Saints Theodore the Great Martyrs Tyro and Stratelates

The Story Behind This Icon

Here are depicted two Great Martyrs of the Orthodox Church, both named Theodore. On the right is Saint Theodore Tyro and on the left is Saint Theodore Stratelates. Having the same profession and name, they are often depicted and commemorated together. 

Saint Theodore Tyro lived during the late Third Century, during the reigns of Maximian, Galerius and Maximinus. He has the name "Tyro" because he was a young recruit in the legion, serving in the Tyronum cohort. Accused of being a Christian, he was called forth before his commanders to bear witness. Not wanting to punish him immediately, the officers let Theodore have some time to "think it over". Unwilling to betray Christ, Theodore burned down a nearby temple of Cybele, after which he was arrested and executed by being thrown into a furnace. Saint Theodore Tyro is commemorated on February 17. Saint Theodore Tyro is also known for the miracle of kolyva (boiled wheat). During the persecutions of Julian the Apostate, the impious emperor sprinkled all food in the Constantinople marketplace with blood offered to idols, coinciding with Clean Monday and the First Week of Great Lent. God revealed this to Archbishop Eudoxius via an appearance by Saint Theodore in his dream, informing all Christians to stay home, avoid the marketplace, and eat boiled wheat with honey - kolyva. 

Saint Theodore Stratelates lived slightly later, during the persecutions of Licinius. He was handsome and brave, appointed the commander (hence the name "Stratelates") in the city of Heraclea. Using his command, Theodore spread the Gospel of Christ to civilians and legionaries alike. When Emperor Licinius began his persecutions, Saint Theodore refused to sacrifice to the pagan idols, smashing gold and silver statues and distributing the pieces thereof to the poor. He was arrested and tortured, beaten with iron rods, pierced with spikes, burned and had his eyes plucked out. Finally, the brave athlete of Christ was crucified, in imitation of his Savior, but was miraculously taken down overnight and healed. Giving himself up in order to bear withness to Christ, Saint Theodore was taken to be beheaded, and on his way to his execution, healed bystanders and many witnesses were converted. way to his beheading, many witnesses were healed and converted to the True Faith. The patron saint of soldiers, he is commemorated on June 8. 

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This icon is made of solid, natural limewood (Tilia) that has been prepared by hand using traditional methods and organic materials. The background consists of 22 Karat gold leaves that were meticulously applied by hand, piece by piece. Subtle connecting lines and brush strokes may be visible on the gold leaves and are a testament to the artisan's hand, making each piece entirely unique.