The life of St Patrick of Prusa
Brought before the local governor at a place known for its hot mineral springs, Patrick was pressed to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods who were credited with the springs' healing power. He answered that the springs themselves, like everything else, were the work of Christ the Creator, and refused to yield. In his anger, the governor had Patrick thrown into the boiling water, but the saint was unharmed, remaining in prayer as though standing in still water. Enraged further, the governor ordered Patrick and his three priests beheaded together. The four were remembered by the Church as companions in their confession and companions in their death, given the crown of martyrdom side by side.
