On the 25th of December, Our Holy Orthodox Church Commemorates the Holy Nativity of Our Lord and God and Savior JESUS CHRIST.

My beloved brothers and sisters in Christ Our Only True Lord, God and Savior,

CHRIST IS IN OUR MIDST! HE WAS, IS, AND SHALL EVER BE.

ON THE 25TH OF DECEMBER, OUR HOLY ORTHODOX CHURCH COMMEMORATES
THE HOLY NATIVITY OF OUR LORD AND GOD AND SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST.

The Holy Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord is celebrated in its kontakion hymn, composed by Saint Romanos the Melodist, through the blessing and aid of the Virgin itself: "Today the Virgin giveth birth to Him Who is Supra-essential; and the earth presenteth a cave to Him Who is Unapproachable. Angels with shepherds give glory; with a star, the Magi journey; for our sakes a young Child is born, Who is Pre-eternal God." "What Mysteries beyond mind and speech! God, in His compassion, is born on earth, putting on the form of a servant that He may snatch from servitude to the enemy those who with fervent love cry out: ‘Blessed art Thou, O Savior, Who lovest mankind."

THE PREACHING OF THE PROPHETS HAS REACHED ITS FULFILLMENT

Saint Ancrew of Crete comments, "Of thee, O Mary, all interpreters of the Spirit sang." Nowhere in the Divinely inspired Scripture can one look without seeing some allusion to her, "Rejoice, Mediatress of the law and of grace, Seal of the Old and New Testaments, clear fulfillment of the whole of prophecy, of the Truth of Scripture inspired by God, the living and Most Pure Book of God and the Logos/Word in which, without voice or writing, the Writer Himself, God and Logos/Word, is everyday read." Saint Gregory Palamas thought that "All Divinely inspired Scripture was written because of the Virgin who brought forth God Incarnate."

Saint John of Damascus interprets the BURNING BUSH [Exodus 3:1-8] AS AN IMAGE OF THE VIRGIN BIRTH WHEN HE CHANTS: "Plainly foreshadowed by the burning bush that WAS NOT CONSUMED [Exodos 3:2], a hallowed womb has borne the Logos/Word. God is mingled with the form of mortal men, and so looses the unhappy womb of Eve from the bitter curse of old" [Genesis 3:16]. And, "That which was revealed to Moses in the bush, we see accomplished here in a strange manner. The Virgin bore Fire within her, yet was not consumed, when she gave birth to the Benefactor Who brings us Light."

Saint Andrew of Crete also chants elsewhere that "as Thou art one of the Trinity, Thou wast seen to become flesh, not changing Thine Essence, O Lord. Neither didst, Thou burn the incorrupt womb of her that bore Thee, since Thou art wholly God and Fire."

The burning bush was traditionally interpreted as a type of the Virgin. Saint Gregory of Nyssa is insistent on the virginitas in partu. From the image of the burning bush seen by Moses in Sinai, "We also learn the Mystery of the Virgin: THE LIGHT OF DIVINITY, which through birth shone from her into human life, did not wither the flower of virginity, just as the burning bush was not consumed."

THE PROPHECY OF ISAIAH

"Isaiah, as he watched by night, beheld the Light that knows no evening, the Light of Thy Theophany, O Christ, that came to pass from tender love for us, and he cries aloud, ‘Behold, the Virgin shall conceive in the womb’ [Isaiah 7:14], and shall bear the incarnate Logos, and all those on earth shall rejoice exceedingly.’ Saint Kosmas the Poet also chants of this Virgin: "Lo, the Virgin, as it was said in the day of old [Isaiah 7:14], has conceived in her womb and brought forth God made Man, and she has remained a virgin. Reconciled to God through her, let us sinners sing her praises, for she is verily the Theotokos."

MARY AS PROPHETESS

In another prophecy, Isaiah states: "And I went in to the prophetess and she conceived, and bore a son. And the Lord said to me, ‘Call His name, "Spoil quickly, plunder speedily. For before the Child shall know His father or His mother, He shall take the power of Damascus and the spoils of Samaria before the king of the Assyrians" [Isaiah 8:3-4]. The Persian sage, monk and bishop, Saint Aphrahat {4th Century), speaks of Mary as a "Prophetess." Saint Basil, too, consider Mary, a "Prophetess," because of the Magnificat [Luke 1:46-55] that she uttered.

ROD OF THE ROOT OF JESSE

Here again, Saint Kosmas composes hymns by weaving in Old Testament prophecies, showing the Virgin as the rod and the overshadowed mountain: "Rod of the root of Jesse [Isaiah 11:1] , and flower that blossomed from his stem, O Christ, Thou hast sprung from the Virgin. From the mountain overshadowed by the forest Thou hast come [Habbakuk 3:3] , made flesh from her that knew not wedlock, O God, Who art not formed from matter. Saint Andrew also speaks of the Virgin as the rod and Christ as the Flower: "Let Jesse rejoice and let David dance, for behold the Virgin, the rod planted by God hath blossomed forth the Flower, even the Everlasting Christ."

CREATION IS RENEWED AND LED TO ITS FORMER BEAUTY

Saint Kyril of Alexandria writes that "She bore Emmanuel, Who is truly God. "And the Logos/Word became flesh" [John 1:14] and was born according to the flesh so that we might be found to be brothers of Him Who is above all creation." He also writes in another letter about Him Who was ineffably begotten of the Father before all ages and finally born as man from a woman, that He is one person and not two."
Orthodox theology of the Incarnation is clear in the Church’s hymnology. Saint Joseph the Hymnographer chants: "The Son of the Father…has appeared to us…to give light to those in darkness and to gather the dispersed. Therefore, the far-famed Theotokos do we magnify. This hymnographer also writes that Mary Theotokos ushered in our renewal , thus: "Like a lily, like a fragrant rose, like a divine scent ded the All-Divine Logos find thee, O All-Pure Bride of God; and He made His abode within thy womb, making fragrant our nature which had been full of fetor through sin." Thus, "in the fulness of time, He raised up man who of old had grievously fallen, leading him up to his pristine beauty." (Source: The Great Synaxaristes of the Orthodox Church)

(To be continued)

______________
"Glory Be To GOD
For
All Things!"
– Saint John Chrysostomos
+ + +

With sincere agape in His Divine and Glorious Diakonia (Ministry),
The sinner and unworthy servant of God
+ Father George

THE HOLY HIEROMARTYR IGNATIOS OF ANTIOCH (Part II)

My beloved brothers and sisters in Christ Our Only True Lord, God, and Savior,

CHRIST IS IN OUR MIDST! HE WAS, IS, AND EVER SHALL BE.

THE HOLY HIEROMARTYR IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH (Part II)

When Saint Ignatios heard the judgment against him, he gave thanks with a great voice to the Lord, saying, "I thank Thee, O Lord and Master, that Thou hast vouchsafed me the honor of perfecting my love toward Thee, and has counted me worthy to be bound with iron chains as was Thine Apostle Paul." With a gladdened heart, he thereupon invested himself with the chains, which he called his spiritual pearls. The brutal cruelty of the soldiers caused them to hurry on their way so that they might dispatch Saint Ignatios as food for the bloodthirsty beasts of the arena. Some of the Saint’s Christian friends from Antioch went directly to Rome, awaiting his arrival. Saint Ignatios was accompanied for most of the way by Deacon Philo and by Agathopous.

When they put in at the harbor of the Romans, the unholy public games and sports were drawing to a close. The soldiers were angry at the slow pace of conveying their prisoner; but the bishop gladly obeyed them as they hurried him forward. As he approached, the faithful ran out to meet him, rejoicing at his arrival in their midst. At the same time, their meeting was bittersweet, for they were to lose him very soon. Thereafter, he was promptly led away to the amphitheater.

The soldiers immediately remanded their prisoner to the city Prefect. The following day, a great pagan holiday, the people assembled from all over. They converged in the capital city not only for the festival but also for a look at the holy man whose fame had spread abroad in every place. All knew the Christian Archbishop of Antioch was to be shown and devoured by wild beasts. The crowds that attended to witness the spectacle were without number. The holy man of God was then escorted into the theater. The Saint then turned without hesitation to the multitude of spectators. Possessed of a valiant and fearless mind, he addressed them: "Men of Rome, witnesses of my contest: you ought to know that neither have I committed a criminal act, nor have I transgressed in anything that is deserving of death. I, however, receive this sentence today voluntarily, gladly, and with rejoicing, that I might attain to the True God for Whom I thirst and yearn to enjoy; inasmuch as I am God’s wheat, ground fine by the teeth of wild beasts that I might become pure and unblemished bread."

After the Saint addressed the crowd, the executioners released the lions. Even as Saint Ignatios had desired and entreated God, the lions caught sight of him, sprang upon him, and devoured the bishop. The creatures left only his large bones; therefore the bellies of the wild animals became his tomb. After the crowds dispersed from the theater and departed, the Christians remained behind so that they might take up and bury the holy man’s relics with honor and reverence. The holy relics were interred in a distinguished place on the 20th of December. With the passage of time, the holy relics of Saint Ignatios were returned to Antioch. In the Synaxristes of the Russians, from the codices at the Vatican Library in observing that the bishop’s heart remained unharmed, cut open that organ. Then–O the Wonder! —they found an inscription of gold written within, showing the name "JESUS CHRIST." Thus, we see that the Saint was true to the name as God-bearer, in both the passive and active sense. The translation of the holy relics of Saint Ignatios is commemorated by the Holy Orthodox Church on the 29th of January. He was buried in Daphne, and later, having been wrapped in linen, removed to Antioch by Emperor Theodosius II (408-450 A.D.). Thus, an inestimable treasure was left to the Holy Church. When the Muslims captured the city of Antioch in 637 A.D., the holy relics of Saint Ignatios were moved to several places for safekeeping.

