They became martyrs for Christ during the reign of the anti-Christian Roman Emperor Decius (249-251). Saint Leukios appealed to the conscience of the prefect, criticizing him for his harsh treatment of the Christians. For this boldness, he was tortured and executed. Saint Thyrsos, a catechumen, refused to worship the idols and died as a martyr. He derided those bowing to the idols, citing verses from the Prophet Jeremiah (2:27).
He endured cruel torments. He had his arms and legs pulled out and his teeth crushed with a hammer. Unbroken, he demolished by his prayers the statue of Apollo. He was subjected to even crueller torture and died after making the sign of the cross. The pagan Magi Kallinikos - who was present at his death - was impressed by his bravery and the miracle worked by him. He converted to Christ and was beheaded.
