The holy bishop and martyr Dionysius the Areopagite was brought to the Christian faith by the preaching of the Apostle Paul. He remained a companion of Paul for three years, traveling and preaching the Gospel. St. Dionysius was made the first bishop of Athens. He was also present at the repose of the most holy Theotokos. The writings of St. Dionysius hold great significance to the church. Four books of his have survived to the present day: On the Celestial Hierarchy, On the Ecclesiastical Hierarchy, On the Names of God, and On Mystical Theology. 

 

Troparion

You learned goodness and practiced temperance. You robed yourself in the priesthood and girded yourself with good conscience. Therefore, you came to draw ineffable things from the chosen vessel, Paul. You have completed the race, you have kept the faith. O father Dionysius, beg Christ our God to save our souls.

 

Kontakion

In a spiritual way you passed through the gates of heaven, and you climbed to the third heaven with the apostle Paul. You were given a deep understanding of mystical things with which you have given light to the ignorant. For all of this we invoke you, O Dionysius. Rejoice, O father of all!

 

Epistle

1 Corinthians 15:58 – 16:3

Brothers and sisters: Be steadfast and persevering, my beloved brothers, fully engaged in the work of the Lord. You know that your toil is not in vain when it is done in the Lord. 

About the collection for the saints, follow the instructions I gave the churches of Galatia. On the first day of each week everyone should put aside whatever he has been able to save, so that the collection will not have to be taken up after I arrive. When I come I shall give letters of introduction to those whom you have chosen to take your gift to Jerusalem. 

 

Gospel

Luke 5: 17-26

One day Jesus was teaching, and the power of the Lord made him heal. Sitting close by were Pharisees and teachers of the law who had come from every village of Galilee and from Judea and Jerusalem. Some men came along carrying a paralytic on a mat. They were trying to bring him in and lay him before Jesus; but they found no way of getting him through because of the crowd, so they went up on the roof. There they let him down with his mat through the tiles into the middle of the crowd before Jesus. Seeing their faith, Jesus said, “My friend, your sins are forgiven you.”

The scribes and the Pharisees began a discussion, saying: ‘Who is this man who utters blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” Jesus, however, knew their reasoning and answered them by saying: “Why do you harbor these thoughts? Which is easier to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Get up and walk’? In any case, to make it clear to you that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins” – he then addressed the paralyzed man: “I say to you, get up! Take your mat with you, and return to your house.”

At once the man stood erect before them. He picked up the mat he had been lying on and went home praising God. At this they were all seized with astonishment. Full of awe, they gave praise to God, saying, “We have seen incredible things today!”

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

 

The holy priest-martyr Cyprian was originally a pagan magician, in league with evil spirits. He was converted by the words and example of St. Justina and became a bishop of the church. He was beheaded with Justina in Nicomedia in 258.

The holy martyr Justina was brought to faith in Christ and then brought the same faith to her whole family. She was martyred with bishop Cyprian in Nicomedia in 258.

The holy Andrew, fool for Christ, was a Slav by birth. He was bought as a slave and brought to Constantinople during the reign of emperor Leo the Wise. He was a man beautiful in body and in soul, and was moved to adopt the ascesis of folly for Christ’s sake. Feigning madness in the daytime and praying all night, he became a wonderworker in Constantinople. In the year 911, he entered into the rest of the Lord. 

 

Troparion

You shared in the apostles’ way of life and succeeded to their throne, divinely inspired bishop. You found access to contemplation in the active life. Therefore, you rightly taught the word of truth and struggled for the faith to the shedding of your blood. O Priest-Martyr Cyprian, pray to Christ our God to save our souls. 

 

Kontakion

You renounced the magic arts in order to learn of God, and you became on of the wisest men on earth, healing those who venerate you and Justina. Join her in seeking salvation for us from Christ our God. 

