Mount Athos weathered lithography (icon) of Saints Nestor & Demetrios in pine wood with carved decoration.

Saint Demetrius was born in Thessaloniki around 280 AD when Maximian was the emperor of Rome. He came from an aristocratic family and quickly rose to the high positions of the Roman army. He embraced the Christian faith and became a preacher of the Word of God in Thessaloniki. He taught the Bible to young students in underground galleries in the city, a fact that aroused the hatred of the pagans. Demetrios was arrested for his actions and was taken to Maximian. The emperor asked the Saint to renounce his faith and when he refused, he ordered his imprisonment.

At that time Nestor, a disciple of Demetrius, defeated with the help of God the invincible pagan wrestler Lyaeus in competitions organized by Maximian. The emperor's rage was great and he ordered the killing of the teacher and the student. Demetrios was buried in the place where he was martyred and myrrh gushed from his grave. For that reason he was named Myrrh-streamer. His memory is celebrated by the Orthodox Christian Church on October 26 of each year. He is honored as the patron saint of Thessaloniki. The memory of Saint Nestor is commemorated on October 27 of each year. Fragments of the Holy Relic of the Saint are found in the Monasteries of Iveron and Zografou on Mount Athos.

Apolytikion of Saint Nestor the Martyr of Thessaloniki

Fourth Tone

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

Apolytikion of Saint Demetrius the Great Martyr of Thessaloniki

Third Tone

The world has found in you a great champion in time of peril, as you emerged the victor in routing the barbarians. For as you brought to naught the boasts of Lyaios, imparting courage to Nestor in the stadium, in like manner, holy one, great Martyr Dimitrios, invoke Christ God for us, that He may grant us His great mercy.