Saints Adrian and Natalia were a young married couple living in Nicomedia during the reign of Emperor Maximian (305–311). When 23 Christians were captured and tortured for their faith, Adrian, head of the praetorium, was so moved by their courage that he declared himself a Christian and joined them in martyrdom. Despite the emperor’s pleas to renounce Christ, Adrian stood firm and was imprisoned. His wife Natalia, a secret Christian, rejoiced at his conversion and encouraged him to remain steadfast, reminding him that all earthly things are fleeting and only faith and good deeds matter before God.

As Adrian faced execution, Natalia remained by his side, strengthening him in his final moments. She even assisted in his martyrdom by placing his limbs on the anvil when they were broken. After his death, she preserved his hand as a relic. Though a powerful commander sought her hand in marriage, she fled to Byzantium. Adrian later appeared to her in a dream, foretelling her peaceful death, which followed soon after. Honored as patrons of married couples, Saints Adrian and Natalia are remembered for their unwavering faith, mutual devotion, and courage in the face of persecution.

Troparion — Tone 3

(Podoben: “Your confession of the Divine Faith...”)

You regarded the Faith as an imperishable treasure, O most blessed one, / abandoning the ungodliness of your fathers, and walking in the footsteps of the Master, / you were enriched with divine gifts, O glorious Adrian. / Pray to Christ God for the salvation of our souls.

Kontakion — Tone 4

(Podoben: “You appeared today...”)

O Martyr of Christ, Adrian, / you kept in your heart the divine words of your godly-minded wife Natalia, / and endured torments; together with your spouse, you have received a crown.