The Church celebrates today the uncovering and translation of the relics of Saint Neophytus the Recluse and commemorates Venerable Chariton the Confessor and Venerable Auxentius, who is highly honoured in the occupied region of Komi Kebir, located on the Karpas Peninsula, in Cyprus.
Venerable Chariton became a martyr under the reign of Emperor Aurelian. He was imprisoned and tortured, because he believed and confessed his faith in the Lord. Nevertheless, he was distinguished by his steadfastness in Christian faith.
He was set free after the death of Emperor Aurelian. Bearing on his body the marks of the tortures, he decided to go as pilgrimage to the Holy Land. On his way to the Holy Land, he was arrested by bandits who tortured him. However, they died as they drank poisoned wine. Venerable Chariton transformed the bandits’ lair into a monastery. He was then followed by several monks, who became Saints later on as the Holy Spirit recognised that they led a virtuous life.
By Bishop Gregorios of Mesaoria
Source: Church of Cyprus