Calendar

St. Basil the Great

Archbishop of Caesarea in Cappadocia (379), one of the Three Hierarchs, a fearless defender of the Nicene faith, author of the Divine Liturgy bearing his name, and a tireless servant of the poor and sick.

St. Seraphim of Sarov

Russian wonderworker and elder of Sarov (1833) who lived in great asceticism and is known for the saying 'Acquire the Spirit of Peace and thousands around you will be saved.'

Holy Prophet Malachi

Last of the Twelve Minor Prophets of the Old Testament (4th c. BC), whose name means 'My Messenger.'

Synaxis of the Seventy Apostles

Joint commemoration of the Seventy disciples sent forth by Christ to preach the Gospel.

Sts. Theopemptos and Theonas

Hieromartyr Theopemptos, bishop of Nicomedia, and the magician Theonas whom he converted (303), both martyred under Diocletian.

Theophany of the Lord

The Baptism of Christ in the Jordan, when the Holy Trinity was revealed: the Father testified from heaven, the Son was baptized, and the Spirit descended as a dove. The waters are blessed and the world is sanctified.

St. John the Baptist

Synaxis of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John, who pointed to Christ as the Lamb of God and baptized Him in the Jordan.

St. Domnica of Constantinople

Holy abbess of Constantinople (474) who came from Carthage with four virgins, was baptized by St. Nectarius, and shone with wonderworking grace.

St. Polyeuktos of Melitene

Roman officer of Armenia (259) who, after a vision of Christ, smashed the idols of the city and was beheaded — the first martyr of Melitene.

St. Gregory of Nyssa

Brother of St. Basil the Great, bishop of Nyssa (395), pillar of Orthodoxy at the Second Ecumenical Council, and profound theologian of the Holy Trinity and the spiritual life.

St. Theodosios the Cenobiarch

Founder of communal monasticism in the Holy Land (529), spiritual father to thousands of monks near Bethlehem.

St. Tatiana of Rome

Deaconess of Rome and martyr (3rd c.), who confessed Christ before the prefect and was crowned with martyrdom.

Sts. Hermylos and Stratonikos

Hermylos the deacon and his friend Stratonikos, martyred at Belgrade (315) by being drowned in the Danube for confessing Christ.

Holy Fathers Slain at Sinai and Raithu

The monks of Mount Sinai and Raithu martyred by Saracen raiders (4th–5th c.) for the love of Christ.

St. Paul of Thebes

The first Christian hermit (341), who lived ninety years in the Egyptian desert and was buried by St. Anthony the Great.

Veneration of the Precious Chains of the Apostle Peter

Commemoration of the chains by which the Apostle Peter was bound in Jerusalem and Rome, now venerated as relics that heal the faithful.

St. Anthony the Great

Father of monasticism (356), the desert ascetic of Egypt whose example drew thousands to the monastic life and whose teaching shaped all Christian asceticism.

St. Athanasius the Great

Archbishop of Alexandria (373), the unflinching defender of the divinity of Christ at the First Council of Nicaea and through five exiles.

St. Makarios the Great of Egypt

Desert father of Scetis (391), disciple of St. Anthony, called 'the Spirit-bearer' for his deep prayer and humility.

St. Efthimios the Great

Lavriote of Palestine (473), spiritual father of many monasteries and shepherd of the Church in the time of Chalcedon.

St. Maximos the Confessor

Monk and theologian (662) who defended the two wills of Christ against the Monothelites; his tongue and right hand were cut off for confessing the truth.

Holy Apostle Timothy

Disciple of St. Paul and first bishop of Ephesus (97), to whom the Apostle wrote two epistles; martyred for opposing a pagan festival.

St. Clement of Ancyra

Bishop of Ancyra and hieromartyr (312) who endured twenty-eight years of torture under successive emperors before being beheaded.

St. Xenia of Rome

Noble Roman who fled marriage to live in poverty and prayer (5th c.), revered with St. Xenia of St. Petersburg the Fool-for-Christ.

St. Gregory the Theologian

Archbishop of Constantinople (389), one of the Three Hierarchs, whose orations established the language of Trinitarian theology.

St. Xenophon and his family

Senator of Constantinople (6th c.) who, with his wife Maria and sons John and Arcadius, took up the monastic life after being saved from shipwreck.

St. John Chrysostom

Archbishop of Constantinople (407), the 'Golden-Mouthed', author of the Divine Liturgy bearing his name and unsparing preacher of mercy to the poor.

St. Ephraim the Syrian

Deacon and hymnographer of Edessa (373), called the 'Harp of the Holy Spirit'; author of the prayer of St. Ephraim used throughout Great Lent.

Translation of the Relics of St. Ignatius

Commemoration of the translation of the relics of the God-bearer Ignatius of Antioch to his see after his martyrdom in Rome.

Synaxis of the Three Hierarchs

Joint feast of Sts. Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian, and John Chrysostom — the three great teachers and hierarchs of the Church.

Sts. Cyrus and John the Unmercenaries

Physician of Alexandria and the soldier John, who healed the sick without payment and were martyred together (311).

St. Tryphon the Martyr

Shepherd of Phrygia and martyr (250) renowned for healing the sick and for delivering fields and vineyards from blight.

Presentation of the Lord

Forty days after His Nativity, Christ was brought to the Temple where the Elder Symeon received Him and proclaimed Him the Light to the Gentiles.

Sts. Symeon the God-Receiver and Anna the Prophetess

The righteous Elder who received Christ in the Temple and the Prophetess Anna who proclaimed the Redeemer to all in Jerusalem.

St. Isidore of Pelusium

Egyptian ascetic and disciple of St. John Chrysostom (436), who wrote over ten thousand letters of spiritual counsel.

St. Agathi the Martyr

Virgin-martyr of Sicily (251) who endured cruel tortures rather than deny Christ.

St. Photios the Great

Patriarch of Constantinople (893), great scholar and confessor of the Orthodox Faith against Western innovations.

St. Parthenios of Lampsakos

Bishop of Lampsakos on the Hellespont (4th c.) renowned for casting out demons and healing the sick.

St. Theodore the General (Stratelates)

Roman general at Heraclea (319) who confessed Christ before Licinius and was crucified after great tortures.

St. Nikephoros of Antioch

Layman of Antioch (260) who, reconciling with his estranged friend the priest Sapricius, received the martyr's crown which Sapricius forfeited.

St. Haralambos the Hieromartyr

Bishop of Magnesia (202), martyred at 113 years of age, glorified by countless miracles of healing.

St. Blaise of Sebaste

Bishop of Sebaste in Armenia and hieromartyr (316) who healed a boy choking on a fishbone; invoked for diseases of the throat.

St. Meletios of Antioch

Archbishop of Antioch (381), president of the Second Ecumenical Council, exiled three times for the Nicene Faith.

St. Martinian of Caesarea

Hermit of Caesarea in Palestine (422) who endured fierce temptations on a desert rock by standing in flames to resist sin.

