Martyrs Eustratius, Auxentius, Eugene, Mardarius, and Orestes, at Sebaste
The Holy Martyrs Eustratios (Eustrátios), Auxentios (Auxéntios), Eugene, Mardarios (Mardários), and Orestes (the Five Companions) suffered for Christ at Sebaste in Armenia during the reign of Emperor Diocletian (284-305).
Among the first Christians imprisoned and undergoing torture at that time was the presbyterian Saint Auxentios of Syria. One of those who witnessed the steadfastness of the Christians was the noble military commander Saint Eustratios, the city prefect of Satalios, and archivist of the province. He was a secret Christian, and when he confessed his faith openly, he was subjected to torture. He was beaten, and iron sandals studded with sharp nails were placed on his feet, then he was forced to march to the city of Arabrak.
Witnessing the arrival of Saint Eustratios in Arabrak, Saint Mardarios, one of the people in the crowd, confessed that he too was a Christian like Saint Eustratios. He was arrested and cast into prison. Holes were drilled in his ankles, and ropes were passed through them. He was suspended upside down, then heated nails were hammered into his body. He died a short time later. The prayer “O Master Lord God, Father Almighty ...” (which is read at the end of the Third Hour), is attributed to him.
As for Saint Eugene, they tore out his tongue, cut off his hands and feet, and then beheaded him with a sword. Saint Auxentios was also arrested and beheaded. The young soldier Saint Orestes confessed himself a Christian and stood trial for this “crime.” He was sentenced to be stretched out upon a red-hot iron bed, and he grew afraid when he approached it. Encouraged by Saint Eustratios, he made the Sign of the Cross and got onto the heated bed, where he surrendered his soul to God.
Saint Eustratios was sentenced to be burnt alive on December 13. As he was being led to his death, he prayed aloud: "I magnify Thee exceedingly, O Lord, for Thou hast regarded my lowliness...” This prayer is still read at the Saturday Midnight Office.