 

Epistle

Philippians 1:27 – 2:4

Brothers and sisters: Conduct yourselves, then, in a way worthy of the gospel of Christ. If you do, whether I come and see you myself or hear about your behavior from a distance, it will be clear that you are standing firm in unity of spirit and exerting yourselves with one accord for the faith of the gospel. Do not be intimidated by your opponents in any situation. Their opposition foreshadows downfall for them, but salvation for you. All this is as God intends, for it is your special privilege to take Christ’s part-not only to believe in him but also to suffer for him. Yours is the same struggle as mine, the one in which you formerly saw me engaged and now hear that I am caught up.

In the name of the encouragement you owe me in Christ, in the name of the solace that love can give, of fellowship in spirit, compassion, and pity, I beg you: make my joy complete by your unanimity, possessing the one love, united in spirit and ideals. Never act out of rivalry or conceit; rather, let all parties think humbly of others as superior to themselves, each of you looking to others’ interests rather than to his own.

 

Gospel

Luke 6: 17-23

At that time coming down the mountain with them, Jesus stopped at a level stretch where there were many of his disciples; a large crowd of people was with them from all Judea and Jerusalem and the coast of Tyre and Sidon, people who came to hear him and be healed of their diseases. Those who were troubled with unclean spirits were cured; indeed, the whole crowd was trying to touch him because power went out from him which cured all. Then, raising his eyes to his disciples, he said: “Blest are you poor, the reign of God is yours. Blest are you who hunger; you shall be filled. Blest are you who are weeping; you shall laugh. Blest shall you be when men hate you, when they ostracize you and insult you and proscribe your name as evil because of the Son of Man. On the day they do so, rejoice and exult, for your reward shall be great in heaven.”

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

The Protection of the Theotokos: On Oct. 1, 911 during the reign of emperor Leo the Wise, there was an all-night vigil in the Blanchernae church of the Theotokos in Constantinople. Standing near the rear of the church was St. Andrew the Fool for Christ, and his disciple Epiphanius. At four o’clock in the morning, the Theotokos appeared above the people with a veil spread over her outstretched hands, as if to protect them. She was surrounded by angels and saints. Seeing this, Andrew asked his disciple, “Do you see the Queen and Lady of all is praying for the whole world?” Epiphanius answered, “I do see, holy Father, and I am in awe.”

The holy apostle Ananias was one of the Seventy Apostles and the first Bishop of Damascus. The Lord ordered him to restore the sight of Saul, the former persecutor of Christians, then baptized him (Acts 9:10-19, 22:12). Saul became the great preacher and Apostle Paul. St. Ananias boldly and openly confessed Christianity before the Jews and the pagans, despite the danger. 

Our venerable father Romanus the Melodist was a deacon who inherited the name “the Melodist” from his sublime art in composing ecclesiastical hymns in honor of the Lord and the saints during the 5th century.

 

Troparion of the Theotokos

Protected by your appearance, O Theotokos; today, we devout people solemnly celebrate. Gazing upon your most pure icon, we fervently say: Protect us with your holy veil, and deliver us from all evil, imploring your Son, Christ our God, to save our souls. 

 

Troparion – Apostle

O holy Apostle Ananias, intercede with the merciful God that He may grant our souls forgiveness of sins.

 

Troparion – Venerable

In you, O father, the divine image was strictly preserved; taking up your cross, you followed Christ. You taught us by example how to spurn the flesh, for it passes away, and how to care for the soul, which is immortal. Therefore, O venerable Romanus, your soul rejoices with the angels. 

 

Kontakion of the Theotokos

Today the Virgin is present in the Church, and with the choirs of saints, invisibly prays to God for us. The angels rejoice with the prophets; because the Theotokos prays for us to the eternal God. 

 

Kontakion – Apostle

In warmest prayers O Intercessor, and asking a speedy hearing, accept our prayers, O Ananias, and pray to Christ to have mercy on us, O unique one reposed among the saints. 

 

Kontakion – Venerable

You were adorned from childhood with the divine virtues of the spirit, O All-Wise Romanus, you were a precious adornment of the church of Christ. For you made it lovely with beautiful hymnody. Therefore we pray to you; Grant your divine gift to those who desire it. That we may cry out to you: Rejoice O All-blessed Father, beauty of the church. 