St. Cyril, Equal-to-the-Apostles

With his brother Methodios, evangelized the Slavs (869) and translated the Scriptures and services into the Slavic tongue.

Holy Apostle Onesimos

Disciple of the Apostle Paul (109), the slave for whom Paul wrote the Epistle to Philemon; later bishop and martyr.

St. Pamphilos of Caesarea and Companions

Priest of Caesarea (309), pupil of Origen, martyred with eleven companions under Maximinus.

St. Theodore the Tyro

Recruit of the Roman legions (306), burned alive at Amasea for confessing Christ; honored on the first Saturday of Great Lent for the kollyva miracle.

St. Leo the Great, Pope of Rome

Pope of Rome (461) whose Tome confirmed the two natures of Christ at the Fourth Ecumenical Council.

Holy Apostles Archippos and Philemon and Apphia

Disciples of St. Paul, martyred at Colossae (1st c.) for refusing to sacrifice to idols.

St. Leo, Bishop of Catania

Bishop of Catania in Sicily (780) renowned for almsgiving and for restraining the magician Heliodorus by his prayers.

St. Timothy of Symbola

Monk of Bithynia (795) who from childhood embraced asceticism and worked many wonders by his prayers.

Discovery of the Holy Relics at Eugenia

Discovery in Constantinople of the relics of many holy martyrs at the gate of Eugenia, which gave forth myrrh and healed the sick.

St. Polykarpos of Smyrna

Disciple of the Apostle John, Bishop of Smyrna and martyr (167), whose bold confession 'Eighty-six years have I served Him' rings down the centuries.

First and Second Finding of the Head of St. John the Baptist

Commemoration of the first and second discoveries of the precious head of the Forerunner.

St. Tarasios of Constantinople

Patriarch of Constantinople (806), defender of the holy icons at the Seventh Ecumenical Council.

St. Fotini the Samaritan Woman

The Samaritan woman who met Christ at Jacob's well, became an apostle, and was martyred in Rome under Nero.

St. Prokopios the Confessor of Decapolis

Monk and confessor (750) who suffered greatly for venerating the holy icons under the iconoclast emperor Leo the Isaurian.

St. Basil the Confessor

Disciple and fellow-struggler of St. Prokopios of Decapolis, confessor for the holy icons (750).

St. Evdokia of Heliopolis

Penitent Samaritan who, after a life of luxury, distributed her wealth to the poor and embraced monasticism, crowned with martyrdom (2nd c.).

St. Hesychios the Senator

Roman senator and martyr (302) who cast off his rank rather than offer incense to idols.

Sts. Eutropios, Cleonikos and Basiliskos

Three soldier-companions of St. Theodore the Tyro, martyred at Amasea (308) by crucifixion and beheading.

St. Gerasimos of the Jordan

Founder of a great lavra by the Jordan (475), famous for the lion he tamed which served the brotherhood.

St. Conon of Isauria

First-century gardener of Isauria, converted by an angel, who turned many to Christ and reposed in peace after sufferings.

Holy Forty-Two Martyrs of Amorion

Byzantine officers (845) taken captive by the Saracens at Amorion who, after seven years' imprisonment, were martyred for refusing to embrace Islam.

Holy Seven Bishops of Cherson

Seven bishops sent in the 4th century to evangelize the Crimea, all martyred while preaching Christ.

St. Theophylact of Nicomedia

Bishop of Nicomedia and confessor (845) who defended the holy icons and was exiled for thirty years.

Holy Forty Martyrs of Sebaste

Forty Roman soldiers of Cappadocia (320) frozen to death in the lake of Sebaste for refusing to deny Christ.

St. Quadratus of Corinth and Companions

Layman of Corinth (250) raised in the wilderness, who with his companions Cyprian, Dionysius and Anectus suffered martyrdom under Decius.

St. Theodoros the Recruit

Soldier-martyr (306) who confessed Christ before the governor and is honored on the first Saturday of Great Lent for the miracle of the kollyva.

St. Theophanes the Confessor

Monk and chronicler (818), confessor for the icons under Leo the Armenian, author of the Chronographia.

Translation of the Relics of St. Nikephoros

Commemoration of the translation of the relics of St. Nikephoros the Confessor, Patriarch of Constantinople, in 846.

St. Benedict of Nursia

Father of Western monasticism (547), author of the Rule that bears his name and founder of Monte Cassino.

Sts. Agapios and his Companions

Seven martyrs of Caesarea in Palestine (303) who confessed Christ together and were thrown to the beasts.

St. Sabinos the Martyr

Egyptian governor (287) who, after embracing Christ, was tortured and drowned in the Nile.

St. Alexios, Man of God

Roman who left his bride on their wedding day to live hidden as a beggar (411), and after years returned unrecognized to die beneath the stairs of his father's house.

St. Cyril of Jerusalem

Archbishop of Jerusalem (386) and great catechist, author of the Catechetical Lectures on the mysteries of the Faith.

Sts. Chrysanthos and Daria

Husband and wife of Rome (283), martyred together for confessing Christ after they had converted many through their pure marriage.

Holy Fathers Slain at the Monastery of St. Sabbas

Twenty monks of the Lavra of St. Sabbas in the Holy Land (796) martyred by Saracen raiders.

St. Jacob the Confessor

Bishop and confessor (8th c.) who endured exile and great sufferings for venerating the holy icons.

St. Basil of Ancyra

Priest of Ancyra and hieromartyr (362) under Julian the Apostate, whose flesh was torn with hooks before he was slain.

St. Nikon and his 199 Disciples

Bishop-monk of Sicily (251) who with his disciples was beheaded by the prefect Quintianus.

Forefeast of the Annunciation

The eve of the Great Feast of the Annunciation, on which the Church begins to sing the praises of the Theotokos.

Annunciation of the Theotokos

The Archangel Gabriel announced to the Virgin Mary that she would conceive and bear the Son of God. Today is the beginning of our salvation.

Synaxis of the Archangel Gabriel

Joint commemoration of the Archangel Gabriel, who announced the Annunciation, on the day after the Great Feast.

St. Matrona of Thessaloniki

Servant-girl of a Jewish woman in Thessaloniki (350) who secretly worshipped Christ and was martyred by her mistress.

St. Hilarion the New

Hegumen of Pelekete (754) who suffered exile and torture for venerating the holy icons.

St. Mark of Arethusa

Bishop of Arethusa in Syria (389) who in old age was tortured by the pagans of his city for destroying their idols.

St. John Climacus, the Ladder

Abbot of Mount Sinai (649), author of The Ladder of Divine Ascent, foundational treatise of Orthodox spiritual life.

St. Hypatios of Gangra

Bishop of Gangra (326) and Father of the First Ecumenical Council, slain by heretics on his way home from the Council.

St. Mary of Egypt

Penitent of Alexandria (522) who, after a dissolute youth, lived forty-seven years alone in the desert beyond the Jordan in repentance; commemorated also on the Fifth Sunday of Great Lent.

