Seven Youths of Ephesus

The Seven Youths (Sleepers) of Ephesus.

The Seven Holy Youths of Ephesus were young Christians of noble standing who, during the persecution of the Emperor Decius in the third century, took refuge in a cave outside the city rather than sacrifice to idols. There, by the providence of God, they fell into a wondrous sleep, and the cave was sealed.

Generations later, in the days of the Emperor Theodosius the Younger, they were found alive, a living witness against those who doubted the resurrection of the dead. Having borne this testimony, they reposed in peace. They are commemorated on August 4.

Feast day

On the New Calendar, Seven Youths of Ephesus is commemorated on August 4. Churches on the Old (Julian) Calendar keep the feast on August 17 of the civil calendar.

Also commemorated on August 4

• Eudokia (Ia) of Persia

  Holy Woman, Ευδοκία η Περσίδα

  Holy Martyr Eudokia, also called Ia, who suffered in Persia.

• Thathuel the Martyr

  Martyr, Θαθουήλ

  Holy Martyr Thathuel, who was hanged from a tree for Christ.

Icon: public domain image from Wikimedia Commons.