3rd–4th century
Saint Callinicus the Martyr
Martyr from Cilicia who, according to tradition, was thrown into a fire near Gangra in Paphlagonia.
Biography
Callinicus came from Cilicia and had devoted his life to instructing pagans in the faith. In Egypt he was seized by pagans and brought before the governor Sacerdon, who tried unsuccessfully to persuade him to deny his faith, reminding him of other Christians who had given way under torture.
Callinicus answered by challenging the governor to prepare whatever instruments of torture he wished. The governor had him scourged, forced him to run in nail-studded shoes all the way to Gangra, tore his flesh with iron claws, and dragged him behind a wild horse; finally, before the torture could kill him, he had him thrown into a fire.