Saint Demetrian of Cyprus was a priest and monk and bishop in Cyprus in the ninth and tenth centuries. Born in Sika on Cyprus, he at first he resisted the appointment as bishop. Not wanting to exchange his quiet monastic life for a busy episcopal office in the city, he fled, and was hidden in a cave by a friend. Ultimately, however, his friend became uncomfortable with the situation, and Demetrian was convinced to return to the city and embrace his appointment. He served as bishop of Chytri for twenty-five years, from 885 until his death, and is acknowledged as that office’s most famous inhabitant.
Near the end of his life he saved a group of Christians from Muslims when the latter invaded and took captives to sell as slaves. Despite his advanced age, Demetrian followed them on the road and pleaded desperately for their release. Miraculously, the Muslims were persuaded and they released the captives to him.
Venerated as a patron saint of prisoners, Demetrian is also invoked by a prayer: “Loving Father, through the intercession of Saint Demetrian, rescue me from the anxieties that hold me captive.”
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