Commemorated on October 19
Saint Varus was a solider in Egypt sometime during the late third or early fourth century. This was not a time of peace but one of great persecution against Christians.
He had a high ranking position as a solider, serving as a commander. It was unknown to others he was Christian. At night, he would visit the Christians who were imprisoned and he also helped many who were being persecuted. He would bring them food, tend to their injuries and lift their spirits by speaking passionately for the glory of Christ.
At this time there were 7 monks who were taken by pagan soldiers. On the road to prison they were beaten harshly and the oldest of the monks died along the road.
One night Saint Varus went to the prison and spoke with the six monks who were there. They were well educated in the faith. Because they were teaching others the Word of God, they were not given food to eat and they were hit relentlessly.
When they were called to be executed the next day, Varus walked beside them proudly. When the judge saw the six monks, he asked “Where is the seventh monk?” Varsus spoke boldly, “Here I am.” he said. The older monks tried to stop him as he was young and they did not want him to suffer. But Saint Varus kept his faith and passion. After the judge heard Varus openly profess his faith, he was mercilessly beaten. The blows were fatal, as Saint Varus then rested his soul. The monks were also then beheaded and it is on this day we honor them as well.
Saint Varus is known as the patron saint for those who were not baptized in the Orthodox church.
This began in the 17th century when a statue of Saint Varus was erected in Moscow, Russia. During this time there was a great famine, where one third of the population died. Many children unfortunately passed without proper baptism. Since these souls were not able to be prayed for in a church service, the Patriarch at the time gave blessing for those who had lost loved ones to pray to Saint Varus. This tradition continues to this day.
Thank you Saint Varus!
Troparion & Kontakion
Troparion — Tone 4
Your holy martyr, Varus, O Lord, / through his suffering has received an incorruptible crown from You, our God. / For having Your strength, he laid low his adversaries, / and shattered the powerless boldness of demons. / Through his intercessions, save our souls!
Kontakion — Tone 4
Following Christ, O Martyr Varus, you drank of His chalice; / you received the crown of martyrdom and now rejoice with the angels. / Pray for our souls unceasingly.