Two thousand years ago, seven men were chosen by the first Christian community. The Twelve then laid hands upon them, imparting to them the Holy Spirit and ordaining them to serve and minister to the community. Of Stephen and Philip little is known, of the other five even less. Still, we are informed by tradition.

Procorus. Saint Procorus was consecrated bishop of Nicomedia by Saint Peter. For a time he served Saint John the Evangelist during his exile on Patmos. As the “beloved disciple’s” secretary, Procorus recorded the Book of Revelation which he received from the saint’s own lips. Returning to Nicomedia he labored many years, preaching the Gospel where he was martyred by unbelievers.

Nicanor. Saint Nicanor was one of the seventy sent by Our Lord in pairs to prepare His way. Nicanor suffered death in Jerusalem on the same day as St. Stephen though not in the same place or hour. Along with him, tradition tells us, two thousand Christians were slain.

Timon. Saint Timon was consecrated bishop by the twelve to serve in Arabia. He was martyred by crucifixion, in imitation of Our Lord.

Parmenas. Of Saint Parmenas it is said that he died before the eyes of the Apostles. He was greatly mourned by them and laid to rest in anticipation of the resurrection.

Nicolas. Among the ancients some say Nicholas was the author of heresy, though others say this is not so.