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orthodoxydaily · 2 years

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Saints&Reading: Friday, October 7, 2022

october 7_september 24

THE HOLY FIRST-MARTYR AND EQUAL-TO-THE-APOSTLES THEKLA (1st.c.)

The Holy Protomartyr and Equal of the Apostles Thekla was born in the city of Iconium. She was the daughter of rich and illustrious parents, and she was distinguished by extraordinary beauty. At eighteen years of age they betrothed her to an eminent youth. But after she heard the preaching of the holy Apostle Paul about the Savior, Saint Thekla with all her heart came to love the Lord Jesus Christ, and she steadfastly resolved not to enter into marriage, but rather to devote all her life to preaching the Gospel.

Saint Thekla’s mother was opposed to her daughter’s plans and insisted that she marry her betrothed. Saint Thekla’s fiancé also complained to the prefect of the city about the Apostle Paul, accusing him of turning his bride against him. The prefect locked up Saint Paul in prison.

During the night Saint Thekla secretly ran away from her house, and she bribed the prison guards, giving them all her gold ornaments, and so made her way into the prison to the prisoner. For three days she sat at the feet of the Apostle Paul, listening to his fatherly precepts. Thekla’s disappearance was discovered, and servants were sent out everywhere looking for her. Finally, they found her in the prison and brought her home by force.

At his trial Saint Paul was sentenced to banishment from the city. Again they urged Saint Thekla to consent to the marriage, but she would not change her mind. Neither the tears of her mother, nor her wrath, nor the threats of the prefect could separate Saint Thekla from her love for the Heavenly Bridegroom, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Her mother in a insane rage demanded from the judges a death sentence against her unyielding daughter, and Saint Thekla was sentenced to be burned. Without flinching, the holy martyr went into the fire and made the Sign of the Cross over herself. At this moment the Savior appeared to her, blessing her present deed, and inexpressible joy filled her holy soul.

The flames of the fire shot up high, but the martyr was surrounded by a light and the flames did not touch her. Thunder boomed, and a strong downpour of rain and hail extinguished the fire. The torturers scattered in fear. Saint Thekla, kept safe by the Lord, left the city and with the help of a certain Christian youth, searched for the Apostle Paul. The holy apostle and his companions, among whom was Saint Barnabas, were hidden in a cave not far from the city, praying fervently, that the Lord would strengthen Saint Thekla in her sufferings.

After this, Saint Thekla went with them preaching the Gospel in Antioch. In this city she was pursued by a certain dignitary named Alexander, who was captivated by her beauty. Saint Thekla refused his offer of marriage, and so she was condemned to death for being a Christian. Twice they set loose hungry wild animals upon her, but they would not touch the holy virgin. Instead, they lay down meekly and licked her feet.

The Providence of God preserved the holy martyr unharmed through all her torments. Finally, they tied her to two oxen and began to chase her with red-hot rods, but the strong cords broke asunder like cobwebs, and the oxen ran off, leaving Saint Thekla unharmed. The people began shouting, “Great is the God of the Christians!” The prefect himself became terrified, realizing that the holy martyr was being kept safe by the Almighty God, Whom she served. He then gave orders to set free the servant of God Thekla.

With the blessing of the Apostle Paul, Saint Thekla then settled in a desolate region of Isaurian Seleucia and dwelt there for many years, constantly preaching the Word of God and healing the sick through her prayer. Saint Thekla converted many pagans to Christ, and the Church appropriately names her as “Equal-to-the-Apostles.” Even a pagan priest, trying to assault her purity and punished for his impudence, was brought by her to holy Baptism. More than once the Enemy of the race of man tried to destroy Saint Thekla through people blinded by sin, but the power of God always preserved this faithful servant of Christ.

When Saint Thekla was already a ninety-year-old woman, pagan sorcerers became incensed at her for treating the sick for free. They were unable to comprehend that the saint was healing the sick by the power of the grace of Christ, and they presumed that the virgin-goddess Artemis was her special helper. Envious of Saint Thekla, they sent their followers to defile her. When they came near her, Saint Thekla cried out for help to Christ the Savior, and a rock split open and hid the holy virgin, the bride of Christ. Thus did Saint Thekla offer up her holy soul to the Lord.

The holy Church glorifies the Protomartyr Thekla as “the glory of women and guide for the suffering, opening up the way through every torment.” From of old many churches were dedicated to her, one of which was built at Constantinople by the holy Equal of the Apostles Constantine (May 21). The Protomartyr Thekla, a prayerful intercessor for ascetics, is also invoked during the tonsure of women into monasticism.

ST SILOUAN THE ATHONITE

Saint Silouan was born Simeon Ivanovich Antonov in 1866 to Russian Orthodox parents who came from the village of Sovsk in Russia's Tambov region. At the age of twenty-seven he left his native Russia and came to Mount Athos, where he became a monk at the Monastery of St. Panteleimon and was given the name Silouan, the Russian version of the Biblical name Silvanus.

An ardent ascetic, he received the grace of unceasing prayer and saw Christ in a vision. After long years of spiritual trial, he acquired great humility and inner stillness. He prayed and wept for the whole world as for himself, and he put the highest value on love for enemies. Thomas Merton, a twentieth-century Catholic monk, described Silouan as “the most authentic monk of the twentieth century.” St Silouan died on September 24, 1938. He was glorified by the Ecumenical Patriarchate in 1987.

Though barely literate, he was sought out by pilgrims for his wise counsel. St. Nikolaj Velimirović was one such pilgrim. His writings were edited by his disciple and pupil, Archimandrite Sophrony. Father Sophrony has written the life of the saint along with a record of St. Silouan's teachings in the book Saint Silouan the Athonite.

Although it is natural and usual to love those who love us and to do good to those who do good to us (Mt 5:46-47; Lk 6:32-33), to love our enemies is distasteful to our nature. One can say that it isn't in our power but is an attitude that can only be the fruit of grace, given by the Holy Spirit. This is why St. Silouan the Athonite writes, "The soul that has not known the Holy Spirit does not understand how one can love one's enemies, and does not accept it."

The Staretz repeatedly says that love of enemies is impossible without grace: "Lord, You have given the commandment to love enemies, but this is difficult for us sinners if Your grace is not with us"; "Without God's grace we cannot love enemies"; "He who does not love his enemies, does not have God's grace"; "He who has not learned to love from the Holy Spirit, will certainly not pray for his enemies." On the contrary, St. Silouan always teaches that this attitude is a gift of the Holy Spirit: "The Lord has commanded us to love our enemies, and the Holy Spirit reveals this love to us"; "One can only love one's enemies through the grace of the Holy Spirit"; "When you will love your enemies, know that a great divine grace will be living in you."

The Staretz would say that for Christ there are no enemies -- there are those who accept "the words of eternal life," there are those who reject and even crucify; but for the Creator of every living thing, there can be no enemy. So it should be for the Christian, too, who "in pity for all must strive for the salvation of all."

