The Orthodox Church honors Saint John the Younger, Martyrs Ia and 9,000 in Persia, and the Holy Seven Youths in Ephesus on August 4th. The Seven Youths, Maximilian, Iamblicus, Martinian, John, Dionysius, Exacustodianus, and Antoninus, bravely held onto their faith during the persecution by Emperor Decius in the 3rd century AD.
Facing the threat of persecution, the Seven Youths gave away their possessions to the poor and sought refuge in a cave. They prayed to the Holy Spirit to take their souls if it was God’s will, so they would not renounce their faith. Miraculously, they fell asleep and did not awaken, preserving their purity.
Years later, during the reign of Theodosius the Younger, a sect denied the resurrection of the dead in Ephesus. The youngest of the Seven Youths, using a coin from Decius’ time, was arrested, leading to the discovery of the other six youths alive in the cave. This event confirmed the reality of the resurrection and the Second Coming, strengthening the faith of many.
Christian belief in the resurrection of the dead is affirmed in the Creed, and the miraculous survival of the Seven Youths serves as a testament to God’s intervention. Their story continues to inspire and uphold the faith of believers.
Source: Church of Cyprus