Holy Martyr Varus and companions
Martyr Varus lived in Egypt during the period of several persecutions against Christians (late third to early fourth century). Varus (Ouaros) was a military commander and secretly a Christian. He gave assistance to many of the persecuted and imprisoned Christians, and he visited the prisoners at night. He also brought food to the prisoners, dressed their wounds, and gave them encouragement.
Once Varus spent a whole night talking with seven imprisoned monks. These men were Christian teachers who had been beaten and starved. Varus marched with the teachers when they were led to their execution. The judge, seeing Varus’ strong faith, had him fiercely beaten. Varus died during the beating. After his death, the monks were beheaded.
Troparion — Tone 4
Seeing the host of holy passion-bearers suffering under the law, / you courageously revealed your strength, / and voluntarily hastened to suffer, desiring to die for Christ; / accepting the reward of your victorious martyrdom, O Varus, / pray for the salvation of our souls.
Kontakion — Tone 4
Following Christ, O Martyr Varus, you drank of His cup;1 / you received the crown of martyrdom and you rejoice with the Angels. / Pray unceasingly for our souls.
1 Matthew 20:22 – 23.
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