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Commemoration of THE FORTY HOLY MARTYRS
The Forty Martyrs were soldiers belonging to various nationalities, who were quartered at Sebaste, Armenia, in A.D. 320.
According to tradition, these Christians were condemned to lie naked on the frozen surface of a pond until they should die of exposure.
The forty witnesses to Christ united in prayer, asking God that all of them might persevere to the end.
Then one soldier weakened.
But a pagan guard was inspired to confess Christ and take the place of the apostate, and again the number of forty martyrs was complete.
This is the unity we are supposed to have.
40 Days in Lent ~ 40 Martys