August 22

Reading

The Martyr Agathonicus, because he converted pagans to Christ, was seized in Nicomedia, violently beaten, haled about in bonds, and beheaded in Selyvria, during the reign of Maximian, in the year 298.

Apolytikion of Martyr Agathonicus

Fourth Tone

Thy Martyrs, O Lord, in their courageous contest for Thee received as the prize the crowns of incorruption and life from Thee, our immortal God. For since they possessed Thy strength, they cast down the tyrants and wholly destroyed the demons' strengthless presumption. O Christ God, by their prayers, save our souls, since Thou art merciful.

Kontakion of Martyr Agathonicus

First Tone

O man of godly mind, as the namesake of goodness, thou utterly didst hate that which wicked men worshipped; and no pains could frighten thee, O divine Agathonicus. Wherefore, thou becamest a good heir of all good things, worthily receiving with thy brave fellow athletes the crown incorruptible.