Viktor Nikitin
The Lives of the Saints of the Orthodox Church: Volume 9, September

Lives of the Saints Celebrated on September 1

Righteous Joshua, the son of Nun (ca. 16th c. BC):

Righteous Joshua, the son of Nun, stands as one of the most formidable leaders of ancient Israel—a man who inherited the mantle of Moses and guided the people into the long-promised land with a combination of steady obedience, fearless courage, and unwavering reliance on God. As Moses’ longtime aide and disciple, Joshua learned to approach every situation not with self-confidence but with faith, having witnessed first-hand the miracles of the Exodus, the revelation on Sinai, and the chastening of the people in the wilderness. When the time came for Israel to cross the Jordan, God appointed Joshua as shepherd and commander of His people, calling him to lead them not by force but by fidelity to the divine Law. Under Joshua’s direction, the walls of Jericho fell, pagan strongholds collapsed, and the tribes received their inheritance, not through military prowess but by the manifest intervention of the Lord, Who fought for Israel as long as they remained faithful. Joshua’s leadership was deeply spiritual—he renewed the covenant at Shechem, called the people to choose between the living God and the idols of the nations, and himself bore witness with the words that echo through the centuries: “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” He reposed full of days, leaving behind a legacy not of conquest alone but of steadfast, God-centered leadership and lifelong faithfulness to the promises revealed to Moses.

Martyrs Callista and her brothers Evodos and Hermogenes at Nicomedia (309):

Callista and her brothers Evodos and Hermogenes were Christians living in Nicomedia during the brutal persecutions of Diocletian, a time when professing Christ openly meant embracing the likelihood of torture or death. Their household was one of vibrant Christian faith, and the three siblings mutually strengthened one another, turning their family bond into a fortress of spiritual courage. When commanded to renounce Christ, they refused, unmoved by either persuasion or threat. The authorities subjected them to harsh torments—scourgings, racks, and burning instruments meant to intimidate or break them—but they endured everything with serene steadfastness, praying not for deliverance but for perseverance. Their unity under suffering was itself a testimony: where one faltered, another encouraged, and where one wavered, another prayed. Finally, still unyielding, they were cast into a cauldron of boiling oil, where they offered their spirits to God. Their memory remains a shining example of familial faith and the strength that arises when love for Christ binds siblings closer than blood alone can bind.

Holy 40 ascetic virgin-martyrs and their teacher the Hieromartyr Ammon the Deacon at Heraclea in Thrace (321–323):

These forty virgin-martyrs were devoted disciples of Ammon the Deacon, a spiritual father who taught them Scripture, prayer, and the life of purity during a time when Christianity was still persecuted intermittently under Licinius. They lived in a small community near Heraclea, dedicated to fasting, watchfulness, and charity, transforming their surroundings into a small monastic haven long before monasticism was fully established. When the decree came demanding sacrifice to idols, they refused. Soldiers dragged them before the governor, where they were threatened and humiliated for their commitment to chastity and their devotion to Christ. Ammon, their beloved teacher, stood with them, strengthening them with words of the Gospel and willingly accepting death before their eyes. The virgins endured torment with supernatural composure—burning irons, scourging, and confinement—yet their resolve only grew stronger. Finally they were executed together, sealing their lives of purity with a shared martyrdom. Their witness stands as a radiant sign of spiritual sisterhood, pastoral love, and the power of unity in faith.

Martyr Aeithalas the Deacon of Persia (380):

Aeithalas served as a deacon in the Persian Church during the reign of Shapur II, when Christians faced fierce persecution for refusing to honor the sun and fire gods of Zoroastrianism. Known for his humility, gentle speech, and steadfast service to the poor, Aeithalas became a beloved figure among believers. His diaconal ministry was not merely liturgical; he was a tireless servant who brought food to prisoners, comfort to widows, and the Gospel to those tempted to despair. Accused of converting others to Christianity, he was brought before the Persian authorities and ordered to worship the sun. Aeithalas quietly refused, declaring that he adored only the Creator Who made the sun and all things. He endured repeated beatings, imprisonment, and the threat of execution, all the while praying for his persecutors and strengthening his fellow prisoners. At last, he was beheaded for his confession of Christ. His martyrdom reveals the profound dignity of the diaconal calling—a life poured out in service, sealed by the supreme witness of blood.

Venerable Martha, the mother of St. Simeon Stylites (428):

Venerable Martha was a woman of uncommon faith, humility, and spiritual discernment, remembered chiefly as the mother of St. Simeon Stylites the Elder, the great ascetic who lived atop a pillar for decades. Yet her own life was one of quiet sanctity. Martha raised Simeon in the fear and love of God, planting in him the seeds of ascetic zeal through her example of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Widowed early, she embraced a life of simplicity, dedicating herself to the upbringing of her son and to works of mercy among the poor. She endured with patience the sorrow of separation when Simeon left home to pursue the monastic life, but she never ceased praying for him, supporting him spiritually even when unable to see him face to face. Her faith was rewarded by visions and consolations from God, and her repose was marked by peace and holiness. Her life reminds the Church that behind many great saints stands a parent whose hidden sacrifices play an essential role in their sanctity.

Saint Symeon the Stylite the Elder (459):

Saint Symeon the Stylite revolutionized Christian asceticism with a form of spiritual labor previously unseen: the stylite life, spent atop a pillar as a visible witness to total detachment from earthly distractions and complete dedication to God. Born into humble circumstances in Syria, he sought monastic life as a youth and soon surpassed his peers in fasting, vigils, and strict asceticism. Eventually, desiring even greater solitude, he climbed a stone pillar and made it his dwelling for over thirty years. From that lofty place, Symeon became a beacon of spiritual counsel. Crowds flocked from all corners of the empire to seek his prayers, guidance, and healing. Even emperors wrote to him, and many pagans turned to Christ through his witness. His endurance in harsh weather, his unbroken prayer, and his fearless preaching revealed a soul fully surrendered to God. When he finally reposed atop his pillar, the Church understood his life to be a radical testimony to the power of prayer and the limitless possibilities of holiness when one seeks God without reservation.

Venerable Evanthia:

Venerable Evanthia is remembered as a woman of deep spiritual insight and purity of heart, known primarily for her dedication to the monastic life and her unwavering pursuit of inner stillness. Her early years were marked by a desire to withdraw from worldly vanities and to devote herself wholly to God. Entering monastic life, she became an example of obedience, quiet labor, and ceaseless prayer. Though little survives of her life in written form, the memory preserved by the Church highlights her compassion for the suffering and her ability to offer consoling words to those in distress. She possessed spiritual discernment that allowed her to guide younger sisters in the struggle against temptations and to instill in them a love for humility. Her repose was peaceful, and many remembered her as a model of serene, steadfast devotion, a reminder that not only dramatic deeds but also a lifetime of quiet faithfulness can shine brightly before God.

Saint Symeon of Lesbos (ca. 845):

Saint Symeon of Lesbos was a monk and spiritual father whose holiness became renowned throughout the island and beyond. Born into a pious family, he entered monastic life at a young age and distinguished himself by strict asceticism, profound prayer, and gentleness of heart. Over time, he became known for the grace of spiritual counseling, offering clarity and healing to those tormented by despair, confusion, or sorrow. His reputation grew through accounts of miracles and prophetic insight. Symeon’s humility was so deep, however, that he often fled from public praise, retreating into greater silence and prayer. His cell became a place where people from all walks of life found consolation, and after his repose, many miracles occurred at his tomb. He remains a witness to the power of inner purity and the healing that flows from a heart attuned to the Holy Spirit.

Hieromartyr Priscus of Capua (ca. 66):

Hieromartyr Priscus was the first Bishop of Capua, sent by the Apostle Peter himself to shepherd the Christian community in that region during the first generation of the Church. He carried the faith fearlessly into a pagan world, preaching Christ openly despite the dangers posed by the Roman authorities under Nero. Priscus demonstrated pastoral zeal, baptizing converts, celebrating the mysteries, and strengthening believers facing the threat of denunciation or execution. His refusal to worship the gods of Rome eventually led to his arrest. He endured interrogations, beatings, and public humiliation, remaining steadfast in his confession of the risen Christ. Finally, he was beheaded for his witness. His life and death attest to the courage of the earliest bishops, who guided the infant Church not with worldly power but with the authority of those ready to die for the truth they proclaimed.