It is remarked upon that, at his martyric repose, the faithful wept at their loss of him. Their wailing was inconsolable as they devoted their time about his tomb, keeping vigil and chanting continually at the site. Now Saint Ignatios appeared to them in a vision. He embraced them and encouraged them, saying, "Cease lamenting, but rather rejoice." In this manner, he softened their pain and suffering. On other occasions, the faithful beheld him perspiring, even as he had been undergoing the struggle of his martyric contest, and offering prayer for the salvation of the city for all the Christians.

This was the divine love of our God-bearing Father Ignatios, which he demonstrated in both word and deed. Saint Irenaeus (130-200 A.D.) also bears early witness to Saint Ignatios’ importance as an Apostolic Father, citing him in many instances in his own work. Saint Irenaeus also knew of Saint Ignatius’ Martyrdom, and he mentions his Epistles in the following words: "As one of our people said, when Ignatios was condemned to the beasts on account of his testimony unto God, he said, ‘I am God’s wheat, and by the teeth of wild beasts am I ground, that I may be found pure bread." Eusebius adds that Saint Ignatius "was succeeded by Heros in the Episcopacy of the Church of Antioch."

After the Saint’s Martyrdom, Emperor Trajan received a report concerning the God-bearer Ignatios’ virtues and his valiant stance while enduring the martyric contest. He was told how the Saint stood with a gladsome and joyous countenance and gave thanks to the Emperor for sentencing him to become prey for the wild beasts. Trajan came to revere Saint Ignatios and all the Christians. He was informed that they were temperate and kept themselves from shameless acts. He heard how they prayed throughout the night and performed praiseworthy deeds of mercy. As they posed no threat to the stability of the realm. Trajan began to feel remorse for his prior treatment of the Christian people; therefore, he decided that they should be left in peace. He enacted a law and put it in writing to all his Governors and nobles that the Christians were no longer to be put to death. Thus, not only during the Saint’s lifetime was he of service to the flock but even in his death; for there was ushered in a period of tranquility. (Source: The Great Synaxaristes of the Orthodox Church)

______________
"Glory Be To GOD
For
All Things!"
– Saint John Chrysostomos
+ + +

With sincere agape in His Divine and Glorious Diakonia (Ministry),
The sinner and unworthy servant of God
+ Father George

On the 20th of December, Our Holy Orthodox Church Commemorates the holy Hieromartyr IGNATIOS the God-bearer

My beloved brothers and sisters in Christ Our Only True Lord, God, and Savior,

CHRIST IS IN OUR MIDST! HE WAS, IS, AND EVER SHALL BE.

On the 20th of December, Our Holy Orthodox Church Commemorates
the holy HIeromartyr IGNATIOS the God-bearer.

Apolytikion (Dismissal) Hymn. Fourth Tone

As a sharer of the ways and a successor to the throne of the Apostles,
O inspired of God, thou fondest discipline to be a means of ascent to
divine vision. Wherefore, having rightly divided the word of truth,
thou didst also contest for the Faith even unto blood, O Hieromartyr
Ignatius. Intercede with Christ our God that our souls be saved.

Kontakion Hymn of the Saint. Third Tone

The divine and brilliant day of thine illustrious contests doth proclaim
to all mankind Him that was born of a Virgin for it was for Him that thou
didst thirst to delight in , and didst haste to be devoured by beasts in
thy longing. Hence, O glorious Ignatius, the name God-bearer was
rightly given to thee.
+



Saint Ignatius, our divine and God-bearing father, was Bishop of Antioch during the reign of the pagan Emperor Trajan (98-117 A.D.). He was known as Theophoros, that is “Bod-bearer” or “God-borne.” This Saint is said to have been the small child taken into the Holy Hands of the Master Christ and set in the midst of His Disciples. Jesus then said, “IF ANYONE DOTH WISH TO BE FIRST, HE SHALL BE LAST OF ALL AND SERVANT OF ALL.” And He took a little child and set him in their midst. And after He took him into His arms, He said to them, 35-37)”WHOSOEVER SHALL RECEIVE ONE OF SUCH LITTLE CHILDREN IN MY NAME RECEIVETH ME; AND WHOSOEVER SHALL RECEIVE ME, RECEIVETH NOT ME, BUT THE ONE WHO SENT ME FORTH” (Mark 9:35-37). Holy Tradition maintains that the Master most clearly manifested the seven-year-old lad’s future progress and proficiency in the Apostolic teaching.

The blessed Ignatius became a Disciple of the divine Evangelist John, together with the sacred Polycarp, commemorated by the Holy Church on the 23rd of February, who became Bishop of Smyrna. Saint Ignatios was ordained to the Priesthood by the holy Apostles. Thereafter, he was voted by them to become Bishop of Antioch, The divine Ignatios was instructed in all knowledge of the Faith and in every virtue by the sacred Apostles. As a zealous disciple of the Apostles, he underwent much suffering and persecution while heralding the word of the Faith. He ever showed himself to be a minister of Christ’s mysteries and teacher to the nations.

The Saint loved the spiritual gatherings, when the faithful came together to celebrate the Liturgy. He especially took spiritual delight in the chanting of psalms and hymns by the congregation. Socrates, in The Ecclesiastical History, speaks of Saint Ignatius’ institution of antiphonal chanting, writing: “We must now however make some allusion to the origin of this custom in the Church of responsive singing, that is, ANTIPHONAL CHANTING. Ignatius, third bishop of Antioch in Syria from the Apostle Peter, who also had held intercourse with the Apostles themselves, SAW A VISION OF ANGELS HYMNING THE HOLY TRINITY IN ALTERNATE CHANTS. Accordingly, he introduced the mode of chanting he had observed in the vision into the Churches. Such is the account we have received in relation to these responsive hymns.”

During his reign Trajan engaged in fierce war against the Christians. He attempted to compel them to pay homage to his pagan gods whom he believed had assisted him in gaining significant victories. Epistles were dispatched to all the cities of the Empire stating that, IF THE CHRISTIANS REFUSED TO OFFER SACRIFICE, THEY WERE TO SUFFER BITTER PUNISHMENT AND THEN A PITILESS DEATH. Not long afterward (114 A.D.), Trajan returned to war to take up the campaign on the Empire’s Eastern frontier. The cause of hostilities was Parthian interference in Armenia, the buffer-state on the frontier between the Romans and Parthians. Chosroes of Parthia supplanted a Roman nominee by one of his own on the Armenian throne. Thus, Trajan left Rome, visited (Seleucia). He is believed to have wintered in Antioch and to have witnessed firsthand the city left in ruins from an earthquake, during which even he escaped through a window.

It was at this time that Ignatius, engaged in his pastoral duties, was reported to Trajan. The Emperor was informed that the bishop was teaching the people to venerate the God Who of late had been crucified and suffered an evil death. Trajan also learned that Ignatius was exhorting the people to preserve their virginity and to despise ease, comfort, and every sweet delight of this life. He received intelligence that the worst crime of Ignatius was his contempt for the deities and imperial ordinances. Trajan immediately sent to have Ignatios brought before him. Trajan, as seen on his commemorative column memorializing his victory in the Dacian Wars, was a tall and distinctive figure. He was energetic for a sixty-year-old man and was accustomed to suffering hardship and danger with the men under his command. As for Saint Ignatius, he was a man of Apostolic character in every way. He had been governing the Church of the Antiochenes during the storm of persecution, even from the time of Domitian (81-96 A.D.). As a good pilot, he held the helm of the Church by means of prayer, fasting, assiduous teaching, and spiritual earnestness. He withstood the enemy’s surge to gain the faithful, lest he should lose any of the faint hearted or over-simple. It was the Saint’s ardent prayer that he make his confession by martyrdom. Now Trajan, being full of himself after gaining the victory over the Docians, was put out that the Christians were the only people not in complete subjection, unless they submitted to the service of the idols, or more correctly, the devils. Therefore, the pious were constrained to either offer sacrifice or to die. Saint Ignatius, refusing such vile homage, therefore, came forth of his own free will before Trajan.

As the two stood face to face, Trajan asked, “Who art thou, wretch of a devil, that art so ready to disobey our royal orders, whilst thou seducest others also, that they may come to an equally bad end?” Saint Ignatius answered, “No one who bears God can be called a wretch of a devil. I say this, on one hand because the devils stand aloof from the slaves (servants) of God; but, on the other hand, if thou sayest this because I am troublesome to the devils, then I concur. For since I have the heavenly King Christ, I confounded the devices of the devils.” Trajan said, “And who is he that bearest God?” Saint Ignatius answered “The one who has Christ in his heart.” Trajan asked, “Does thou not think that we too have gods in our hearts, since we have them as allies against our enemies?” Saint Ignatius replied, “Thou art deceived when thou callest the demons of the nations gods. There is one God Who created the heaven and the earth and the sea and all things that are therein, and one Christ Jesus, the Only-begotten Son of the God and Father, Whose friendship I would be prepared to take risks to enjoy. If thou, O Emperor, wouldst come to acknowledge Him, thou shalt set firm the throne of thy kingdom and wear a splendid diadem on thy brow.” Trajan remarked, “Thou speakest, does thou not, of the One who was crucified by Pontius Pilate?” Saint Ignatius declared, “I speak of Him Who blotted out the bond written against us and nailed it to the Cross, He put off the principalities and the powers, openly making them an example and triumphing over them in it” (cf. Colossians 2: 14-15). He sentenced every malice of the demons to be trampled underfoot by those who carry Jesus in their heart.” Trajan then inquired, “Dost thou bear this Jesus in thy heart?” Saint Ignatius answered, “Yes, for it is written: “I WILL DWELL IN THEM, AND WALK ABOUT IN THEM”.

