Saint Procopius the Great Martyr was born in Jerusalem and lived during the reign of the Emperor Diocletian. His father, the noble Roman Christophorus, was a Christian, while his mother, Theodosia, was a pagan.
After receiving an excellent education, the saint was sent to Alexandria with orders to persecute Christians. On his journey to Egypt, Christ appeared before him, and through the Divine Grace converted him to the true faith. When his mother learned of her son’s conversion, she went to the emperor. Saint Procopius was arrested and sent to Caesarea.
He appeared many times before the tribunal, steadfastly enduring torture and humiliation. His courage inspired many, including several Roman soldiers and twelve women, who followed him in martyrdom.
The proconsul Flavianus condemned Saint Procopius to death by beheading. The faithful secretly buried his body, honoring him as a holy martyr († 303).
