Martyrs of Nicopolis

Biography

The Martyrs of Nicopolis, also known as the Martyrs of Nikopolis, were a group of Christians who were martyred together. Unfortunately, very little details about their lives and the circumstances of their martyrdom have survived. The only information that is known is the names of the ten individuals who were part of this group, namely Alexander, Carisius (also known as Catsius), Claudian (there were two individuals with this name), Diodorus, Jocundus, Mercurius, Nikephoros, Papias, Saturninus, and Viktor. These individuals lived and died in Nicopolis, which was located in Bithynia, Asia Minor, in what is modern-day Turkey. The exact date of their martyrdom is unknown, as is the specific context in which it occurred. As of now, there is no traditional representation of the Martyrs of Nicopolis, and they have not been assigned any specific patronages. They are recognized as saints, but their canonization process took place before the formal establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, known as the Pre-Congregation era. The feast day of the Martyrs of Nicopolis is celebrated on March 6th. This day serves as a commemoration of their faithfulness to Christ and their ultimate sacrifice in professing and living out their Christian beliefs. Although little is known about the Martyrs of Nicopolis, their names have been preserved throughout history as a testament to their courage and fidelity to their faith. Their example serves as an inspiration for all Christians to remain steadfast in their beliefs and to be willing to give their lives, if necessary, for the sake of the Gospel. We honor their memory and ask for their intercession in our own spiritual journeys.