Hieromartyr Terentian, Bishop of Todi in Umbria (118):

Terentian became Bishop of Todi at a time when Christians were still regarded with suspicion and hostility by Roman society. Under Emperor Hadrian, he was accused of converting noble families and refusing to acknowledge the imperial cult. Arrested and interrogated, he persuasively defended the Christian faith, declaring Christ the only true Lord. His steadfastness enraged his persecutors, who subjected him to tortures meant to break his spirit. Legend recounts that his tongue was cut out so that he could no longer preach the Gospel—yet even then he continued to proclaim Christ through his endurance and serenity. At last, he was executed, sealing his episcopal ministry with the blood of martyrdom. His relics became a source of healing, and his memory a symbol of fearless evangelization.

Virgin-Martyr Vibiana (3rd c.):

Vibiana lived during a time of sporadic but severe persecutions in Rome. A young woman consecrated to Christ, she dedicated herself to chastity, prayer, and helping the poor. Her faith was discovered by officials who sought to force her either into apostasy or into marriage with a pagan nobleman. Vibiana refused both, declaring Christ to be her Bridegroom and the only King she would serve. She was arrested and subjected to harsh tortures, including scourging and starvation, yet she remained joyful, singing psalms in prison. Eventually she died of her wounds, and her relics were venerated by the faithful. Centuries later, they were rediscovered and brought to the United States, where she became the patron saint of Los Angeles—a remarkable journey for a humble Roman martyr whose quiet valor continues to inspire the faithful.

Saint Sixtus of Reims (ca. 300):

Saint Sixtus was the first Bishop of Reims, establishing the Christian faith in the region at a time when most inhabitants still practiced various forms of pagan religion. Known for his gentle character and strong pastoral sense, he converted many through his patient teaching and charitable works. His episcopate coincided with the final major Roman persecutions, and he faced constant threats from authorities who viewed Christianity as a subversive movement. Despite this, Sixtus continued preaching, baptizing, and tending to the poor. He reposed in peace, leaving behind a well-rooted Christian community and a legacy of pastoral compassion that shaped the faith of northeastern Gaul.

Hieromartyr Firminus of Amiens (ca. 303):

Firminus, the third Bishop of Amiens, shepherded his flock during a time of intense persecution under Diocletian. His zeal for evangelization had already drawn many pagans to Christ, raising the ire of civic officials who feared the decline of traditional cults. Arrested for refusing to offer incense to the gods, Firminus boldly proclaimed the Gospel before the tribunal. He was sentenced to torture, enduring chains, racks, and beatings with remarkable composure. Ultimately, he was beheaded, and the Christians of Amiens enshrined his relics with deep reverence. His witness strengthened the faith of the region, and his name remains honored among the heroic bishop-martyrs of Gaul.

The 12 Holy Brothers, Martyrs (ca. 303):

Donatus, Felix, Arontius, Honoratus, Fortunatus, Sabinian, Septimius, Januarius, a second Felix, Vitalis, Sator, and Repositus

These twelve martyrs suffered during the Diocletian persecutions in southern Italy. They were Christians belonging to different towns and communities, arrested separately but united in their steadfast refusal to perform sacrifices to the Roman gods. Their shared faith and courage forged among them a spiritual brotherhood stronger than familial bonds. They endured interrogation, imprisonment, and tortures of various kinds—scourging, stretching, burning—yet none faltered. Eventually, they were executed, some by the sword and others by fire. Centuries later their relics were gathered together and enshrined at Benevento, where they became a symbol of unity in martyrdom and a source of miracles for the faithful.

Saint Verena of Zurzach (ca. 350):

Verena was an Egyptian Christian who traveled to Switzerland, following the Theban Legion and seeking a life of prayer and service. Settling near Zurzach, she embraced a semi-eremitic life marked by fasting, almsgiving, and the care of the sick. Women and children especially found in her a protector and teacher. Verena’s sanctity attracted many to the Christian faith, not through preaching alone but through her purity of heart and compassion. She taught hygiene, modesty, industry, and virtue—qualities sorely needed in the communities she served. After her repose, her tomb became a site of healing, and to this day she is honored as one of the beloved saints of Switzerland.

Saint Victorius (Victurius), Bishop of Le Mans (ca. 490):

Victorius was a disciple of St. Martin of Tours, inheriting from him a spirit of pastoral zeal and deep humility. As Bishop of Le Mans, he worked tirelessly to eliminate lingering pagan practices, converting rural populations with gentleness rather than force. He founded churches, encouraged monastic life, and established charitable institutions for the poor and sick. His episcopal ministry was marked by simplicity, personal austerity, and an abiding spirit of prayer. After his peaceful repose, miracles at his tomb confirmed the deep veneration in which he was held.

Saint Constantius of Aquino (ca. 520):

Constantius served as Bishop of Aquino in central Italy during a time marked by political upheaval and ongoing conflicts between Ostrogoths and Byzantines. Despite the instability around him, he remained a steady shepherd who guided his flock through preaching, charity, and prayer. He confronted pagan remnants and heretical movements, defending orthodox teaching with clarity and patience. His life exemplified episcopal integrity, and after his repose he became known for miraculous intercessions, particularly in times of sickness and danger.

Saint Regulus (San Regolo) (545):

Regulus was a North African bishop forced into exile by the Arian Vandals. Carrying relics of saints with him, he traveled across the Mediterranean until he reached Tuscany, where he continued preaching Christ with apostolic zeal. There he attracted disciples and founded Christian communities. During the Gothic conflicts, he was seized by forces loyal to Totila and executed for his refusal to deny the orthodox faith. His relics became objects of deep veneration throughout Tuscany, and he remains honored as a missionary bishop and confessor of true doctrine.

Saint Lupus of Sens (623):

Lupus began as a monk of Lérins, where he embraced a life of silence, fasting, and manual labor. His humility and spiritual discernment were widely recognized, leading to his election as Bishop of Sens. As bishop, he encouraged monastic foundations, promoted liturgical life, and defended the poor from exploitation. His episcopate was peaceful, marked not by dramatic miracles but by quiet, consistent holiness. After his repose, Sens revered him as a model of pastoral wisdom.

Saint Nivard of Rheims (673):

Nivard served as Archbishop of Rheims and was known for strengthening both the moral and liturgical life of the diocese. He supported monasticism, rebuilt churches, and guided the clergy toward greater spiritual discipline. His humility was notable: although occupying a position of great prestige, he lived simply and treated all with kindness. His memory remains tied to the flourishing of Christianity in northern France during the early Middle Ages.

Saint Giles (Aegidius), founder along the Rhone (ca. 712):

Saint Giles was a hermit renowned for his humility, charity, and love of solitude. Fleeing worldly acclaim, he settled along the Rhone, where he lived in a cave sustained by prayer and the milk of a hind. His sanctity became known despite his efforts to remain hidden, and eventually a monastery was built around his hermitage. He became one of the most beloved saints of Western Europe, invoked especially for healing and protection.

Saint Lythan (Llythaothaw):

Saint Lythan, an early Welsh saint, is remembered through the churches dedicated in his honor and through the quiet legacy of sanctity attributed to him. Though few details of his life survive, he is honored as a holy man who lived a life of prayer, pastoral care, and service to his community. His memory reflects the early Celtic Christian tradition, in which holiness was often lived quietly, transmitted not through writings but through faithful local devotion.

Saints Giles (Aegidius) and Arcanus (1050):

These two saints founded a monastery that eventually developed into the town of Borgo San Sepolcro. Giles brought with him a relic of the Holy Sepulchre, inspiring the dedication of the site, while Arcanus joined him in establishing a community rooted in prayer, labor, and hospitality. Their monastery became a spiritual center for the region and eventually a place of pilgrimage. Their collaboration exemplifies how shared ascetic effort can shape entire communities.

