Theodore (Theodorus), St

Theodore (Theodorus), St.

of the 4th century, was a Syrian or Armenian, or of Amasea as some more definitely state. Gregory of Nyssa relates that Theodore joined the Roman army (thence called tiro) when Maximin and Galerius were persecuting the Christians, but was himself denounced. His youthful appearance won for him three days respite, at the end of which he was to die unless he should recant. While engaged in earnest prayer, a Christian disguised as a soldier, named Didymus, approached and exhorted him to flee, which he did. Didymus was thereupon seized as a Christian and condemned to decapitation. Theodore returned and steadfastly endured horrible tortures until he died by fire. His body was rescued by Christians, and is reported to have been brought to Brindisi in the 12th century, while his head is said to be still preserved at Gaeta. Gregory pronounced a eulogy in his memory. The Greek Church dedicates to him Feb. 17, the Latin, Nov. 9. See Greg. Nyssce Opp. (Par. 1615), 2, 1002 sq.; Herzog, Real-Encyklop. s.v.