Epimachus of Pelusium was a third-century Egyptian martyr who lived an ascetic life on Mount Pelusium. While working as a weaver alongside two companions, he decided to openly declare his Christian faith by destroying pagan idols in El-Bakroug. This act led to his arrest by the governor of Egypt. After enduring severe torture on a wheel, he was eventually executed by beheading under the orders of the eparch of Alexandria.
Life and martyrdom
Epimachus faced intense persecution from the governor Polemius. During his torture, a drop of his blood reportedly healed a blind woman, leading to the conversion and subsequent martyrdom of her family. Following his execution, a deaf and mute soldier was said to have regained his hearing and speech after touching the martyr's body. His remains were later moved to El-Barmoun by his relatives.
Veneration
The governor ordered that the body be wrapped in costly shrouds and placed within a church built in his honor. His memory is preserved through various traditions, including the Anglican, Catholic, and Oriental churches. He is commemorated on October 31 in the Eastern Orthodox Church, while the Coptic Orthodox Church celebrates his feast day on 14 Pashons.