Saint Constantine the Hagarene was born on the island of Lesvos to Muslim parents. From childhood he was gentle and full of innocence. When he was still a young boy, he was poisoned and nearly lost his life. However, he was healed by a devout Christian woman who washed him with holy water. Later he lived in Smyrna, where he began to study Christianity, interacting with the faithful, and taking part in spiritual discussions. In time, after immersing himself in the Holy Scriptures and the patristic writings of the Church, he came to believe in Christ.
During a severe epidemic, he fell into prostitution in an attempt to survive. He soon repented and went to the Holy Mountain, where he embraced Christianity and began the ascetic life. The elders initially refused him entry into the monastic community several times. Eventually, he was accepted at Kavsokalyvia.
Inspired by the lives of the saints, he desired to suffer his own martyrdom for Christ. He returned to the world and set out for Magnesia in order to find his sister and persuade her to embrace Christianity. On the way, he was recognized by Turks and arrested. During interrogation, he courageously confessed his faith and endured severe tortures. Despite his sufferings and afflictions, he never ceased glorifying the Triune God.
He was eventually sent to Constantinople, where he continued to suffer for Christ. He was condemned to death and fell asleep in the Lord on 2 June 1819. His body was secretly buried in a Muslim cemetery so that the local Christians would not be able to honor him for his martyrdom.
After his burial, many miracles began to occur through his clothing.
