Mount Athos weathered lithography (icon) of Saint Eustathius in pine wood with carved decoration.

Saint Eustathius was a senior officer in the Roman army and was originally called Plakidas. One day as he was chasing a deer, he heard a voice calling him to become a Christian. He believed in this vision and embraced the Christian faith with his wife and two children. Emperor Trajan, as soon as he was informed of this fact, deposed him and exiled him separately from his family.

Years later, the emperor restored Eustathius to the Roman army. But Trajan's successor, Hadrian, demanded that the Saint become a pagan again. When he refused, he was tortured to death with his family. The Orthodox Church celebrates the memory of the Saint on September 20 of each year.

Apolytikion of Martyr Saint Eustathius and His Companions

Fourth Tone

Thy Martyrs, O Lord, in their courageous contest for Thee received as the prize the crowns of incorruption and life from Thee, our immortal God. For since they possessed Thy strength, they cast down the tyrants and wholly destroyed the demons' strengthless presumption. O Christ God, by their prayers, save our souls, since Thou art merciful.