Saint Meletius the Younger of Thebes (1105):

Saint Meletius was a monk and ascetic of deep humility, known for his prophetic insight and his ability to reconcile feuding families and communities. He lived in strict fasting, wore simple garments, and spent long hours in prayer. His miraculous gifts drew many to seek his blessing, though he constantly fled praise. After his repose, his relics became a source of healing, and his legacy endured in the monasteries he inspired throughout Greece.

Venerable Nicholas of Courtaliatis (1670):

Nicholas was a monk of Crete whose life was marked by simplicity, obedience, and deep inner prayer. Living under Ottoman rule, he provided quiet spiritual strength to oppressed Christians. He became known for his compassion and for the miracles that occurred through his prayers, particularly healings of those weighed down by spiritual afflictions. His repose in peace crowned a life of hidden holiness.

New-Martyr Angelis of Constantinople (1680):

Angelis was a pious young man from Constantinople who fell into the hands of authorities after false accusations brought by enemies of the faith. Pressured to convert to Islam, he refused steadfastly, declaring Christ as his God despite promises of wealth and threats of torture. Subjected to harsh beating and imprisonment, Angelis endured everything with courage beyond his years, strengthening his fellow prisoners by his witness. At last he was executed, sealing his confession with his blood and joining the ranks of the New Martyrs under Ottoman rule.

Venerable Anthony of Agyia:

Anthony lived as a monk dedicated to prayer, poverty, and obedience. His cell in Agyia was a source of spiritual counsel for those burdened by sorrow or confusion. He practiced ceaseless prayer and showed great gentleness toward the weak, teaching that humility is the foundation of every virtue. His repose in deep peace reveals the fruit of a life wholly surrendered to God.

Saint Haido of Stanos (1820–1821):

Haido was a young woman from Stanos in Macedonia who lived during turbulent times marked by oppression and war. Her life was characterized by purity, devotion, and steadfast courage. When threatened with forced marriage to a Muslim and with renouncing her Christian faith, she resisted bravely. Refusing to betray Christ, she was subjected to threats, coercion, and violence, yet she held firm. Finally, she suffered martyrdom, giving her life as a witness to the sanctity of Christian freedom and the dignity of conscience.

Virgin-martyrs Tatiana and Natalia (1937):

Tatiana and Natalia were two young Orthodox women martyred during the Soviet persecutions, a time when confession of faith was considered a crime against the state. Both lived quiet but devout lives, attending church secretly, helping the poor, and preserving Christian traditions in a society where doing so invited punishment. Arrested for their association with clergy and for refusing to renounce their faith, they were interrogated harshly and pressured to denounce Christ. They refused with quiet dignity. Eventually they were executed, joining the multitude of New Martyrs of Russia whose steadfastness in the face of ideological cruelty illumined the twentieth century with the light of faith and courage.

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Lives of the Saints Celebrated on September 2

Martyr Mamas of Caesarea in Cappadocia, with his parents Martyrs Theodotus and Rufina:

Martyr Mamas stands among the most beloved early Christian witnesses, known both for his innocence and his unwavering courage. His parents, Theodotus and Rufina, were devout Christians imprisoned for their faith under Roman persecution. Mamas was born in prison, baptized in chains, and orphaned almost immediately when his parents accepted martyrdom with quiet courage. Raised by a Christian widow, he grew into a young man whose purity, gentleness, and unshakeable loyalty to Christ gave him a spiritual authority far beyond his years. When the persecution in Caesarea intensified, Mamas was arrested and ordered to renounce Christ and sacrifice to idols. Though barely more than a youth, he stood before governors and executioners with a fearless serenity that astonished all who heard him. He endured severe tortures—scourgings, burning irons, and brutal confinement—but he refused to waver, choosing truth over life itself. Tradition also remembers his bond with wild animals, which approached him with a harmonious gentleness that mirrored his own purity. In the end, after surviving torments that should have killed him, he was pierced with a trident and gave his soul peacefully to God. His parents’ steadfast faith lived on in him, and together they remain symbols of courage passed from one generation to the next, proving that holiness can shine even in the darkest trials.

Saint John the Faster, Patriarch of Constantinople:

Saint John the Faster was one of the most ascetical and spiritually discerning leaders ever to sit on the patriarchal throne of Constantinople. Renowned from his youth for strict fasting, deep prayer, and humility, he became a priest known for extraordinary compassion toward sinners and a rare gift of spiritual healing. Upon becoming Patriarch, he sought not power but purity—purity of the clergy, purity of worship, and purity of life in the great capital of the empire. His pastoral work was marked by an unusual combination of gentleness and firmness. He corrected sin without humiliating the sinner, insisted on repentance without crushing the weak, and called the entire city to a deeper life of prayer and restraint. His spiritual discernment was so refined that he could recognize the hidden wounds of the human soul and prescribe repentance like a physician prescribes medicine. He was the first to use the title “Ecumenical Patriarch,” not as a boast but as a description of his responsibility for the spiritual care of Christians both near and far. Though his life was strict, he was not harsh; though he fasted with severity, he embraced his flock with fatherly tenderness. At his repose, Constantinople mourned a shepherd who had carried their burdens with prayer and taught them that holiness begins not in grand gestures but in daily acts of discipline and mercy.

3628 Martyrs of Nicomedia:

The 3628 martyrs of Nicomedia suffered during one of the most ferocious persecutions of the early Church, under Emperor Diocletian. The city had a flourishing Christian community, organized, devout, and unashamed of its identity. When Diocletian launched his assault against the Christian faith, the believers in Nicomedia refused to abandon Christ, even as imperial soldiers surrounded their gatherings, burned their churches, and hunted them through the streets. The persecution reached a horrifying climax when thousands of Christians assembled for worship were trapped inside their church and burned alive. Those who escaped the flames were captured and executed in waves—stabbed, drowned, tortured, or thrown to wild beasts. Their response was not panic or despair but remarkable spiritual unity. Families encouraged one another to stand firm; clergy exhorted their flocks as they were led to execution; young and old alike accepted suffering with the quiet dignity of those who know their loyalty belongs to a higher King. Their collective martyrdom became a monument of steadfastness, showing that no earthly power can extinguish a community built on faith, prayer, and the hope of eternal life. Their memory stands as both a tragedy and a triumph: a tragedy for the cruelty they endured, and a triumph for the courage of thousands who died singing the praise of God.

Venerable Anthony and Theodosius, Founders of Monasticism in Rus’ of the Kiev Caves:

Saints Anthony and Theodosius of the Kiev Caves are the fathers of monasticism in the lands of Rus’, shaping the spiritual identity of a nation. Saint Anthony, trained on Mount Athos, brought to Kiev the Athonite spirit of silent prayer, hesychia, and humble struggle. He established a small cave for solitary asceticism, but God soon drew others to him, forming the beginnings of the Kiev-Pechersk Lavra. His presence radiated a spiritual authority rooted not in command but in example—the authority of a man who had given every breath to God. Saint Theodosius, joining Anthony as a young monk, added a complementary gift: the spiritual fatherhood needed for communal monastic life. Where Anthony embodied solitude, Theodosius embodied brotherhood. He organized the monastery according to the Studite rule, taught gentleness in speech, obedience in action, and charity toward the poor. Under his leadership, the Lavra became the heart of spiritual life for Rus’, forming monks whose lives shaped bishops, writers, missionaries, and saints for centuries. Together, Anthony and Theodosius laid foundations deeper than stone—foundations built from repentance, humility, and ceaseless prayer. Their legacy forged not merely a monastery but an entire culture rooted in the pursuit of holiness.

