Saint Maria of Thrace

Saint Mary of Thrace the Younger is a saint of the Orthodox Church who lived in Bizye, Thrace, and is commemorated on February 16. Saint Mary was born to a pious family in Constantinople. She lived during the Byzantine era, in the 9th century, during the reign of Basil I the Macedonian (875–886). She married the droungarios Nikephoros. She was devoted to church services and distinguished herself through her charitable work. After the death of their two children, she moved to Bizye, Thrace, with her husband. There, Mary had two more children with her husband and continued her significant work for the destitute. However, she was slandered for squandering their wealth. Nikephoros misinterpreted her actions, believing she was unfaithful and wasting their money, and consequently punished and beat her. Mary died following a painful illness. When the coffin containing her body was opened, it was found to be intact and incorrupt, emitting a sweet fragrance, and many sick people were healed. Her relics were preserved and performed miracles at her church in Bizye.