When we read about the lives of the early Christians, it is amazing to note how many men and women who the Church reveres as "saints" were prominent members of the pagan Roman society of their time. One such person was the Holy Martyr Callistratus. Callistratus was born into a Christian family in Carthage in the 3rd century. He came from a long line of military men, and when he was old enough, Callistratus also became a soldier in the Roman army. He served the Roman Empire well, quickly developing a reputation for being an exemplary warrior. His talents were noticed by his superiors and Callistratus was assigned to a legion of soldiers assigned to serve in Rome.

     One evening, a fellow soldier saw Callistratus arise from sleep to offer prayers to God. The great secret that Callistratus had been keeping was finally discovered! He was taken before the Roman General Persentius, who was known for his hatred of Christians. He ordered the Christian warrior to denounce Christ and offer sacrifice to the Roman gods. Callistratus flatlyh refused, proclaiming boldly that the Cross of Christ meant much more to him than the Roman coat of arms encrsted on his shield!

     The furious general had Callistratus beaten in front of the whole battalion of soldiers. He was then tied in a sack and tossed into the sea. Miraculously, he emerged unharmed from his intended watery grave. Upon seeing this, some 49 other soldiers also stepped forward and declared themselves to be followers of Christ. Along with Callistratus, they were all thrown into prison and eventually were put to death. These saintly men knew where thier real loyalties had to be.

The Orthodox Weekly Bulletin.........Vestal, Cliffwood, New Jersey......... Litho in U.S.A.