Theopemptus and Theonas

-Biography
Theopemptus was the Bishop of Nicomedia and spoke out against idolatry, which brought him to be persecuted under Diocletian. Because he refused to worship an idol of Apollo, he was thrown into a furnace but survived. When Diocletian found Theopemptus was alive, he believed the miracle was by magic, which led him to deprive Theopemptus of food and drink for 22 days, and yet, he still survived. The emperor brought famous sorcerer Theonas to overcome Theopemtus' supposed magical power. Twice, Theonas prepared poison in a cake for the bishop but he still remained unharmed, this brought Theonas to believe in Christ. Theonas was thrown into prison with the bishop where he was baptized. After Theopemptus once again refused to turn to paganism, he was beheaded. Afterwards, Theonas refused to offer sacrifice to the idols which led him to being buried alive in a ditch. Their year of repose was in 303.