The Byzantine Shrine on Beacon Hill

Holy Apostles and Martyrs whose relics were uncovered in the district of Eugenius at Constantinople

During the persecutions against Christians the relics of these Holy Martyrs were usually buried by the faithful in hidden places. Thus, at Constantinople, near the Eugenios Gate and tower, the incorrupt relics of several Martyrs were found. Their names are not known, but they are written in the Book of Life. 

Wishing to glorify His servants, God began healing people of their infirmities at the place where the relics of the Martyrs were found. They were transferred to a church with great honor by a certain Hierarch. After the fragrant relics were revealed, there were more miracles of healing, and demons were cast out of those who were possessed. 

It was revealed to a devout clergyman, Nicholas the Calligrapher, that among the relics discovered at the Eugenios gate were the relics of the holy Apostle Andronikos of the Seventy and his helper Junia (May 17), whom the Apostle Paul mentions in his Epistle to the Romans (Romans 16:7). In the XII century, a large domed church was built at the place where the relics of the Holy Martyrs were discovered. This work was undertaken by Emperor Andronikos (1183-1185), whose patron Saint was the Holy Apostle Andronikos.

Troparion — Tone 1

(Podoben: “Your tomb, O Savior…”)
O most glorious Martyrs, you foundations of the Church, / your venerable relics have appeared from the depths of the earth like noetic roses and treasuries of graces. / They breathe forth the grace of healing and grant the fragrance of life / to those who lovingly call you blessed.

Kontakion — Tone 4

(Podoben: “You appeared today…”)
Having shone forth on earth as luminaries of righteousness, / you have dispelled the gloomy mist of all impiety and you enlighten the faithful, / O godly Martyrs, champions of the Trinity.¹

Kontakion — Tone 8

(Podoben: “As the first fruits…”)
O courageous pillars of faith, victorious Martyrs, who endured various torments for Christ, / you remained hidden for many years; / and now you appear as a precious treasure in God’s Church, / borne reverently in the hands of His Hierarch; / and to those who ask, you give what is useful to them. / Therefore, pray for our souls.²

---

¹ In the Church Service for these Saints this Kontakion is sung at Ode 3 of the Matins Canon.
² This Kontakion is sung at Ode 6.