Martyrs Diomedes, Julian, Philip, Eutykhian, Hesychios, Leonides, Eutychios, Philadelphos, Melanippos, Parthagapa, and Theodore:

These eleven martyrs stood firm during the fierce persecution unleashed under various Roman emperors when confessing Christ meant immediate danger. They came from different backgrounds—soldiers, craftsmen, ordinary townsmen—but shared a single conviction: loyalty to Christ outweighed loyalty to the empire when the two collided. Arrested and interrogated, they were ordered to renounce Christ and participate in pagan rites. Their refusal was calm, united, and unbreakable. One by one they endured tortures designed to terrify them into submission: scourging, burning, dismemberment, and starvation. Yet their courage fed one another; the steadfastness of one strengthened the others. They comforted each other in prison, prayed together as brothers, and encouraged one another to face suffering with dignity. Their common witness turned what could have been isolated deaths into a single, powerful act of unity in faith. They died not as eleven individuals but as one body, bound together by their love for Christ, proving that the strength of faith is multiplied when borne together.

Righteous Eleazar, son of Aaron:

Righteous Eleazar, the son of the high priest Aaron and nephew of Moses, occupies a central place in the sacred history of Israel. He inherited the high priesthood at a moment of transition, guiding the people through the wilderness as they moved from the shadow of rebellion toward the promise of settlement in the land given by God. Eleazar’s life was marked by obedience—obedience not only to the Law but to the will of God revealed through Moses. He played a crucial role in maintaining the purity of worship, teaching the people discernment, and ensuring that the sacred rites were performed according to God’s commandments. It was Eleazar who, by God’s command, received Aaron’s priestly garments at the moment of his father’s death, continuing the priesthood with solemn dignity. His leadership was steady, unflamboyant, and faithful—rooted in reverence rather than personal ambition. His righteousness helped stabilize the nation during its formative years, and he is remembered as a guardian of the covenant and a man who served God with unbroken fidelity.

Righteous Phineas, grandson of Aaron:

Phineas, the zealous grandson of Aaron, is remembered for his bold, decisive action during a period of grave moral crisis among the Israelites. When the people fell into idolatry and immorality with the pagan nations surrounding them, bringing divine judgment upon the camp, Phineas confronted the sin not with hesitation but with a fierce devotion to the holiness of God. His courage halted a plague that had already claimed thousands, and God rewarded him with a “covenant of peace,” promising that the priesthood would remain in his descendants forever. Yet Phineas is not remembered only for his dramatic act of zeal. He also embodied long-term faithfulness, serving as a priest and judge who guided Israel with integrity and steady leadership. His zeal was not reckless passion but disciplined devotion—a love for God that refused to compromise. His life stands as a reminder that genuine righteousness requires both purity of heart and the strength to defend the truth when it is endangered.

Martyrs Aeithalas and Ammon of Thrace:

Aeithalas and Ammon were soldiers in Thrace who were confronted with the choice between imperial command and divine command. When ordered to participate in pagan rituals, they refused, stating plainly that their allegiance was to Christ alone. Their bold confession enraged their commanders, who subjected them to tortures meant to break both body and will. Yet these two brothers-in-arms stood as brothers in faith. Their torturers alternated cruelty with false promises, but neither man faltered. They prayed aloud during their sufferings, strengthening one another with psalms and reminding each other of the eternal kingdom promised to those who endure. Their martyrdom was a testimony not only of personal courage but of fraternity—a witness to the power of friendship rooted in Christ. Their memory stands among the many soldier-martyrs who proved that true loyalty belongs first to God.

Saints Antonii and Feodosii of Pechersk, founders of the Kiev Caves:

These two great ascetics stand as pillars of early Rus’ monasticism, shaping the spiritual character of generations. Antonii brought the Athonite spirit of solitude and repentance; Feodosii shaped that spirit into communal order, charity, and spiritual fatherhood. Together they formed the Pechersk Lavra as a beacon of prayer, humility, and unceasing ascetic struggle. Their lives, marked by gentleness, courage, and unwavering devotion to God, laid the foundations of holiness for an entire nation.

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Lives of the Saints Celebrated on September 3

Hieromartyr Anthimus, Bishop of Nicomedia, and those with him:

Hieromartyr Anthimus shepherded one of the largest and most embattled Christian communities of the early Empire. Nicomedia stood near the heart of imperial authority, and thus its Christians suffered some of the fiercest waves of persecution. Anthimus guided them not through force or political maneuvering but through a fatherly gentleness that revived hope in the persecuted and inspired repentance among the wayward. His preaching carried a serenity born of deep prayer; his presence became a refuge amid the wreckage of burned churches and scattered families. When the Great Persecution erupted, Anthimus worked tirelessly to comfort the suffering, distribute alms, and hide fugitives. Those who suffered with him—Theophilus the Deacon, Dorotheus, Mardonius, Migdonius, Peter, Indes, Gorgonius, Zeno, the Virgin Domna, and Euthymius—formed a radiant company united by faith rather than rank: clergy, palace servants, ascetics, soldiers, and converts from paganism. Each bore unique gifts. Domna, once a pagan priestess, had embraced the faith with such fervor that she lived in hidden asceticism even inside the imperial palace. Others used their influence to minister to imprisoned believers, rescue children, and shelter orphans. Their martyrdoms came in waves, each arrest a blow to a Church already staggering under oppression. Tortures were devised to break their resolve: scourging, fire, iron claws, and suffocating confinement. Yet each remained immovable, strengthened by the prayers of the others. Many guards were converted simply by witnessing their peace. When Anthimus was taken, it was in secret so the people could not gather around him. He converted the soldier sent to kill him and received beheading with holy dignity. The soldier, too, was martyred shortly thereafter, sealed with the blood of the shepherd he had come to love. Their collective witness became a living flame in Nicomedia, burning away fear and setting countless hearts ablaze with courage.

Venerable Theoctistus, fellow ascetic with Venerable Euthymius the Great:

Venerable Theoctistus was among the first architects of desert monasticism, a man whose quiet humility shaped generations of ascetics. Drawn from youth to solitude and prayer, he journeyed into the Judean wilderness seeking a master of the spiritual life. There he encountered Euthymius the Great, whose insight and holiness became the compass of his soul. Theoctistus learned from him the arduous art of inner watchfulness, the discipline of guarding one’s thoughts, and the consolation of constant prayer. The two lived together in a cave for years, sustaining themselves by manual labor and the sparse vegetation of the desert. Their brotherhood was marked by perfect harmony: Theoctistus’ gentleness complemented Euthymius’ prophetic clarity. Eventually, Theoctistus founded a cenobitic monastery under Euthymius’ guidance. There he nurtured monks with a father’s compassion, emphasizing discernment, humility, and obedience as the cure for the passions. Miracles accompanied his prayers—healings, exorcisms, and prophetic counsel—yet he kept them hidden as much as possible to avoid admiration. At his repose, Euthymius grieved as though he had lost a limb of his own soul. A mysterious stillness settled over the monastery, and the brethren sensed the fragrance of grace. The memory of Theoctistus endured as a model of monastic gentleness: strict with himself, tender toward others, and always pointing his disciples toward the quiet kingdom within the heart.

Saint Phoebe, Deaconess of Cenchreae near Corinth:

Saint Phoebe shines brightly in the early Church as a woman entrusted with sacred responsibilities and apostolic confidence. As deaconess of Cenchreae, she ministered to the poor, the sick, widows, travelers, and catechumens. She acted as a trusted collaborator of the Apostle Paul, who commended her to the entire Church at Rome and urged them to receive her “in the Lord.” This remarkable endorsement reveals her stature and reliability among the earliest Christians.

Phoebe used her home as both a refuge and a mission center, aiding evangelists and offering hospitality to those fleeing persecution. She provided material support to struggling believers and funded the spread of the Gospel throughout the region. Her most historically significant task was carrying Paul’s Epistle to the Romans to its recipients—a journey fraught with danger. Tradition holds that she also interpreted Paul’s teaching and clarified his theological points for the Roman Christians, serving as the apostle’s emissary in both message and spirit. Her life exemplified the seamless integration of prayer, charity, leadership, and service. She became a model of responsible spiritual authority exercised through compassion and fidelity to the apostolic mission. Her legacy endures as a reminder that holiness and service are inseparably intertwined.