Source: St Silouan Orthodox Church

LUKE 4:22-30

22 So all bore witness to Him, and marveled at the gracious words which proceeded out of His mouth. And they said, "Is this not Joseph's son?" 23 He said to them, "You will surely say this proverb to Me, 'Physician, heal yourself! Whatever we have heard done in Capernaum, do also here in Your country.' " 24 Then He said, "Assuredly, I say to you, no prophet is accepted in his own country. 25 But I tell you truly, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elijah, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, and there was a great famine throughout all the land; 26 but to none of them was Elijah sent except to Zarephath, in the region of Sidon, to a woman who was a widow. 27 And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Elisha the prophet, and none of them was cleansed except Naaman the Syrian. 28 So all those in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with wrath, 29 and rose up and thrust Him out of the city; and they led Him to the brow of the hill on which their city was built, that they might throw Him down over the cliff. 30 Then passing through the midst of them, He went His way.

1 CORINTHIANS 14:20-25

20Brethren, do not be children in understanding; however, in malice be babes, but in understanding be mature. 21 In the law it is written: "With men of other tongues and other lips I will speak to this people; And yet, for all that, they will not hear Me," says the Lord. 22 Therefore tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers; but prophesying is not for unbelievers but for those who believe. 23 Therefore if the whole church comes together in one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those who are uninformed or unbelievers, will they not say that you are out of your mind? 24 But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or an uninformed person comes in, he is convinced by all, he is convicted by all. 25 And thus the secrets of his heart are revealed; and so, falling down on his face, he will worship God and report that God is truly among you.

#orthodoxy #orthodoxchristianity #easternchristianity originofchristianity #spirituality #holyscriptures #gospel #bible

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minervarosewilliams · 2 years

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Astrology April 30, 2022

The Sun/Moon conjunction is 10 Taurus 28, exactly. Benedict; Solar Eclipse 9 Taurus 13 Elinor 9 Taurus 17 Orangia 9 Taurus 42 Ireneadler 10 Taurus 31 Dorothea 10 Taurus 36 Solidarity 10 Taurus 45 Casanova 11 Taurus 29 Look, it's triggering his pre-natal Solar eclipse! This is where you have some lesson to teach. In this chart the conjunction is in the eight, ruled by Pluto (Scorpio). This is about the correct uses of power.

Elinor tricked Lancelot into getting her pregnant by getting him drunk, then dousing herself in Guinevere's perfume and climbing naked into bed with him. I suppose Taurus would be standing by your principles . Or the correct use of personal property, or your own art.

NORTH NODE 8 Scorpio 39 Rx

Ixion 8 Scorpio 43 Rx

Constable 8 Scorpio 44

North Node (True) 9 Scorpio 12

McAuliffe 9 Scorpio 12

Tape 9 Scorpio 24

Esther 9 Scorpio 51

Transylvania 10 Scorpio 11

Dukewriter 10 Scorpio 19

Banks 12 Scorpio 55

d'Arrest 12 Scorpio 59

We've got some nodal action going too. Karmic. Ixion was the first murderer, followed immediately by policeman.

Solar eclipse - where he has something to teach Solar Eclipse 9 Taurus 13 Elinor 9 Taurus 17 Orangia 9 Taurus 42 Ireneadler 10 Taurus 31 Dorothea 10 Taurus 36 Solidarity 10 Taurus 45 Casanova 11 Taurus 29 Everybody on that list uses people. I described Elinor; Orangia could be Trump (thief as well); IreneAdler, Sherlock con artist. He was attracted to her. Dorothea could be that multiple murderer the boarding house lady. Killed the elderly to steal. As far as I know Casanova was just after people for sex. Pack of con artists who kill, steal, and seduce. okay, opposing. NORTH NODE 8 Scorpio 39 Rx Ixion 8 Scorpio 43 Rx Constable 8 Scorpio 44 North Node (True) 9 Scorpio 12 McAuliffe 9 Scorpio 12 Tape 9 Scorpio 24 Esther 9 Scorpio 51 Transylvania 10 Scorpio 11 Dukewriter 10 Scorpio 19 Banks 12 Scorpio 55 d'Arrest 12 Scorpio 59 Karmic point, what he should be doing, murderer. Police. McCauliffe was the teacher on the challenger. A record, the queen who saved the Hebrews, (vampire?), writer, banks, arrest.

The primary question being looked for here is Benedict’s health. Starting with transiting Askalaphos (ancient Greek physician). Apr30 Achilles 18 Taurus 29 Apr30 Askalaphos 18 Taurus 29 Apr30 Lempo 18 Taurus 49 Benedict Arachne 17 Taurus 07 Benedict Enterprise 17 Taurus 16 Benedict Courant 17 Taurus 28 SBenedict treet 18 Taurus 10 Benedict Acosta 18 Taurus 43 Benedict Yoko 18 Taurus 49 Benedict Roadrunner 19 Taurus 13 opposing; Benedict Duke 17 Scorpio 45 Benedict Lilith 18 Scorpio 36 Benedict Thekla 19 Scorpio 27 Lempo; Finnish god of love and evil Transiting weak point, physician, and a god of love and evil who brings ‘misfortune, disease and unspeakable nastiness’. This is not an auspicious beginning. But – this applies to everyone. On Benedict’s side, we have the woman Athena turned into a spider (one with godlike skill with textiles). Enterprise is the ship attacked by Khan [if you don’t get this reference ask a friend }. We have courant, to run.; Street, a place to run, and Roadrunner. Acosta was the NYC Mayor or his brother the news broadcaster. Yoko is the artist largely blamed for the dissolution of the Beatles. Our common thread (Arachne pun) are talented people of extraordinary ability and talent being removed from their position. Athena thought Arachne profane. Mayor Acosta resigned over sexual misconduct allegations, and if Yoko didn’t break up the Beatles she did break up Lennon’s marriage. Opposing; this is Lilith the asteroid, not the Dark Moon. Thekla followed an apostle who left her to not be eaten by lions. Duke may be related to Dukewriter.

Apr30 Psyche 8 Virgo 10

Apr30 Hygiea 8 Scorpio 28

Good mental health.

Apr30 Reiki 11 Pisces 07

Apr30 Mars 11 Pisces 54

Healing energy.

Apr30 Hades 10 Cacer 7\

Apr0 Kronos 12 Cancer 51

Benedict MIDHEAVEN 11 Cancer 22

Lord of Death, Lord of Tome. Where he is seen.

Doctor Strange could be considered a Lord of time/

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thesynaxarium · 6 years

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Today we celebrate the Protomartyr and Equal-to-the-Apostles Thekla of Iconium. Saint Thekla, still a pagan, was betrothed at 18 years of age to the young Thamyris when she heard the preaching of the Apostle Paul in Iconium. She stayed at her bedroom window for three days where she could hear his blessed words. Being struck by the notion of preserving virginity for Christ, she decided she would no longer get married. Her decision despised by her mother and fiancé, they imprisoned the Apostle Paul, blaming him for Thekla's change of heart. Thekla secretly fled her house and found the prison where the apostle was kept, bribing the guards with much gold and jewellery to enter and speak with him. She sat at the Apostle Paul's feet for another three days, being instructed on the path to Christ. Noticing her absence, they searched the holy virgin down and eventually found her. Her enraged mother sentenced her to be burnt at the stake, but as soon as Saint Thekla ran into the fire, a large storm cloud came and washed away the flames, leaving her unharmed. Believing her to be some sort of witch, the townspeople sent her away. In her new city of dwelling, the young Prince Alexander, enchanted by her beauty, demanded her hand in marriage. She adamantly refused and so was thrown to the lions, only to find that they sat meekly at her feet guarding her from her enemies. She was once again released, and Saint Thekla spent the remainder of her life in the desert, preaching and healing anyone who approached her. Because of her great spreading and mass conversions, she is titled Equal-to-the-Apostles. At 90 years of age, the magicians of the city noticed all their clients were fleeing to "some healing woman" in the desert, and thus losing their income. Driven with the vice of avarice, the magicians gathered some young men, intoxicated them with wine, and sent them to defile the holy virgin. As they approached, Saint Thekla prayed that the Lord spare her, and an earthquake shook the mountains, forming a crevice large enough for the Saint to enter. Having entered the mountain, the rocks closed on her and thus she gave up her soul. https://www.instagram.com/p/BoF2OjrBbNn/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=11odnrbr00wuh

