The Byzantine Shrine on Beacon Hill

Holy Martyr Ardalion the Comedian, who died by fire

The Holy Martyr Ardalion suffered for Christ under the emperor Maximian Galerius (305-311). Saint Ardalion was a talented actor. 

Once, he played the role of a Christian. In the play, the actor at first refused to offer sacrifice to idols, but then consented to renounce Christ. Suddenly the saint ordered everyone to be quiet and declared that he actually was a Christian. 

Saint Ardalion continued to confess his faith in Christ. Then the governor ordered the martyr to be thrown onto a red-hot iron grill. So Saint Ardalion attained a martyr’s crown.

Troparion — Tone 3

Your holy martyr Ardalion, O Lord, / through his sufferings has received an incorruptible crown from You, our God. / For having Your strength, he laid low his adversaries, / and shattered the powerless boldness of demons. / Through his intercessions, save our souls!

Kontakion — Tone 2

(Podoben: “You sought the heights…”)
You appeared as a bright star announcing Christ with your radiance, / which is repulsive to this world, O Martyr Ardalion; / extinguishing the allure of false gods, / you enlighten the faithful, / always interceding for us all.