The Emperor attempted to ply the holy man with promises , favors, and gifts. Then he reverted to threats of punishment and torture. Trajan then pronounced the sentencing and had it written up officially. Saint Ignatios was bound with chains. He was then given charge of a body of soldiers, who were commended to deliver him to the theater in Rome. They were given orders that at a public holiday, when the populace was gathered together, they were to cast Ignatius tot the wild animals. He was to be a spectacle and a diversion for thousands of spectators while being torn to pieces. (Source: The Great Synaxaristes of the Orthodox Church)

(To be continued)

__________________
“Glory Be To GOD
For
All Things!”
– Saint John Chrysostomos
+ + +

With sincere agape in His Divine and Glorious Diakonia (Ministry).
The sinner and unworthy servant of God
+ Father George



On the 19th of December, Our Holy Orthodox Church Commemorates the holy Martyr BONIFACE and Saint AGLAIS of Rome.

My beloved brothers and sisters in Christ Our Only True Lord, God, and Savior,

CHRIST IS IN OUR MIDST! HE WAS, IS, AND EVER SHALL BE.

On the 19th of December, Our Holy Orthodox Church Commemorates the
holy Martyr BONIFACE and Saint Aglais of Rome.

Apolytikion (Dismissal) Hymn. Fourth Tone

Thy Martyr, O Lord, in his courageous contest for Thee received as
the prize the crown of incorruption and life from Thee, our
Immortal God. For since he possessed Thy strength, he cast down
the tyrants and wholly destroyed the demons’ strengthless presumption.
O Christ God, by his prayers, save our souls, since Thou art merciful.

Kontakion Hymn. Fourth Tone

Thou didst offer up thyself of thine own choosing as a spotless
sacrifice to Him that for thy sake, O Saint, shall soon be born of
a Virgin Maid, O all-renowned and wise crown-bearer Boniface.
+

Saint Boniface, the holy Martyr, flourished during the years of the antichrist Emperor Diocletian who reigned from 284-305 A.D. Boniface was a slave in Rome. His mistress, the beautiful and statuesque Aglais, of distinguished lineage, was the widow of Senator and the daughter of Acacius the Proconsul of Rome. Coupled with her lovely countenance, she was extremely wealthy and mistress to property and many possessions. In a word, she possessed all those temporal good things of this life which are highly esteemed by those of this world. Aglais, a pampered and indulged woman, had given herself over to carnal pleasures. This lifestyle to which she had fallen prey was not uncommon to those in similar situations. Thus, in the midst of plenty and luxury, the will of the flesh prevailed.

Now Boniface, though a slave, was a man of learning, which was also not uncommon in that era. Apart from his good looks, he also was conspicuous for his sympathy and mercy toward poor people. His mistress, Aglais, had appointed him her personal secretary and established him as steward of her fortune and properties. He, being a man in the flesh, succumbed to a number of vices, chiefly being overcome by both wine and love for his mistress. Now that Aglais was a single woman–but well above his station and of a noble family, which convention made it impossible for them to be lawfully united–he fell into sin with her and they cohabited in illicit union. Despite his wayward conduct, he had several redeeming virtues, chiefly of compassion and hospitality, of which, to state the truth, he was incomparable. He had the custom that whenever he caught sight of some wayfarers, he took them to his dwelling and offered hospitality. In these deeds of kindness he was eager to distinguish himself. At any hour, he was ready to give drink to the thirsty and clothing to the naked; to those who asked for assistance, he was diligent to supply them abundantly. It was only his unwholesome affair with Aglais and his intemperance which restrained him from walking on the path to perfection. Nonetheless, in the Master Christ’s good time, which was to come shortly for Boniface–for his charity covered a multitude of sins–he would wash away the pollution of his flesh with the blood of martyrdom and become thoroughly cleansed and splendid to behold. Thus, for these two who sought the holy relics of the right victorious martyrs, Christ Himself devised salvation for both, permitting circumstances that made them eligible. Listen now, all of you sinners and every licentious person, and learn how Boniface and Aglais attained to the heavenly Kingdom, shunning what was evil and offering commensurate repentance.

At that time there was a great persecution against the Christians in the East, though the West enjoyed peace during that period. The persecution inaugurated under pagan Diocletian was being continued under Galerius Maximian and Maximinus Daia. The atrocities raged most fiercely in Cilicia under the maniacal pagan governor Simplicius. It was then that Aglais felt terror of being out of grace. She reconciled her anxieties somewhat when she conceived the salutary desire to obtain some sacred relics of the holy martyrs. She raised the matter with Boniface and spoke her mind regarding this commission; and her influence bore heavily upon him. She counted him not only faithful and diligent but also competent to bring the undertaking to a successful conclusion. She revealed to him her thoughts, saying, "Thou knowest, brother, how many sins we have committed and how we live for the pleasure of the moment. Thou knowest how many times we besmirched the image made according to God. Thou canst not be unaware that we shall suffer heavily for our misconduct with the everlasting punishment that awaits us. But, listen, I heard from a certain virtuous and pious elder that, whosoever renders honor to the holy relics, such a sone shall have a great reward and recompense from God Himself. Therefore, even as till now thou was eagerly disposed to execute that which was had, so also do thou fulfill this desire of mine which is soul benefitting and salvation for us.“ He took the meaning of her words seriously. He, therefore, earnestly undertook the commission as a sacred trust and a relief to his own conscience.

As Boniface bade farewell to Aglais, he smiled and said in teasing manner, "Mark you! If I should succeed in only bringing back my own relics, wouldest thou, milady, take me home again and honor these relics as those of a Saint?" He spoke these words in jest; but perhaps God enlightened him, thus revealing what would come to pass thereafter. Aglais put on a serious face and said, "This is not the time for fanciful joking, Boniface, but go forth in an orderly fashion, comporting thyself with piety in carrying out this charge. Be thou mindful that, regarding the sacred relics which thou art about to transfer, we are neither worthy to touch nor to gaze upon them with our eyes. Go, therefore, in peace. Boniface, now wise of soul, acknowledged his ugly and lawless deeds, he calmly and solemnly resolved to repent. He desire to become a friend of the Master Christ.

When he, therefore, arrived in Asia Minor, Boniface and his traveling party went to Tarsus of Cilicia, where many martyrs were struggling and suffering. Boniface left his comrades at the inn so that they might rest. He proceeded hurriedly to the stadium, where he beheld the contests of the Saints. They were being tortured with diverse punishments by pitiless and heartless executioners. The most valiant contestants for Christ rejoiced in their struggles, as they considered the future reward that awaited them. He, too, became imbued with similar zeal and drew closer to piety, saying, "Great is the God of the Christians Who helps His Saints!" He then cried out this statement aloud with a great voice, which many took as foolish bravado. They were twenty Christian athletes at that time in the arena. Boniface, fell before the martyrs’ feet and ardently planted kisses on those members.

The pagan Governor, Simplicius, observed this abrupt entry and summoned Boniface, inquiring, "Who at thou? Whence comest thou?" What seekest thou here?" Boniface answered, "I am a Christain, and my name is Boniface. I came from Rome purposely in order to give witness to the truth of my Christ." Simplicius ordered the executioners to lay hold of Boniface. They stretched him on the rack and administered a beating which slashed his flesh and exposed his bones. Boniface endured the wounds, gazing steadfastly upon the other martyrs. When the governor saw that Boniface was unyielding he commanded that sharp reeds be driven underneath his fingernails. The impious tyrant perceived that, thus far, torturing Boniface had come to nought, and that he was no closer to vanquishing the martyr’s resolve. He,therefore, contrived a harsher torture. He made his men to open Boniface’s mouth and pour molten lead down his throat. When the exeuctiones melted the lead to a boiling point, they took a funnel and poured it into the martyr’s mouth that it might enter his belly. He suffered no harm and exclaimed, "I give thanks to Thee, O Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God!"

The impious tyrant sentenced Boniface to death by Decapitation, charging him as one who outraged the gods and as a transgressor of the imperial decrees. When they arrived at the appointed place, Boniface requested a little time apart from the soldiers, which was granted to him. He stood facing the East and prayed, "My Lord and God send forth Thy mercies upon me. Do Thou stand by me and become my helper during this hour, lest the evil one should hinder me on account of my sins which I, the imprudent one, previously committed. But do Thou receive my humble soul in peace, and also number me, Thine unworthy slave, with those who kept the Faith from the beginning until the end…" After the Saint offered up his prayer, the executioner severed his blessed head. There flowed from the cut–O extraordinary Wonderworking! –milk and blood. The blood was a sign of nature, but the MILK SIGNIFIED HIS PURE WITNESS OF THE FAITH. All those present who beheld this Wonder were astonished. Thereupon, fiver hundred and fifty men came to believe in the Christ. This is the end that the goodly Boniface received from God, the Giver of grat things. Thus, Boniface also fulfilled and made most true his prophecy.

His companions retrieved the holy relics of Saint Boniface. As the companions joined the head with the body, Saint Boniface opened his eyes and gazed upon his companions with a friendly and gentle expression, filled with deep compassion. They then ransomed his holy relics with the sum of five hundred gold coins. They wrapped them in fine linen with myrrh and aromatic spices. The holy relics were placed in a costly chest. They place the holy relis in a litter and carried them back to Rome, giving glory to God. As they approached Rome, an Angel descended fro out of the heavens and appeared to Aglais and announced, "Rise and go out to meet thy former slave, but now brother of the Angels who has become our concelebrant. Receive thy former household manservant and now thy lord, and honor hm reverently as thy soul’s savior and thy life’s most useful guardian." Aglais rose trembling and hastened and called together the most distinguished and pious of the clergy. All together went out to meet the approaching Saint. They bestowed much honor upon his holy relics and memory, as they greeted them with a procession bearing lighted torches. Saint Boniface was laid to rest in a fitting place outside the city on Via Latina.