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westernriteorthodoxrosary · 3 years

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HANNUKAH (Chanukah) MIRACLE! 2 Maccabees 10:5-9 It happened that on the same day on which the sanctuary had been profaned by the foreigners, the purification of the sanctuary took place, that is, on the twenty-fifth day of the same month, which was Chislev. And they celebrated it for eight days with rejoicing, in the manner of the feast of booths, remembering how not long before, during the feast of booths, they had been wandering in the mountains and caves like wild animals. Therefore bearing ivy-wreathed wands and beautiful branches and also fronds of palm, they offered hymns of thanksgiving to him who had given success to the purifying of his own holy place. They decreed by public ordinance and vote that the whole nation of the Jews should observe these days every year. Such then was the end of Anti′ochus, who was called Epiph′anes. +LORD JESUS YESHUA THE MESSIAH CHRIST, SON OF GOD, through the prayers of the Holy Maccabee Martyrs Abim, Antonius, Gurias, Eleazar, Eusebonus, Alimus, Marcellus, Solomonia, and Eleazar, have mercy on us sinners! Lord Jesus Yeshua the Messiah Christ, Son of God, through the prayers of Judas Maccabeus, have mercy on us sinners! LORD JESUS YESHUA THE MESSIAH CHRIST, SON OF ALLAH (GOD), THROUGH THE PRAYERS OF SAINT JUDE (THADDEUS) THE APOSTLE, HAVE MERCY ON US SINNERS!

Kontakion to Holy Martyr Menas of Egypt: Today the church honors those who fought the good fight and died for their faith: / The victorious Menas, the noble Victor and the ascetic Vincent. / The church glorifies their divine struggle and cries out with love: / Glory to You, O Christ, the lover of mankind. +LORD JESUS CHRIST, SON OF GOD, through the most powerful prayers of Saints Menas the Martyr of Egypt, Maria Skobtsova the New Martyr of Paris, Moses the Ethiopian, Chiune Sugihara of Lithuania, Alexander Schmorell of Munich, Walatta Petros, Grigol Peradze, Pavel Peter Gojdič, Gabriel Urgebadze, Raphael Hawaweeny of Brooklyn, Mary of Egypt, Symeon the New Theologian, Paisius Velichkovsky, Barsanuphius Plikhankov of Optina and Seraphim Moshnin of Sarov, HAVE MERCY ON US SINNERS!

Holy Virgin Protection Hymns: O Mother of God, sheltered by thy coming/ We faithful people today keep feast in joy./ And beholding thy most pure image/ moved to the depths of our heart we say/ Protect us with thy precious veil/ and deliver us from every ill/ by entreating Christ thy son and our God to save our souls. Today the Virgin stands forth in the church/ and invisibly with the choir of the saints prays to God for us./ The hierarchs bow down with the angels,/ the apostles and the prophets rejoice/ for the Mother of God prays to the eternal God for us. We magnify thee/ O most holy Virgin/ and we honor thy precious veil/ for Saint Andrew beheld thee/ in the air praying to God for us. Lord Jesus Yeshua the Messiah Christ, Son of God (Allah/ Elohim), through the prayers of thy most Holy Mother the Theotokos, have mercy on us sinners!

Most Holy Theotokos and Saints Mary Magdalene, Maxim Sandovich of Gorlice, Seraphim Moshnin of Sarov, Milad Makeen Zaky, Abanub Ayad Atiya, Maged Soliman Shehata, Youssef Shukry Younan, Kirollos Boshra Fawzy, Bishoy Astafanous Kamel, Samuel Astafanous Kamel, Malak Ibrahim Sinyout, Tawadros Youssef Tawadros, Gerges Milad Sinyout, Mina Fayez Aziz, Hany Abdel Mesih Salib, Samuel Alham Wilson, Ezzat Boshra Naseef, Luka Nagaty Anis, Gaber Mounir Adly, Essam Baddar Samir, Malak Farag Abrahim, Sameh Salah Farouk, Gerges Samir Megally, Mathew Ayairga, Magdy Sobhy Tawfeek, Sahar Talaat Rezk, Katherine Magdy Sobhy, Pavel Peter Gojdič, Father Samaan Shehata, John Maximovitch the Wonderworker of Shanghai and San Francisco, Takla Haymanot of Ethiopia, Yared of Ethiopia, Gabra Manfas Queddus, Grand Duchess Elizabeth Fyodorovna the New Martyr, Maria Skobtsova the New Martyr of Paris, Thérèse Martin of the Child Jesus of Lisieux, Claudia Procula, Vida Dutton Scudder, Florence Converse, Dymphna, Khalid Jabara the Antiochian Orthodox Martyr of Oklahoma, and Michael the Archangel pray for us always!

Gospel of John 20:11-16 But Mary stood outside by the tomb weeping, and as she wept she stooped down and looked into the tomb. And she saw two angels in white sitting, one at the head and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus [Yeshua] had lain. Then they said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him.” Now when she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus [Yeshua] standing there, and did not know that it was Jesus [Yeshua]. Jesus [Yeshua] said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” She, supposing Him to be the gardener, said to Him, “Sir, if You have carried Him away, tell me where You have laid Him, and I will take Him away.” Jesus [Yeshua] said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to Him, “Rabboni!” (which is to say, Teacher).

Protection Prayer: Today the faithful celebrate the feast with joy / illumined by your coming, O Mother of God. / Beholding your pure image we fervently cry to you: / “Encompass us beneath the precious veil of your protection; / deliver us from every form of evil by entreating Christ, / your Son and our God that He may save our souls.” Saints Mary Magdalene the Apostle, Andrew the Fool-for-Christ of Constantinople, Epiphanius, Romanos the Melodist, Metropolitan Peter Polyansky of Krutitsy, Thomas the Apostle, Sebastian Dabovich of Jackson and San Francisco, Olga Michael of Alaska, Maria Skobtsova the New Martyr of Paris, Gregory Palamas, Grand Duchess Elizabeth Fyodorovna The New Martyr of Russia, Thekla the Protomartyr, Pavel Peter Gojdič, Tikhon Bellavin of Moscow, Apostle Paul, John Maximovitch the Wonderworker of Shanghai and San Francisco, Josephine Bakhita, André Bessette of Montreal, Nektarios Kefalas of Aegina and Pentapolis, Grigol Peradze,Paisios Eznepidis of Mount Athos, Porphyrios Bairaktaris of Kafsokalivia, Peter the Apostle, Paul the Apostle, Pope Pius I, Gabra Manfas Qeddus, Takla Haymanot, Yared of Ethiopia, Hilda of Whitby,Florence Li Tim-Oi, Apostle Prochorus, Michael (Mikhail I) of Kiev, Olympia the Deaconess, Phoebe the Deaconess, Thérèse Martin of the Child Jesus of Lisieux,Herman of Alaska, Peter the Aleut (Cungagnaq), Hildegard von Bingen,Innocent Popov-Veniaminov of Alaska, Kateri Tekakwitha, and Seraphim Moshnin of Sarov pray for us always!!