 

Readings for the Feast

Epistle 

Hebrews 9: 1-7

Brothers and sisters: The first covenant had regulations and an earthly sanctuary. For a tabernacle was constructed, the outer one, in which were the lampstand, the table, and the showbread; this was called the holy place. Behind the second veil was the tabernacle called the holy of holies, in which were the golden altar of incense and the ark of the covenant entirely covered with gold. In the ark were the golden jars containing manna, the rod of Aaron which had blossomed, and the tablets of the covenant. Above the ark were the cherubim of glory overshadowing the place of expiation. We cannot speak now of each of these in detail. These were the arrangements for worship. In performing their service the priests used to go into the inner one, and that but once a year, with the blood which he offered for himself and for the sins of the people. 

 

Gospel

Luke 10: 38-42, 11: 27-28

At that time Jesus entered a village where a woman named Martha welcomed him to her home. She had a sister named Mary, who seated herself at the Lord’s feet and listened to his words. Martha, who was busy with all the details of hospitality, came to Jesus and said, “Lord, are you not concerned that my sister has left me to do the household tasks all alone? Tell her to help me.”

The Lord in reply said to her: “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and upset about many things; one thing only is required. Mary has chosen the better portion and she shall not be deprived of it.”

While he was saying this a woman from the crowd called out, “Blest is the womb that bore you and the breasts that nursed you!” Jesus replied, “Rather, blest are they who hear the word of God and keep it.”

 

Readings for the day

Epistle

Philippians 1: 20a-27a

Brothers and sisters: I have full confidence that now as always Christ will be exalted through me, whether I live or die. For, to me, “life” means Christ; hence dying is so much gain. If, on the other hand, I am to go on living in the flesh, that means productive toil for me – and I do not know which I prefer. I am strongly attracted by both: I long to be freed from this life and to be with Christ, for that is the far better thing; yet it is more urgent that I remain alive for your sakes. This fills me with confidence that I will stay with you, and persevere with you all, for your joy and your progress in the faith. My being with you once again should make you even prouder of me in Christ. Conduct yourselves, then, in a way worthy of the gospel of Christ. 

Gospel

Luke 6: 12-19

At that time Jesus went out to the mountain to pray, spending the night in communion with God. At daybreak he called his disciples and selected twelve of them to be his apostles: Simon, to whom he gave the name Peter, and Andrew his brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew, Matthew and Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon called the Zealot, Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who turned traitor.

Coming down the mountain with them, Jesus stopped at a level stretch where there were many of his disciples; a large crowd of people was with them from all Judea and Jerusalem and the coast of Tyre and Sidon, people who came to hear him and be healed of their diseases. Those who were troubled with unclean spirits were cured; indeed, the whole crowd was trying to touch him because power went out from him which cured all. 

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

The holy martyr Gregory, bishop of Armenia, who after many labors withdrew into a cave near the confluence of tributaries of the Euphrates and there rested in peace in 332. He is called “the Illuminator” and is considered the apostle to the Armenians. 

 

Troparion

Today we faithful are invited to sign a hymn, to exalt with love in our assembly the daystar of the Unsetting Light, the long-suffering shepherd, the truly heroic pastor, the model of ascetics and martyrs, the radiant glory of the Church of Armenia. Let us bless with hymns of praise the divinely inspired Gregory who is adorned with the martyr’s crown. 

 

Kontakion

O faithful, let us extol today with hymns and spiritual songs the glorious Priest-Martyr Gregory, the shepherd of souls and powerful teacher, the bright star and fighter for truth. He intercedes with Christ our God for the salvation of our souls. 

 

Epistle

Philippians 1: 12-20a

Brothers and sisters, I want you to know that my situation has worked out to be furtherance of the gospel. My imprisonment in Christ’s cause has become well known throughout the praetorium here, and to others as well; most of my brothers in Christ, taking courage from my chains, have been further emboldened to speak the word of God fearlessly. It is true, some preach Christ from motives of envy and rivalry, but others so do out of good will. Some act from unaffected love, aware that my circumstances provide an opportunity to defend the gospel’s cause; others promote Christ, not from pure motives but as an intrigue against me, thinking that it will make my imprisonment even harsher. 

