Parthenius III of Constantinople was an Orthodox prelate who served as the Ecumenical Patriarch from 1656 to 1657. Born in Mytilene, he previously served as the metropolitan of Chios. During his brief tenure, he engaged in theological disputes regarding the Confession of Faith of Petro Mohyla and supported the Tsardom of Russia. His political involvement led to accusations of treason by the Ottoman authorities, ultimately resulting in his execution for refusing to renounce his Christian beliefs.
Life and death
After being elected to the patriarchate, Parthenius III attempted to secure funds by corresponding with a Greek bishop in Russia. These communications were intercepted by the Ottoman government, leading to charges of treason. Although the allegations were not true, Sultan Mehmed IV ordered his death to serve as a warning. Parthenius III refused to convert to Islam and was hanged at the Gate of the Hook in Constantinople, where he remained for three days before being cast into the sea.
Veneration
He is honored as a New Hieromartyr within the Eastern Orthodox Church. His remains, which were recovered after being thrown into the water, were eventually interred at the Kamariotissa Monastery on Chalki. The church commemorates him on his feast day, 24 March.