In the third century, in Arabia, twins Saints Cosmas and Damian were born to Christian parents. They were residents of the area bounded by the present-day borders of Syria and Turkey. These were doctors who were well known not only for their expertise but also for not charging for their services.

They rose to prominence in the Christian communities of Asia Minor due to their almsgiving and Christian witness, which brought many people to the faith. They were therefore among the first to be sought out for execution when the Diocletian persecutions started in the latter part of the third century.

They were taken prisoner in 287 and told to reject their belief in Christ. They refused and faced a succession of tortures, including Crucifixion, from which, amazingly, they remained unhurt. Finally, the torturers beheaded them both because they had become tired of trying to force heresy out of their tongues.

Other Saints of the Day
Saint Theresa Coudere
Saint Nilus the Younger
Saint Marie Teresa Couderc
Saint Justina of Antioch
Saint Eusebius of Bologna