Martyr Basilissa of Nicomedia:

Martyr Basilissa was born into nobility yet embraced a radically different path from the wealth and privilege that surrounded her. Drawn to the humility and purity of the Christian faith, she used her resources to alleviate suffering, shelter fugitives, and ransom prisoners during waves of persecution. Her conversion scandalized her peers, who accused her of dishonoring her social station by mixing with the poor and enslaved. Basilissa, unmoved by their scorn, chose Christ over comfort with a joyful determination. Her arrest came after she was discovered harboring Christians and distributing money to imprisoned believers. When confronted by the authorities, she demonstrated both courage and serenity. Threats of torture failed to intimidate her; promises of wealth and favor failed to seduce her. The tortures she endured were prolonged and brutal—scourging, branding, deprivation—but she prayed throughout, comforting fellow prisoners and astonishing guards with her peace. Her execution became a silent liturgy of faith. Believers watched from hidden places, unable to intervene, yet strengthened by her unwavering witness. After her death, numerous miracles occurred at her tomb, especially aiding women in childbirth and healing afflictions of the mind. Basilissa remains a symbol of noble humility—one who gave up earthly honor to receive the unfading crown of martyrdom.

Saint Ioannicius, Patriarch of Serbia, Wonder-worker:

Saint Ioannicius rose from simple monastic beginnings to become a shepherd of his nation’s soul. As a monk, he was known for intense asceticism, sleepless vigils, and profound humility. His fellow monks often found him weeping in prayer, interceding for the world. Even before his elevation, miracles occurred through his petitions: storms ceased, children were healed, and prophetic warnings preserved villages from disaster. As Patriarch of Serbia, Ioannicius guided his flock through political turbulence with remarkable wisdom and gentleness. He championed the translation of spiritual texts into the Slavic tongue, strengthened monasteries, and encouraged the people to cling to the faith amid external pressures. He mediated political disputes with such fairness that even secular leaders sought his counsel. Beneath the grandeur of his office was a heart still shaped by monastic quiet. Sensing his approaching repose, he withdrew into prayer and prepared himself in silence. After his passing, his relics became a fountain of miracles, and the Serbian faithful honored him as a father, protector, and wonder-worker whose sanctity had woven itself into the fabric of their nation’s life.

Blessed John “the Hairy,” Fool-for-Christ of Rostov:

Blessed John embraced the radical vocation of foolishness for Christ, choosing a path that concealed his virtues beneath the appearance of madness. His wild hair, ragged clothing, and unpredictable behavior confused onlookers, yet these were not signs of disorder but tools for spiritual healing. By disarming social expectations, he exposed hidden hypocrisy, confronted sin without provoking defensiveness, and protected himself from praise. He gave away every gift he received, lived among the poorest, and dwelt frequently in abandoned places where the rejected sought shelter. He rebuked the drunkards of taverns with riddles that struck the heart. Children mocked him, and adults dismissed him, but John bore insults with joy, offering them as a sacrifice for their salvation. Many stories reveal his prophetic insight: predicting fires, averting disasters through prayer, and offering mysterious yet healing counsel to the despairing. Only at his repose did the city of Rostov recognize the depth of his holiness, for miracles began at his tomb, and the people realized that the “madman” had been one of God’s hidden pillars sustaining the entire city.

Hieromartyr Bishop Aristion of Alexandria in Syria:

Bishop Aristion served the Church with apostolic fervor during a time of intense suffering. He traveled tirelessly across his diocese, preaching Christ with clarity and compassion, strengthening wavering believers, and restoring those who had fallen. He sold his possessions to feed the starving during famines and became a father to widows and orphans. When he was arrested for refusing to sacrifice to idols, the faithful gathered outside the prison in grief. Aristion endured torture with unwavering calm—scourging, fire, and the rack—using even these moments to preach repentance and forgiveness. In prison he comforted criminals, instructed catechumens, and baptized converts at the risk of further torment. At his execution he lifted his hands in blessing over the crowd and prayed for God to enlighten those who persecuted the Church. After his death, his tomb became a source of miracles, drawing pilgrims from near and far who sought healing of body and soul.

Martyrs Zinon, Chariton, Achrontionus, and Vitalian:

These four martyrs were ordinary believers whose steadfastness in a moment of trial became a luminous testimony. Zinon was admired for his honesty in trade; Chariton for his open-handed charity; Achrontionus for his love of Scripture; and Vitalian for his kindness to strangers. When pressures arose to join pagan rites, the four refused with unanimous resolve. Their unity astonished the authorities, who attempted to break them through humiliation and torture. They endured public beatings, the tearing of flesh, and roasting over fire. Yet even in torment they prayed aloud, quoting psalms and encouraging one another. Their unshakeable brotherhood in suffering inspired even witnesses who feared to show sympathy. After their execution, the place of their martyrdom became sacred to Christians, who felt a divine peace lingering there. Generations later, their names were invoked as examples of the strength found in faithful friendship rooted in Christ.

Martyr Dasa:

Martyr Dasa lived a humble life marked by prayer, work, and charity. His faith was steady and unpretentious, and he was known for helping neighbors without seeking recognition. When ordered to perform pagan sacrifices, he responded with simple clarity: “I cannot deny the One who gave me life.” Enraged, the authorities subjected him to lashings, hunger, and cold confinement. Despite these torments, Dasa prayed continually, asking not for deliverance but for the conversion of his persecutors. Fellow prisoners were moved by his gentleness, and some secretly asked for instruction in the faith. He finally surrendered his soul to God while under torture, his final breath a prayer of thanksgiving. Drops of his blood, gathered by believers, were later used as instruments of healing.

New-Martyr Polydorus of Cyprus:

Polydorus was raised in a devout family and learned early the beauty of prayer, fasting, and charity. As a young man working among non-Christians, he became known for honesty and gentleness. When falsely accused of blaspheming Islam, he was arrested and pressured to renounce Christ. Promises of wealth and power could not sway him; neither could threats of execution. He replied, “My Christ is my life.” His imprisonment was harsh. Confined in darkness, deprived of food, and tormented by guards, he spent his nights repeating the Jesus Prayer, his face radiant despite his suffering. His execution was intended to instill fear, but instead it emboldened the Christians of the region. After his death, miracles occurred at the site of his martyrdom, and his memory became a wellspring of courage for the faithful of Cyprus.

Martyr Edward of England:

King Edward was a young ruler whose short reign was marked by justice, mercy, and a purity of heart rare among kings. He protected monasteries, aided the poor, and resisted corruption at court. His stepmother, fearing the loss of power, conspired to have him murdered. Edward arrived at her house in kindness, seeking peace, when he was treacherously struck down. The betrayal echoed the murder of righteous Abel by his envious brother. Edward’s death was politically motivated, yet spiritually it was a martyrdom, for he was killed for righteousness’ sake. Miracles soon occurred at the site of his death, and his relics brought healing to many. The English people came to venerate him as a saint whose innocence bore witness to the eternal kingdom of God.

Saint Constantine the New, Emperor:

Saint Constantine the New ruled with a heart steeped in Christian humility. Rejecting the lavish excesses of imperial life, he channeled resources into churches, hospitals, and shelters for the poor. He enacted just laws that protected the vulnerable and restrained the wealthy from exploiting the weak. Seeking reconciliation in times of political unrest, he counseled forgiveness and unity rather than vengeance. He approached his reign as a sacred stewardship, beginning each day in prayer and seeking wisdom from monks and ascetics. His personal modesty—rare among emperors—won the love of his subjects. After his peaceful repose, the faithful remembered him as a ruler who had mirrored Christ’s kingship through mercy, humility, and justice.

Martyr Archontinus:

Martyr Archontinus was a man of deep faith and pastoral compassion. A gifted teacher and spiritual guide, he nurtured his community with wisdom and tenderness. When commanded to sacrifice to idols, he refused with quiet firmness, professing Christ as the true God. The authorities, frustrated by his calm resolve, subjected him to cruel tortures—scourging, burning, and prolonged confinement. Throughout his suffering, Archontinus prayed for his persecutors, asking God to enlighten them. His endurance moved even his tormentors to awe. At last he was executed, and his martyrdom became a beacon of faith for those who witnessed it. His name remains honored among those who held fast to Christ with unwavering integrity.

