September 2: Saint Zenon, Martyr of Nicomedia

A Soldier of Christ

Saint Zenon is remembered as a martyr of the Christian faith, a victim of the persecutions against Christians that took place in the ancient city of Nicomedia, one of the main metropolises of the Eastern Roman Empire, located in what is now Turkey.

Zenon was a Roman soldier, esteemed for his courage and loyalty. In addition to his commitment to the emperor, he was also a fervent Christian and his faith was well known among his fellow soldiers. When Emperor Diocletian—renowned for his harsh persecution of Christians—issued decrees against them, Zenon was unafraid to profess his faith openly.

During a religious ceremony in honor of the pagan deities, Zenon, deeply troubled by the idolatrous sacrifices, interrupted the rite to proclaim his faith in Christ and denounce idolatry. This courageous act immediately led to his arrest and condemnation to death.