Synaxarium

On this day, we commemorate the repose of Saint Marouta, Bishop of Mayafarqin, and the transfer of the relics of the saints who were martyred there during the days of Diocletian. Marouta was a learned and virtuous man; therefore, the great king Theodosius, father of Arcadius and Honorius, tested him by sending him as an envoy to the King of Persia to negotiate a truce they wished to sign. King Shapur and his commanders honored him and lodged him in a royal palace. When Marouta learned that the king had a mad daughter, he requested to bring her to him and prayed over her; she was healed. Shapur rejoiced and increased his honors to Marouta. The saint then asked the king for the bodies of the saints who had been martyred in Persia, and the king granted permission. Marouta took them and built a church for them, then a large fortress around it. Later, a city was built inside that fortress and named after him, Marouta. After completing his work, he returned to King Theodosius and remained there until he reposed in Rome.

May his prayer be with us, and to our Lord be glory forever and ever. Amen.