Saint Aristion, Bishop of Alexandria, was a devoted follower of Christ who baptized many converts during Roman persecution. Refusing to recant his faith, Aristion was burned alive while singing hymns praising God. His steadfast courage and belief serve as an inspiration for Christians worldwide.
Martyrdom by Immolation: Saint Aristion’s Final Stand
Born in 2nd century Roman Syria, Aristion converted to Christianity as a child under the mentorship of martyr Antonius. After being selected by the faithful to serve as Bishop of Alexandria in Cilicia (near Issus), Aristion shepherded his flock with godly wisdom. He openly preached Christ’s incarnation and the bliss of heaven’s kingdom, persuading many pagans to accept baptism into the true faith. However, Aristion’s evangelism alarmed Cilicia’s Roman Prefect, who ordered the bishop seized and burned alive for his defiance. As soldiers stoked blazing furnace fires, Aristion sang hymns glorifying God even as the flames engulfed his flesh. Though the Romans sought to make an example by ruthlessly executing this steadfast follower of Christ, Aristion’s courageous martyrdom only strengthened Christianity’s roots in Cilicia. To this day, pilgrims venture to the cave where the bishop’s charred bones were later discovered and venerate St. Aristion as an enduring pillar of unwavering faith. His intercession remains powerful for all who honor his holy memory.
Yet the full legacy of his sacrifice remains an eternal testament to his unflinching faith and sacrifice for Christ.
Feast Day: September 3
References
Επίσκοπος Φαναρίου Αγαθάγγελος, Μέγας Συναξαριστής. Αποστολική Διακονία της Εκκλησίας της Ελλάδος, Αθήνα 2007.
Ιερομόναχος Μακάριος Σιμωνοπετρίτης, Νέος Συναξαριστής της Ορθοδόξου Εκκλησίας. Ίνδικτος, Αθήνα 2012.