He belongs to those Christians who had to do forced labour in loam pits and thermal springs of Emperor Diocletian. Being an arch-deacon of Rome he was a great help for all in need. He was also very helpful towards those who were imprisoned like him. According to a legend he freed Emperor Diocletian's daughter from demons which are shown by a dragon.
After having suffered great pains he was executed with a sword. Originally his tomb was found at the Via Ostia in Rome. Since the 10th century relics were transferred to different churches of Europe. The treasure-vault of Bamberg Cathedral keeps a relic of his arm. He is highly venerated in the Rhenania. He is the patron of vintagers in Rhinland-Palatinate. Many churches in the diocese of Wuerzburg carry his name. He was praised as a saviour after the victory of Wuerzburg citizens and the chapter of the cathedral against the Count of Henneberg (Battle at the Muehlberg) on the Day of Commemoration of St. Cyriacus in 1266. The Mountain of Cyriacus being an excellent vineyard reminds us of this day.
| Name: | in Greek: Kyriakos, lat. Dominicus: consecrated to God |
| Day of Commemoration: | August 8th |
| Native Place: | Rome |
| Year of Death: | about 305 (beheaded) |
| Distinguishing Feature: | deacon with a demon (dragon) put in irons |
| Particular Patronage: | helper in heavy temptations, against bad spirits, patron of those who are suppressed, for the hour of death, comforter in hard forced labour, patron of vintagers |
Prayer:St. Cyriacus, open our eyes for the physical and spiritual needs of people next to us. Make us ready to listen even to children in their great needs and to support them. Prevent our hearts to become rigid because of selfishness and despair.
