Akindynos, Pegasios, Aphthonios, Elpidephoros, & Anempodistos of Persia

These Martyrs contested in Persia about the year 330, in the reign of
Sapor (Shapur) II, King of Persia (325-379). Acindynus, Pegasius, and
Anempodistus, Persian Christians, confessed Christ before the King, and were
put to many torments. Aphthonius and Elpidephorus, drawn to the Faith
of Christ through the Martyrs, were beheaded with another 7,000.
Saints Acindynus, Pegasius, and Anempodistus were at last burned to
death. Two churches were dedicated in their honour in Constantinople. As
is often the case in church hymns, there is a play on the meanings
of the Saints' names here. Acindynus means "unimperilled"; Pegasius
is derived from pegazo--"to gush forth"; Aphthonius is derived from
aphthonos-"abundant"; Elpidephorus means "hope-bearing"; Anempodistus means
"unhindered." These are all Greek translations of their Persian names.

Apolytikion in the Second Tone
Blessed is the earth that drank your blood, O prizewinners of the Lord,
and holy are the tabernacles that received your spirit; for in the
stadium ye triumphed over the enemy, and ye proclaimed Christ with
boldness. Beseech Him, we pray, since He is good, to save our souls.

Kontakion in the First Tone
As five unerring stars of the great Sun of Glory, the soldiers of
Christ God brightly shone on the whole earth, dispelling the gloom of
passions and pouring abundant grace on all of the faithful without cease
and unhindered; and they grant salvation that no sin can imperil,
through hope that is full of faith.