Commemorated on September 27
Callistratus was born in Carthage. He was a Christian from birth, for his father and grandfather were Christians. One of Callistratus’s ancestor, Neochorus by name, was a soldier in Jerusalem under Pontius Pilate, at the time of the Crucifixion of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Witnessing the many miracles at the time of Christ’s death, Neochorus believed in Him, and was instructed in the faith and baptized by an apostle. Returning home to Carthage, Neochorus brought his Christian giant with him as a precious pearl. So it was that in time Callistratus was born, baptized and raised a Christian.
While he was in the army there were no other Christians in his regiment beside him. One of his companions, seeing how Saint Callistratus arose at night and prayed to God, reported him as a Christian to the commander, Persentinian.
Persentinian was a cruel torturer of Christians. In order to confirm that Callistratus was indeed a Christian, the commander ordered him to offer sacrifice to the idols, which Callistratus straightaway refused to do. He was then severely beaten and thrown into the sea.
However, the power of God saved him, and he emerged from the sea in sound health. Seeing Callistratus’ endurance and miracles, forty-nine other soldiers came to believe in Christ. They were beaten and thrown into prisons with Callistratus.
In prison Callistratus taught his companions the Faith, and manifested great power through them. The evil torturer sent soldiers to the prison by night, and they slew Callistratus and his forty-nine companions.
They suffered for the truth in the year 304 AD. A church was later built over their relics.
Troparion — Tone 3
In contest you were strengthened by the Holy Spirit, Martyr Callistratus, / and were glorious in casting down the Enemy. / You offered a noble army of athletes / as sweet-smelling incense to Christ. / With them pray for us who praise you with hymns.
Kontakion — Tone 4
(Podoben: “Today You have shown forth…”)
ike stars you have shone upon the world / shedding the light of your contests and miracles upon all who cry to you: / “Rejoice, Martyr Callistratus and fellow company of martyrs.”