The Orthodox Church today commemorates the Apostles Aristarchus of Thessalonica, Bishop of Apamea, who is also recognized as one of the Seventy Apostles. Additionally, the Martyrs Ardalion the Mime, Thomais, and New Martyr Demetrius of Trifylia, who was martyred in Tripoli in 1803.
Saint Demetrios was born in Ligoudista, Arcadia, and later journeyed to Tripoli with his brother to work as a builder. After facing mistreatment, he sought refuge with a Turkish barber, who converted him to Islam. Filled with remorse, Demetrios sought redemption and found solace in the Monastery of the Holy Forerunner in Kydonies, where he embraced the Christian faith and sought guidance for his past actions.
Encouraged by a wise spiritual father, Demetrios found courage and strength in Chios under the guidance of a devout clergyman. Returning to Tripoli, he boldly declared his faith in Christ to the Turkish commander and, despite torture and persecution, remained steadfast in his beliefs. He was ultimately beheaded in Tripoli on April 14, 1803.
The relic of the new martyr Demetrius is now located in the Katholikon of the Holy Monastery of Saint Nicholas in Varson, Arcadia, Peloponnese, where he is honored as a martyr of the Church.
Source: Church of Cyprus