What of it? All that matters is that in any and every way, whether from specious motives or genuine ones, Christ is being proclaimed! That is what brings me joy. Indeed, I shall continue to rejoice, in the conviction that this will turn out to my salvation, thanks to your prayers and the support I receive from the Spirit of Jesus Christ. I firmly trust and anticipate that I shall never be put to shame for my hopes. 

Gospel

Luke 5: 33-39

At that time the Pharisees and scribes said to Jesus: “The disciples of John fast frequently and offer prayers; the disciples of the Pharisees do the same. Yours, on the contrary, eat and drink freely.” Jesus replied: “Can you make guests of the groom fast while the groom us still with them? But when the day comes that the groom is removed from their midst, they will surely fast in those days.”

Jesus then proposed to them this figure: “No one tears a piece from a new coat to patch an old one. If he does, he will only tear the new coat, and the piece taken from it will not match the old. Moreover, no one pours new wine into old wineskins. Should he do this, the new wine will burst the old skins, the wine will spill out, and the skins will be lost. New wine should be poured into fresh skins. No one, after drinking old wine, wants new. He says, ‘I find the old wine better.’”

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

Our venerable father Cyriacus the anchorite was born in Corinth of a Christian family, he left to go to Jerusalem and entered the monastery. He learned at the feet of saints such as Euthymius and Gerasimos. He was famous for his silence, his asceticism, and his zeal for the Orthodox faith. 

 

Troparion

You made the wilderness your dwelling, O father Cyriacus, the bearer of God. You became an angel in the flesh and a wonderworker. Through prayers, fast, and vigils, you obtained from God special graces to heal the sick and to sanctify the souls of those who come to you with trust. Glory to the One who gave you strength! Glory to the One who crowned you! Glory to the One who through your intercession grants healing to all!

 

Kontakion

The holy lavra always honors you as a powerful protector and advocate, and yearly celebrates your memory. But since you have confidence before the Lord, keep us safe from our enemies, so that we may cry out: Rejoice, O thrice-blessed Father.

 

Epistle

Philippians 1: 8-14

Brothers and sisters: God himself can testify how much I long for each of you with the affection of Christ Jesus! My prayer is that your love may more and more abound, both in understanding and wealth of experience, so that with a clear conscience and blameless conduct you may learn to value the things that really matter, up to the very day of Christ. It is my wish that you may be found rich in the harvest of justice which Jesus Christ has ripened in you, to the glory and praise of God.

My brothers and sisters, I want you to know that my situation was worked out to the furtherance of the gospel. My imprisonment in Christ’s cause has become well known throughout the praetorium here, and to others as well; most of my brothers in Christ, taking courage from my chains, have been further emboldened to speak the word of God fearlessly. 

Gospel

Luke 5: 12-16

At that time in a certain town, a man full of leprosy came to Jesus. Seeing Jesus, he bowed down to the ground and said to him, “Lord, if you will to do so, you can cure me.” Jesus stretched out his hand to touch him and said, “I do will it. Be cured.” Immediately the leprosy left him. Jesus then instructed the man: “Tell no one, but go and show yourself to the priest. Offer for your healing what Moses prescribed; that should be a proof for them.” His reputation spread more and more, and great crowds gathered to hear him and to be cured of their maladies. He often retired to deserted places and prayed. 

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

 

Our venerable father and confessor Chariton was abbot in the Old Lavra near Bethlehem in Palestine during the 4th century. He was diligent in prayer and fasting, and founded many lavras in the desert before his falling asleep in the Lord in 362.

The holy martyr Wenceslaus, prince of the Czechs, was the leader of the Bohemians. He was trained in divine and human wisdom by his grandmother St. Ludmilla. He was severe toward himself but gentle in ruling his kingdom and merciful to the poor. He redeemed in large numbers pagan slaves about to be sold so that they might be baptized. After enduring many difficulties in ruling his subjects and in spreading the faith, he was betrayed by his brother Boleslaus and killed by assassins in a church in Old Boleslavia (modern-day Altbunzlau) in Bohemia in the year 929. 

