In the 4th century, the young man Theophan lived in Antioch. His parents were pagans. They married their son early, but his family life did not last long: his wife died without leaving children. Acquainted with the teaching of Christ, Theophan accepted him with all his soul. He retired from the world, settling in a tiny cell on the edge of the city. The young man prayed a lot, studied Holy Scripture and preached the severity of morals.
Many people came to him to talk or to get advice. Often the name of the lecher Pansemin came up in conversation. The girl welcomed the rich citizens, earning a living by debauchery. Theophanes decided to save the girl from hell. The young man prayed, asking the Lord to guide him. Then he developed a plan. Having come out of seclusion, Theophan returned to his parents’ house, where he again dressed in rich clothes instead of rags. Taking money from his father, he married Pansemin, promising her untold riches. Out of self-interest, the girl agreed. But the condition for marriage Theophan called baptism. Anticipating wealth, Pansemin agreed to this. Preparing the bride for the sacrament, Theophanus spoke much about Christ, his commandments and the terrible punishment for libertines and sinners. The rite of baptism completely changed Panseminus. She refused not only from debauchery, the girl gave away all her savings, released slaves. Theophanes became a partner, not a wife. She settled next to his cell and led a righteous lifestyle until her death. They died with Theophanes in the same day, less than 2 years after the baptism of Pansemin.
Remembrance days
June 23
The Holy Land Charitable Foundation
Lives of Saints
