Hieromartyr Alexander, Bishop of Comana
Saint Alexander, Bishop of Comana, lived in the III century not far from Neocaesarea. He studied the Holy Scriptures, and knew many sciences. Having taken upon himself the exploit (podvig) of foolishness, the Saint lived in poverty, selling coal in the city square. Many, seeing his face always black with charcoal dust, treated him with contempt. When the Bishop of Comana reposed, some proposed to elect a new primate from the nobility, others wanted a learned or eloquent man, and still others a wealthy one.
Then Saint Gregory of Neocaesarea (November 17), who was invited for the consecration of the chosen one, pointed out that a Bishop should have not only external merits and distinctions, but first of all, a pure heart and a holy life. These words caused some to smile: "If you don't look at his appearance or nobility of origin, then Alexander the charcoal-burner could also be made a bishop."
Saint Gregory realized that it was not without God's providence that this man had been mentioned, and asked that he be summoned. The Saint's appearance among those who had gathered caused laughter. Turning respectfully to Saint Gregory, Saint Alexander stood, absorbed in himself, paying no attention to the mockery; the Hierarch tested him, and the charcoal-burner was forced to reveal that he had previously been a philosopher, and had studied Holy Scripture, but for the Lord's sake he took upon himself voluntary poverty and humility. Then the Hierarch Gregory took the charcoal-burner to his house, where he was washed and then dressed in clean clothes. Returning to the Council, Saint Gregory began to put some questions to him about the Holy Scriptures before everyone, which Saint Alexander answered as a knowledgeable and wise pastor.
Seeing this, those present were astonished by his humility, and unanimously elected Saint Alexander as their Bishop. Saint Gregory ordained him as a Presbyter, and then consecrated him as a Bishop. After his consecration the new Hierarch spoke a word to the people, filled with the power and grace of God. Everyone rejoiced that the Lord had sent them such a wise shepherd. Under Emperor Diocletian (284-305) the Hierarch courageously confessed Christ, refusing to worship idols. After torturing him they threw him into the fire, and there he surrendered his soul to God.
According to some sources, Saint Alexander suffered during the reign of Emperor Decius (249-251).