The Orthodox Church commemorates today Prophet Zechariah and Great-martyr Theodore Stratelates.
Saint Theodore Stratelate came from Euchaita and lived in the city of Heraclea Pontica. He was a soldier. He was known for his courage and, therefore, he got a higher position in the army.
When Emperor Licinius visited the city of Heraclea, he had the opportunity to meet Theodore, whom he admired from the beginning. In the meantime, he asked for some further information about the Saint. When he learned that Theodore was Christian, he ordered the soldiers to bring him before him. The Emperor ordered Theodore to offer a sacrifice to the idols, but the Saint refused. He even took valuable objects from the temples and gave them to the poor. Despite the threats, Saint Theodore remained steadfast in his faith. He was removed from the army, tortured and finally beheaded.
Source: Church of Cyprus
