Saint Efstratios, along with Auxentios, Eugene, Mardarios, and Orestes (together the Five Companions) suffered for Christ at Sebaste in Armenia during the reign of Emperor Diocletian (284-305). Saint Efstratios was prefect of the city of Satalionus in the region of Armenia, arrested for his faith in Christ during the Great Persecution. As Saint Efstratios was being brought to his execution, the other four of the Five Companions also underwent terrible tortures for their Faith in Christ. Each encouraged the other, and all contested successfully for the crown of martyrdom. Saint Efstratios was sentenced to be burnt alive on December 13. As he was being led to his death, he prayed aloud: “I magnify Thee exceedingly, O Lord, for Thou hast regarded my lowliness…” This prayer is still read at the Saturday Midnight Office. *** This icon is made of solid, natural Limewood that has been prepared by hand using traditional methods and organic materials. The background is comprised of 22 Karat gold leaves that were meticulously applied by hand, piece by piece. All of our icons are reproduced according to museum print standards and are authentic replicas of Holy Icons from Mount Athos and elsewhere. Learn more about how our Holy Icons are made here. *** This icon of Saint Efstratios is reproduced, with permission, from the authentic icon painted by the monks in the Cell of St. John the Theologian Holy Monastery of Koutloumousiou in Mount Athos, Greece. This icon is part of our collection Icons from Mount Athos which features all icons from the Cell of St. John the Theologian.
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