Afterward Aglais built a very beautiful and splendidly adorned church, in which the holy relics of Saint Boniface were enshrined. Extraordinary miracles are wrought even to this day.

The blessed Aglais turned her lifestyle around. She distributed all her wealth among the poor and to the monasteries, and freed all her slaves. She conducted the rest of her life with prudence, sobriety, and virtue, united with rigorous asceticism, that striving for sanctification proved God-pleasing. She worked miracles and cast out demons from sufferers. After fifteen years of ausere fasting and continual prayer, she ran the course well and reached the heavens. She surrendered her holy soul and was translated to the Lord. Her blessed relics were interred with those of her beloved Boniface, the wondrous and thrice-blessed one. [Source: The Great Synaxaristes of the Orthodox Church]

____________
"Glory Be To GOD
For
All Things!"
– Saint John Chrysostomos
+ + +
With sincere agape in His Divine and Glorious Diakonia (Ministry),
The sinner and unworthy servant of God
+ Father George

MARY THE BIRTHGIVER OF GOD

My beloved brothers and sisters in Christ Our Only True Lord, God, and Savior,

CHRIST IS IN OUR MIDST! HE WAS, IS, AND EVER SHALL BE.

MARY THE BIRTHGIVER OF GOD
By Saint John Maximovitch

"Today the Virgin gives birth to the Maker of all. Eden
offers a cave and a star discloses Christ, the Sun, to
those in darkness. Magi, enlightened by faith, worship
with gifts: shepherds behold the wonder and Angels
sing praises, saying: Glory to God in the highest."
(The Nativity according to the flesh. From the Lity.)

The Orthodox Church teaches about the Mother of God that which Sacred Tradition and Sacred Scripture have informed concerning Her, and daily it glorifies Her in its temples, asking Her help and defense. "The Church teaches that Christ was truly born of Mary the Ever-Virgin." "It is essential for us to confess that the Holy Ever-Virgin Mary is actually Theotokos (Birth-giver of God), so as not to fall into blasphemy. For those who deny that the Holy Virgin is actually Theotokos are no longer believers, but disciples of the Pharisees and Sadducees" [Saint Ephraim the Syrian, "To John the Monk"].

"The Virgin Mary, having given Herself ENTIRELY up to God, even though She repulsed from Herself every impulse to sin, still felt the weakness of human nature more powerfully than others and ardently desired the coming of the Savior. In Her humility She considered Herself unworthy to be even the servant-girl of the Virgin Who was to give Him birth. So that nothing might distract Her from prayer and heedfulness to Herself, Mary gave to God a vow not to become married, in order to please only Him Her whole life long…

"Mary received the Angelic good-tidings humbly and submissively. "Then the Logos/Word, in a way know to Himself, descended and, as He Himself willed, came and entered into Mary and abode in Her." (Saint Ephraim the Syrian, "Praise of the Mother of God"). "As lightning illuminates what is hidden, so also Christ purifies what is hidden in the nature of things. He purified the Virgin also and then was born, so as to show that where Christ is, there is manifest purity in all its power. He purified the Virgin, having prepared Her by the Holy Spirit, and then the womb, having become pure, conceived Him. He purified the Virgin while She was inviolate; wherefore, having been born, He left Her virgin. I do not say that Mary became immortal, but that being illuminated by grace, She was not disturbed by sinful desires" (Saint Ephraim the Syrian, Homily Against Heretics, 41). "The Light abode in Her, cleansed Her mind, made Her thoughts pure, made chaste Here concerns, sanctified Her virginity" (Saint Ephraim the Syrian, "Mary and Eve")…

"Even though full of grace, She did not yet fully understand in what the service and the greatness of Her Son would consist of… The end of the earthly life of the Most Holy Mother of God was the beginning of Her greatness. "Being adorned with Divine Glory" (Irmos of the Canon of the Dormition), She stands and will stand, both in the day of the Last Judgment and in the future age, at the right hand of the Throne of Her Son. She reigns with Him and has boldness towards Him as His Mother according to the flesh, and as one in spirit with Him, as one who performed the will of God and instructed others (Matthew 5:19). Merciful and full of love, She manifests Her love towards Her Son and God in love for the human race. She intercedes for it before the Merciful One, and going about the earth, She helps men.

"Having experienced all the difficulties of earthly life, the Intercessor of the Christian race sees every tear, hears every groan and entreaty directed to Her. Especially near to Her are those who labor in the battle with the passions and are zealous for a God-pleasing life. But even in worldly cares She is an irreplaceable helper. "Joy of all who sorrow and intercessor for the offended, feeder of the hungry, consolation of travelers, harbor of the storm-tossed, visitation of the sick, protection and intercessor for the infirm, staff of old age, Thou art the Mother of God on High, O Most Pure ONe" [Sticheron of the Service to the Hodegetria).  "The hope and intercession and refuge of Christians,"  "The Mother of God unceasing in prayers" (Kontakion of Dormition), "saving the world by Thine unceasing prayer" (Theotokion of the Third Tone).  "She day and night doth pray for us, and hte scepters of kingdoms are confirmed by Her prayers" (daily Nocturne).


   There is no intellect or words to express the greatness of Her Who was born in the sinful human race but became "MORE HONORABLE THAN THE CHERUBIM AND BEYOND COMPARE MORE GLORIOUS THAN THE SERAPHIM."   "Seeing the grace of the secret mysteries of God made manifest and clearly fulfilled in the Virgin, I rejoice; and I know not how to understand the strange and secret manner whereby the Undefiled has been revealed as alone chosen above all creation, visible and spiritual.  Therefore, wishing to praise Her, I am struck dumb with amazement in both mind and speech.  Yet still dare to proclaim and magnify Her:  She is indeed the Heavenly Tabernacle" (Ikos of the Entry into the Temple).  "Every tongue is at a loss to praise Thee as is due; even a spirit from the world above is filled with dizziness, when it seeks to sing Thy praises, O Theotokos.  But since Thou art good, accept our faith.  Thou knowest well our love inspired by God, for Thou art the Protector of Christians, and we magnify Thee" (Irmos of the 9th Canticle of the Theophany).
   While singing to thy Child, we all praise thee as a Living Temple, O Mother of God.
For the Lord Who holds all things in His hand dwelt in thy womb,
and He sanctified and glorified thee, and taught all to cry to thee:
      Rejoice, Tabernacle of God the Logos/Word!
      Rejoice, saint greater than the Saints!
      Rejoice, Ark made golden by the Spirit!
      Rejoice, inexhaustible treasury of Life!
      Rejoice, precious diadem of pious kings!
      Rejoice, adorable boast of devoted priests!
      Rejoice, unshaken tower of the Church!
      Rejoice, impregnable wall of the Kingdom!
      Rejoice, thou through whom we obtain our victories!
      Rejoice, thou before whom our foes fall prostrate!
      Rejoice, healing of my body!
      Rejoice, salvation of my soul!
      Rejoice, unwedded Bride!
KONTAKION 13
   O All-Praised Mother who didst bear the Logos holiest of all
the Saints, accept this our offering, and deliver us from all
offense, and redeem us from future torment those who cry in
unison to thee: Alleluia. (Thrice)

PRAYER
to our Most Holy Lady
the Mother of God

   My Most Gracious Queen, my hope, Mother of God, shelter
of orphans, and intercessor of travellers, strangers and pilgrims,
joy of those in sorrow, protectress of the wronged, see my 
distress, see my affliction! Help me, for I am helpless.  Feed me, 
for I am a stranger and pilgrim.  Thou knowest my offense;
forgive and resolve it as thou wilt.  For I know no other help but
thee, no other intercessor, no gracious consoler but thee, O
Mother of God, to guard and protect me throughout the ages.
Amen.  [Akathist to our Most Holy Lady, the Mother of God ]

___________
"Glory Be To GOD
For
All Things!"
+ Saint John Chrysostomos

+ + +

With sincere agape in His Divine and Glorious Diakonia (Ministry),
The sinner and unworthy servant of God
+ Father George


THE CELEBRATION OF THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD, IS AMONG THE GREATEST WONDERS (MIRACLES) IN HUMAN HISTORY

My beloved brothers and sisters in Christ Our Only True Lord, God, and Savior,

CHRIST IS IN OUR MIDST! HE WAS, IS, AND EVER SHALL BE.

THE CELEBRATION OF THE BIRTH OF JESUS CHRIST, THE SON OF GOD,
IS AMONG THE GREATEST WONDERS (MIRACLES) IN HUMAN HISTORY.

"To Him Who alone does Great Wonders,
For His mercy endures forever" [Psalm 136:4].

"God also bearing witness both WITH SIGNS AND
WONDERS, with various miracles and gifts of the
Holy Spirit, according to His own will" [Hebrews 2:4].

The Greek word for miracle is thavma which means WONDER. When we refer to miracles in Orthodox Church we prefer the word Wonder. Every act of God is beyond comprehension for a human mind and therefore it is mysterious and a wonder. Saint Gregory of Nyssa stated, "Concepts create idols, only wonder grasps anything." Everything of Divine origin that takes place within our Orthodox Church is said to be a mystery or mysterion and a wonder for there is no human explanation or understanding. This includes our belief in the incarnation of the Logos/Word of God born as a "Child", His Crucifixion and Resurrection from the dead. Also, what takes place during the Divine Liturgy and how the bread and wine are changed to become the Precious Body and Sacred Blood of our Savior and God Christ. All the divine Sacraments are referred to as Mysteries or Mysteria and therefore Wonders. When a believer is healed by the grace of God from terminal illness there is no other word better suited other than the word wonder.