St. Titus the Wonderworker

Monk of the 9th century, gentle and meek, who worked many miracles by his prayers.

St. Nikitas the Confessor

Abbot of the Medikion Monastery (824), confessor for the holy icons under Leo the Armenian.

St. Joseph the Hymnographer

Sicilian monk of Constantinople (883), composer of countless canons and hymns sung daily in the Orthodox Church.

Sts. Theodulos and Agathopodos

Reader Theodulos and deacon Agathopodos of Thessaloniki (303), drowned in the sea for confessing Christ under Diocletian.

St. Eutychios of Constantinople

Patriarch of Constantinople (582), presided at the Fifth Ecumenical Council and was twice exiled for the Faith.

St. Kalliopios of Pompeiopolis

Young Christian of Pamphylia (304) crucified head-downward on Holy Thursday for refusing to sacrifice to idols.

Holy Apostles Herodion, Agabus, Rufus, Asyncritus, Phlegon and Hermes

Six of the Seventy Apostles, kinsmen and fellow-laborers of St. Paul, who suffered for the Gospel in various lands.

St. Eupsychios of Caesarea

Newly-married youth of Cappadocia (362) who pulled down the temple of Fortune and was beheaded under Julian the Apostate.

Sts. Terence, Pompeius and Companions

Forty soldier-martyrs of Carthage (250) tortured and beheaded under Decius for confessing Christ.

St. Antipas of Pergamon

Bishop of Pergamon and hieromartyr (92), called by St. John in the Apocalypse 'My faithful witness'; roasted alive in a brazen bull.

St. Basil the Confessor of Parium

Bishop of Parium on the Hellespont (8th c.), confessor for the holy icons in the days of Constantine Copronymus.

St. Martin the Confessor, Pope of Rome

Pope of Rome (655) who convened the Lateran Council against the Monothelites and was exiled to Cherson by the emperor Constans.

Holy Apostles Aristarchos, Pudens and Trophimos

Three of the Seventy Apostles, companions of St. Paul, martyred at Rome under Nero.

St. Crescens of Myra in Lycia

Aged Christian of Myra in Lycia (3rd c.) who openly confessed Christ in the marketplace and was burned alive.

Holy Virgin-Martyrs Agape, Irene and Chionia

Three sisters of Thessaloniki (304) burned alive for refusing to surrender the Holy Scriptures during the persecution of Diocletian.

St. Symeon, Bishop of Persia

Bishop of Seleucia-Ctesiphon (344) martyred with a hundred companions under King Shapur II of Persia.

St. John, Disciple of St. Gregory of Decapolis

Disciple of St. Gregory of Decapolis (820) who shared his master's labors and reposed in peace.

St. John of the Old Lavra

Priest-monk of the Old Lavra in Palestine (8th c.) who excelled in fasting, prayer and meekness.

St. Theodore Trichinas

Hermit of Constantinople (4th c.) called 'Trichinas' (the hair-shirt-wearer) for the rough garment of horsehair he wore until death.

St. Januarius of Benevento

Bishop of Benevento (305) martyred at Pozzuoli under Diocletian; his dried blood liquefies miraculously to this day.

St. Theodore of Sykeon

Bishop of Anastasiopolis (613), wonderworker of Galatia, who chose to return from his see to his monastery to serve the brotherhood.

St. George the Great-Martyr

Soldier of Cappadocia (303) who confessed Christ before Diocletian and was crowned with martyrdom; one of the most beloved saints of East and West.

St. Sava Stratelates

Roman general (272) who, after being baptized, was crowned with seventy soldiers in the river Eutymides under Aurelian.

St. Mark the Apostle and Evangelist

Author of the second Gospel, disciple of the Apostle Peter, first bishop of Alexandria and martyr.

St. Basil of Amasea

Bishop of Amasea on the Black Sea (322), beheaded under Licinius for sheltering the empress Glaphyra from sin.

St. Symeon, Kinsman of the Lord

Second bishop of Jerusalem (107), kinsman of Christ, crucified at the age of one hundred and twenty under Trajan.

Holy Nine Martyrs of Cyzicus

Nine Christians of Cyzicus (286) who openly preached Christ in the city and were beheaded together.

Sts. Iason and Sosipater

Two of the Seventy Apostles, kinsmen and disciples of the Apostle Paul, who first preached the Gospel on Corfu.

St. James the Apostle, brother of John

Son of Zebedee, one of the Twelve, the first apostle to receive the crown of martyrdom (44), beheaded by Herod.

Holy Prophet Jeremiah

Old Testament prophet of Anathoth (6th c. BC), who wept over Jerusalem and prophesied her destruction and the new covenant.

Translation of the Relics of St. Athanasius

Commemoration of the translation of the relics of St. Athanasius the Great to Constantinople.

Sts. Timothy and Maura

Newly-married reader of the Thebaid and his bride (286), crucified together for refusing to surrender the holy books during persecution.

St. Pelagia of Tarsus

Virgin of Tarsus (290) who, after baptism, was roasted in a brazen ox by her royal suitor for refusing to deny Christ.

St. Irene the Great-Martyr

Princess of Magedon (1st c.) who turned from idols to Christ, converted thousands by her preaching and miracles, and reposed in peace after many torments.

Holy Righteous Job the Much-Suffering

The patient patriarch of the Old Testament, image of the suffering Christ, whose endurance in trial is set before us as a model.

Apparition of the Sign of the Cross over Jerusalem

In 351 a luminous Cross of light appeared over Jerusalem from Golgotha to the Mount of Olives, witnessed by the whole city.

Holy Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian

Commemoration of the manna-pouring from the tomb of the Apostle John, the Beloved Disciple, at Ephesus.

St. Christopher the Martyr

Giant of Canaan who, after meeting a holy hermit, was baptized and crowned with martyrdom (250) for boldly confessing Christ.

Holy Apostle Simon the Zealot

One of the Twelve Apostles, who preached in Africa and Britain and was crucified in Iberia (1st c.).

Sts. Cyril and Methodios, Equals-to-the-Apostles

Joint commemoration of the brothers who evangelized the Slavs and gave them the Scriptures in their own tongue.

St. Epiphanios of Cyprus

Archbishop of Constantia in Cyprus (403), great defender of Orthodoxy, author of the Panarion against heresies.

St. Glykeria the Virgin-Martyr

Virgin of Trajanopolis (177) who, after smashing the idol of Zeus, was thrown to the beasts but reposed in prayer untouched.

St. Isidore of Chios

Roman soldier (251) beheaded on Chios for confessing Christ; his relics work many miracles for the island.

St. Pachomios the Great

Founder of cenobitic monasticism in Egypt (348), to whom the Rule of the common life was given by an angel.

St. Theodore the Sanctified

Disciple and successor of St. Pachomios the Great in the cenobitic life (368), beloved of his brotherhood for his meekness.

