The Holy Hieromartyr Cyprian and the Virgin Martyr Justina

Although they both died as Christian martyrs, the beginning of St. Cyprian's life was anything but saintly. Much of his early training had taken place in North African Carthage, in modern Tunisia. He had been one of the leading sorcerers of the ancient world; he was a model and guide for many in the arts of darkness, and had ensnared many souls for evil.

One time, as he was attempting by demonic means to seduce a young Christian virgin, Justina, on behalf of a lustful youth, Aglaidas, it backfired. St. Justina in her simplicity traced on herself the symbol of the Cross, at which the evil spirit fled. Cyprian's pride was stung. After many other unsuccessful attempts, Cyprian recognized the power of Christ and His Gospel. He not only renounced his old ways and was baptized, but soon thereafter became a deacon, then a priest, and finally a bishop.

He and Justina finally yielded their souls to God through martyrdom during the persecution of Decius in A.D. 257 Their story is an ancient reminder from the annals of African Christians that God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things that are mighty. (1 Cor. 1:27) They are remembered jointly on October 2.