The Hebrew word for "wonders" is pala (Pah-lah), meaning miracle, marvel, supernatural deed, it is,something beyond the human ability to achieve or accomplish. The Great Prokeimenon at Pentecost says it all: "What god is great as our God? Thou art God, Who alone works Wonders." And one of the verses offered at the divine service says, "I remember the deeds of the Lord, for I will recall Thy Wonders of old." Our very salvation bestowed upon us by our Lord God and Savior is in itself a Wonder. Contemplating upon the countless Wonders of God we cannot but be humbled and feel a profound unworthiness.

Saint Gregoyr Nazianzus writes, "Let us be like Christ, since Christ became like us; let us become gods through uniting ourselves with Him, since He also because of us became human. He assumed what is worse that He might give us what is better. He became poor so that we through His poverty might become rich. He took the form of a slave, that we might regain freedom. He descended that we might be lifted up. He was tempted that we might be victorious. He was dishonored to glorify us. He died to save us. He ascended to draw himself to us who lay below in the Fall of sin. Let us give everything, offer everything, to the One Who gave Himself as a ransome and an exchange for us."

The Kontakion hymn says:[Forefeast of the Nativity of Christ]

TODAY the Virgin comes to the cave to give birth ineffably to the
Pre-eternal Logos/Word. Hearing this, be of good cheer, O
inhabitant earth, and with the Angels and the shepherds glorify Him
Whose will it was to be made manifest a young Child, the Pre-
Eternal God.

Ikos of the Forefeast:

The holy sayings of the Prophets have been fulfilled in the city
of Bethlehem within a cave. The whole creation is made rich: let
it rejoice and be of good cheer. The Master of all has come to live
with His servants, and form the bondage of the enemy He delivers
us who were made subject to corruption. In swaddling clothes
and lying in a manger, He is made manifest a young Child, the
Pre-eternal God.

Canticles:

As far as it was right, Thou wast seen by the Prophets, Made man
in the last times, Thou has appeared to all in Bethlehem, city of Judah,
and a star showed Thee to the strangers, O Thou Who passest all
interpretation.

Behold, the Most Holy Logos/Word comes into His own in a
holy body that is not His. By a strange birth He makes His own
the world that was estranged. To Him let us sing in praise, Who
became poor for us.

"O sweetest Child, how shall I feed Thee Who givest food to all?
How shall I hold Thee Who holdest all things in Thy power? HOw
shall I wrap Thee in swaddling clothes, Who dost wrap the whole
earth in clouds? So cried the All-Pure Lady whom in faith we
magnify.

Exapostilarion of the Forefeast:

He Who dwells in the Light that no man can approach and Who
upholds all things, in His ineffable compassion is born of a Virgin.
He is wrapped in swaddling clothes as a babe, and laid in a cave
in a manger of dumb beasts. Let us hasten to Bethlehem to worship
Him with the Magi, bringing as our gifts the fruits of our virtuous
deeds.

Christians must not allow anyone to trivialize the Divine Nativity of our Lord, God, and Savior Jesus Christ. In recent years, Christmas carols chosen by the secular world no longer reveal His Divine Birth. The Gentile world has made every effort to remove Jesus Christ from the celebration of Christmas. We do have many wonderful and meaningful American Christmas carols that speak about Christ and His Nativity but they have been discarded and deliberately omitted. Christmas is not about the chestnuts, frosty snowman, Rudolf the rednosed reindeer, presents under the Christmas tree, and Santa Claus coming to town, etc. All Christians children should be taught by their parents the true meaning of Christmas and celebrate it in church together with other fellow Christians. Thi is the Christian way!

_________
"Glory Be To GOD
For
All Things!"

– Saint John Chrysostomos
+ + +

With sincere agape in His Divine and Glorious Diakonia (Ministry),
The sinner and unworthy servant of God
+ Father George


On the 15th of December, Our Holy Orthodox Church Commemorates the Holy Hieromartyr ELEFTHERIOS, Bishop of Illyricum.

My beloved brothers and sisters in Christ Our Only True Lord, God, and Savior,

CHRIST IS IN OUR MIDST! HE WAS, IS, AND EVER SHALL BE.

On the 15th of December, Our Holy Orthodox Church Commemorates
the holy Hieromartyr ELEFTHERIOS, Bishop ofIllyricum.

Apolytikion (Dismissal) Hymn. Plagal of First Tone

Being comely adorned in thy sacred priestly robes and newly
drenched with the streams of thy pure sanctified blood, thou
didst soar aloft to stand before thy Master, Christ; hence never
cease to intercede for those honoring with faith thy mighty
and blessed contest, thou overthrower of Satan, O wise and
blessed Eleftherios.

Kontakion Hymn. Second Tone

We all extol thee as an adornment of priests, O righteous one, and
an encourager of trophy-bearers, O Hieromartyr Eleftherios; and
we beseech thee: Free from all manner of peril them that celebrate
thy memorial with love, and intercede unceasingly in behalf of us
all.
+

This Saint had Rome as his homeland. Having been orphaned of his father from childhood, he was taken by his mother Anthia to Anicetus, the Bishop of Rome (some call him Anencletos, or Anacletos), by whom he was instructed in the sacred letters (that is, the Divine Scripture). Though still very young in years, he was made Bishop of Illyricum by reason of his surpassing virtue, and by his teachings he converted many unbelievers to Christ. However, during a most harsh persecution that was raised against the Christian under Hadrian (reigned 117-118 A.D.), the Saint was arrested by the tyrants. Enduring many tortures for Christ, he was finally put to death by two soldiers about the year 126 A.D. As for his Christ-loving mother Anthia, while embracing the remains of her beloved son and kissing them with maternal affection, she was also beheaded.

A MORE DETAILED ACCOUNT ON THE HIEROMARTYR ELEFTHERIOS (ELEUTHERIUS)

The Saint’s mother Anthia had been taught the Faith with exactness by the disciples of the holy Apostle Paul. When she gave birth to her son, she named him Eleftherios, (Gk. meaning freedom or liberty) and she nurtured him in godliness. The Saint’s father, a man of property and consequence, held the office of Consul of Rome, which was one of the highest positions among the nobility.

When he became 15 years old, he was ordained to the Diaconate by the Bishop of Rome, Aniketos. Afterward, he was elevated to the Priesthood at 17 years of age, and then to the Episcopacy at 20. He therefore was appointed Bishop of Illyricum. The holy Bishop entered upon his duties with all diligence. Saint Eleftherios’ service was inestimable. He was responsible for bringing many pagan Greeks to the Faith and holy Baptism, because his sweet disposition and the wisdom of his words encouraged those who heard him to come to the truth.

The weak devil, who always wishes to deprive man of salvation, gnashed his teeth at the young bishop, since he was powerless to put Eleftherios to death. Thus the hater of man entered into the ungodly Emperor and instigated a General Persecution against the Christians. That cruel and unseemly pagan Emperor singled out Eleftherios for destruction, placing him first on his list, since he received intelligence that the Bishop of Illyricum was the cause of many conversions from paganism. The Emperor sent forth his general, named Felix, urgently commending him to apprehend Eleftherios.

Felix went to carry out his commission. He went with a company of soldiers and surrounded the church, where the Saint was teaching the flock at the very moment. Felix entered that sacred place with an evil disposition, a fierce look, and no civility. Even as Felix entered, he was immediately struck by the holy bishop’s decorum and grace-filled countenance. Behold, the wonder! Saint Eleftherios sweet manner of address and his edifying words, filled with all wisdom, were sufficient to transform Felix and put a halt to the intended violence. The former, ravenous wolf became a gentle lamb. Instead of defiant persecutor, he became the Saint’s obedient pupil. He disowned his ancestral impiety and assented to the teaching of the holy Gospel. Felix then disdained temporal honors and expelled ambition from his soul. He renounced wealth and kin. He attached no consequence to how he would answer the Emperor. He quit that sphere of power and privilege. This ever-memorable Felix at the feet of the bishop in repentance and believed in the Christ.

The Saint catechized and exhorted Felix in the exact Faith. Afterward, he counseled him that they together return to the Emperor. The bishop did not wish to suffer the loss of the crown of martyrdom, for he desired to behold the beauty of Jesus. They, therefore, traveled on the road together. As they came to a spring, the reverent Felix–even as another officer of Candace the queen and disciple of the Apostle Philip — requested Baptism, saying, “Behold, holy bishop, water. What hinders me from being baptized? I believe with all my heart in Jesus Christ.” The bishop beheld Felix’s ardor and great readiness to receive the Mystery OF ILLUMINATION, and so be baptized him. After some days, they arrived in Rome. Eleftherios was summoned to the Emperor’s Tribunal. He went rejoicing, as though he were invited to celebrate a festival or take a most delightful holiday. The Emperor observed the holy bishop carefully. He was a young man with handsome features, possessed of a nobility and beauty of spirit and dignity of form wonderfully fused. He addressed the bishop: “Why, Eleftherios, hast thou abandoned the faith of thy fathers and reverence of the gods, only to believe in one Man Who suffered an evil death?” The Saint kept silent when he heard such words wanting in understanding. Thus, he gave on answer at all and waited upon the Lord Who said, “Do not become anxious about how or what ye should speak. Settle it for yourselves in your hearts not to premeditate to make a defense; for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all those who oppose you shall not be able to contradict nor withstand” [Matthew 10:19; Luke 21:14-15].

