Juliana of Nicomedia
Martyr
Commemorated December 21
The Holy Virgin Martyr Juliana of Nicomedia was the daughter of Africanus, a famous pagan , who, after secretly accepting baptism as a Christian, refused marriage to a pagan senator. After rejecting the urging of her father and betrothed to accept marriage, she remained firm in her faith and was imprisoned, severely beaten, and then finally beheaded during the reign of Emperor Maximianus. She is remembered on December 21 .
Troparion
Thy ewe-lamb Juliana crieth out to Thee with a loud voice, O Jesus:
"I love Thee, O my Bridegroom,
and, seeking Thee, I pass through many struggles:
I am crucified and buried with Thee in Thy baptism,
and suffer for Thy sake, that I may reign with Thee;
I die for Thee that I might live with Thee.
As an unblemished sacrifice accept me,
who sacrifice myself with love for Thee
By her supplications save Thou our souls, in that Thou art merciful.
Kontakion
Rendered wholly pure by the beauties of virginity,
and having now been crowned with wreaths of martyrdom, O virgin Juliana,
thou grantest healing and salvation
unto those in need and affliction who approach thy shrine, for Christ poureth forth divine grace and life everlasting.