The holy prophet Baruch was a disciple and faithful friend of the prophet Jeremiah. He foretold the return of the Jews from the Babylonian captivity, and the coming of the Son of God on earth. It is held that he was killed by the Jews from Egypt, as was the prophet Jeremiah, in the seventh century before Christ. 

 

Troparion

Your abundant tears made the wilderness bloom, and your deep sighing made your labor fruitful a hundredfold. You became a star shining over the world with miracles, holy father Chariton. Pray to Christ God that He may save our souls. 

 

Kontakion

O divinely minded Chariton, you found your delight in the monastic life. You conquered the passions of your body and increased in faith; you blossomed forth like the Tree of Life in the midst of paradise, O most blessed and holy father.  

 

Epistle

2nd Corinthians 4: 6-15

Brothers and sisters: God who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts, that we in turn might make known the glory of God shining on the face of Christ. This treasure we possess in earthen vessels to make it clear that its surpassing power comes from God and not from us. We are afflicted in every way possible, but we are not crushed; full of doubts, we never despair. We are persecuted but never abandoned; we are struck down but never destroyed. Continually, we carry about in our bodies the dying of Jesus, so that in our bodies the life of Jesus may also be revealed. While we live we are constantly being delivered to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus may be revealed in our mortal flesh. Death is at work in us, but life in you. We have that spirit of faith which the Scripture says, “Because I believed, I spoke out.” We believe and so we speak, knowing that he who raised up the Lord Jesus will raise us up along with Jesus and place both us and you in his presence. Indeed, everything is ordered to your great benefit, so that the grace bestowed in abundance may bring greater glory to God because they who give thanks are many.

 

Gospel

Luke 6: 17-23

At that time, coming down the mountain with the Twelve, Jesus stopped at a level to stretch where there were many of his disciples; a large crowd of people was with them from all Judea and Jerusalem and the coast of Tyre and Sidon, people who came to hear him and be healed of their diseases. Those who were troubled with unclean spirits were cured; indeed, the whole crowd was trying to touch him because power went out from him which cured all. Then, raising his eyes to his disciples, he said: “Blest are you poor; the reign of God is yours. Blest are you who hunger; you shall be filled. Blest are you who are weeping; you shall laugh. Blest shall you be when men hate you, when they ostracize you and insult you and proscribe your name as evil because of the Son of Man. On the day they do so, rejoice and exult, for your reward shall be great in heaven.”

Readings for the Day

Epistle

Philippians 1: 1-7

Paul and Timothy, servants of Christ Jesus, to all the holy ones at Philippi, with their bishops and deacons in Christ Jesus. Grace and peace be yours from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ!

I give thanks to my God every time I think of you–which is constantly, in every prayer I utter–rejoicing, as I plead on your behalf, at the way you have all continually helped promote the gospel from the very first day.

I am sure of this much: that he who has begun the good work in you will carry it through to completion, right up to the day of Christ Jesus. It is only right that I should entertain such expectations in your regard since I hold all of you dear–you who, to a man, are sharers of my gracious lot when I lie in prison or am summoned to defend the solid grounds on which the gospel rests.

Gospel

Luke 4: 38-44

At that time Jesus left the synagogue and entered the house of Simon. Simon’s mother-in-law was in the grip of severe fever, and they interceded with Jesus for her. He stood over her and addressed himself to the fever and it left her. She got up immediately and waited on them.

At sunset, all who had people sick with a variety of diseases took them to Jesus, and he laid his hands on each of them and cured them. Demons departed from many, crying out as they did so, “You are the Son of God!” He rebuked them and did not allow them to speak because they knew he was the Messiah.

The next morning he left the town and set out into the open country. The crowds went in search of him, and when they found him they tried to keep him from leaving them. “To other towns I must announce the good news of the reign of God, because that is why I was sent.” And he continued to preach in the synagogues of Judea.

