August 11

Reading

This Martyr was from Catania in Sicily and contested during the reign of Diocletian. He presented himself of his own accord to Calvisianus the Governor, who put him to exceedingly harsh torments. As Euplus was on the rack, Calvisianus commanded him to worship Mars, Apollo, and Aesculapius; he answered he worshipped the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He was beheaded in the year 304.

Apolytikion of Martyr Euplus the Deacon

Fourth Tone

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

Kontakion of Martyr Euplus the Deacon

First Tone

While bearing in thy hands the divine laws of Christ God, thou camest to thy foes, in the stadium crying: Now being self-called, I come to contend with most firm resolve. Wherefore, having bent thy neck in great jubilation, thou was then beheaded with the sword, O wise Euplus, completing thy valiant course.