Repose of Priest Peter of Uglich, Fool-for-Christ of Uglich:

Priest Peter served faithfully at the altar for many years before embracing the path of foolishness for Christ. He relinquished worldly dignity to adopt a life of extreme humility, hiding his virtues beneath unpredictable behavior and poverty. Wandering barefoot even in winter, he blessed children, visited the imprisoned, and offered veiled rebukes to the proud. Though ridiculed by many, he bore insults with compassion, interceding nightly for the salvation of his city. At his death, the people suddenly understood his holiness, for miracles began at his grave and healings multiplied. He remains a reminder that God often hides His greatest servants under garments of humility and apparent madness.

Translation of the relics of Saint Nektarios of Pentapolis:

The translation of Saint Nektarios’ relics revealed the full splendor of a saint who had embraced humiliation on earth with patience and love. During his lifetime he suffered slander, unjust exile, and mistreatment, yet he never defended himself; instead, he blessed those who wronged him and continued to serve with serenity. After his repose, his body became a vessel of miracles: paralytics walked, the sick were cured, and countless souls found peace. At the translation of his relics, a fragrance filled the air, and the faithful experienced profound consolation. His relics, radiant with grace, continue to be a source of healing and hope. Through them God glorifies a saint who lived in meekness and now intercedes powerfully for the world.

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Lives of the Saints Celebrated on September 4

Hieromartyr Babylas, Bishop of Antioch, and with him Martyrs Urban, Prilidian, and Epolonius, and their mother Christodula (3rd century, ca. 250):

Hieromartyr Babylas of Antioch stands as one of the earliest and most radiant examples of episcopal courage in the face of imperial tyranny. Renowned for both his gentleness and his uncompromising orthodoxy, he shepherded the Christians of Antioch during a time when pagan rulers sought to coerce the Church into silence. When Emperor Numerian attempted to enter the church during a corrupt and violent reign—seeking the blessing and honor due only to the righteous—Babylas boldly barred him at the doors, declaring that one stained with blood and injustice could not stand before the Holy God. For this act alone he drew the emperor’s wrath, yet he refused to apologize or compromise. Arrested alongside three devout youths—Urban, Prilidian, and Epolonius—and their noble mother Christodula, Babylas continued to strengthen the faithful even in chains. Tortures followed: scourging, imprisonment, deprivation, and threats designed to break their spirits. But Babylas and the young martyrs remained steadfast, Christodula herself encouraging her sons to be courageous unto the end. They accepted death with dignity, their witness leaving an indelible mark upon Antioch and the entire Church. To this day, the relics of St. Babylas are known to have driven out demons and purified places defiled by idolatry, a testimony to his enduring spiritual authority.

Holy Prophet and God-seer Moses (ca. 14th–13th century BC):

The Holy Prophet Moses, the great Lawgiver and God-seer, is one of the towering figures of all sacred history—revered by Jews, Christians, and all who treasure the revelation of the One True God. Born under the shadow of persecution, saved from death by divine providence, adopted into the royal courts of Egypt yet never forgetting the suffering of his people, Moses became the vessel through which God delivered Israel from bondage. His forty years in Midian prepared him through humility and contemplation, until the Lord appeared to him in the burning bush, revealing both His divine name and His compassionate will to save. Through Moses, the Red Sea was parted, manna appeared in the wilderness, water flowed from the rock, and the commandments of God were inscribed on tablets of stone, forming the foundation of moral life for generations to come. Yet his greatest glory was the intimacy he shared with God: he spoke with the Lord “face to face, as a man speaks with his friend,” and received visions so profound that his face shone with uncreated light. Though he did not enter the earthly Promised Land, he entered an even greater glory, appearing centuries later beside Christ on Mount Tabor at the Transfiguration, bearing witness to the fulfillment of all his prophetic labor.

Martyr Babylas of Nicomedia, and with him 84 children (early 4th century, ca. 303):

Martyr Babylas of Nicomedia is remembered for one of the most extraordinary and heartbreaking acts of collective martyrdom in Christian antiquity. A devout and courageous man, he ministered to a community of children who had grown up in the faith during a time when pagan officials sought to root out Christianity with special severity. When Babylas and the children under his care were discovered praying and singing hymns, the authorities sought to intimidate them into offering sacrifice to the idols. But Babylas refused, declaring that neither he nor the children would betray Christ. Astonished by such boldness, the persecutors intensified their threats—yet the children, inspired by their teacher’s calm courage, clung to their confession with a purity stronger than any earthly fear. Unable to bend them, the officials condemned Babylas and all eighty-four children to death. Each child’s final moments became a quiet testimony of innocence offered to God, and Babylas encouraged them to meet death with the joy of entering the Kingdom. Their martyrdom remains one of the most poignant reminders that the strength of Christian faith does not depend on age, but on the grace of God working in willing hearts.

Martyrs Theodore, Mianus (Ammianus), Julian, Kion (Oceanus), and Centurionus of Nicomedia (early 4th century, ca. 303):

These five martyrs—Theodore, Mianus (also known as Ammianus), Julian, Kion (Oceanus), and Centurionus—were bound together not by earthly ties but by their burning confession of Christ in the pagan stronghold of Nicomedia. During a wave of persecutions in the early fourth century, Christians were accused of undermining the stability of the empire simply because they refused to worship the idols. These men, each from a different walk of life, refused to renounce Christ, even when promised honors, wealth, and imperial favor. Their interrogators subjected them to every form of torment: scourging, dislocation of limbs, burning coals, and cruel imprisonment in darkness. Yet their unity only grew deeper as they strengthened one another through prayer and psalms. Their final execution became a single, harmonious offering of faith, demonstrating that the love of Christ unites believers more powerfully than any earthly bond. Their martyrdom helped to seed the Church in Nicomedia with renewed courage.

Martyr Hermione, daughter of St. Philip the Deacon and Apostle (late 1st century, ca. 1st century AD):

Hermione, the daughter of St. Philip the Deacon—one of the Seven appointed in the Book of Acts—grew up nourished on apostolic teaching and the living example of holy service. Filled from youth with compassion and a desire to heal, she dedicated her life to ministering to the poor, the sick, and the abandoned. By God’s grace she received the gift of healing, and many flocked to her for help. When the persecutions under Trajan intensified, Hermione was arrested and interrogated with unusual cruelty, as the authorities sought to break her spirit and discredit her influence. Yet she remained composed, filled with the peace of one who trusted entirely in Christ. She endured racks, beatings, burning furnaces, and other torments that miraculously failed to harm her. Her calm endurance converted many witnesses, and even some of her tormentors were struck by her spiritual radiance. At last she surrendered her soul to God in peace after a final round of tortures, leaving behind a legacy of mercy, courage, and apostolic fidelity.

Saint Petronius of Egypt, disciple of St. Pachomius the Great (4th century, ca. 4th century AD):

Saint Petronius was one of the most devoted disciples of St. Pachomius, the founder of communal monasticism. Raised in Egypt’s spiritual deserts, he learned from the great master the virtues of obedience, humility, and communal charity. Petronius became known for his unwavering gentleness—so profound that even wild animals sensed his peace—and for his ascetic discipline, which he carried out without ostentation. As he matured spiritually, he became a pillar within the Pachomian communities, guiding novices, encouraging the weary, and resolving conflicts with patient wisdom. His prayers brought comfort to the sick, and his tears for the sins of the world were known to soften even the hardest hearts. He passed into eternal rest with the tranquility of a soul already united to God in love.

Martyrs Theotimus and Theodulus the executioners (4th century, ca. 4th century AD):

Theotimus and Theodulus, once executioners by profession, became unlikely martyrs whose conversion was stirred by the steadfast faith of those they were commanded to torment. While carrying out their grim duties, they witnessed the peace, forgiveness, and radiant joy of Christian martyrs, and their hearts were pierced with compunction. Recognizing the truth of the faith they had long persecuted, they boldly confessed Christ before their superiors. Their conversion enraged the authorities, who immediately subjected them to the very tortures they had once administered. With newfound faith they endured the suffering with remarkable serenity, their repentance shining with sincerity. Their martyrdom stands as a testament to the power of divine grace, which can transform even those furthest from God into radiant witnesses of His mercy.

