The Orthodox Church honors the Apostle Matthias and several Martyrs who remained steadfast in their faith, a testament to the commitment of many Christians today.
Matthias was chosen by the eleven Apostles to replace Judas Iscariot as the twelfth Apostle, following the Ascension of the Lord.
Little is known about Matthias from the New Testament, but legends suggest he preached in Judea and Ethiopia before becoming a martyr, either in Sevastopol or Jerusalem.
His missionary work and ultimate sacrifice are remembered and celebrated in the Orthodox tradition.
Source: Church of Cyprus