The tyrant spoke many words to the Saint, flattering ones, with also the promise of rich gifts and privileges, if he were to consent and sacrifice to the idols. Conversely, upon the bishop’s refusal of these offers, he was threatened with diverse tortures. Eleftherios spoke at liberty and with much freedom of speech in his reply: “How shall I condescend to pay homage to such insensible deities and inanimate statues? With regard to you who observe such beliefs, indeed I am unhappy for your sake, and I even weep. My sentiments are such for this reason. Though God honored thee with reason, yet you have become more mindless than the wood and stones, which you deem to be gods, by forsaking the Only True God Who fashioned us and created the cosmos (world), and by venerating the demons. I, however, worship my Master Christ. It is He Whom I revere and confess as True God. With respect to the honors and gifts which thou art promising me, as well as the dread and terrible punishments with which thou art threatening me, I deem them games and the wounds given by infants. I have renounced the world and have been crucified with Christ; and I no longer live, but Christ liveth in me” [Galatians 2:20], for Whom I die daily [I Corinthians 15:31]. When we were baptized into Christ Jesus, we were baptized INTO HIS DEATH” [Romans 6:3]. Hearing such words, the tyrant became enraged and ordered the brass bed be heated to a red-hot temperature. The bishop was then to be stretched out on that fiery bed, while below a heap of coals was to be kept burning until Eleftherios should be utterly broiled.

When the Saint was cast upon that bed of fire, the people of the city were grieved. A countless number of people from the city had gathered. Many of them rebuked the Emperor for his savagery. In the meantime, the Almighty God from on High lightened the pain and suffering of the Martyr. For the Saint was bedewed and cooled, as though he were stretched out on soft and besprinkled grass. As he spent considerable time on that brazen bed, spread out full-length and naked, the tyrant’s rage subsided somewhat. He commanded his executioners to remove Eleftherios from that red-hot grate; for the tyrant thought that the prisoner had died. But then Eleftherios jumped up and stood straight, showing he had suffered no burns or injury. Indeed, no trace of a single wound appeared on his flesh. A gladsome Eleftherios was then chanting the words of the psalm, which began: “I will exalt Thee, O my God, my King, and I will bless Thy name unto the age, and unto the age of the age” [Psalm 144:1].

The boldness of the Martyr was interpreted as an insult by the Emperor to his person. He, thereupon, found a new and worse punishment with which to torture the Saint. He gave the order that they bind the Saint upon an iron grill, aglow from the fire of coals below. From above they were pouring oil, so as to provide the flames to rise higher. The grace of God attended Eleftherios in this gruesome episode also. Straightway, as the stretched forth Eleftherios upon the gridiron, the flame was extinguished , the iron grate cooled, and the Saint reclined, bedewed by Divine grace. The horrific tortures continued by the tyrant. After a painful succession of failures on his part, he acknowledged that there was nothing further he could do but ordered the bishop’s beheading. This indeed took place, and with his blood he dyed his priestly raiment. Having set up glorious trophies over the enemies, the glorious Eleftherios delivered his blessed soul into the hands of God on the 15th of December.

The Saint’s mother, Anthia, embraced the holy relics of her son and Martyr, kissing them ardently and magnifying that he suffered so much for the Lord’s sake. Then the executioners, as ones savage and cruel, without the least shred of compassion, put to death the mother by striking off her head. Pious Christians from Avolona of Epirus, the Seat of Bishop Eletherios’ Diocese, were then present in Rome. They took up the holy relics of their bishop and his mother, anointed them with myrrh, and exhibited fitting honor as lovers of God, and reverently interred them. The Saint’s shrines poured forth cures and miracles for those in need, to the glory of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, the One and Only True God, unto the ages. We, too, beg his supplications to God that we might be freed from the passions. Amen. [Source: The Great Sysnaxaristes of the Orthodox Church]

_______
“Glory Be To GOD
For
All Things!”
– Saint John Chrysostomos
+ + +

With sincere agape in His Divine and Glorious Diakonia (Ministry),
The sinner and unworthy servant of God
+ Father George



THE DIVINE INCARNATION OF THE LOGOS/WORD OF GOD

My beloved brothers and sisters in Christ Our Only True Lord, God, and Savior,

CHRIST IS IN OUR MIDST! HE WAS, IS, AND EVER SHALL BE.

THE DIVINE INCARNATION OF THE LOGOS/WORD OF GOD

Apolytikion (Dismissal) Hymn of the Feast. Mode 4

Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, has caused the light of
knowledge to rise upon the world. For therein the
worshippers of the stars were by a Star instructed to
worship Thee, the Sun of Righteousness, and to know
Thee as Orient from on High. Glory to Thee, O Lord.

Kathisma I. Mode 4

Come, believers, let us see the place where Christ has
been born. With Magi, those three kings who from the
orient are, now let us follow to where the star is
proceeding. Ceaselessly do Angels sing praises there,
Shepherds in the field sing a worthy song, saying:
Glory in the highest be to Him Who was born today in
the grotto from the Virgin and Theotokos, in
Bethlehem of Judaea.

Kathisma II. Mode 4.

Mary, why are you amazed and awed by what was done
in you? And she answers, "For in time I have brought
forth a timeless Son. But I have no understanding of His
conception. Husbandless am I: how can I bear a son?
Who has ever seen seedless childbirth? But where God
wills, the order found in nature is overcome, as it is written."
So Christ was born from the Virgin Maiden, in Bethlehem
of Judaea.
+



As we are approaching the Divine Nativity of our Lord Christ, let us look at the following four points which show a personal approach to this Great Feast, the "CAPITAL" of all the Feasts of the Lord:

First, The CAVE in which Christ was born is a type of the Church. Saint Athanasios the Great speaks graphically. The small room where the Panagia (All-Holy Mother of God) awaited the Birth has been accepted as the type of the Church. The MANGER is seen as the Altar, Joseph is the server, the Magi are the Clergy, the Shepherds are the Deacons, the Angels are the Priests, the Lord is the Bishop, the Virgin is the THRONE, the craters are the chalicess, the INCARNATION is the Vestment, the Cherubim are the fans, the Holy Spirit is the paten, the Father Who overshadows all things with His power is the Veil covering the Paten.
The Church is the Body of Christ the Godman, that which was born in the womb of the Theotokos, was born, was transfigured, suffered, was crucified, rose again and was taken up into heaven. In the Divine Liturgy this Great Mystery is celebrated and we are given THE ABILITY TO PARTAKE OF THE GRACE OF CHRIST. The Church is NOT a human organization, nor is the Divine Liturgy a rite of commemoration and satisfaction of our feelings.

Second. The Divine and Human Natures are always UNITED with the human nature in the hypostasis of the Logos/Word WITHOUT CHANGE, CONFUSION, DIVISION OR SEPARATION. This means that they have never been separated and they never are never are separated. Since the human nature remains inseparable from the Divine Nature, since the Godman always exists for all time, we can even now partake of the deified flesh of the Lord. IN PARTAKING OF THE DEIFIED BODY AND BLOOD OF CHRIST, WE BECOME ONE BODY AND ONE BLOOD WITH CHRIST.

Third, Since we now before us this Great Mystery of the INCARNATION, and especially since we commune of the Body and Blood of Christ, we must deceive Herod as the Magi did. The Evangelist Matthew says of the Magi: "being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way" {Matthew 2:12).
The word ‘Herod’ in the Hebrew language means ‘of leather’. Therefore Saint Nikodemos the Hagiorite says that we must delude the thought and pleasures of the flesh. Moreover, we must mock the devil of the mind, who prevent us from walking the path of salvation. We must return by another way, by the virtues, to our native land, which is Paradise.
This means that WE ARE REQUIRED TO LIVE A SACRAMENTAL AND ASCETIC LIFE. All who live ascetically are granted TO BE UNITED WITH CHRIST, IN THE SACRAMENTS (MYSTERIES)

Fourth. When a person lives sacramentally and ascetically, in harmony with the spirit of the Orthodox Tradition, then he is experiencing SPIRITUALLY THE EVENTS OF THE DIVINE INCARNATION IN HIS HEART, AND MORE GENERALLY IN HIS WHOLE BEING. Then he does not perceive events outwardly, BUT INWARDLY. Saint Symeon the New Theologian says that WHEN A MAN PURIFIES HIS HEART AND IS ILLUMINATED, THEN HE RECEIVES CHRIST WITHIN HIMSELF AND UNDERSTANDS HIS INFANT-LIKE LEAPS. Christ is conceived as an infant in him and is born through the virtues, and now the man is living all these events in his being. To be sure, IT IS ONLY IN CHRIST THAT THE DIVINE WAS UNITED WITH THE HUMAN NATURE HYPOSTATICALLY. But the deified (theosis) person also receives God’s energy in his nature AND BECOMES A MEMBER OF THE BODY OF CHRIST. Thus he comprehends how the grace of God works in his nature, what kenosis is, what deification (theosis) of human nature is.

The INCARNATION OF THE SECOND PERSON OF THE HOLY TRINITY WAS AIMED AT THE DEIFICATION (THEOSIS) OF HUMAN NATURE. HOWEVER, THE HYPOSTASIS OF EACH ONE OF US MUST ALSO BE DEIFIED. IF WE DO NOT ANTICIPATE DEIFICATION, THEN FOR US IT IS AS IF CHRIST HAD NOT BECOME MAN. [Source:  The Feasts of the Lord.  Introduction to the Twelve Feasts and Orthodox Christology by Metropolitan of Nafpaktos HIEROTHEOS]

_________
"Glory Be To GOD
For
All Things!"
– Saint John Chrysostomos
+ + +

With sincere agape in His Divine and Glorious Diakonia (Ministry),
The sinner and unworthy servant of God
+ Father George


THE LIFE AND MIRACLES OF SAINT SPYRIDON THE WONDERWORKER (Part II)

My beloved brothers and sisters in Christ Our Only True Lord, God, and Savior,

CHRIST IS IN OUR MIDST! HE WAS, IS, AND EVER SHALL BE.

