Leonides of Alexandria was a Greek Christian martyr who lived during the second and early third centuries. According to the historian Eusebius, he was the father of the prominent Church father Origen. During the reign of the Roman emperor Septimius Severus, Leonides faced persecution in Alexandria. He was sentenced to death by the Egyptian prefect Lactus, resulting in his execution by beheading and the seizure of his assets.
Life and family
Leonides was a Greek man who raised his children with religious instruction. While the name of his wife remains unknown, she reportedly had at least six children following Origen. Although the Neoplatonist Porphyry suggested that Origen's parents were pagans, Leonides is recognized for his Christian faith. His son Origen later sought to follow his father's path of martyrdom, though his mother prevented him from leaving the house.
Veneration
As a recognized saint, Leonides is commemorated within the Catholic tradition. His feast day is observed annually on April 22. He is primarily remembered for his martyrdom in Alexandria and his relationship to his famous son, Origen.