Holy Apostles Andronikos and Junia

Two of the Seventy, kinsmen of St. Paul mentioned in the Epistle to the Romans, who preached the Gospel in Pannonia.

Sts. Peter, Dionysios, Andrew and Companions

Seven martyrs of Lampsakos (250), young and old, who confessed Christ together under Decius.

St. Patrick of Prusa

Hieromartyr bishop of Prusa in Bithynia (100), thrown into a boiling spring and then beheaded.

St. Lydia of Philippi

Seller of purple from Thyatira, the first European to be baptized by the Apostle Paul at Philippi.

Saints Constantine and Helen

The Equal-to-the-Apostles Emperor Constantine (337) gave peace to the Church through the Edict of Milan and convened the First Ecumenical Council. His mother, the Empress Helen, found the True Cross of the Lord in Jerusalem.

St. Basiliskos of Comana

Soldier of Cappadocia (308), nephew of St. Theodore the Tyro, martyred at Comana under Maximinus.

St. Michael the Confessor, Bishop of Synnada

Bishop of Synnada in Phrygia (826) who suffered exile for venerating the holy icons.

St. Symeon Stylite the Younger

Stylite of the Wonderful Mountain near Antioch (596), who from boyhood lived sixty-eight years on a pillar in unceasing prayer.

Third Finding of the Head of St. John the Baptist

Commemoration of the third uncovering of the precious head of the Forerunner at Comana (850).

Holy Apostles Carpos and Alphaios

Two of the Seventy Apostles, companion-laborers of St. Paul, who suffered for the Gospel.

St. Helladios the Hieromartyr

Bishop of the East (6th c.) martyred for preaching Christ to the pagans of his region.

St. Nikitas, Bishop of Chalcedon

Bishop of Chalcedon (9th c.), confessor for the holy icons under Leo the Armenian.

St. Theodosia of Tyre

Virgin-martyr of Tyre (308), only eighteen years old, drowned in the sea for confessing Christ.

St. Isaac of the Dalmatian Monastery

Founder of the Dalmatos Monastery in Constantinople (383), who openly rebuked the Arian emperor Valens.

St. Hermias the Martyr

Aged soldier of Comana in Cappadocia (160) who endured many tortures for Christ before being beheaded.

St. Justin the Philosopher and Martyr

Christian philosopher of Palestine (165), author of two Apologies in defense of the Faith, beheaded at Rome with his companions.

St. Nikephoros of Constantinople

Patriarch of Constantinople (828) who fearlessly opposed the iconoclasts and was exiled for fourteen years.

Sts. Lucillian, Claudius, Hypatios, Paul, Dionysios and the Virgin Paula

Aged pagan priest of Nicomedia who, after embracing Christ with four youths and the virgin Paula, was crucified (270).

St. Metrophanes, First Patriarch of Constantinople

First bishop of Constantinople (325), present in spirit at the First Ecumenical Council though too aged to attend.

St. Dorotheos of Tyre

Bishop of Tyre and confessor at the time of the First Ecumenical Council, martyred at one hundred and seven years under Julian.

St. Bessarion the Great

Egyptian desert father (4th c.), great in poverty and continual wandering for Christ's sake.

St. Theodotos of Ancyra

Tavern-keeper of Ancyra who sheltered Christians during persecution and was beheaded with the Seven Virgins (303).

Translation of the Relics of St. Theodore the General

Commemoration of the translation of the relics of St. Theodore Stratelates from Heraclea to his hometown Euchaita.

St. Cyril of Alexandria

Archbishop of Alexandria (444), Pillar of Orthodoxy, who at the Third Ecumenical Council defended the title Theotokos against Nestorius.

St. Timothy of Prusa

Bishop of Prusa in Bithynia and hieromartyr (361), beheaded under Julian the Apostate.

Holy Apostles Bartholomew and Barnabas

Two of the Twelve and Seventy, who preached the Gospel and were martyred — Bartholomew in Armenia and Barnabas in his homeland of Cyprus.

St. Onuphrios the Great

Anchorite of the Egyptian desert (4th c.) who lived sixty years alone, communing weekly by angelic ministry.

St. Aquilina of Byblos

Virgin-martyr of Byblos in Phoenicia (293), only twelve years old, beheaded for confessing Christ.

Holy Prophet Elisha

Disciple and successor of the Prophet Elias (9th c. BC), who received the double portion of the prophetic spirit.

Holy Prophet Amos

Shepherd-prophet of Tekoa (8th c. BC) called from the flock to prophesy against the kingdom of Israel.

St. Tychon, Bishop of Amathus in Cyprus

Bishop of Amathus on Cyprus (425), wonderworker who blessed an unfruitful vine which thereafter ripened miraculously on his feast.

Sts. Isaurus, Innocent, Felix and Companions

Six martyrs of Athens (283) beheaded for confessing Christ before the proconsul.

St. Leontios the Martyr

Roman general of Tripoli in Phoenicia (73) crowned with martyrdom after great tortures.

Holy Apostle Jude

One of the Twelve, brother of James and kinsman of the Lord, author of the General Epistle, martyred in Armenia (80).

St. Methodios of Patara

Bishop of Patara in Lycia (312) and hieromartyr, who wrote against Origen and was beheaded under Maximian.

St. Julian of Tarsus

Young noble of Tarsus in Cilicia (290) who, after long tortures, was sewn into a sack with serpents and cast into the sea.

St. Eusebios of Samosata

Bishop of Samosata in Syria (380) and tireless defender of the Nicene Faith against the Arians.

St. Agrippina of Rome

Virgin-martyr of Rome (262) whose relics were translated to Sicily where they wrought many miracles.

Nativity of St. John the Baptist

Birth of the Forerunner of Christ to the righteous Zacharias and Elizabeth in their old age.

St. Febronia of Nisibis

Virgin-martyr nun of the convent of Nisibis (304), beautiful in body and soul, beheaded for confessing Christ.

St. David of Thessaloniki

Holy ascetic (540) who lived three years in an almond tree near Thessaloniki, then in a hut, working many wonders.

St. Sampson the Hospitable

Physician of Rome who founded a great hospital at Constantinople (530), where he served the poor without payment.

Translation of the Relics of Sts. Cyrus and John

Commemoration of the translation of the relics of the Holy Unmercenaries Cyrus and John to Menouthi in Egypt.

Saints Peter and Paul

The chief Apostles: Peter the rock of confession, and Paul the apostle to the nations. Both were martyred in Rome under Nero (67).

Synaxis of the Twelve Holy Apostles

Joint commemoration of all the Twelve disciples of the Lord on the day after Sts. Peter and Paul.

Holy Unmercenaries Cosmas and Damian of Rome

Physicians of Rome (284) who healed both men and beasts without payment and were martyred under Carinus.

Deposition of the Robe of the Theotokos

Commemoration of the placing of the robe of the Theotokos in the Blachernae Church at Constantinople in the 5th century.