Prayer to Saint Joseph the Betrothed: O St. Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the throne of God, I place in thee all my interests and desires. O St. Joseph, do assist me by thy powerful intersession and obtain for me from thy Divine Son all the spiritual blessings through Jesus Christ, Our Lord, so that having engaged here below thy Heavenly power I may offer my Thanksgiving and Homage to the most loving of Fathers. O St. Joseph, I never weary contemplating thee with Jesus asleep in thy arms. I dare not approach while He reposes near thy heart. Press Him in my name, and kiss His fine head for me, and ask Him to return the kiss when I draw my dying breath. St. Joseph, patron of departing souls, pray for us. Amen. Господи Иисусе Христе, Сыне Божий, помилуй нас грешники!

Prayer to Saint Panteleimon: You emulated the Merciful One, and received from Him the grace of healing, Passion-bearer and healer Panteleimon; by your prayers, heal our spiritual diseases and continually drive away the temptations of the enemy from those who cry out in faith “Save us, O Lord.” Doamne Iisuse Hristoase, Fiul lui Dumnezeu, Miluieşte-ne pe noi pacatosii!

Troparion to Saint Maria Skobtsova the New Martyr of Paris:

You became a bride of Christ, O venerable Mother, And offered your body and soul to Him as a living sacrifice. You exposed the evil side of humanity’s ways, By allowing the light of the Resurrection to shine forth from you. We celebrate your memory in love, O Martyr and Confessor Maria. Pray to Christ our God that He may save our souls. +++ Lord Jesus Yeshua the Messiah Christ, Son of God, through the powerful prayers of your Most Holy Virgin Mother Mariam (Mary) the Theotokos and your Saints Mary Magdalene, Maria Skobtsova the New Martyr of Paris, Moses the Ethiopian (Moses the Black), Walatta Petros, Mary of Egypt, John Climacus, Gregory Palamas, Seraphim Moshnin of Sarov, Dimitri Klepinin the New Martyr, Ilya Elias Fondaminsky, George Yuri Skobtsov, Takla Haymanot of Ethiopia, Yared of Ethiopia, Grand Duchess Elizabeth Fyodorovna the New Martyr of Russia, Alexander Hotovitzky, Kassiani the Hymnographer, Innocent Popov-Veniaminov of Alaska, Athanasius of Alexandria, Herman of Alaska, Peter Cungagnaq the Aleut, Olga Michael of Alaska, Gabra Manfas Qeddus, Silouan Antonov the Athonite, Sophrony Sakharov, Alexander Schmemann, Anthony Bloom of Sourozh, Nektarios Kefalas of Aegina & Pentapolis, Mitrophan Yang of China, and Joseph Kottis the Hesychast, have mercy on us sinners and have mercy on the whole universe.+++

FAVORITE QUOTE FROM SAINT MARIA SKOBTSOVA OF PARIS: “However hard I try, I find it impossible to construct anything greater than these three words, ‘Love one another’ —only to the end, and without exceptions: then all is justified and life is illumined, whereas otherwise it is an abomination and a burden.” LORD JESUS YESHUA THE MESSIAH CHRIST, SON OF THE LIVING GOD, THROUGH THE PRAYERS OF THE MOST HOLY THEOTOKOS & SAINTS MOTHER MARIA SKOBTSOVA THE NEW MARTYR OF PARIS, FATHER MOSES THE ETHIOPIAN (MOSES THE BLACK), MOTHER WALATTA PETROS, DOROTHY DAY, OSCAR ROMERO, SERAPHIM MOSHNIN OF SAROV, GREGORY PALAMAS, ARCHANGEL MICHAEL, HOLY RIGHTEOUS JOSHUA SON OF NAVI (NUN), ELIAS THE PROPHET, MOSES THE PROPHET, ARCHANGEL URIEL, AND GRAND DUCHESS ELIZABETH FYODOROVNA THE NEW MARTYR OF RUSSIA, HAVE MERCY ON US SINNERS!

Ethiopian Orthodox Akathist to Saint Mother Walatta Petros:

Hail to you, Walatta Petros, a garden! Wrapped in heavenly scent, you are shade for the doves, from the heat of misery that fills our world. Hail to you, Walatta Petros, a mirror! You reveal the Trinity in its holiness to everyone, high and low: now the faithful sit safe on dry ground. Hail to you, Walatta Petros, a light! Your preaching split the darkness and the foolish friends of this world ran eagerly toward repentance. Peace upon you! What no eye has seen nor ear ever heard, that mystery you chose as your wedding finery, refusing a life of luxury. Hail to you, Walatta Petros, our mother! Strength of will carried you through the narrow gate —like thousands of martyrs before and the righteous monks of Waseef. Peace upon you and your forebear Shenoute, arrayed in the armor of chastity! Come, comfort our distress and woe; guard us while the whirlwind rages. Hail to you Walatta Petros, who brings harmony! May the power of your help outweigh the schemes of Satan and of men; may it veil us like a cloud. Peace upon you! We make a walled fortress from your aid; we fear not the assault of godless enemies when they rise against us. Peace upon you! For your children, the brothers and all the sisters— plead without ceasing in the presence of the Lord, that they may avoid temptation. Peace upon you! You escaped the snares of beastly inquity by carrying the guarantee of victory—the cross— as did the disciples of Saint Macarius. Hail to you, Walatta Petros! From the Four Creatures of Heaven to where the Holy Trinity is worshipped, raise the incense of our song— with a censer wrought of light! LORD JESUS YESHUA THE MESSIAH CHRIST, SON OF GOD, HAVE MERCY ON US SINNERS! MOST HOLY THEOTOKOS and Saints Mary Magdalene, Mother Walatta Petros, Mother Maria Skobtsova the New Martyr of Paris, Father Seraphim Moshnin of Sarov, John Maximovitch the Wonderworker of Shanghai and San Francisco, Job Zhelezo of Pochaev, Gabriel Urgebadze, Raphael Hawaweeny of Brooklyn, George Karslidis the Righteous of Drama, John Jacob the Chozebite Romanian (Ioan Iacob Hozevitul), Paisios Eznepidis of Mount Athos, Pavel Peter Gojdič, Isidore of Seville, Grand Duchess Elizabeth Fyodorovna the New Martyr of Russia, Archbishop Iakovos Koukouzis of America, and Porphyrios Bairaktaris of Kafsokalivia pray for us always!