The Life of Saint Spyridon the Wonderworker (Part II)

The Repose of the Saint’s Daughter

When the Saint arrived in Cyprus, he found that his daughter Irene had reposed. She was a virgin who had never known a man, and she had kept her virginity inviolate so that she might present it to her heavenly Bridegroom Christ. The bereaved holy man endured this affliction courageously, as one sensible and prudent. A few days after Irene was interred, a tearful woman approached the Saint and excitedly said, "I entrusted to thy late daughter’s care certain articles, that is, expensive gold jewelry. But her repose came so quickly thereafter that I did not have the opportunity to inquire where she deposited them."

Now Irene, for greater security, had buried the articles. The Saint carefully and diligently searched his entire house, but he was unable to find the jewelry. The Saint then went to the tomb of his daughter, followed by some other persons. Then, as though Irene were still alive, he began asking her, "Irene, my child, where didst thou put the woman’s gold jewelry?" The dead answered with a lively voice and disclosed a certain place. "That is where I have hidden the articles, my father." All those who clearly heard Irene were filled with dread and terror at that prodigious miracle. The Saint, as though he were master of life and death, spoke again to his girl, saying, "Be sleeping, child, until the Lord should raise thee at the universal resurrection." The Saint then went to the spot disclosed by his daughter and found the gold jewelry. This furnished further proof of that phenomenal miracle.

The Saint Resurrects Mother and Child

After the Saint left the palace, a certain Christ-loving man wished to offer the Saint hospitality in his home. While he was there, a certain barbarian woman, who could not speak Greek, entered. She bore in her arms a dead infant whom she laid at the feet of the Saint. Tears welled up in her and flowed abundantly, as she was making signs and gestures to the Saint that he would resurrect her child. The Saint went down to his knees and poured forth tears that moistened the floor below, entreating with faith the Merciful Physician to resurrect the child of the distressed mother and to show her to be "enjoying herself over children" (Psalm 112:9).

The Saint kept on praying. Then, even as the Lord of old hearkened to Elias in the case of the widow Sarepta, here also did He hearken to Spyridon and raised the formerly dead child in a wondrous manner. The child began crying for food and for his mother. Great art Thou, O Lord, and wondrous are Thy works! When the mother beheld her beloved child alive, she breathed her last on account of this unsurpassed miracle and her immeasurable joy. Deacon Artemidoros besought the great Spyridon not to leave them all sorrowing, but to do for the mother what he did for the child. The bishop then turned to the dead mother and said, "In the name of the Lord, rise." She straightway rose up, as though from sleep, and took the child into her embrace. The holy man then ordered both the woman and his Deacon not to reveal this miracle to anyone. The Deacon, as long as the Saint was in this life, kept silent; however, upon the bishop’s repose, he published it everywhere, deeming it a loss and injury to the lovers of God should he keep silent, in respect to such a prodigious Wonder.

The Miraculously Filling Church Lamp

On another occasion, as the Saint was chanting Vespers, the lamp was about to be extinguished, which would interrupt the divine office. He stood there grieved as he looked at the waning lamp. Straightway, an invisible power filled the lamp with oil to overflowing, so that some spilled on the floor. Consequently, the church servers brought in jar after jar, and the jars were being filled by the overflowing oil. Thus with the miraculous filling of many vessels, even as it happened in ancient times for the widow by Prophet Eliseos, the abundance of grace that dwelt in the holy bishop was made manifest.

Choir Responses from on High

On another occasion, the holy man entered the church in order to conduct Vespers. He joyfully entered the sanctuary and took his place in order to celebrate the divine service. There was, however, no one present to give the responses. The Deacon was busy lighting the lamps. Though no congregation was present, except for a few souls, yet from on high invisible voices could be heard. It sounded like a choir of ten thousand voices that answered the bishop’s intonation of "Peace be to all," with "And with thy spirit." The sound was most sweet and harmonious and did not resemble human voices in the least; for an unseen multitude of Angelic hosts served with him. When the Deacon finished his prayer and litanies, he was ecstatic and filled with fear; for he kept hearing–O the Wonder!–a divinely sounding and sweet repetition of "Kyrie Eleison." The sound of this divine choir could be heard outside the church. Those who lived nearby, hearing the melodic chanting, hastened to the church. When they entered and observed only the bishop, the Deacon, and a few other souls, they were astonished. They kept saying that they could hear elegant and harmonious chanting, which was emanating. There was none present whom they could see chanting such harmonious music. Marvelling at this miracle, they kept giving glory to God Who glorifies His slaves.

The Saint Deals with Animal Thieves

The Saint kept a flock of goats and sheep, from which he provided for the needs of the poor in his Diocese. Even during his incumbency of the bishopric, his meek manner of life was unaltered. He continued to be unacquisitive and bear all slights for the sake of love. He did not deem it shame to engage in physical labor and care for his flock of dumb sheep.

One night, some thieves broke into the pen. The All-Good Lord, however, as a diligent and watchful Shepherd, cared for these irrational sheep. God therefore determined to preserve His servant’s flock. The moment the thieves entered the service area of the farm, which contained the sheep, straightway their hands and feet were invisibly fettered and chained. They were divinely stricken on the spot. It was impossible for them to move, so they were compelled to stand in their places for the entire night, having their hands behind them, as those condemned. In the morning, the Saint observed them in their stationary positions and pitied their condition. There was no need for him to ask, "How came you here?" Their criminal project had been divinely impeached. Then He entreated God on their behalf and thus they were liberated from those bonds. The bishop then said to them, "My children, no longer engage in these acts, lest you should suffer punishment. Earn your daily bread with your own labor." After counseling them in a fatherly manner to support themselves by honest labor, he acquitted them of all their conduct and put on a happy countenance. Hoping to induce them to lead a better life, he made them a gift of two rams, saying with mildly disparaging good humor that it was for their exertion in keeping an all-night vigil–even if it were involuntary–and that they should not return empty handed form his sheepfold.

The Saint Works on His Farm

Toward the close of Saint Spyridon’s life, during harvest time, he, as one humble-minded, worked alongside his laborers in the field. One time, when it was very hot and not a cloud was in the sky, there fell from above a delicate drizzle upon the holy man, so as to cool his head. This did not take place for anyone else present, but the others noticed the phenomenon. Christ, the Heavenly Cultivator, wished not only to bedew that excellent head but also to gather in His animate fruit; that is, the time of Spyridon’s earthly sojourn was drawing near to an end. Now when the Saint laid his right hand on his sacred head and showed the bystanders the dew, it was observed that he suddenly generated hairs on his head that were both blonde and black, "I," says the Greek compiler, "know not the significance of this sign." The Saint, however, understood and said to those present, "Know that in a little while my soul shall be separated from the body; for the All-Good God wishes to honor me with much glory upon my repose. Countless crowds of people shall celebrate that day with a great festival." Thus, the dew of heaven that came down upon his head prefigured the future, for God would glorify His servant’s sacred memory and relics, and sanctify the faithful by his intercessions.
The holy man then uttered other prophecies. He also exhorted and admonished those present that they should keep the Commandments of the Lord; but he mostly emphasized that they ought to preserve love for God and neighbor.

The Saint’s Repose

Then, on the 12th of December, in the year of our Lord 348 A.D., Saint Spyridon gave his soul into the hands of God. He was seventy-eight years old. He bequeathed his sacred relics to the island of his birth, as a consolation for the faithful and as a fountain of healings. Upon his repose and up to the present day, his boldness before the Lord is even greater than when he was alive, as he has been shown to be a wellspring of miracles. The Wondeworkings have not ceased. Each one is extraordinary and worth telling. To this day, the Great Spyridon delivers from perils–famine, flood, fire, and deadly plague–those who have recourse to him with piety and faith. His miracles have been attested to by people down through the ages and in different lands. He has indisputably shown himself a comforter and physician, a defender and helper of orphans, and widows, a protector of infants, a guide to travelers, and a dispeller of demons.

Saint Spyridon’s presence has especially been felt on the island of Kerkyra (Corfu), where his sacred and august relics are now found. More than sixteen centuries have passed, and he has remained unravaged, being entirely incorrupt. As the exemplar of bishops, the unshakeable support of the Orthodox Faith, and the model of piety, he has proved mightier than the laws of nature. At first the sacred relics of the heavenly man and earthly angel were in the earth for many years, during which time they wrought on an inexhaustible stream of miracles. He remained at Trimythous until the middle of the 7th century on account of barbarian raids. It then pleased God that the relics should be translated to Constantinople. The Saint was discovered to be whole and incorrupt, by the grace of Christ, and his skin was intact and supple. The Capital City received the holy relics as a precious treasure. A divine office was conducted, attended by the imperial couple. A special service was composed, together with a doxastikon using the eight modes of Byzantine Music.

The Translation of the Saint’s Relics

Upon the conquest–worthy of tears– of Constantinople on Tuesday morning, the 29th day of May, in the year 1453, by the Islamic forces, a certain priest, Father George Kalohairetes, took up the sacred relics of Saint Spyridon and bore them away to Kerkyra, lest the Turks should destroy the treasure. The holy relics were placed in a small church for safekeeping. Countless cures and Wonderworkings continued to be performed, for which the little church could not accommodate such crowds. A larger church was built with the gifts people offered in thanksgiving,and for dedication. to Saint Spyridon. [Source: The Great Synaxaristes of the Orthodox Church]

____________
"Glory Be To GOD
For
All Things!"
– Saint John Chrysostomos
+ + +

With sincere agape in His Divine and Glorious Diakonia (Ministry),
The sinner and unworthy servant of God
+ Father George

On the 12th of December Our Holy Orthodox Church Commemorates our Holy and God-bearing Father SPYRIDON the Wonderworker, Bishop of Trimythous in Cyprus

My beloved brothers and sisters in Christ Our Only True Lord, God, and Savior,

CHRIST IS IN OUR MIDST! HE WAS, IS, AND EVER SHALL BE.

