Saints Markella and Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church

Markella learned the teachings and miracles and resurrection of Jesus Christ from her mother. When Markella was in her early teens and her mother was about to die, she had a basis from which to explain death and separation to her daughter. She died and Markella lived as a devout Christian for several years with a mentally imbalanced father, who in time desired to live with her as husband and wife. Markella's thought as she fled was to live honorably or to die. Enraged, her father burned her out of a thicket. When she ran along the rocks of the sea, he shot an arrow into her thigh. She continued to run, praying to the Panaghia and to Jesus. When she collapsed, a rock split open and held her body from the waist down.

Demetrios was a Christian and the son of the military commander of Thessalonica in the early fourth century. When his father died, Demetrios was appointed by Emperor Maximian to follow him. Maximian charged Demetrios to persecute and kill the Christians in that city. Instead, Demetrios preached Christianity. Maximian heard of this, and when he went to Thessalonica, he summoned Demetrios. Demetrios confessed his belief as well as his disgust for the idols. He was imprisoned, and knowing his fate, he had his servant Lupus give his wealth to the poor. An angel of God appeared to Demetrios, saying "Peace be with thee, thou sufferer for Christ; be brave and strong!". At this time, the gladiatorial games were being held in the city. A gladiator named Lyaeus openly challenged anyone to fight him in the arena.