St. Hyacinth of Caesarea

Chamberlain of the Emperor Trajan (108) starved to death in prison for refusing to taste idol-meat.

St. Andrew, Archbishop of Crete

Bishop of Crete (740), author of the Great Canon sung in Great Lent.

St. Athanasios of Mount Athos

Founder of the Great Lavra on Mount Athos (1003), father of Athonite monasticism.

St. Sisoes the Great

Egyptian desert father (429), disciple of St. Anthony, known for his deep humility and unceasing weeping for his sins.

St. Kyriaki the Great-Martyr

Virgin-martyr (3rd c.) whose name means 'of the Lord'; she suffered many torments under Diocletian and reposed in prayer.

St. Prokopios of Caesarea

Soldier and martyr of Caesarea in Palestine (303), beheaded by his own mother's request after his conversion.

St. Pankratios of Taormina

Disciple of the Apostles, first bishop of Taormina in Sicily (1st c.), martyred there for the Gospel.

Forty-Five Holy Martyrs of Nicopolis

Forty-five Christians of Nicopolis in Armenia (319) burned alive for refusing to worship idols.

St. Euphemia the Great-Martyr

Virgin-martyr of Chalcedon (304) whose relics miraculously confirmed the Tome of the Fourth Ecumenical Council.

St. Paisios the Athonite

Modern elder of Mount Athos (1994), spiritual father of countless souls, glorified by the Church in 2015 for his prayer and discernment.

Synaxis of the Archangel Gabriel

Joint commemoration of the Archangel Gabriel, herald of the Annunciation and the Resurrection.

Holy Apostle Aquila

One of the Seventy, husband of Priscilla, fellow-laborer with St. Paul who hosted the Church in his house.

Sts. Kerykos and Julitta

Three-year-old child Kerykos and his mother Julitta, martyred at Tarsus (305) for confessing Christ before the governor.

Holy Fathers of the Fourth Ecumenical Council

Commemoration of the 630 holy Fathers gathered at Chalcedon (451) who confessed Christ in two natures, divine and human.

St. Marina the Great-Martyr

Virgin-martyr of Antioch in Pisidia (4th c.) who triumphed over the evil one by the Sign of the Cross.

St. Emilian of Silistria

Slave of Silistria on the Danube (363) who smashed the city's idols and was burned alive under Julian.

St. Macrina, Sister of St. Basil the Great

Eldest sister of Sts. Basil and Gregory of Nyssa (380), monastic foundress who guided their family to sanctity.

Prophet Elias the Tishbite

Zealous prophet of the Old Covenant who was taken up into heaven in a chariot of fire and shall return as forerunner of the Lord's Second Coming.

St. Symeon the Fool-for-Christ

Holy fool of Emesa (590), companion of St. John, who feigned madness for Christ's sake to save many secretly.

St. Mary Magdalene, Equal-to-the-Apostles

First witness of the Resurrection and Apostle to the Apostles; she preached the Gospel from Jerusalem to Rome.

St. Phocas the Gardener of Sinope

Gardener of Sinope (320) who, hosting his executioners unawares, dug his own grave and then revealed himself for martyrdom.

St. Christina the Great-Martyr

Daughter of a Roman governor (3rd c.) who broke her father's idols and confessed Christ unto death.

Dormition of St. Anna

The righteous Anna, mother of the Most Holy Theotokos and grandmother of our Lord, who in old age gave birth to the Virgin Mary.

St. Paraskevi of Rome

Virgin-martyr (2nd c.) who preached Christ throughout Rome, restored sight to the blind emperor Antoninus, and was finally crowned with martyrdom.

St. Panteleimon the Great-Martyr and Healer

Unmercenary physician of Nicomedia (305), who healed without payment and was crowned with martyrdom under Maximian.

Holy Apostles and Deacons Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon and Parmenas

Four of the seven first deacons chosen by the Apostles in Jerusalem (1st c.), evangelists and martyrs.

St. Kallinikos of Cilicia

Christian of Cilicia (250) who, after wandering through pagan cities preaching Christ, was crowned with martyrdom by fire.

Holy Apostles Silas, Silouan, Crescens, Epenetos and Andronikos

Five of the Seventy Apostles, fellow-laborers of Sts. Peter and Paul, who suffered for the Gospel.

St. Eudokimos the Righteous

Pious Cappadocian nobleman (840) who in his short life secretly served the poor and reposed in peace.

Procession of the Precious Cross / Holy Seven Maccabees

Beginning of the Dormition Fast: the Cross is brought forth for veneration, and the seven Maccabean brothers, their mother Solomonia and the elder Eleazar are honored.

Translation of the Relics of the First Martyr Stephen

Commemoration of the translation of the relics of the Protomartyr Stephen from Jerusalem to Constantinople (428).

Sts. Isaac, Dalmatos and Faustos

Three abbots of the Dalmatos Monastery in Constantinople (5th c.) who defended the Orthodox Faith with prayer and fasting.

Holy Seven Youths of Ephesus

Seven young men of Ephesus (250) who fled the persecution of Decius into a cave and slept there nearly two hundred years, awaking to confirm the resurrection.

Forefeast of the Transfiguration

Eve of the Great Feast of the Transfiguration, on which the Church sings of the light of Tabor.

Transfiguration of Christ

On Mount Tabor Christ revealed His divine glory to Peter, James and John, foreshadowing the glory of His Resurrection and ours.

St. Domitios of Persia

Persian monk (363) who fled to a cave near Cyrrhus and was crushed by Julian the Apostate's soldiers while at prayer.

St. Emilian, Bishop of Cyzicus

Bishop of Cyzicus and confessor (820) for the holy icons under Leo the Armenian.

Holy Apostle Matthias

The Apostle chosen by lot to replace Judas; preached in Ethiopia and was crucified in Jerusalem (63).

St. Laurence the Archdeacon of Rome

Archdeacon of Rome (258) roasted on a gridiron for distributing the church treasury to the poor.

St. Euplos the Deacon

Deacon of Catania in Sicily (304) who openly read the Gospel before the prefect and was beheaded.

Sts. Photios and Anikitos

Two soldier-martyrs of Nicomedia (305), uncle and nephew, who openly mocked the persecutor Diocletian and were burned alive.

Translation of the Relics of St. Maximos the Confessor

Translation of the relics of St. Maximos the Confessor (662) to his monastery in Constantinople.

Forefeast of the Dormition of the Theotokos

Final day of the Dormition Fast and eve of the Great Feast, on which the Church begins to sing of the Theotokos' translation.

Dormition of the Theotokos

The falling-asleep of the Most Holy Mother of God, who was translated by her Son to the heavenly Kingdom, and is the joy of all the saints.

Translation of the Image-Not-Made-by-Hands

Translation of the Holy Napkin bearing the image of Christ from Edessa to Constantinople (944).

St. Myron the Wonderworker

Bishop of Crete (350) who divided the Triethon River with his staff to allow the harvest to pass.

