Saint Athenogenes of Pedachthoe

Athenogenes came from Sebasteia in Cappadocia and became bishop of Pedachthoe because of his learning, deep faith and charitable work. As a pastor he took special care to train capable helpers so that the preaching of the Gospel in his region could continue without interruption.

During the persecution under Diocletian he was arrested together with ten of his disciples, and after they all confessed their faith in Christ they were beheaded. According to tradition, he is the author of the well-known vesper hymn “Phos Hilaron” (Gladsome Light), still sung today at every Vespers service.