Sts. Epipodius and Alexander were two Christian young men of Lyons—both unmarried and of good position. During the fierce persecution of Marcus Aurelius in that city (178), they were arrested, imprisoned, and finally brought before the governor. Their ready acknowledgment of being Christians elicited astonishment of the governor who was well aware of the fierce tortures and executions that had already been meted out to Christians.However, the governor was not deterred in carrying out his task. He separated the two and attempted to cajole Epipodius (the younger of them) to abandon his Faith. But the loyal youth continued to profess it. Then he was stretched out on a rack and his sides were rent by iron claws. He was finally beheaded.
Two days later, it was St. Alexander’s turn. Instead of being frightened by the reminder of his companion’s fate, he thanked God for his example and expressed a firm desire to join him. He was scourged unmercifully but stood fast in the Faith. Finally, he was sentenced to be crucified, and the moment his battered body was fastened to the cross he passed on to his heavenly reward.
PRAYER: May the prayers of Sts. Epipodius and Alexander make us pleasing to You, Lord, and strengthen us in professing Your truth. Amen.