The Orthodox Church today commemorates the memory of Saint Dimitrianos, Bishop of Kythrea on Cyprus, known for his miracles, and Saint Paul the Confessor, Archbishop of Constantinople.
Saint Dimitrianos lived during the reign of Emperor Theophilus, who supported iconoclasm. Born in the village of Syka in Kythrea to devout parents, he was married to a noble Christian woman who passed away. After her death, he chose to devote himself to God and became a monk, later ordained as a Presbyter by Bishop Efstathios of Kythrea, who eventually became his successor as Bishop.
Known for his humility, accessibility, and bravery, Bishop Dimitrianos witnessed his flock being taken captive by barbarians and transported forcibly to Babylon. He accompanied his people into exile and, through his prayers and vigilance, God delivered them and brought them back to Cyprus.
He encouraged the Christians to establish a new Kythrea in a safer location to protect against pirates and enemies, with a clear view from Famagusta. Bishop Dimitrianos passed away in his old age, leaving behind a legacy as a devoted pastor of Kythrea, where other holy bishops were also born and later participated in Ecumenical Synods.
Source: Church of Cyprus