Saint Marcian (Marcianus) of Tortona († 117 or 120 AD), traditionally said to have been the first bishop of Tortona, is venerated as a martyr saint of Roman Catholic church. Tradition states that he was born to a pagan family but was converted by Saint Barnabas and then confirmed in the Christian faith by Saint Sirus, bishop of Pavia. Saint Secundus of Asti is said to have met Marcian at Tortona, when the former was still a pagan. Secundus' meeting with Marcian influenced his decision to become a Christian. He is said to have been crucified for his Christianity. His Feast day is celebrated on March 6.
Saints Narcissus, Argeus and Marcellinus (†320 AD) are Christian saints and martyrs. Tradition states that they were brothers enlisted as soldiers in the army of Licinius. After refusing to perform military service due to their faith, they were tried and put to death at Tomis in Pontus (on the Black Sea), under the Emperor Licinius, who obliged all his soldiers to offer sacrifice to the gods. Because of their refusal, the three brothers were put to death. Argeus and Narcissus were beheaded, while Marcellinus, only a boy, was flogged, imprisoned, and then drowned by being thrown into the Black Sea.
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