The martyr Zosima lived in the city of Apollonia (Thrace) during the reign of the persecutor of Christians, Trajan. Hearing about the beginning of the persecution of Christians, he left military service, accepted Baptism, and devoted himself to prayer and good deeds. At the trial, he boldly confessed his faith in Christ and refused to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. For this, he was subjected to the most severe torments, but he did not feel the sufferings, strengthening himself with the sign of the cross.
By the order of the governor Domitian, the martyr was shod in iron sandals with sharp nails and was led by horses. In prison, he was starved and thirsty, but the Angel of the Lord strengthened his strength. He resolutely refused to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. After the tortures, he was beheaded and with a prayer committed his soul to God.