Sts. Floros and Lavros

Twin stonemasons of Illyria (2nd c.) who, having built a church on a pagan temple, were thrown into a well alive.

St. Andrew the General

Roman tribune (305) baptized with 2,593 of his soldiers, all slain together by Maximian on the borders of Cilicia.

Holy Prophet Samuel

Last of the Judges of Israel and first of the Prophets (11th c. BC), who anointed Saul and David as kings.

Holy Apostle Thaddaeus

One of the Seventy, sent by St. Thomas to King Abgar of Edessa, where he preached the Gospel and reposed in peace.

St. Agathonikos the Martyr

Roman Christian (305) who turned many to Christ in Nicomedia and was beheaded with his companions in Thrace.

Leavetaking of the Dormition

Final day of the celebration of the Dormition of the Theotokos.

St. Kosmas Aitolos, Equal-to-the-Apostles

Athonite hieromonk (1779) who traveled all Greece and Albania reawakening the people to the Faith and founding schools; martyred by the Turks.

Holy Apostle Titus

Disciple of St. Paul, first bishop of Crete and recipient of his Epistle (1st c.).

Sts. Adrian and Natalia

Married couple of Nicomedia (305): Adrian a young pagan officer converted by the constancy of the martyrs, Natalia his Christian wife who upheld him in his sufferings.

St. Fanourios the Newly Revealed

Great-martyr whose icon was discovered on Rhodes, revealing both his name and his sufferings. Pilgrims bring a 'fanouropita' loaf to give thanks for things lost and found.

St. Moses the Ethiopian

Robber-chief of Egypt (400) who, after deep repentance, became a great desert father in Scetis and was martyred by raiders.

Beheading of St. John the Baptist

Commemoration of the martyrdom of the Forerunner at the hands of Herod. A strict fast is observed.

St. Alexander of Constantinople

Patriarch of Constantinople (340) who by prayer overcame the heresiarch Arius on the eve of his triumphal entry into the Church.

Deposition of the Sash of the Theotokos

Commemoration of the placing of the precious sash of the Theotokos in the Chalkoprateia Church at Constantinople in the 5th century.

Ecclesiastical New Year

The Indiction — the beginning of the Church's liturgical year, when we pray for a year of God's blessings and the protection of creation.

St. Mamas of Caesarea

Shepherd-martyr of Cappadocia (275) who lived in the mountains with wild animals and was crowned with martyrdom under Aurelian.

St. Anthimos of Nicomedia

Bishop of Nicomedia and hieromartyr (302) who from hiding strengthened his flock by letters during the persecution of Diocletian.

St. Babylas of Antioch

Patriarch of Antioch (251) who barred the murderous emperor Numerian from entering the church, and was martyred under Decius.

Holy Prophet Zacharias and the Righteous Elizabeth

Parents of St. John the Baptist; Zacharias was slain in the Temple by Herod's men.

Commemoration of the Miracle at Chonae

Commemoration of the miracle worked by the Archangel Michael at Chonae in Phrygia (1st c.), when he saved a church from being washed away.

Forefeast of the Nativity of the Theotokos

Eve of the Great Feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos, beginning the first festal cycle of the Church year.

Nativity of the Theotokos

The birth of the Virgin Mary to the righteous Joachim and Anna, which begins the unfolding of the mystery of our salvation.

Sts. Joachim and Anna, Parents of the Theotokos

Joint commemoration on the day after the Nativity of the Theotokos of her righteous parents, who in old age were granted the Virgin Mary.

Sts. Menodora, Metrodora and Nymphodora

Three sister-virgin-martyrs of Bithynia (305) tortured and slain together for confessing Christ.

St. Theodora of Alexandria

Penitent of Alexandria (490) who in male disguise entered a monastery to atone for adultery and reposed there in deep humility.

Leavetaking of the Nativity of the Theotokos

Final day of the celebration of the Nativity of the Theotokos.

Commemoration of the Consecration of the Church of the Resurrection

Commemoration of the dedication of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem (335) by St. Constantine.

Exaltation of the Holy Cross

The finding of the True Cross by St. Helen and its solemn exaltation in Jerusalem; the Cross is the boast of Christians and the weapon of peace.

St. Nikitas the Great-Martyr

Goth of Cappadocia (372) baptized by Bishop Theophilus, burned alive for confessing Christ.

Memory of the Miracle of St. Euphemia

Commemoration of the miracle by which the relics of St. Euphemia confirmed the Tome of the Fourth Ecumenical Council at Chalcedon.

Saints Sophia, Faith, Hope and Love

The widow Sophia and her three daughters, who confessed Christ unto death at Rome in the 2nd century.

St. Eumenios of Gortyna

Bishop of Gortyna in Crete (7th c.), wonderworker who fed the poor and healed the sick.

Sts. Trophimos, Sabbatios and Dorymedon

Three Christians of Antioch in Pisidia (276) tortured and slain together under Probus.

St. Eustathios the Great-Martyr and his Family

Roman general (118) converted by a vision of Christ between the antlers of a stag; martyred with his wife Theopisti and their sons Agapios and Theopistos in a brazen ox.

Leavetaking of the Exaltation of the Cross

Final day of the celebration of the Exaltation of the Cross.

St. Phocas, Bishop of Sinope

Bishop of Sinope on the Black Sea (117), martyred by being shut in a hot bath until he gave up the spirit.

Conception of St. John the Baptist

Commemoration of the conception of the Forerunner by the righteous Elizabeth in her old age.

St. Thekla, Protomartyress and Equal-to-the-Apostles

First woman martyr (1st c.), disciple of St. Paul at Iconium, preserved through many tortures and reposing at Seleucia.

St. Euphrosyne of Alexandria

Virgin of Alexandria (470) who in male disguise entered a monastery and lived thirty-eight years unrecognized until her death.

Repose of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist John

Commemoration of the falling-asleep of St. John the Theologian at Ephesus, the only Apostle who reposed in peace.

Sts. Kallistratos and his Forty-Nine Companions

Roman soldier of the time of Diocletian who, with his forty-nine companions, was beheaded for confessing Christ.

St. Chariton the Confessor

Anchorite of Palestine (350), founder of three lavras in the Judean desert.

St. Cyriacos the Anchorite

Hermit of Palestine (557) who lived 109 years in great asceticism and was renowned for unceasing prayer and meekness.

St. Gregory the Illuminator of Armenia

Apostle of Armenia (335) who converted King Tiridates and the whole nation to Christ.

Protection of the Most Holy Theotokos

The vision of St. Andrew the Fool-for-Christ at Blachernae (10th c.), where the Theotokos was seen spreading her veil over the faithful.

Sts. Cyprian and Justina

Sorcerer of Antioch (304) converted by the prayers of the virgin Justina, both martyred together for confessing Christ.

St. Dionysios the Areopagite

Athenian senator converted by St. Paul on the Areopagus (96), first bishop of Athens, martyred at Paris.