Prayer to Archangel Michael: St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the Devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly hosts, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan, and all the evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen. +LORD JESUS YESHUA THE MESSIAH CHRIST, PRE-ETERNAL BISHOP, PRE-ETERNAL PATRIARCH & SON OF GOD, through the prayers of Saints Mary Magdalene, Raphael Hawaweeny of Brooklyn, Gabriel Urgebadze, Tikhon Bellavin of Moscow, Moses the Ethiopian, Archangel Michael, Archangel Raphael, Archangel Gabriel, Archangel Uriel / Archangel Ariel, Archangel Selaphiel, Archangel, Jehudiel, Archangel Barachiel, Archangel Raguel, Archangel Jeremiel, Archangel Anael, Archangel Jophiel, Archangel Zadkiel, and Maria Skobtsova the New Martyr of Paris, HAVE MERCY ON US SINNERS!

Dormition Prayer: Neither the tomb, nor death, could hold the Theotokos, who is constant in prayer and our firm hope in her intercessions. For being the Mother of Life, she was translated to life, by the One who dwelt in her virginal womb. Most Holy Theotokos save us! LORD YESHUA THE MESSIAH, SON OF GOD, HAVE MERCY ON US SINNERS! Saints Mardarije Uskoković of Libertyville, Maria Skobtsova the New Martyr of Paris, Grand Duchess Elizabeth Fyodorovna the New Martyr,Seraphim Moshnin of Sarov, John Maximovitch of Shanghai and San Francisco,Nektarios Kefalas of Aegina and Pentapolis, Grigol Peradze, and Holy Righteous Abraham pray for us always!

The Transfiguration Troparion / Kontakion:

Saints Mark Ji Tianxiang, Dimitri Klepinin the New Martyr, Ilya Elias Fondaminsky, George Yuri Skobtsov, Takla Haymanot of Ethiopia, Yared of Ethiopia, Alexander Hotovitzky, Spyridon of Trimythous, Sebastian Dabovich of Jackson and San Francisco, Olga Michael of Alaska, Florence Li Tim-Oi, Pavel Peter Gojdič, Maxim Sandovich, Ahmed the Calligrapher, Maria Skobtsova the New Martyr of Paris, Gregory Palamas, Seraphim Moshnin of Sarov, Porphyrios Bairaktaris the Kapsokalyvite, Paisios Eznepidis of Mount Athos, Holy Prophet and God-Seer Moses, Prophet Elijah/Elias, Grand Duchess Elizabeth Fyodorovna The New Martyr of Russia, and Leonty Turkevich of New York pray for us! You were transfigured on the mountain, O Christ God, / revealing Your glory to Your disciples as far as they could bear it. / Let Your everlasting Light also shine upon us sinners, / through the prayers of the Theotokos. / O Giver of Light, glory to You! On the Mountain You were Transfigured, O Christ God, / And Your disciples beheld Your glory as far as they could see it; / So that when they would behold You crucified, / They would understand that Your suffering was voluntary, / And would proclaim to the world, / That You are truly the Radiance of the Father!

Song of Songs/ Song of Solomon 5:10-16

My beloved is a shining and fiery light, Chosen from countless thousands. His head is like refined gold; His locks of hair are shiny and black, Like a raven’s feathers. His eyes are like those of doves sitting by pools of water, having eyes bathed in milk and fitly set. His cheeks are like bowls of spices pouring forth perfumes. [His face is rugged, his beard smells like sage, His voice, his words, warm and reassuring.] His lips are lilies dripping choice myrrh. His hands are like elaborate gold set with precious stones. His stomach is like an ivory tablet inlaid with sapphire stones. His legs are like pillars or marble established on golden feet. His appearance is like Lebanon, choice as the cedar trees. His mouth is most sweet and altogether desirable. This is my beloved, my companion, O daughters of Jerusalem!

The Beatitudes:

In Thy Kingdom remember us O Lord, when Thou comest in Thy Kingdom. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they who hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. Blessed are ye when men shall revile you and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in Heaven. Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Both now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen. Most Holy Theotokos and Saints Dimitri Klepinin the New Martyr, Ilya Elias Fondaminsky, George Yuri Skobtsov, Takla Haymanot of Ethiopia, Yared of Ethiopia, Gabra Manfas Qeddus, Maria Skobtsova the New Martyr of Paris, Gregory Palamas, Seraphim Moshnin of Sarov, Porphyrios Bairaktaris the Kapsokalyvite, Paisios Eznepidis of Mount Athos, Grand Duchess Elizabeth Fyodorovna The New Martyr of Russia, John Maximovitch the Wonderworker of Shanghai and San Francisco, Patrick of Ireland, Bridget of Ireland, Archangel Michael, Christopher of Lycia, Raphael Hawaweeny of Brooklyn, John Sergiyev of Kronstadt, Pavel Peter Gojdič, Dymphna, Nino of Georgia, Joseph the Betrothed, Queen Esther, Judith the Conqueror of Holofernes, Archangel Uriel, Gabriel Urgebadze, Grigol Peradze, Apollonia, Panteleimon the Holy Unmercenary Healer, and Mary Magdalene pray for us always!

“I AM the Vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, he it is that BEARS MUCH FRUIT, for apart from Me you can do nothing.” Most Holy Theotokos and Saints Mary Magdalene, Claudia Procula, Maria Skobtsova the New Martyr of Paris, John the Theologian, Pavel Peter Gojdič, John Maximovitch of Tobolsk, John Maximovitch the Wonderworker of Shanghai and San Francisco, Takla Haymanot of Ethiopia, Yared of Ethiopia, Gabra Manfas Queddus, Grand Duchess Elizabeth Fyodorovna the New Martyr, Seraphim Moshnin of Sarov, Herman of Alaska, Matrona Nikonova the Wonderworker of Moscow, Patrick of Ireland, Paisios Eznepidis of Mount Athos, Josephine Bakhita, Dymphna, Herman of Alaska, Job Zhelezo of Pochaev, Luke Voino-Yasenetsky the Blessed Surgeon of Simferopol and Crimea, Peter the Aleut, André Bessette of Montreal, Porphyrios Bairaktaris of Kafsokalivia, Raphael Hawaweeny of Brooklyn, Gregory Palamas, Nilus of Sora / Nil Sorski, Christopher of Lycia, Thérèse Martin of the Child Jesus YESHUA of Lisieux, Vida Dutton Scudder, Florence Converse and Tikhon Bellavin of Moscow PRAY FOR US ALWAYS!

