Saint Thyrsus
Saint Thyrsus or Thyrse (died 251) is venerated as a Christian martyr. He was killed for his faith in Apollonia, Phrygia, during the persecution of Decius, along with Leucius (Λεύκιος Leúkios) and Callinicus (Καλλίνικος Kallínīkos). Tradition states that Thyrsus endured many tortures and was sentenced to be sawn in half. However, the saw did not penetrate as it became so heavy that the executioners could not use it. Saint Leucius, after reproaching the governor, Cumbricius, was hanged, harrowed on his sides, and then beheaded. Callinicus, a pagan priest, was converted after seeing the martyrdom of Thyrsus and was also beheaded.
Patron saint of Sisteron
In the Martyrology
- December 14 Saints Thyrsus, Leucius, Callinicus and companions, martyrs at Apollonias in Bithynia