The Church celebrates the memory of Holy Wonderworkers and Unmercenaries Cyrus and John, who selflessly offered their services with love and divine wisdom to those in need.
Saints Cyrus and John lived during the reign of Emperor Diocletian (284-305). St. Cyrus hailed from Alexandria, while St. John came from Edessa, Syria.
When the persecution of Diocletian began, Saint Cyrus retreated to a coastal area in Arabia, where he became a monk and settled.
Saint John traveled to Jerusalem, where he heard about the miraculous deeds of Saint Cyrus. He then journeyed to Alexandria, located Saint Cyrus, and joined him. The account of the Miracles of the Holy Unmercenaries was written by Saint Sophronius the Sophist, Patriarch of Jerusalem, who was healed by the saints.
During this time of persecution, Saint Athanasia, a widow, and the three daughters of Theodota – Theoctista and Eudoxia – were also arrested. Cyrus and John were deeply affected by this news. Fearing that the young girls might falter under torment, they chose to stand by them. As a result, they were also apprehended and brought before the governor. Despite attempts to sway them, they steadfastly professed their faith in God. The governor, angered by their resolve, subjected them to severe torture. Ultimately, in AD 292, Saints Cyrus and John, along with Saint Athanasia and her daughters, were martyred.
Source: Church of Cyprus