Religious commemorations in the Orthodox tradition

On September 13, the Orthodox Church honors the memory of Saint Aristides the Philosopher, a 2nd-century Christian apologist from Athens who focused on Neoplatonism and the defense of the faith against Roman persecution. This date also includes the feast of Hieromartyr Cornelius, alongside various associated namesakes celebrating their name days.

Furthermore, on September 15, the Church commemorates Saint Bessarion of Larissa and the martyr Saint Nikitas. According to religious tradition, Saint Nikitas was a Goth living beyond the Danube River during the reign of Constantine the Great. Taught the Christian faith from childhood by Bishop Theophilus, Nikitas famously refused to renounce his beliefs when confronted by the ruler Athanaric. Despite threats and interrogation, he maintained his commitment to the scriptures and his faith, as instructed by the teachings of Saint Paul.