Prophesy of Daniel 3:16-18, 3:23-24

Shadrach (Hananiah), Meshach (Mishael), and Abednego (Azariah) answered the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is in the heavens, able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace; and He will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image which you have set up.” And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell bound into the fiery furnace. And they walked about in the midst of the flames, singing hymns to God and blessing the Lord. +MOST HOLY THEOTOKOS AND SAINTS MARY MAGDALENE, Holy Prophet Daniel, Shadrach (Hananiah), Meshach (Mishael), Abednego (Azariah), Gabriel Urgebadze, Panteleimon the Unmercenary Healer, Apollonia, Xenia of St. Petersburg, Dymphna, Barsanuphius of Optina, Sophrony Sakharov, Grigol Peradze, Isaac the Syrian, Kassiani the Hymnographer, Holy Righteous Father Abraham, Queen Esther, Judith conquerer of Holofernes, John Maximovitch the Wonderworker of Shanghai & San Francisco, John Sergiyev of Kronstadt, Seraphim Moshnin of Sarov, Phoebe the Deaconess, Patrick of Ireland, Grand Duchess Elizabeth Fyodorovna the New Martyr of Russia, Pachomius the Great, Alexander Hotovitzky, Alexis Toth of Wilkes-Barre, Phanourios the Great Martyr, Herman of Alaska, Peter the Aleut, Mitrophan Yang, Nectarios Kephalas of Aegina & Pentapolis, King David, King Solomon,Gabra Manfas Qeddus, Takla Haymanot, Yared of Ethiopia, Gregory Palamas, Holy Prophet and God-seer Moses, Elijah/ Elias the Prophet, Holy Righteous Joshua (Jesus) son of Navi (Nun) , Christopher of Lycia, Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, John Chrysostom, Hesychius the Horebite, Anthony the Great of Egypt, Michael the Archangel, Raphael, Gabriel, Uriel, Salathiel, Jehudiel, Jeremiel, Barachiel the Archangel, Pavel Peter Gojdič, André Bessette of Montreal, Josephine Bakhita, Maria Skobtsova the New Martyr of Paris, Paisios Eznepidis of Mount Athos and Porphyrios Bairaktaris of Kafsokalivia PRAY FOR US ALWAYS!

“Go your way; and as you have believed, so let it be done for you.” Most Holy Theotokos and Saints Mary Magdalene, Claudia Procula, Maria Skobtsova the New Martyr of Paris, Pavel Peter Gojdič, Vida Dutton Scudder, Florence Converse, Sergius, Bacchus, Bayard Rustin, Coretta Scott King, Paisios Eznepidis of Mount Athos, Josephine Bakhita, André Bessette of Montreal, Porphyrios Bairaktaris of Kafsokalivia, Holy Righteous Prophet-King David, Jonathan, Raphael Hawaweeny of Brooklyn, Silouan Antonov the Athonite, Sophrony Sakharov of Essex, Florence Li Tim-Oi, Grigol Peradze, Maxim Sandovich of Gorlice, and Seraphim Moshnin of Sarov pray for us always!

Saint Porphyrios Bairaktaris of Kafsokalivia Quote:

“This is the way we should see Christ— He is our friend, our brother. He is whatever is good and beautiful. He is everything. Yet, He is still a friend and He shouts it out, “You’re my friends, don’t you understand that? We’re brothers. I’m not threatening you. I don’t hold hell in my hands. I love you. I want you to enjoy life together with me.” Christ is Everything. He is joy, He is life, He is light. He is the true light who makes man joyful, makes him soar with happiness; makes him see everything, everybody; makes him feel for everyone, to want everyone with him, everyone with Christ.“ -Saints Porphyrios Bairaktaris of Kafsokalivia, Paisios of Mount Athos, Maria Skobtsova the New Martyr of Paris, Seraphim Moshnin of Sarov, John Maximovitch of Shanghai and San Francisco, John Jacob the Romanian Chozebite of Hazeva, Ephrem the Syrian, Nektarios Kefalas of Aegina and Pentapolis, Grigol Peradze, Mitrophan Yang of Beijing, Grand Duchess Elizabeth Fyodorovna the New Martyr,Moses the Black, Tikhon Bellavin of Moscow, and Nino of Georgia pray for us always! LORD YESHUA THE MESSIAH, SON OF ALLAH / ELOHIM, HAVE MERCY ON US AND ON THE WHOLE UNIVERSE! LORD JESUS CHRIST, SON OF GOD, HAVE MERCY ON US AND ON THE WHOLE UNIVERSE!

Prayer of Saint Paisios Eznepidis of Mount Athos: “Our Lord Jesus Yeshua the Messiah Christ: Do not abandon your servants who live far away from the Church. May your love convict them and bring them back to you.Lord have mercy on your servants who are suffering from cancer. On your servants who suffer either from small or serious ailments. On your servants who suffer from physical infirmities. On your servants who suffer from spiritual infirmities. Lord have mercy on our leaders and inspire them to govern with Christian love. Lord have mercy on children who come from troubled homes. On troubled families and those who have been divorced. Lord have mercy on all the orphans of the world, on all those who are suffering pain and injustices since losing their spouses. Lord have mercy on all those in jail, on all anarchists, on all drug abusers, on all murderers, on all abusers of people, and on all thieves. Enlighten these people and help them to straighten out their lives. Lord have mercy on all those who have been forced to emigrate. On all those who travel on the seas, on land, in the air, and protect them. Lord have mercy on our Church, the bishops, the priests and the faithful of the Church. Lord have mercy on all the monastic communities, male and female, the elders and eldresses and all the brotherhoods of Mt. Athos. Lord have mercy on your servants who find themselves in the midst of war. On your servants who are being pursued in the mountains and on the plains. On your servants who are being hunted like birds of prey. Lord have mercy on your servants who were forced to abandon their homes and their jobs and feel afflicted. Lord have mercy on the poor, the homeless and the exiled.Lord have mercy on the nations of the world. Keep them in your embrace and envelope them with your holy protection. Keep them safe from every evil and war. Keep our beloved Greece (we can add here the USA [or Planet Earth]) in your protective embrace day and night. Embrace her with your holy protection defending her from all evil and war. Lord have mercy on those who have been abandoned and have suffered injustice. Have mercy on families that are going through trying times. Pour your abundant love upon them. Lord have mercy on your servants who suffer from spiritual and bodily problems of all kinds.Lord have mercy on those who are despairing. Help them and grant them peace. Lord have mercy on those that have requested that we pray for them. Lord grant eternal rest to all those who have passed on to eternal life throughout the ages.”

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evolutiontopeacefulmystic · 4 years

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ORTHODOX PRAYER AGAINST RACISM: Oh Lord, as You did cast down Pharoah and Antiochus, cast down the racists from their power. Help the people of color and the least of these and grant them Your joy and peace. Exalt the horn of Your elective poor and heal our nation from division.

Troparion to Saint Maria Skobtsova the New Martyr of Paris:

Ethiopian Orthodox Akathist to Saint Mother Walatta Petros:

The Transfiguration Troparion / Kontakion:

Apostle Peter On Yeshua’s Transfiguration in 2 Peter 1:16–18

For we did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Yeshua the Messiah Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For when he received honor and glory from God the Father and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,” we heard this voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain.

Matthew 17.1-9 (Yeshua’s Transfiguration)

And after six days Jesus Yeshua took with him Peter and James and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain apart. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his garments became white as light. And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. And Peter said to Jesus Yeshua, “Lord, it is well that we are here; if you wish, I will make three booths here, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” He was still speaking, when lo, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” When the disciples heard this, they fell on their faces, and were filled with awe. But Jesus Yeshua came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and have no fear.” And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus Yeshua only. And as they were coming down the mountain, Jesus Yeshua commanded them, “Tell no one the vision, until the Son of man is raised from the dead.”

Mark 9:2-8 (Yeshua’s Transfiguration)

Now after six days Jesus Yeshua took Peter, James and John, and led them up on a high mountain apart by themselves; and He was transfigured before them. His clothes became shining, exceedingly white, like snow, such as no launderer on earth can whiten them. And Elijah appeared to them with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus Yeshua. Then Peter answered and said to Jesus Yeshua, “Rabbi, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one Elijah” because he did not know what to say, for they were greatly afraid. And a cloud came and overshadowed them, and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “THIS IS MY BELOVED SON, HEAR HIM!” Suddenly, when they had looked around, they saw no one anymore, but only Jesus Yeshua with themselves.

