Nikon were spread among all faithful. His memory is venerated as that of a hieromartyr who steadfastly endured suffering for the faith.
