Commemorated on October 31

Our Holy Apostle Stachys lived during the first century, and was a companion of Saint Andrew of the Twelve Apostles. Being of the 70, Stachys followed Christ before he ascended into heaven. He is also said to have been close with Paul, as they guided many towards Christ. Paul spoke about Stacyhs in the Epistles to Romans saying that he was his good friend.

Saint Andrew appointed Stachys the first Bishop of Byzantium in 38 AD. During his 16 years as Bishop, he guided many towards Christ and truly cared for all who came. He spoke like the apostles with rich fervency for Christ.  He also helped to build a church in Argyropolis where many came to hear his sermons and to get spiritual aid. Stachys preached warmly and passionately for Christ. Many pagans came and converted to Christianity. Stachys baptized all of those who had this desire.

He died peacefully in 54 AD and was buried in the church of Argyropolis.

We also honor on this day Saint Apelles who became Bishop of Heracles, Saint Narcissus who was Bishop of Athens, Saint Aristobulus the first Bishop of Britain, Saint Amplias who was Bishop of Odyssopolis and Saint Urban, Bishop of Macedonia.

Troparion & Kontakion

Troparion — Tone 3

Holy Apostles of the Seventy: Stachys, Amplias, Urban, Narcissus, Apelles, and Aristobulus, / entreat the merciful God / to grant our souls forgiveness of transgressions.

Kontakion — Tone 8

Let us thankfully praise the wise Apostles / Stachys, Amplias, Urban, Narcissus, Apelles, and Aristobulus, / those treasures of the Holy Spirit and rays of the Sun of glory, / who were gathered together by the grace of our God.