Holy Martyr Parasceva

Life

Born in the city of Iconium to parents who were wealthy and lovers of Christ. After the death of her parents, the maiden Parasceva began to distribute her possessions to the poor and needy, all in the name of Christ the Lord. When the persecution began in the time of Diocletian, Parasceva was brought before the court of the prince of that land. When the prince asked her name, she said that she was called a Christian. The prince rebuked her for not giving her ordinary name. But Parasceva said to him: "I had first to tell thee the name of eternal life, and then the name of temporal life." After being flogged, the prince cast her into prison, where an angel of God appeared to her, healed her wounds and comforted her. By her prayer she destroyed all the idols in the pagan temple. After long and cruel torments she was beheaded with the sword and departed to eternal life.

From the Hymn of Praise

The wise hierarch, holy Arsenius,Does not conceal his wondrous power even today;He hastens to God with gracious prayersAnd helps the faithful servants of Christ.