Urpasian was a 4th-century dignitary serving in the imperial household of the Roman Emperor Galerius. While stationed in Nicomedia, he chose to renounce his high-ranking position to declare his allegiance to Jesus Christ. Because of this refusal to abandon his faith, he was arrested by the authorities. He eventually faced execution by being burned alive, becoming a martyr for his Christian convictions during a period of intense persecution.
Life and martyrdom
As a member of the court under Emperor Galerius, Urpasian held a significant position in Nicomedia. During the imperial persecutions, he refused to worship pagan deities, unlike some other officials who wavered. By returning his imperial insignia and identifying himself as a soldier of the Heavenly King, he faced immediate arrest and was subsequently killed by fire.
Veneration
He is honored as a saint within the Anglican, Catholic, and Orthodox traditions. The Orthodox Church observes his feast day on March 9, while the Roman Catholic Church commemorates him on March 13.