Saint Glyceria of Heraclea

A life of faith

Glyceria grew up in a prominent family that moved to Trajanopolis in Thrace. Orphaned while young, she became a Christian and took part in the Church's worship. Her refusal to join official sacrifices brought imprisonment and torture. The account remembers other Christians supporting her, including the priest Philokrates and Bishop Dometius of Heraclea. It also describes Glyceria stopping a frightened jailer from taking his own life. That detail joins compassion to her courage under persecution. She was eventually killed at Heraclea and buried by the Christian community. Her witness is remembered through both steadfast confession and concern for another person's life.

The Eastern Orthodox Church remembers saints in prayer and commemoration. Their lives offer examples for Christians learning to live their faith.

A reflection

Look for a moment when another person's fear needs a calm response. Glyceria's story connects firm conviction with concern for the life of someone nearby.

Read the Orthodox source

Feast dates follow the linked source. Local calendars and commemorations may vary. Themes describe a saint’s life; quiz suggestions do not assign a baptismal patron. Discuss choosing a patron saint with your priest.