St. Gideon the New Martyr of Karakallou + Commemorated on December 30
Saint Gideon was born in the village of Kapourna in the region of Dimitriada (Magnesia) and was known in the world as Nicholas. His pious parents were named Avgerinos and Kyratza, and he had three brothers and four sisters.
At twelve years old, he moved with his family to the village of Yermis and then to Velestino, where he worked near his uncle. However, he was seized by a Turkish man who forced him to convert to Islam under the name Ibrahim. After two months, Nicholas managed to escape and returned to his family. His father smuggled him to the village of Keramidi, where he went to Crete near some builders. There he confessed to a priest and found refuge in a chapel.
After the priest's death, Nicholas left for Mount Athos. There he confessed again, received the Holy Mysteries, and at the Monastery of Karakallou, he was tonsured as a monk with the name Gideon. The fathers of the monastery assigned him the duty of Sacristan.
On June 6, 1797, with the blessing of the Fathers, Gideon was appointed as a steward with the previous one, Gabriel, at the Metochion of the Transfiguration in the area of Rethymno, Crete. After six years of staying at the metochion, he returned to the monastery of his repentance.
However, with the desire for martyrdom, he came to Velestino, the place where he had denied his faith, where he boldly confessed Christ in the marketplace.
Pursued by the Turks, he came to Agia, where he was captured. The Turks publicly humiliated him in the streets of Tirnavos, then cut off his hands and feet, and later threw him into the latrines. There, in excruciating pain, he surrendered his spirit on December 30, 1818.
The honorable skull of the martyr is preserved at the Holy Altar of the Metropolitan Church of Tirnavos, Panagia Faneromeni.
Apolytikion
Having contended lawfully, you brought down the enemy, and you were revealed as a Holy Martyr, most glorious of the Savior; for you patiently endured the severance of your hands and feet, therefore you always bestow divine grace to those who call upon you in faith: Glory to Him who granted you strength; glory to Him who crowned you; glory to Him who works through you, granting all healings.
Another Apolytikion
You are equal in honor to the saints, and a companion of athletes, and a divine splendor of the Karakallou Monastery, you were revealed, O blessed one; for you steadfastly contended, putting the enemy to shame; therefore, as a Holy Martyr, Gideon, you were glorified, interceding for all of us who honor you.
Another Apolytikion
You drowned the streams of your blood, and you put to shame the impiety of Belus and his fury, contending most valiantly for Christ, O Holy Martyr Gideon, all-glorious one; unceasingly intercede for us, we bring our souls to you, that we may be rescued from dangers.
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