Description

Feast Day/Commemorated: August 19

The Martyr Andrew Stratelates was a highly respected military commander serving under the Roman Emperor Maximian (284-305). He was beloved throughout the Roman army for his exceptional bravery, invincibility, and fairness. When a massive Persian army invaded the Syrian territories, the governor Antiochus immediately recognized Andrew's prowess and entrusted him with the rank of "Stratelates" (Commander) and command of the Roman forces. Andrew selected only a small, hand-picked detachment of soldiers and proceeded to meet the formidable Persian threat.

Prior to engaging the enemy, Andrew, who had not yet been baptized but was already a believer in Christ, addressed his pagan troops. He convinced them that their traditional gods were mere demons and utterly incapable of granting victory in battle. Instead, he proclaimed Jesus Christ as the omnipotent God of Heaven and earth, the true source of aid for all who place their faith in Him. United by this nascent faith, the small company rushed into battle, calling upon the Savior for help. Against all odds, the small Roman detachment utterly routed the numerous Persian host, and Andrew returned in triumph with a total victory.

Andrew's glorious success soon led to his persecution. Jealous rivals denounced him to Governor Antiochus, accusing him of being a Christian and, worse, converting the soldiers under his command to the new faith. Summoned to trial, Saint Andrew boldly confessed his faith in Christ. For this, he was subjected to brutal torture, including being laid upon a bed of white-hot copper. However, his fervent prayer instantly cooled the metal, saving him. His soldiers, equally steadfast, were crucified on trees but refused to renounce Christ. Fearing a military rebellion over the popular commander's fate, the Emperor ordered their release but secretly mandated their execution under various pretexts.

Freed from prison, Saint Andrew and his 2,593 fellow soldiers immediately traveled to the city of Tarsus. There, they were formally baptized by Bishop Peter of Tarsus and Bishop Nonos of Beroea, cementing their newfound commitment to Christ. Knowing they were still marked for death, they journeyed on to the vicinity of Taxanata. The relentless Antiochus, however, wrote to Seleucus, the governor of Cilicia, ordering him to overtake the company and execute them on the false charge of military desertion. Seleucus finally intercepted the martyrs in the passes of Mount Tauros.

In their final moments, Saint Andrew Stratelates gathered his soldiers, whom he called his "brothers and children," and urged them not to fear death. He delivered a final, heartfelt prayer, asking the Lord to grant mercy to all who would honor their memory and, significantly, to create a curative spring at the exact place where their blood would be shed. The faithful company of 2,593 martyrs were slain immediately following this prayer, fulfilling their commitment to Christ with their lives.

About Our Icons (Print and Mounted):

Theophany Works Icons are handcrafted reproductions, made with prayer and a desire for excellence. Choose from our standard mounted option on Museum Quality Paper or you may choose to upgrade to Museum Quality Matte Canvas. Both offer a rich print with saturated coloration and are finished with our high-grade UV protection sealant offering a subtle tactile texture that gives our icons a truly authentic feel. Additionally, each Maple-shelled panel is prepared with a painted chamfered front edge as well as a round-over on the back edge to give a shadow box effect when hung on the wall. Our Icons come standard with a sliding key-hole slot on the back which allows for balanced hanging. These beautiful American-made reproductions will be a beloved addition to any home or parish at the fraction of the cost of a hand painted icon.

Reviews (0)