St. Hierotheos, Bishop of Athens

Disciple of St. Dionysios the Areopagite (1st c.), bishop of Athens after his teacher.

St. Charitina the Martyr

Orphan girl of Corycus in Cilicia (304) crowned with martyrdom after great tortures.

Holy Apostle Thomas

One of the Twelve, the 'Twin', who confessed 'My Lord and my God,' preached in India and was martyred at Mylapore.

Sts. Sergios and Bacchos

Two officers of the imperial palace at Rome (296) martyred together in Syria for confessing Christ.

St. Pelagia the Penitent

Famous actress of Antioch (457) converted by the preaching of Bishop Nonnus, who lived hidden as a male hermit on the Mount of Olives.

Holy Apostle James, son of Alphaeus

One of the Twelve, brother of the Evangelist Matthew, who preached in Eleutheropolis and was crucified there.

Sts. Eulampios and Eulampia

Brother and sister of Nicomedia (303), martyred together with two hundred others after the brother converted his sister to a confession of Christ.

Holy Apostle Philip the Deacon

One of the seven deacons of Jerusalem (1st c.), who baptized the Ethiopian eunuch and preached the Gospel in Samaria and Caesarea.

Sts. Prov, Tarakhos and Andronikos

Three companions of Cilicia (304) martyred together for refusing to offer sacrifice.

Sts. Carpos, Papylos and Agathonike

Bishop Carpos of Thyateira, deacon Papylos and the virgin Agathonike (251), martyred together at Pergamon under Decius.

Sts. Nazarios, Gervasios, Protasios and Celsios

Four companion-martyrs of Milan (1st c.), whose relics were uncovered by St. Ambrose.

St. Loukianos of Antioch

Priest and martyr of Antioch (312), great teacher of scripture, who was starved to death in prison.

St. Longinos the Centurion

Roman centurion at the Cross who, seeing the wonders, confessed Christ as the Son of God; later martyred in Cappadocia.

Holy Prophet Hosea

First of the Twelve Minor Prophets (8th c. BC), who by his marriage to Gomer foreshadowed God's faithful love for an unfaithful Israel.

Apostle and Evangelist Luke

Physician of Antioch, companion of the Apostle Paul, evangelist and the first iconographer, who painted the icon of the Theotokos.

Holy Prophet Joel

One of the Twelve Minor Prophets (9th c. BC), who foretold the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon all flesh.

St. Artemios the Great-Martyr

Imperial general of Egypt (362), tortured and beheaded by Julian the Apostate for confessing Christ.

St. Hilarion the Great

Hermit of Palestine (371), pupil of St. Anthony the Great and father of Palestinian monasticism.

St. Abercios of Hieropolis

Bishop of Hieropolis in Phrygia (167), wonderworker and apologist, whose stone inscription is the most ancient Christian epitaph.

St. James, Brother of the Lord

First bishop of Jerusalem (62), author of the Divine Liturgy bearing his name, thrown from the pinnacle of the Temple by the Jews.

St. Arethas and his Companions

Aged ruler of Najran in Yemen (523) beheaded with thousands of fellow Christians by the Jewish king Dunaan.

Sts. Markianos and Martyrios the Notaries

Notaries of the Patriarch of Constantinople (355) who refused to subscribe to the Arian decrees and were beheaded.

St. Demetrios the Myrrh-Streamer

Great-martyr of Thessaloniki (306), beloved patron of the city, from whose relics flows fragrant myrrh.

St. Nestor of Thessaloniki

Young friend of St. Demetrios (306) who, blessed by him, overthrew the giant Lyaios in the arena and was then beheaded.

Sts. Terentios and Neonilla and their children

Married couple of Syria (3rd c.) with their seven children, all tortured and beheaded together for confessing Christ.

St. Anastasia of Rome

Roman virgin-martyr (256) trained from infancy in piety by St. Sophia, tortured and beheaded under Decius.

Sts. Zenobios and Zenobia

Brother and sister of Aigai in Cilicia (285), distinguished physicians and almoners, beheaded together for confessing Christ.

Holy Apostles Stachys, Amplias, Urban, Narcissus, Apelles and Aristobulus

Six of the Seventy Apostles, fellow-laborers of St. Andrew the First-Called, who shepherded the early churches.

Holy Unmercenaries Cosmas and Damian of Asia

Brother-physicians of Asia Minor (3rd c.) who healed without payment and reposed in peace.

Sts. Akindynos, Pegasios, Aphthonios, Elpidophoros and Anempodistos

Five Christians of Persia (345) martyred under King Shapur II by fire and beheading.

Sts. Akepsimas, Joseph and Aithalas

Bishop, priest and deacon of Persia (376) tortured and slain together under King Shapur II.

St. Joannikios the Great

Athonite ascetic and wonderworker (846) who lived seventy years on Mount Olympus in unceasing prayer.

Sts. Galaktion and Episteme

Married couple of Emesa (253) who, by mutual consent, embraced monasticism and were both crowned with martyrdom under Decius.

St. Paul the Confessor of Constantinople

Archbishop of Constantinople (350), four times exiled by the Arians, finally strangled with his omophorion at his altar.

Holy Thirty-Three Martyrs of Melitene

Thirty-three soldiers of Melitene in Armenia (298) crowned with martyrdom together under Diocletian.

Synaxis of Archangels Michael and Gabriel

The chief commanders of the heavenly hosts, who serve before God's throne and minister to His people.

St. Nektarios of Aegina

Metropolitan of Pentapolis (1920), founder of the convent on Aegina, slandered and humiliated in life, glorified after his repose by countless miracles of healing.

Holy Apostles Olympas, Rodion, Sosipater, Erastos, Quartus and Tertios

Six of the Seventy Apostles mentioned in the Epistles of St. Paul, who shepherded the early churches.

Sts. Menas, Victor and Vincent

Three soldier-martyrs of different lands (3rd–4th c.) honored together for their bold confession of Christ.

St. John the Merciful

Patriarch of Alexandria (620) whose unceasing almsgiving to the poor earned him the name 'the Merciful'.

St. John Chrysostom

Commemoration of the repose of St. John Chrysostom at Comana (407), in addition to his feast on January 27.

Holy Apostle Philip

One of the Twelve, who preached the Gospel in Phrygia and was crucified at Hierapolis (1st c.); the eve of the Nativity Fast.

Sts. Gourias, Samonas and Abibos of Edessa

Three confessors of Edessa (4th c.) who suffered for Christ — Gourias and Samonas under Diocletian, Abibos the deacon under Licinius.

Holy Apostle and Evangelist Matthew

Tax-collector called by Christ and author of the first Gospel, who preached in Ethiopia and was martyred there.

St. Gregory the Wonderworker of Neocaesarea

Bishop of Neocaesarea (270), pupil of Origen, who by his prayers moved a mountain and emptied his city of pagans.

