Sts. Galaction and Episteme

St. Galaction was born in the third century in Emesa, in what is now Syria. His parents were a wealthy couple who had once been pagan. Childless, they converted to Christianity after meeting a travelling preacher who told them that God would hear their prayers and grant them a child. Galaction was conceived and born after their conversion.

He wanted to be monk, but his parents wanted him to marry and inherit the family estate. They betrothed him to Episteme, a pagan from another wealthy family. During their engagement, Galaction visited Episteme; over time he converted her and her servant to Christianity. The couple ran away together to live religious lives. Galaction joined a monastery, and Episteme joined an abbey.

In 251, persecution of Christians rose. Galaction was sentenced to death. When she heard the news, Episteme went to his side and was martyred with him.

Their feast day is Nov. 5