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Feast Day: January 5
Death: January 1, 40
Blessed Romanus of Athos, also known as Romanus the Neomartyr or Romanos, was a pious and illiterate man who lived during the 17th century in either Crete or central Greece. After embarking on a pilgrimage to the Holy Lands, Romanus sought spiritual guidance at the esteemed monastery of Saint-Sabas on Mount Athos.
Following his time at the monastery, Romanus returned to Thessalonica and openly confessed his Christianity in front of Muslim Turks. This act of faith resulted in his condemnation as a galley slave. Despite this unjust punishment, Romanus was eventually ransomed and regained his freedom.
Seeking further spiritual solace, Romanus returned to Mount Athos, this time finding refuge at the Kavsokalyvia monastery. However, he once again felt compelled to witness to Muslims and subsequently traveled to Constantinople. There, he fearlessly proclaimed his faith in the face of Turkish opposition.
Unfortunately, this act of evangelization led to Romanus enduring torture and eventual execution. He was thrown into a dry well and left to starve for a grueling 40 days before being unjustly beheaded in Constantinople in 1694. As a result of his steadfast commitment to his Christian faith and his martyrdom, Romanus is venerated as a martyr, especially in the Eastern churches.
Blessed Romanus of Athos is commemorated on various calendar dates, including January 5th, January 6th (according to some calendars), and February 16th (according to other calendars). While his specific representation is not provided, it is not uncommon for depictions of Romanus to present him as a martyr holding the instruments of his torture or as an Orthodox monk.
Although there is no mention of his beatification or official recognition as a saint, Blessed Romanus of Athos continues to be revered for his unwavering faith and martyrdom. His life serves as an inspiration to all who seek to boldly profess their beliefs, even in the face of adversity and persecution.