Martyr Martyr Rufus of Cyzicus

Martyr Rufus of Cyzicus was one of the Nine Martyrs of Cyzicus (together with Theognius, Antipater, Theostichus, Artemas, Magnus, Theodotus, Thaumasius, and Philemon) who suffered in the city of Cyzicus in Asia Minor. Coming to Cyzicus from different places, backgrounds, and stations in life — soldiers, villagers, clergy — these Christians were united by their faith in Christ and their zeal to spread and strengthen it. Rufus was among the eldest of the nine.

Brought to trial, they were tortured and imprisoned for several days; the governor repeatedly offered them freedom in exchange for renouncing Christ, but they steadfastly confessed their faith. All nine were ultimately beheaded (c. 284–292, near the start of Emperor Diocletian's reign). Their bodies were buried near the city. Their joint feast is kept April 29 / May 12.