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

 

Eighteenth Sunday After Pentecost

27 September 2026

WEEKLY SCHEDULE

Saturday, Sept. 26 – The Passing of John Apostle & Evangelist          

5:00 PM      Mission Divine Liturgy at St. Raphael’s

 

Sunday, Sept. 27 – 18th Sunday After Pentecost            

8:00 AM      Matins

9:30 AM      Divine Liturgy

 

Monday, Sept. 28 – Chariton, Venerable Confessor           

8:30 AM      Morning Prayer

 

Wednesday, Sept. 30 – Gregory Illuminator Bishop & Martyr      

8:30 AM      Morning Prayer

5:30 PM      Vespers

6:30 PM      Divine Liturgy

7:30 PM      Firepit Social

 

Thursday, Oct. 1 – Protection of the Theotokos  

8:30 AM      Matins

 

Saturday, Oct. 3 – Denis the Areopagite Bishop & Martyr             

5:00 PM      Mission Divine Liturgy at St. Raphael’s

 

Sunday, Oct. 4  – 19th Sunday After Pentecost           

8:00 AM      Matins

9:30 AM      Divine Liturgy: 19^th Sunday After Pentecost

 

MYSTERY OF REPENTANCE (Confession)

St. Mary’s: Sundays 8:45 AM or by appointment St. Raphael’s: Saturdays 4:15 PM or by appointment

 

PRAYER REQUESTS

(Please resubmit or submit names to admin@ByzantineLA.com)

The Carlin Family, Michael Hefferon, Shirley Kunze, Diana Mina, Michael Mina, Peter Mina, Fr. John Mina, Charlene Niemi, Lana Zimmerman, Patrick Zimmerman, Shannon O’Neill, Fern Bonowicz, +Anne Petach, Jenny Roman, Nicolese Salazar, and All the sick and suffering of St. Mary’s

 

WEEKLY DEPOSIT:

Collection: $808.00; Mission: $1,445.60; Online: $547.00; Holydays: $100.00; Candles: $58.00; Property Rental: $2,000.00; Parish Socials: $40.00; Gift Shop: $10.00;

Building Fund: $85.00;                       

 Total: $5,093.60 / Attendance – PSM: 69 SRM: 71

 

Holy Protection of the Mother of God

October 1 is the patronal feast of our eparchy: the Holy Protection of the Mother of God (Pokrov in Slavonic). This feast, on the first day of October, celebrates the reality of Mary, the Mother of God (Theotokos) interceding for us before the throne of the Almighty. Both our own eparchy and the oldest Byzantine Catholic eparchy, Mukachevo, have this title, as well as our parish in Denver, CO. The property for our Proto-Cathedral, the first parish in our eparchy, St. Mary in Sherman Oaks was purchased on this feast day in 1957. Many other Byzantine-Ruthenian Catholic churches in the U.S. known as “Saint Mary” are also in fact dedicated to the Protection of Our Lady.

The origins of the feast day are in events in Constantinople, either when the city was under attack in the years 864-867 by the pagan Rus’ or in 911 when the Avars threatened (or perhaps Our Lady appeared at each crisis). Worshippers had filled the Blachernae church in which the robes of the Virgin Mary were kept when Saint Andrew, a Fool-for-Christ’s Sake, who was a Slav, and his disciple St Epiphanius, a Greek, saw the Virgin Mary appear in the dome of the church, extending her veil out over the assembly. She was surrounded by angels and ranks of the saints. 

Our Lady descended from the dome, escorted by Saints John the Baptist and John the Theologian, and went to the ambon, or bema, which in those days was a central raised pulpit in the center of the church, instead of the curved step in front of the royal doors of today. There she bowed her head and began to cry. Finally, she spread out her veil over the people, and ascended to the dome, and then disappeared. At this point, the attackers withdrew and the city was spared. The icon honors the role of Mary as intercessor, and also brings together figures from different time periods, who all have connections to Our Lady and her intercession.  (Read more at EPHX.org)

Family Day

            Family Day is October 4^th, we will have a roast pig and a bouncy house! A sign-up sheet to bring food is in the small hall. There is no theme for food, so please feel free to bring a favorite family recipe!

