04 works, Today, November 9th, is the Theodore Stratelates' day, his story illustrated #311

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Theodore Stratelates

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Theodore Stratelates, also known as Theodore of Heraclea, came from the city of Euchaita in Asia Minor. He killed a giant serpent living on a precipice in the outskirts of Euchaita. The serpent had terrorised the countryside. Theodore armed himself with a sword and vanquished it. According to some of the legends, because of his bravery, Theodore was appointed military-commander (stratelates) in the city of Heraclea Pontica. 

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Heraclea Pontica

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It was said that his Christianity led to many conversions in the Roman army, which was the reason that emperor Licinius was so concerned. 

During that time the emperor Licinius (307–324) began a fierce persecution of Christians. Theodore invited Licinius to Heraclea, having promised to offer a sacrifice to the pagan gods. He requested that all the gold and silver statues of the gods which they had in Heraclea be gathered up at his house. Theodore then smashed them into pieces which he then distributed to the poor.

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The Crucifixion of Saint Theodore of Stratilatos

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Theodore was arrested and subjected to torture and crucified. His servant Varos (also venerated as a saint), witnessed this and recorded it. In the morning the imperial soldiers found him alive and unharmed. 

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The beheading of Agios Theodoros of Stratilatos

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Not wanting to flee a martyr's death, Theodore voluntarily surrendered to Licinius, and was beheaded by the sword. This occurred on 8 February 319. More on Theodore Stratelates

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