Martyr
Callinicus of Gangra in Asia Minor
Martyr Callinicus of Gangra in Asia Minor
New Calendar July 29 Old Calendar August 11
Why they are a saint
He was born in Cilicia to a pious family. He left all worldly things and devoted his life to preaching the Gospel of Christ, for which he was arrested in Ancyra by the governor Sacerdos. When he was commanded to worship the idols or suffer torture, Callinicus replied, ‘Every torture for my God is as welcome to me as bread to a hungry man.’ After harsh torture, the governor had him shod in shoes in which nails had been set pointing upright, and had him driven on foot to the town of Gangra. (The governor was afraid to keep him in Ancyra, since many of the people were turning to Christ through the Saint’s example.) On the way, when the soldiers became thirsty, Callinicus prayed to God and brought forth water from a rock.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Callinicus of Gangra in Asia Minor as a patron when they bear the name Callinicus at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on July 29. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Callinicus of Gangra in Asia Minor, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.