Sts. Plato and Romanos

Plato of Ancyra (306) tortured for refusing to offer sacrifice; Romanos the Melodist (490), the great hymnographer of Constantinople.

Holy Prophet Obadiah

One of the Twelve Minor Prophets (9th c. BC), who prophesied against Edom and the salvation that would come from Sion.

Forefeast of the Entry of the Theotokos

Eve of the feast of the Entry of the Theotokos into the Temple.

Entry of the Theotokos into the Temple

When she was three years old, the Virgin Mary was presented in the Temple by her parents to be prepared as the living Temple of God.

Holy Apostles Philemon, Archippos and Apphia

Disciples of St. Paul of Colossae (1st c.), martyred together for confessing Christ during a pagan festival.

St. Amphilochios of Iconium

Bishop of Iconium (394), friend of St. Basil the Great and zealous defender of the Faith.

St. Mercurios and St. Augusta the Empress

Soldier-martyr Mercurios of Caesarea (259) who slew Julian the Apostate by the prayers of St. Basil; and Augusta the Empress, wife of Maximian, who confessed Christ and was martyred.

St. Katherine the Great-Martyr

Virgin of Alexandria (305), confounder of the pagan philosophers, crowned with martyrdom under Maxentius. Her relics rest at the monastery on Mt. Sinai.

St. Stylianos of Paphlagonia

Hermit who from childhood was filled with grace and is venerated as the protector of children.

St. James the Persian

Persian nobleman (421) who, having denied Christ to keep favor with the king, repented and was cut to pieces joint by joint for his confession.

St. Stephen the New

Athonite confessor (767) tortured and slain by Constantine Copronymus for venerating the holy icons.

St. Paramonos and his 370 Companions

Christian of Bithynia (250) who openly rebuked the persecutor and was beheaded with 370 fellow believers under Decius.

St. Andrew the First-Called

The first of the Apostles called by Christ, brother of Peter, evangelist of Scythia, Greece and Byzantium, crucified on an X-shaped cross at Patras.

Holy Prophet Nahum

One of the Twelve Minor Prophets (7th c. BC), who prophesied the fall of Nineveh.

Holy Prophet Habakkuk

One of the Twelve Minor Prophets (6th c. BC), whose canticle 'O Lord, I have heard Thy hearing' is sung in the Church.

Holy Prophet Zephaniah

One of the Twelve Minor Prophets (7th c. BC), who proclaimed the Day of the Lord and the joy of the daughter of Sion.

St. Barbara the Great-Martyr

Virgin-martyr (306) imprisoned in a tower by her pagan father, who beheaded her with his own hand and was instantly struck dead by lightning.

St. Sabbas the Sanctified

Founder of the Great Lavra in Palestine (532), one of the fathers of Palestinian monasticism, organizer of liturgical typikon.

St. Nicholas the Wonderworker

Archbishop of Myra in Lycia (343), defender of Orthodoxy at the First Ecumenical Council, secret almsgiver, and wonderworker beloved across the world.

St. Ambrose of Milan

Bishop of Milan (397) who catechized St. Augustine and rebuked the Emperor Theodosius for the massacre at Thessaloniki.

St. Patapios

Egyptian ascetic (7th c.) who, after years in the desert, came to Constantinople and worked many miracles of healing.

Conception of the Most Holy Theotokos

Commemoration of the conception of the Mother of God by the righteous Anna in her old age.

Sts. Menas, Hermogenes and Eugraphos

Three companion-martyrs of Alexandria (313) under Maximinus, Menas the eloquent confessor, Hermogenes the eparch converted by him, and the scribe Eugraphos.

St. Daniel the Stylite

Hesychast (493) who lived thirty-three years on a pillar near Constantinople, counselor of emperors and patriarchs.

St. Spyridon the Wonderworker

Shepherd-bishop of Trimythous in Cyprus (348), Father of the First Ecumenical Council, who illustrated the Holy Trinity by holding a tile from which fire, water and clay separated. His incorrupt relics rest in Corfu.

Sts. Eustratios, Auxentios, Eugenios, Mardarios and Orestes

Five companions of Armenia (296), high-ranking officers and a priest, all martyred together under Diocletian.

Sts. Thyrsos, Leucius and Callinicos

Three companion-martyrs of Bithynia (250), tortured together under Decius.

St. Eleftherios the Hieromartyr

Bishop of Illyricum and martyr (126), whose name means 'free'; he liberated many from idolatry by his preaching.

Holy Prophet Haggai

One of the Twelve Minor Prophets (6th c. BC), who roused the people to rebuild the Temple after the Babylonian captivity.

Holy Prophet Daniel and the Three Holy Youths

The Prophet Daniel of Babylon and the three youths Ananias, Azarias and Misael, preserved in the fiery furnace (6th c. BC).

St. Sebastian the Martyr and his Companions

Roman officer (287) shot full of arrows and finally beaten to death for confessing Christ; his companions martyred with him.

St. Boniface the Martyr of Tarsus

Servant of the noblewoman Aglaida of Rome (290) sent to recover the relics of martyrs in Tarsus, who himself confessed Christ and was beheaded.

St. Ignatius the God-Bearer

Bishop of Antioch (107), disciple of the Apostle John, who was carried to Rome in chains to be devoured by wild beasts, giving us seven epistles full of Christ.

St. Juliana of Nicomedia

Virgin-martyr of Nicomedia (304) who refused to marry the pagan prefect and was tortured and beheaded for confessing Christ.

St. Anastasia the Deliverer-from-Potions

Roman virgin-martyr (304) who ministered to imprisoned Christians and is invoked against poisons.

Holy Ten Martyrs of Crete

Ten Christians of Crete (250) beheaded together under Decius for confessing Christ.

Eve of the Nativity / St. Eugenia of Rome

The Royal Hours and strict fast of the Eve of the Nativity, on which is also kept the memory of St. Eugenia of Rome (262), virgin-martyr.

Nativity of Christ

The Word of God was born in the flesh of the Virgin Mary in Bethlehem, that we who were earthly might become heavenly.

Synaxis of the Most Holy Theotokos

Joint commemoration on the day after the Nativity of the Theotokos, who gave flesh to the Word of God.

St. Stephen the Protomartyr and Archdeacon

First martyr of the Church (34), archdeacon of Jerusalem, stoned to death while praying for his persecutors.

Twenty Thousand Holy Martyrs of Nicomedia

The faithful burned alive in the cathedral of Nicomedia (302) on the Nativity itself by the order of Maximian.

Fourteen Thousand Holy Innocents Slain by Herod

The infants of Bethlehem and its environs slain by King Herod (1st c.) in his attempt to kill the newborn Christ.

St. Anysia of Thessaloniki

Virgin-martyr of Thessaloniki (304) slain by a soldier for refusing to take part in a pagan sacrifice.

St. Melania the Younger of Rome

Noble Roman matron (439) who with her husband Pinian gave away their vast wealth and embraced monasticism in Jerusalem.