November 2
Saint Elpidophoros lived in Persia in the 4th century and suffered for Christ in the period of the years 330-335, together with the other saints Akindinus, Pigasius, Anempodistus and Affonius. Presumably, the basis for his life story was an ancient narrative composed by an eyewitness of the events.
Saints Akindinos, Pigasios and Anempodistus were secret Christians and served at the court of the Persian Shah Shapur, Affonius was one of the tormentors who turned to Christ at the sight of the suffering of the holy martyrs, and Elpidophorus was a royal noble who sided with the Christians. In addition to the martyrs named by their names, the life mentions many other converts who were executed by order of Shapur, including his own mother.
Website of the Slavic Orthodox Vicariate, https://slavonic.org/en/great-martyr-st-elpidophoros-of-persia/
These Martyrs contested in Persia about the year 330, in the reign of Sapor (Shapur) II, King of Persia (325-379). Acindynus, Pegasius, and Anempodistus, Persian Christians, confessed Christ before the King, and were put to many torments. Aphthonius and Elpidophoros, drawn to the Faith of Christ through the Martyrs, were beheaded with another 7,000. Saints Acindynus, Pegasius, and Anempodistus were at last burned to death. Two churches were dedicated in their honour in Constantinople.
As is often the case in church hymns, there is a play on the meanings of the Saints’ names here. Acindynus means “unimperilled”; Pegasius is derived from pegazo–“to gush forth”; Aphthonius is derived from aphthonos-“abundant”; Elpidophoros means “hope-bearing”; Anempodistus means “unhindered.” These are all Greek translations of their Persian names.
Apolytikion of Martyrs Martyrs Acindynos, Pegasios, Aphthonios, Elpidophoros, and Anempodistos
Second Tone
Blessed is the earth that drank your blood, O prizewinners of the Lord, and holy are the tabernacles that received your spirit; for in the stadium ye triumphed over the enemy, and ye proclaimed Christ with boldness. Beseech Him, we pray, since He is good, to save our souls.
Kontakion of Martyrs Martyrs Acindynos, Pegasios, Aphthonios, Elpidophoros, and Anempodistos
First Tone
As five unerring stars of the great Sun of Glory, the soldiers of Christ God brightly shone on the whole earth, dispelling the gloom of passions and pouring abundant grace on all of the faithful without cease and unhindered; and they grant salvation that no sin can imperil, through hope that is full of faith.
~Website of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America (GOA), https://www.goarch.org/chapel/saints?contentid=270
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