Saint Hieromartyr Onuphrius was born in the village of Kambrova, near Tarnovo in Bulgaria, into a family of wealthy Christians. His name was Matthaios. In his youth, he was led astray by various religions and false teachings. Soon, however, he came to his senses and chose to devote himself to the one true God. He withdrew to Mount Athos, where he became a monk and was ordained a hierodeacon, excelling in the practice of virtue and humility.
As the years passed, the saint became deeply aware of his earlier sins and felt profound sorrow for having renounced his faith in Christ. In sincere repentance and with a desire to be driven into martyrdom, he resolved to confess his faith before the Ottoman authorities. Following the counsel of his spiritual fathers, he continued his struggle through prayer, fasting, and strict asceticism. He then received the Great Angelic Schema and the name Onouphrios, departed for the island of Chios, and met the monk Gregory.
There, after seven days of fasting and prayer, he decided to confess his faith on the day of the Passion of our Lord. Although he felt fear, his deep humility led him to persevere in prayer. When he was ready to bear witness to Christ, he presented himself before the Ottoman authorities and openly confessed his faith. Enraged by his steadfastness, they condemned him to death.
Venerable Onuphrius was beheaded on January 4, 1818, at the age of 32. His body was cast into the sea. However, his holy relics were miraculously preserved and venerated by the faithful.