Martyr Charitina of Amisus (3rd–4th century, ca. 3rd century AD):

Charitina, whose name means “grace,” lived a life befitting her name. Orphaned at a young age, she was raised by a devout Christian guardian who instilled in her love for purity, prayer, and almsgiving. Her gentle manner drew many to Christ even before her martyrdom. When accused of refusing to sacrifice to idols, Charitina was brought before the Roman authorities. Seeing her youth and beauty, they tried to persuade her gently at first, promising her freedom, comfort, and marriage. But she declared firmly that her Bridegroom was Christ alone. They then resorted to torture: she was whipped, burned, dragged, and humiliated, yet she endured all with remarkable composure. Her prayers during her torments brought others to repentance, and even some pagans ceased mocking her. Finally she died from her injuries, surrendering her soul to the Lord in purity and peace.

Martyrs Thathuil and Bebaia of Edessa (3rd century, ca. 3rd century AD):

Thathuil and Bebaia were siblings from Edessa whose lives were marked by deep mutual love and a shared devotion to the Christian faith. During a period of renewed persecution, they were accused of spreading the Gospel and offering shelter to believers. Refusing to deny Christ, they were subjected to a series of brutal tortures meant to force them to betray one another, but their bond only strengthened under suffering. They encouraged one another with words of hope, recalling the joys of the Kingdom and the eternal reunion awaiting them. Their steadfastness amazed their captors, who marveled at the strength of their sibling love joined to their unshakable faith. They accepted martyrdom together, entering eternal life hand in hand.

Martyr Sarbelos of Edessa (3rd century, ca. 3rd century AD):

Sarbelos, originally a pagan priest in Edessa, experienced a profound conversion after witnessing the courage and serenity of Christian martyrs. Overcome with a sense of truth and divine calling, he renounced idolatry publicly and accepted baptism. Enraged by his defection, the authorities subjected him to cruel punishments, hoping to break his resolve or make an example of him. But Sarbelos, who had once lived in spiritual darkness, now clung joyfully to the light of Christ. He endured torments with gratitude, viewing each blow as a testimony to the mercy God had shown him by calling him out of error. He surrendered his life with a radiant confession of faith, leaving behind a legacy of transformation and steadfast love.

Hieromartyr Peter, Metropolitan of Serbia (early 19th century, ca. 1800–1810):

Metropolitan Peter of Serbia was a pastoral leader of uncommon courage who shepherded his flock during times of political turmoil and religious pressure. Deeply committed to the unity and spiritual renewal of his people, he preached humility, peace, and fidelity to Christ. His defense of the Orthodox faith against both foreign influence and internal division earned him the admiration of the faithful and the ire of those who sought to manipulate the Church for political ends. Arrested on false charges, he endured imprisonment and suffering without bitterness, praying even for those who betrayed him. His martyrdom sealed his episcopal ministry with the blood of sacrifice, and his memory continues to inspire Serbian Christians to steadfast faith and love for the Church.

Saint Anthimus the New of Coroucle in Cephallenia (15th century, ca. 1400s):

Saint Anthimus the New, a humble island ascetic, devoted his life to prayer, fasting, and service to the poor. Drawn from childhood to the stillness of prayer, he sought solitude in caves and quiet places where he could contemplate the mysteries of divine love. Yet people continually sought him out, drawn by his compassion and his reputation for healing both bodily and spiritual ailments. Anthimus became a spiritual father to many, guiding them with simple but profound words. His miracles—healings, deliverance from dangers, comfort to the afflicted—were always performed quietly, without drawing attention to himself. He reposed peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of gentle holiness that is still honored in Cephallenia.

Martyrs Jerusalem, Sekendos, Sekendios, and Kegouros in Aleppo (3rd–4th century, ca. early 300s):

These martyrs, bearing names both ancient and unique, were four Christians of Aleppo who refused to renounce their Lord during a fierce local persecution. Their steadfastness united them like brothers, even though they came from different families and backgrounds. They were interrogated repeatedly and subjected to cruel torments—racks, flames, and imprisonment—yet they answered each demand with a calm confession of Christ as the only true King. Their joyful endurance, even in the face of death, strengthened the faith of many hidden believers in the region. Together they received the crown of martyrdom, becoming protectors and intercessors for the Christians of Syria.

New-hieromartyr Gorazd, Bishop of Bohemia and Moravia-Silesia (20th century, 1942):

New-hieromartyr Gorazd, one of the brightest modern Orthodox saints, offered his life as a pastoral sacrifice during the terror of World War II. As bishop of the renewed Orthodox Church in the Czech lands, he worked tirelessly to rebuild spiritual life, translate services, and strengthen parishes. When Czech resistance fighters assassinated Reinhard Heydrich, the Nazi authorities unleashed brutal reprisals. Knowing that his clergy and faithful were in danger, Bishop Gorazd took the blame upon himself to shield others. He was arrested, tortured, and executed by firing squad, offering his last moments in prayer for his people and for their persecutors. His martyrdom remains a luminous example of shepherdly love and self-sacrifice.

Saint Ultan, Bishop of Meath (7th century, ca. 7th century AD):

Saint Ultan of Meath was a gentle and scholarly Irish bishop best known for his compassion toward children and orphans. In a period of social upheaval, he gathered, educated, and cared for abandoned infants with extraordinary tenderness, teaching them both letters and faith. A gifted scribe and teacher, Ultan contributed to the flourishing of Irish monastic learning, and several manuscripts trace their origins to his scriptoria. His charity and humility left a deep imprint on the Irish Church, and he reposed peacefully after a lifetime of service.

Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos "The Unburnt Bush" (Honored since 4th century):

The Icon of the Mother of God known as “The Unburnt Bush” is a profound symbol of the mystery of the Incarnation. Just as the burning bush on Mount Sinai blazed with divine fire yet was not consumed, so the Virgin Mary bore the divine Word without corruption. This icon became especially cherished in times of fire and danger, and countless miracles are attributed to it—homes saved from flames, travelers protected, and the faithful preserved from sudden disaster. It remains a reminder that the Mother of God intercedes for those in peril, and that divine grace can dwell in the world without destroying it.

Opening of the relics of Saint Ioasaph, Bishop of Belgorod (see also December 10) (18th century, died 1754):

The uncovering of the relics of St. Ioasaph of Belgorod revealed the enduring holiness of a bishop whose life had been marked by humility, pastoral zeal, and compassion for the suffering. Many miracles occurred at the opening of his tomb, with healings and deliverance granted to those who approached with faith. This event confirmed his place among the saints and strengthened devotion to him throughout Russia, inspiring renewed love for prayer and repentance.

Second finding of the relics of Saint Metrophanes, Bishop of Voronezh (18th century, died 1703):

The second discovery of St. Metrophanes’ relics was marked by signs of divine grace, emphasizing the lasting sanctity of this wise and gentle hierarch. Known for his fatherly love and his efforts to strengthen church life in Voronezh, he remained a shepherd even after death through the miracles wrought at his relics. Their finding encouraged the faithful to walk in humility, patience, and unwavering trust in God.

Translation of the relics of Saint Birinos, Bishop of Dorchester-on-Thames and Enlightener of Wessex (7th century, ca. 650):

Saint Birinos, the apostle of Wessex, brought the light of Christ to regions of England still steeped in paganism. His relics, translated with honor to a new resting place, continued to inspire the English faithful to missionary zeal. The translation was accompanied by healings and spiritual renewal, showing that the saint who once converted a kingdom still worked powerfully for its salvation.

Translation of the relics of Saint Cuthbert, Bishop of Lindisfarne (7th century, died 687):

The translation of St. Cuthbert’s relics became one of the most celebrated events in English Christian history. As his incorrupt body was carried from place to place during times of danger, it became a moving sanctuary for the faithful—bringing healing, unity, and renewed faith to the lands through which it passed. Cuthbert, famed for his asceticism, miracles, and tender love for all creation, continued to bless his people long after his repose, guiding them by the quiet power of holiness that had marked his earthly life.

