The Commemoration of the Martyrdom of St . Isidorus (Isidore) of Antioch .

This day also marks the commemoration of the martyrdom of St . Isidore . He was born inAntioch and his father's name was Bandalaon, who was one of the noble men in the empire ofDiocletian, and his mother's name was Sofia . He had a sister whose name was Ophimia, and theirparents taught them the Christian faith .When Diocletian apostatized, St . Bandalaon and his son Isidore left all their possessions and wentsecretly to a mountain where they lived with a holy man whose name was Abba Samuel .When the Emperor knew of what had happened, he brought them before him, and he tried topersuade Bandalaon with promises, then threatened him . When he refused, not paying attention towhat he was saying, he cut off his head . St . Isidore, who was only twelve years old, was torturedwith different kinds of tortures . His mother and sister were beside him, comforting him andstrengthening him to endure. Then the Emperor ordered them to be beheaded. They received thecrowns of life .God performed many miracles on the hands of this Saint, and many believed through him andwere martyred .May his prayers be with us and glory be to God forever . Amen .