The Church commemorates the uncovering and translation of the relics of Saint Neophytus the Recluse and honors Venerable Chariton the Confessor and Venerable Auxentius, who is highly revered in the occupied region of Komi Kebir on the Karpas Peninsula in Cyprus.
Venerable Chariton became a martyr during the reign of Emperor Aurelian for his unwavering faith in the Lord. Despite being imprisoned and tortured, he remained steadfast in his Christian beliefs.
Upon Emperor Aurelian’s death, Venerable Chariton was released and embarked on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. Along the way, he was captured by bandits who subjected him to further torture.
Remarkably, the bandits perished after consuming poisoned wine. Venerable Chariton converted their hideout into a monastery, which attracted other monks who also led virtuous lives and were later recognized as saints by the Holy Spirit.
These monasteries have served as havens of peace and prayer over the years, with monk fathers dedicated to their salvation and providing solace to those amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.
Furthermore, the monasteries offer opportunities for religious and pilgrimage tours, providing spiritual support and healing to the faithful. They stand as beacons of Orthodoxy, upholding the rich monastic tradition established in the early apostolic era.
Source: Church of Cyprus