Acathius of Melitene

Acacius, also Acacius or Achatius surnamed Agathangelos ( " good angel " ) was in the third century after Christ, Bishop of Antioch (ad Orontem ) or more likely Antioch in Pisidia. The title " of Melitene " in the Greek Menologien is most likely due to a confusion with the at the Council of Ephesus ( 431) Acacius of Melitene active. Acacius is venerated in the Orthodox, Armenian and Catholic Church as a saint and confessor, even in the Protestant Church, he is considered memorable witness to the faith.

He lived in the time of persecution of Christians under the Roman emperor Decius ( 249-251 ) and encouraged the Christians of his diocese for steadfastness what took him the reputation of a shield and a refuge of the whole area. It is certain that he 's representative Martinius was interrogated about his faith under Decius before the Tribunal, but he probably did not have to suffer martyrdom. He was sentenced to death, but later - dismissed by Emperor Decius in the wake of court documents from prison - after a heavy period of suffering.

Remembrance

His feast day is in most churches (Protestant, Roman Catholic, Orthodox) March 31. The Orthodox Churches also celebrate the transfer of the remains on 15 September 257 The Armenian Church sees 22 March before his memorial day.