St Basil the Holy Martyr Bishop of Amasea
Commemorated April 26
St Basil was Bishop of Amasia in Pontus, in the days of Licinius (reigned 308-324 AD), fellow Emperor and brother-in-law of St Constantine the Great. Licinius' wife Constantia, sister of St Constantine, had as handmaid a virgin named Glaphyra. When it became known that Licinius had conceived a sinful desire for her. Constantia secretly sent Glaphyra away to the East. Coming to Amasia, she took refuge with St Basil. When Licinius learned of this, he furiously commanded that both be brought before him. When the soldiers came for them, however, St Glaphyra had already departed to the Lord; she is also commemorated this day. St Basil was taken alone to Nicomedia, where he was beheaded. His body was cast into the sea, but through divine revelation was found again and brought back to Amasia.
Dismissal Hymn (Fourth Tone)
Having partaken of the apostolic way of life, and becoming their successor to the throne, you have discovered in the practice of the virtues, and the way to divine contemplation. Therefore dispensing the word of truth, you have also suffered to the shedding of blood for the sake of the faith. O holy martyr Basil, entreat Christ our God to save our souls.
Kontakion (Fourth Tone)
In defying the king's decree you obtained the Kingdom of Heaven, rejoicing there now, O Hieromartyr Basil, remember us who celebrate your memory.