Luke 9:28-36 (Yeshua’s Transfiguration)

At that time, Jesus Yeshua took with him Peter and John and James, and went up on the mountain to pray. And as he was praying, the appearance of his countenance was altered, and his raiment became dazzling white. And behold, two men talked with him, Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of his departure, which he was to accomplish at Jerusalem. Now Peter and those who were with him were heavy with sleep, and when they wakened they saw his glory and the two men who stood with him. And as the men were parting from him, Peter said to Jesus Yeshua, “Master, it is well that we are here; let us make three booths, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah” - not knowing what he said. As he said this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were afraid as they entered the cloud. And a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is my Son, my Beloved; listen to him!” And when the voice had spoken, Jesus Yeshua was found alone. And they kept silence and told no one in those days anything of what they had seen.

John 1:1-17

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came for testimony, to bear witness to the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness to the light. The true light that enlightens every man was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world knew him not. He came to his own home, and his own people received him not. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God; who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father. (John bore witness to him, and cried, “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me ranks before me, for he was before me.’”) And from his fulness have we all received, grace upon grace. For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.

Song of Songs/ Song of Solomon 5:10-16

Yeshua Calms A Storm in Gospel of Mark 4.35-41:

On that day, when evening had come, He said to them, “Let us go across to the other side.” And leaving the crowd, they took Him with them in the boat, just as He was. And other boats were with Him. And a great storm of wind arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. But He was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and they woke Him and said to Him, “Teacher, do you not care if we perish?” And He awoke and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. He said to them, “Why are you afraid? Have you no faith?” And they were filled with awe, and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even wind and sea obey Him?” Lord Yeshua the Messiah, True God, have mercy on us! प्रभु यीशु मसीह, परमेश्वर के सन्तान, हम पर दया कर! We learn from St. Mark that, in the words of the St. Athanasius the Great, “The Lord Who rebuked (the storm) was not a creature, but rather its Creator.” St. Basil the Great further teaches us that “by these encounters we are meeting the Father of the Son, the Father Who creates through the Son.

The Beatitudes:

Prophesy of Daniel 3:16-18, 3:23-24

Saint Porphyrios Bairaktaris of Kafsokalivia Quote:

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orthodoxydaily · 4 years

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Icon, Saint&Reading: Wed., Oct. 7, 2020

Commemorated on September 24_according to the Julian calendar

The Holy First-Martyress and Equal-to-the-Apostles Thekla of Iconium (1st.c.)

The Holy First-Martyress and Equal-to-the-Apostles Thekla was born in the city of Iconium. She was the daughter of rich and illustrious parents, and moreover she was distinguished by extraordinary beauty. At 18 years of age they betrothed her to an eminent youth. But having heard the preaching of the holy Apostle Paul about the Saviour, Saint Thekla with all her heart came to love the Lord Jesus Christ, and she steadfastly resolved not to enter into marriage, but rather to devote all her life to preaching the Gospel. The mother of Saint Thekla was opposed to her daughter's plans and demanded that she enter into marriage with the bridegroom betrothed to her. Saint Thekla's fiancee likewise made a complaint to the governor of the city against the Apostle Paul, accusing him of turning his bride against him. The governor locked up Saint Paul in prison. During the night Saint Thekla secretly ran away from her house, and she bribed the prison guards, giving them all her gold ornaments, and so made her way into the prison to the prisoner. For three days she sat at the feet of the Apostle Paul, hearkening to his fatherly precepts. The disappearance of Thekla was discovered, and servants were sent out everywhere in search of her. Finally they found her in the prison and brought her home by force.

At his trial the Apostle Paul was sentenced to banishment from the city. And with Saint Thekla they again began urging her to consent to the marriage, but she would not change her mind. Neither the tears of her mother, nor her wrath, nor the threats of the governor were able to separate Saint Thekla from her love for the Heavenly Bridegroom, the Lord Jesus Christ. Her mother in a insane rage demanded from the judges a death sentence against her unyielding daughter, and Saint Thekla was sentenced to burning. Without flinching, the holy martyress went into the bon-fire and made the sign of the cross over herself. At this moment the Saviour appeared to her, blessing her present deed, and inexpressible joy filled her holy soul. The flames of the bon-fire shot up high, but the martyress was surrounded by an halo and the flames did not touch her. Thunder boomed, and a strong downpour of rain with hail extinguished the bon-fire. The torturers scattered in fear. Saint Thekla, kept safe by the Lord, quit the city and with the help of a certain Christian youth searched out the Apostle Paul. The holy apostle and his companions, among which was also the Disciple Barnabas, were hidden away in a cave not far from the city, praying fervently, that the Lord would give strength to Saint Thekla in her sufferings. After this, Saint Thekla went together with them preaching the Gospel in Antioch. In this city she was pursued by a certain dignitary named Alexander, who was captivated by her beauty. Saint Thekla refused his offer to enter into marriage, and so for being a Christian she was condemned to death. Twice they set loose upon her hungry wild animals, but they would not touch the holy virgin, but instead lay down meekly and licking at her feet. The Providence of God preserved the holy martyress unharmed through all her torments. Finally, they tied her to two oxen and began to chase after her with red-hot rods, but the strong cords broke asunder like cob-webs, and the oxen ran off, leaving Saint Thekla unharmed. And the people began shouting: "Great is the God of the Christians!" The governor himself became terrified, reasoning it out finally, that the holy martyress was being kept safe by the Almighty God, Whom she served. He then gave orders to set free the servant of God Thekla. With the blessing of the Apostle Paul, Saint Thekla then settled in the desolate surroundings of Isaurian Seleucia and dwelt there for many years, constantly preaching the Word of God and healing the sick through her prayer. Saint Thekla converted many pagans to Christ, and the Church names her worthily as "Equal-to-the-Apostles" ("Ravnoapostol'na"). Even a pagan priest, seeking to assault her purity and punished for his impudence, was brought by her to holy Baptism. More than once the enemy of the race of man tried to destroy Saint Thekla through people blinded by sin, but the power of God always preserved this faithful servant of Christ. When Saint Thekla was already a 90 year old woman, pagan sorcerers became incensed at her for treating the sick for free. They were unable to comprehend that the saint was healing the sick by the power of the grace of Christ, and they presumed that the virgin-goddess Artemis (Diana) was her especial patroness. Out of envy against Saint Thekla, they sent their followers to defile her. When they had already approached quite close to her, Saint Thekla cried out for help to Christ the Savior, and the hill split open and hid the holy virgin, the bride of Christ. And thus did Saint Thekla offer up her holy soul to the Lord. Holy Church glorifies the "First-Suffering" Thekla as "of women the glory and guide for suffering, opening up the way through every torment". From of old many a temple was dedicated to her, one of which was built at Tsargrad (Constantinople) by the holy Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine (Comm. 21 May). And then too, the name of the First-Martyress Equal-to-the-Apostles Thekla, a prayer intercessor for the ascetic, is remembered during the tonsure of women into monasticism.

