Today, June 5, our Holy Church honors the memory of the Hieromartyr Dorotheus, Bishop of Tyre.
Saint Dorotheus, a devoted shepherd, possessed deep knowledge and truth as mentioned in the Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Romans (Romans 2:20), which is found in both the Old and New Testament.
During the intense persecution of the Church under Diocletian, his flock pleaded with him to leave to ensure his safety. He temporarily resided in Dyssos, practicing asceticism and praying for the faithful until the persecution ended.
Upon his return, Dorotheus cared for his flock with love and compassion, supporting the weak in faith and assisting those in need, such as widows, orphans, and the sick.
Saint Dorotheus lived through the reign of Julian the Apostate, who sought to revive paganism. Despite persecution, Dorotheus remained steadfast in his faith.
Eventually, Dorotheus was captured by pagan supporters of Emperor Julian, tortured, and martyred in 362 AD, earning the crown of martyrdom through the grace of the Holy Spirit.
Today, an ecclesiastical book attributed to St. Dorotheus is preserved, focusing on the 70 disciples of the resurrected Jesus Christ.
Source: Church of Cyprus