And in you was found the blood of prophets and of saints, and of all who have been slaughtered on earth (Revelation 18:24)
Let us honor those noble soldiers of the Master of all, for they were united by their faith as they passed through fire and water; and being enlisted by Christ, they entered into divine refreshment. Now those pious warriors stand and intercede with Christ God for those who cry out: “Glory to Him Who strengthened you. Glory to Him Who crowned you. Glory to Him Who made you wondrous, O Forty Martyrs” (Troparion of the 40 Holy Martyrs of Sebaste from the Orthodox Church).
