Saint Nikos the Martyr and his 199 disciples
Celebration Date: 23/03
Saint Nicon was born in Neapolis, Italy, at the time of the ruler Cyndianus, from a pagan father and a Christian mother, who nurtured him according to the evangelical doctrines. At a young age he became a soldier and very quickly distinguished himself for his bravery and discipline. His soul, however, longed for a life of exercise and dedication. That is why he started for the area of Constantinople, but he made a first stop in Chios. There he received Holy Baptism and dedicated himself to the ascetic life and the study of the Holy Scriptures. The local bishop recognized his gifts and ordained him elder and a little later appointed him abbot of 190 brothers to admonish and guide them. Very quickly, the escort gained a great reputation. But when his parents fell asleep, the Saint and his retinue, together with nine others, formed a pious brotherhood and settled in Sicily. But soon they accepted the ruler’s attack, refused, were arrested, suffered horrible tortures and finally were killed.
