Orthodox believers on November 12 honor the memory of the Hieromartyr Zinovy and his sister

Every year, on November 12, the Russian Orthodox Church remembers the Hieromartyr Zinovius, Bishop of Egeia, and his sister, Martyr Zinovius, who gave their lives for the Christian faith in the III century.

The holy brother and sister lived in the city of Aegean (Cilicia, modern Turkey). Having been orphaned after the death of wealthy Christian parents, they distributed their inheritance to those in need and dedicated themselves to serving God. According to life, for mercy Zinovius received from the Lord the gift of healing, and people flocked to him for help from all around. His piety and miracles led him to be elected bishop of the local Christian community.

The persecution of Christians under the emperor Diocletian did not bypass Cilicia. The local ruler Lysias, learning of the bishop’s sermons, ordered him to be seized and demanded a sacrifice to the pagan gods in exchange for the preservation of life. Receiving a firm refusal, Lysius subjected Zinovius to cruel torture.

Upon learning of her brother's suffering, Zinovia came to the place of execution, openly called herself a Christian and demanded to share his fate. The saints steadfastly endured torture, not denying their faith, and then were beheaded outside the city. Their bodies were secretly buried by Presbyter Hermogenes.