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Lives of the Saints Celebrated on September 5

Holy Prophet Zachariah and Righteous Elizabeth, parents of St. John the Forerunner (1st century B.C. – early 1st century A.D.):

Zachariah, a priest of the division of Abijah, and his wife Elizabeth were righteous and devout Jews living in a time of spiritual expectation. Despite their advanced age, they remained faithful to the Law of Moses and lived blamelessly before God. Elizabeth was barren, a source of sorrow, but both were patient and prayed earnestly for God’s mercy. In response, God sent the Archangel Gabriel to announce that Elizabeth would bear a son, John, who would prepare the people for the coming of the Messiah. Zachariah’s initial doubt led to his temporary muteness, which was lifted when John was born and named as the angel commanded. Zachariah then prophesied the mission of his son, foretelling the coming of Christ and the salvation He would bring. Tragically, Zachariah’s later years ended in martyrdom, as he was killed for boldly proclaiming God’s truth to a corrupt priestly class. Elizabeth, too, is honored for her unwavering faith and for nurturing John in holiness. Together, they symbolize the patience of hope and the fulfillment of divine promises, bridging the Old Testament prophets and the New Testament revelation.

Martyrs Urban, Theodore, Medimnus, and 77 companions at Nicomedia (early 4th century, under Diocletian’s persecution):

During the fierce Diocletian persecution, Nicomedia was a center of Christian resistance and suffering. Urban, Theodore, and Medimnus, along with 77 other Christians, were arrested for their faith and brought before the imperial authorities. They were given multiple opportunities to renounce Christ and perform pagan sacrifices but refused steadfastly. Subjected to brutal tortures—including scourging, imprisonment, and exposure to wild beasts—they remained unshaken. Their courage inspired many other believers, and their deaths became a rallying point for the Christian community. The martyrdom of such a large group is a testament to the widespread faith and unity among early Christians, who chose eternal life over temporary suffering and worldly power.

Martyr Abdias (Abidas or Obadiah) of Persia (4th century):

In the hostile environment of Sassanian Persia, where Christianity was often suppressed, Abdias stood as a beacon of faith. He tirelessly preached the Gospel despite dangers, often moving secretly to avoid detection. When discovered, Abdias was arrested and subjected to fierce tortures designed to force him to recant. He endured pain with a calm strength that astonished his persecutors. His execution was cruel, but his martyrdom planted seeds of faith that flourished among Persian Christians. Abdias’ legacy is that of courage in adversity and the power of faith to overcome even the most oppressive regimes.

Martyr Sarbelus of Edessa (3rd–4th century):

Sarbelus lived in Edessa, an important center for early Christianity, and was known for his eloquent confession of faith. At a time when Roman authorities sought to stamp out Christianity, Sarbelus boldly professed Christ before the magistrates. He was condemned to death and subjected to tortures, including scourging and imprisonment. His unwavering spirit and refusal to deny Christ inspired others to hold firm in their beliefs. His martyrdom is remembered as an example of steadfastness amid persecution and the power of testimony.

Martyrs Ththuil (Thithail) and his sister Bebaia (4th century):

Ththuil and Bebaia, siblings united in faith and courage, lived in an era when Christians were being systematically persecuted. They refused to worship pagan gods, openly confessing their allegiance to Christ. Their capture and martyrdom served as a testimony of the strength of familial bonds nurtured by faith. Their story encourages believers to hold firm together in times of trial, demonstrating how family support strengthens the resolve to endure hardships for the sake of Christ.

Virgin-Martyr Rhais (Raisa) of Alexandria (3rd century):

Rhais was a young noblewoman in Alexandria, famed for her beauty and piety. Choosing Christ over worldly pleasures, she consecrated her virginity to God. When the Roman authorities demanded she renounce Christianity, she boldly refused, knowing the cost. Subjected to severe torture, including scourging and imprisonment, she remained unbroken. Her martyrdom became a powerful symbol of purity, courage, and unwavering devotion. Her relics were venerated by Christians, and her life inspired many to embrace holiness and steadfast faith.

Martyrs Juventius and Maximus, soldiers, at Antioch (early 4th century):

Juventius and Maximus served as soldiers in the Roman army stationed in Antioch. Upon embracing Christianity, they refused to partake in pagan rites and idol worship that conflicted with their faith. Their refusal led to their arrest and eventual martyrdom. Despite the threat of death, they remained resolute, displaying that true loyalty to Christ transcends earthly allegiances. Their example encourages Christians to be courageous witnesses even in environments hostile to faith.

Martyrdom of Holy Passion-bearer Gleb, in holy baptism David (ca. 1015):

Gleb, son of Prince Vladimir the Great of Kiev, was baptized David and became one of the first Russian saints. Known for his meekness and humility, he lived in a time of political intrigue and violence. After his father’s death, his brother assassinated him to secure power. Gleb accepted his death peacefully, forgiving his murderer and offering himself as a sacrifice for the unity and peace of Rus’. He is revered as a passion-bearer—a saint who endures suffering and death in the spirit of Christ. His death marked the Christianization of Rus’ and inspired many to follow Christ’s path of love and forgiveness.

Martyrdom of Saint Athanasius, Abbot of Brest, by the Latins (16th century):

Saint Athanasius was a monastic leader who upheld Orthodox faith during a turbulent period marked by religious conflicts between Orthodoxy and Latin Catholicism. He was known for his humility, wisdom, and strong defense of Orthodox tradition. The Latins, attempting to impose their religious authority, persecuted Athanasius for resisting conversion and for protecting his monastic community. He endured imprisonment and torture before finally suffering martyrdom. His death is commemorated as a symbol of the struggle to preserve Orthodox faith and identity amid external pressures.

Saint Bertinos, Abbot of Saint-Omer (7th century):

Bertinos was a wise and holy abbot who led the monastery of Saint-Omer with great spiritual insight. Renowned for his asceticism, humility, and charity, he attracted many disciples and contributed to the spread of monasticism in northern France. His leadership helped the community grow in holiness and influence. Bertinos also played a role in local evangelization and was known for miracles attributed to his prayers. His life stands as a model of monastic virtue and pastoral care during the early medieval period.

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Lives of the Saints Celebrated on September 6

Commemoration of the Miracle of the Archangel Michael at Colossae (Chonae):

The Miracle of the Archangel Michael at Colossae, also known as the Miracle of Chonae, is one of the most celebrated divine interventions in early Christian history. During a sudden and devastating earthquake and flood, the church dedicated to the Archangel was threatened with destruction. In response to the fervent prayers of the faithful, Archangel Michael appeared in a radiant, awe-inspiring form and struck the earth with his fiery spear, causing the floodwaters to recede and sparing the church and its congregation. This miraculous event affirmed the heavenly protection afforded to God’s Church and became a symbol of divine justice against forces of evil and chaos. The faithful from far and wide journeyed to Colossae to venerate the site, and the miracle reinforced the cult of angels as heavenly guardians, especially Archangel Michael, who is often invoked in times of spiritual warfare. The commemoration serves as a timeless reminder that God’s angels are ever watchful, ready to defend the faithful from destruction, both physical and spiritual.

Martyr Eudoxius and those with him: Martyrs Zeno, Macarius, and 11,000 others in Armenia:

Martyr Eudoxius, along with Zeno, Macarius, and an astonishing multitude of 11,000 other martyrs, suffered for the Christian faith during one of the fiercest persecutions in Armenian history. Their collective martyrdom is a testament to the widespread devotion and courage of early Armenian Christians who faced a brutal regime that sought to stamp out Christianity through violence and terror. The story of these martyrs illustrates not only personal courage but also a profound communal faith that refused to yield. Despite threats, torture, and death, these saints held fast to Christ, becoming shining examples of endurance and fidelity. Their sacrifice paved the way for Armenia to become the first nation officially to adopt Christianity as its state religion, and their blood is remembered as the seed from which Armenian Christian identity flourished. This mass martyrdom is an extraordinary witness to the power of faith to unite and inspire countless believers in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Martyr Romulus and those with him:

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