On the 12th of December Our Holy Orthodox Church Commemorates
our holy and God-bearing Father, SPYRIDON the Wonderworker,
Bishop of Trimythous in Cyprus.

Apolytikion (Dismissal) Hymn of the Hierarch. First Tone

Thou was shown forth as a champion of the First Council and a
Wonderworker, O Spyridon, our God-bearing Father. Wherefore,
thou didst speak unto one dead in the grave, and didst change
a serpent to gold. And while chanting thy holy prayers, thou hadst
Angels serving with thee, O most sacred one. Glory to Him that
hath glorified thee. Glory to Him that hath crowned thee. Glory
to Him that worketh healings for all through thee.

Kontakion Hymn of the Hierarch. Second Tone

Pierced through with the love of Christ, O sacred Spyridon, thou
gavest thy mind divine wings with the Spirit’s light; in the active
vision of God were all thy labours, O inspired of God, whereby
thou becamest the Lord’s divine altar, asking Divine Light for all.
+

Saint Spyridon, our holy Father among the Saints, the boast of the inhabited world, and the adornment of the faithful, flourished during the reign of Emperor Constantine the Great (306-337 A.D.). He hailed from the famous island of Cyprus. The Saint’s virtue and divine conduct were such that his accomplishments shone forth brightly throughout the inhabited world, leaving no adult Christian who is not acquainted with his life. This is the same God-bearing Father who had taken part in the First Ecumenical Synod (325 A.D.). Who has not heard of his renowned demonstration at Nicaea? But his participation at that First Synod of the Church shall be triumphantly recounted further on.

Our great Father Spyridon from his youth was simple, open, unpretending, and humble. He always kept as models, worthy of emulation, the blessed Prophet David for meekness, Jacob for being natural and unaffected, and Abraham for his hospitality. He was in the habit of distributing his goods and expanding his means on the poor. On account of his virtue and generosity, he inherited an imperishable land, one that was blessed and perpetual, in accordance with the unfailing promise of the Lord Who said, “BLESSED ARE THE MEEK, FOR THEY SHALL INHERIT THE EARTH” [Matthew 5:5], and “BLESSED ARE THE MERCIFUL, FOR THEY SHALL FIND MERCY” [Matthew 5:7]. By means of transitory wealth, which he held in contempt during his lifetime, he now receives for unending ages the incorruptible treasure, that is, the Christ, the Pearl of Great Price. He was also enriched by a river of miracles, which were energized in him at all times and places, and from which he was never drained.

Holy Spyridon was sanctified from his mother’s womb and was born in Askia, Cyprus. From his youth he was adorned with all the virtues, and loved true simplicity and serenity. Though the holy man started out as a shepherd of sheep, yet he was neither rustic in character and disposition nor one uncommunicative. Indeed, he diligently conducted his life in an orderly manner. He attended to the needs of the indigent and strangers with such mercy and compassion that he received all with love into his home. He could be seen washing their cut and stricken feet, readying a table, and making himself useful in whatever they needed. All was conducted with such humility, even reverence, as a faithful servant might conduct himself before his superiors. Together with his modesty of spirit, prudence, and sobriety, he also exhibited a manly mildness and gentleness with the rest of the virtues.

According to the sacred canons, he was lawfully wedded to an honorable and prudent woman whom he begat children. After her premature death, he continued to comport himself in a venerable and temperate manner. He did not go about seeking pleasure and the desires of the flesh, but instead continued laboring in every virtue. He applied himself conscientiously to the study of the law of God, which further implanted in his soul a love for his fellow man, together with moderation, tolerance, and fairness. Consequently, he came to be a true icon and archetype of virtue, having all the virtues exactly impressed in himself, to such a degree that very few can imitate his grace-filled practices and good will.

Thus, with such lifelong deeds, the holy man shone forth, so that he was accounted worthy of manifold rich gifts from God, which are able to reveal to us his glory and majesty in the heavens. He cured diverse sicknesses, including but not limited to restoring light to the blind and dispelling evil spirits. He also wrought miracles worthy of astonishment, with the Divine power of grace which he had helped and working together with him, so that he became the excellent shepherd of the faithful. God took him from a flock as He did David, and appointed him over rational sheep as their eminent shepherd, full of the teachings of the Apostles, who nurtured the flock in the meadow of faith and piety. When the Great Constantine became Emperor of the Christians, Spyridon the Wonderworker of Trimythous, a notable city on the seacoast near Salamis of Cyprus, was universally revealed. His attainment of virtue before his elevation to the Episcopacy is clearly evinced by the miracles which he performed.

The First Ecumenical Synod

When the Great Constantine reigned, he convened the First Ecumenical Synod in 325 A.D. The major Sees of the Eastern Empire were well represented. The anti-Arians included many holy Fathers adorned with Apostolic gifts. Among them were Spyridon of Trimythous of Cyprus, Nicholas of Myra, Athanasios the twenty-five-year old Deacon and secretary of Alexander of Alexandria. There were also present men who survived the sufferings of martyrdom: Paul of Neo-Caesarea, who lost the use of his hands from torture, and the half-blind Paphnutios of Egypt.

While the Saint was on his way to the Synod with a party of other bishops, he spent the night at a particular inn. Some spiteful Arian heretics learned of his arrival and sent their servants to sever the heads of the mules of Spyridon and his Deacon. After this had been done, the Deacon discovered the crime before dawn. The holy man was not discomfited. He bade the Deacon to place the severed heads back upon the bodies. Forthwith, they grew together and the animals revived and stood up. When the sun rose, it was only then discovered what mistake had occurred in the dark. The brown mule now had a white head, and the white mule had a brown head. The Arian heretics saw this and were awestruck.

Let us now return to the Great Synod. The universally accepted tradition of the Church states that 318 members comprised this holy Synod. The Synod was assembled against Arius the heretic who kept spreading his blasphemy saying that the Son and Logos/Word of God was not coessential (homoousios) with the Father. Thus, Arius was declaring that Jesus is NOT true God but a creature (ktisma, a Greek word meaning anything that is built. THIS SYNOD ALSO DECLARED THE COMPUTATION OF THE PASCHAL (EASTER) DATE BY ORDERING THIS FEAST OF FEASTS TO BE CELEBRATED ON THE SUNDAY AFTER THE FULL MOON FOLLOWING THE VERNAL EQUINOX. The First Ecumenical Synod produces the Symbol of Faith (Creed) and a synodical letter excommunicating the odious Arius and defining the incarnate Logos/Word as COESSENTIAL.

In the midst of this company of luminaries was the humble-minded Spyridon, whose indwelling of the Holy Spirit and virtue-empowered him to surpass the worldly philosophers who were given imperial permission to attend. Saint Spyridon, great in virtue and simple, or should we say singular, in learning, borne about and filled full of the All-Holy Spirit, took up A ROOF TILE IN HIS HANDS AND WENT ON SPEAKING: “One is God Who made the heaven and the earth, the Creator of all things…We know Him to be coessential with the Father, coequal in dignity, honor, and glory. The Holy Trinity, though ONE IN ESSENCE, is TRI-HYPOSTATIC, THREE PERSONS, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. How is it possible to put the open sea into the smallest jar? Even so the mind of man cannot contain the boundless sea of the incomprehensible Divinity. That thou mightest be assured of the truth of these things, attend to this small and common roof-tile. Though it is not proper that we should liken the Uncreated and Superessential Nature with this created and perishable creation, nevertheless, the eyes are deemed more credible witnesses to us than our ears. For all those of little faith, such as thyself and others who do not believe easily unless they see with their bodily eyes, I shall demonstrate before your very eyes the Truth with this here clay tile, which is compounded of THREE ELEMENTS THOUGH IT IS ONE IN ESSENCE AND NATURE.

After the Saint, inflamed with love for the Trinity, made the sign of the Honorable Cross with his right hand, while holding the tile in his left hand, he pronounced: “IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER,” and instantly–lo, they Wonders, O Christ our King!–THE FIRE WHICH HAD BAKED THE TILE FLARED UPWARD. THEN HE SAID, “AND OF THE SON,” AND AT ONCE, THE WATER WHEREWITH IT HAD BEEN MIXED RAN DOWN. IMMEDIATELY, FOLLOWING, HE SAID, “AND OF THE HOLY SPIRIT,” AND HE OPENED HIS HAND IN WHICH ONLY THE CLAY FROM WHICH IT WAS MADE REMAINED. This miracle was witnessed with astonishment by all, especially the philosopher, who was awestruck to the depths of his soul and fell silent. Thus the Saint put to shame the disputers reputed to be wise.

The holy Synod therefore declared its decision and the heretics were disregarded. The pious were both gladdened and amazed by the Wonderworking wrought by Saint Spyridon. Thereupon they were giving thanks to our Lord and Savior, having the Saint in great regard; not only the people and the Hierarchs marveled and honored him but the Emperor to a considerable degree. He besought the Saint to always entreat God on his behalf. Since the Synodical sessions had finished Saint Spyridon went directly to his See and homeland. [Source: The Great Synaxaristes of the Orthodox Church]

(To be continued)

____________
“Glory Be To GOD
For
All Things!”
– Saint John Chrysostomos
+ + +

With sincere agape in His Divine and Glorious Diakonia (Ministry),
The sinner and unworthy servant of God

+ Father George