ICON: “Mirozh" of the Mother of God

The Mirozh Icon appeared at the Mirozh monastery in the year 1198. But later, during the reign of Ivan the Terrible, at a time when a plague raged at Pskov, an ancient report tells how tears flowed from both eyes of the icon. Many benefits and healings for man occured from the icon of the Mother of God." The Mirozh Icon is an "Orans" ("Praying") type. On either side of the Most Holy Theotokos stand the Pskov Saints: on the right, the holy Prince Dovmont-Timothy (May 20); on the left, his wife, the holy nun Martha, in the world named Maria Dimitrievna (November 8, 1300). Tsar Ivan Vasilievich took away the wonderworking icon from Pskov, but at the monastery an exact copy remained: the so-called "Great Panagia" from the Savior-Mirozh monastery. On September 24, 1567, on the Feast of St Abraham at the Mirozh monastery there occurred a miraculous sign from an ancient icon of the Most Holy Theotokos. The celebration of the Mirozh Icon of the Sign was established in that same year, with the blessing of Archbishop Pimen of Novgorod and Pskov. A special service to this icon was composed, and was published in the 1666 MENAION.

uke 4:1-15

1Then Jesus, being filled with the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, 2 being tempted for forty days by the devil. And in those days He ate nothing, and afterward, when they had ended, He was hungry. 3 And the devil said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, command this stone to become bread." 4 But Jesus answered him, saying, "It is written, 'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.' " 5 Then the devil, taking Him up on a high mountain, showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of time. 6 And the devil said to Him, "All this authority I will give You, and their glory; forthis has been delivered to me, and I give it to whomever I wish. 7 Therefore, if You will worship before me, all will be Yours. 8 And Jesus answered and said to him, "Get behind Me, Satan! For it is written, 'You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.' " 9 Then he brought Him to Jerusalem, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down from here. 10 For it is written:'He shall give His angels charge over you, To keep you,' 11 and, 'In their hands they shall bear you up, Lest you dash your foot against a stone.' " 12 And Jesus answered and said to him, "It has been said, 'You shall not tempt the LORD your God.' " 13 Now when the devil had ended every temptation, he departed from Him until an opportune time. 14 Then Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit to Galilee, and news of Him went out through all the surrounding region. 15 And He taught in their synagogues, being glorified by all.

#ortohodxy #orthodoxchristianity #spirituality #holyscriptures #gospel #sacredtexts #icon #sacredart

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orthodoxydaily · 5 years

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Saints&Reading: Fri., July 19,2019

Venerable Macrina the Younger

Saint Macrina was the sister of the holy hierarchs Basil the Great and Gregory of Nyssa, and was born in Cappadocia at the beginning of the fourth century. Her mother, Emilia, saw an angel in a dream, naming her unborn child Thekla, in honor of the holy Protomartyr Thekla. Saint Emilia (January 1) fulfilled the will of God and named her daughter Thekla. Another daughter was named Macrina, in honor of a grandmother, who suffered during the time of persecution under the emperor Maximian Galerius. Besides Macrina, there were nine other children. Saint Emila herself guided the upbringing and education of her elder daughter. She taught her reading and writing in the Scriptural books and Psalms of David, selecting examples from the sacred books which spoke of a pious and God-pleasing life. Saint Emilia taught her daughter to pray and to attend church services. Macrina was also taught the proper knowledge of domestic governance and various handicrafts. She was never left idle and did not participate in childish games or amusements...continue reading

Relics of Venerable Seraphim of Sarov

Uncovering of the Relics of Saint Seraphim, Wonderworker of Sarov: The glorification of Saint Seraphim of Sarov (January 2), took place in 1903, seventy years after his repose. On July 3, 1903 Metropolitan Anthony of Saint Petersburg, assisted by Bishop Nazarius of Nizhni-Novgorod and Bishop Innocent of Tambov, transferred the saint’s relics from their original burial place to the church of Saints Zosimus and Sabbatius. Tsar Nicholas II and Tsarina Alexandra provided a new cypress coffin to receive the relics. This cypress coffin was then placed inside an oak coffin and remained in the church until the day of the saint’s glorification.

At noon on July 16, the first day of the festivities, Metropolitan Anthony offered a Memorial Service for the ever-memorable Hieromonk Seraphim in the Dormition Cathedral. Services also took place in the monastery’s other churches...continue reading

Rom 16:1-16 NKJV

Sister Phoebe Commended

16 I commend to you Phoebe our sister, who is a servant of the church in Cenchrea, 2 that you may receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and assist her in whatever business she has need of you; for indeed she has been a helper of many and of myself also.

Greeting Roman Saints

3 Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, 4 who risked their own necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. 5 Likewise greet the church that is in their house.

Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of [a]Achaia to Christ. 6 Greet Mary, who labored much for us. 7 Greet Andronicus and Junia, my countrymen and my fellow prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.

8 Greet Amplias, my beloved in the Lord. 9 Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and Stachys, my beloved. 10 Greet Apelles, approved in Christ. Greet those who are of the household of Aristobulus. 11 Greet Herodion, my [b]countryman. Greet those who are of the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord.

12 Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, who have labored in the Lord. Greet the beloved Persis, who labored much in the Lord. 13 Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine. 14 Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren who are with them. 15 Greet Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them.

16 Greet one another with a holy kiss. [c]The churches of Christ greet you.

Matt 13:3-9 NKJV3

Then He spoke many things to them in parables, saying: “Behold, a sower went out to sow.4 And as he sowed, some seed fell by the wayside; and the birds came and devoured them.5 Some fell on stony places, where they did not have much earth; and they immediately sprang up because they had no depth of earth. 6 But when the sun was up they were scorched, and because they had no root they withered away. 7 And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprang up and choked them. 8 But others fell on good ground and yielded a crop: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. 9 He who has ears to hear, let him hear!

#orthodoxy #spirituality #mystical #ancientchristianity #christian #faith #gospel

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orthodoxydaily · 3 years

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Saints&Reading: Thu., Oct. 7, 2021

September 24_October 7

THE HOLY FIRST-MARTYRESS AND EQUAL-TO-THE-APOSTLES THEKLA (1sr. c.)

LUKE 4:22-30

EPHESIANS 1:7-17

7 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace 8 which He made to abound toward us in all wisdom and prudence, 9 having made known to us the mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He purposed in Himself, 10 that in the dispensation of the fullness of the times He might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven and which are on earth-in Him. 11 In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will, 12 that we who first trusted in Christ should be to the praise of His glory. 13 In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, 14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory. 15 Therefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints, 16 do not cease to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers: 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him,

#orthodoxy #orthodoxchristianity #originofchristianity #spirituality #holyscriptures #gospel #wisdom

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westernriteorthodoxrosary · 4 years

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Prayer of Saint Ephrem the Syrian: O Lord and Master of my life, take from me the spirit of sloth, despair, lust of power, and idle talk. But give rather the spirit of chastity, humility, patience, and love to Thy servant. Yea, O Lord and King, grant me to see my own transgressions, and not to judge my brother, for blessed art Thou, unto ages of ages. Amen.

Troparion to Saint Maria Skobtsova the New Martyr of Paris:

Ethiopian Orthodox Akathist to Saint Mother Walatta Petros:

The Transfiguration Troparion / Kontakion:

Song of Songs/ Song of Solomon 5:10-16

The Beatitudes:

Saint Porphyrios Bairaktaris of Kafsokalivia Quote:

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