(November 10, October 28 old calendar).

She was born in the city of Iconium of rich and Christ-loving parents. After their death, the maiden Paraskeva began to give her goods away to the poor and needy, all in the name of Christ the Lord. When a persecution arose under Diocletian (284-305), Paraskeva was taken for trial before the governor of that area. When the governor asked her name, she said that she was called a Christian. The governor rebuked her for not giving her ordinary name, but Paraskeva said to him, "I had first to tell you my name in eternal life, and can then give you my name in this transitory life." After flogging her, the governor threw her into prison, where an angel of God appeared to her and, healing her of her wounds, comforted her. She destroyed all the idols in the pagan temple by her prayers. After long and harsh torture, she was beheaded with the sword and entered into eternal life.

Strengthened by the Holy Spirit thou didst excel in contest,/ O Paraskeva fragrant with virginity./ Glorified by Christ's grace thou didst water the world with miracles./ O glorious Martyr,/ pray to Christ our God to grant us His great mercy.

The radiant day of thy contest has come on which the Church celebrates thy martyrdom./ She calls on all to cry gladly to thee:/ Rejoice, O Virgin Martyr Paraskeva.