 

“When they had brought their boats to shore, they left everything and followed him.” Have you seen the Lord work in your life in such a powerful way that you would consider leaving everything to follow him? This is the response of the apostles in today’s gospel reading. The Church is fortified by men and women who follow him as priests, deacons, subdeacons, monks and nuns. If you may be hearing this call, Contact the Vocations Office at 602-861-9778 or email: vocations@ephx.org

The holy martyr Callistratus was raised a Christian and became a soldier. Reported by one of his cohort as a believer, he was imprisoned and ordered to offer sacrifice to idols. He refused. He was repeatedly tortured and still remained faithful, so much so that forty-nine of his fellow soldiers came to believe in Christ. They were all killed by the sword in the year 304.

Our venerable father Nilus was the founder and hegumen of the Grottaferrata Monastery. He was of Greek origin and sought the holy life of conversation. He pursued abstinence, humility, and wandering. He was remarkable for his prophecy and his teaching of wisdom. He established the celebrated monastery of Grottaferrata according to the customs of the eastern Fathers. In his ninetieth year of life, he surrendered his spirit to God while praying in the year 1002. 

 

Troparion

Your martyrs, O Lord our God, in their struggles received incorruptible crowns from You. With Your strength, they brought down the tyrants and broke the cowardly valor of demons. Through their prayers, O Christ our God, save our souls. 

 

Kontakion

You suffered deep wounds and received crowns from God. Pray to Christ for those who keep your dear memory alive, O great Callistratus, and you blessed martyrs who suffered with him. Pray also that Christ might give peace to His people and His flock, for He is the strength of the faithful.

 

Epistle

2 Corinthians 9: 6-11

Brothers and sisters: Let me say this much: He who sows sparingly will reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will reap bountifully. Everyone must give according to what he has inwardly decided; not sadly, not grudgingly, for God loves a cheerful giver. God can multiply  his favors among you so that you may always have enough of everything and even a surplus for good works, as it is written: “He scattered abroad and gave to the poor, his justice endures forever.” He who supplies seed for the sower and bread for the eater will provide in abundance; he will multiply the seed you sow and increase your generous yield. In every way your liberality is enriched; through us it results in thanks offered to God. 

 

Gospel

Luke 5: 1-11

At that time as Jesus stood by the Lake of Gennesaret, and the crowd pressed in on him to hear the word of God, he saw two boats moored by the side of the lake; the fisherman had disembarked and were washing their nets. He got into one of the boats, the other belonging to Simon, and asked him to pull out a short distance from the shore; then, remaining seated, he continued to teach the crowds from the boat. When he had finished speaking he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water and lower your net for a catch.” Simon answered, “Master, we have been hard at work all night long and have caught nothing; but if you say so, I will lower the nets.” Upon doing this they caught such a great number of fish that their nets were at the breaking point. They signaled to their mates in the other boat to come and help them. These came, and together they filled the two boats until they nearly sank. 

At the sight of this, Simon Peter fell at the knees of Jesus saying, “Leave me, Lord. I am a sinful man.” For indeed, amazement at the catch they had made seized him and all his shipmates, as well as James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. Jesus said to Simon, “So not be afraid. From now on you will be catching men.” With that they brought their boats to land, left everything, and became his followers.

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

 

The holy apostle and evangelist John the Theologian reposed when he was more than a hundred years old. He far outlived the other eyewitnesses of the Lord, and for a long time he remained the only remaining eyewitness of the earthly life of the Savior. When it was time for his departure from this life, the Apostle John went out beyond the city limits of Ephesus with the families of his disciples. He bade them prepare for him a cross-shaped grave, in which he lay, telling his disciples that they should cover him over with the soil. The disciples tearfully kissed their beloved teacher, but not wanting to be disobedient, they fulfilled his bidding. They covered the face of the saint with a cloth and filled in the grave. Learning of this, other disciples of St. John came to the place of his burial. When they opened the grave, they found it empty. Each year from the grave of the holy Apostle John on May 8 came forth a fine dust, which believers gathered up and were healed of sicknesses by it. Therefore, the Church also celebrates the memory of the holy Apostle John the Theologian on May 8. 

 

Troparion

Beloved Apostle of Christ our God, hasten to deliver a people that lacks any other defense. He who accepted that you lay your head on His breast will also accept your prayer. Pray to Christ, O Theologian, that He may overcome the darkness of pagan nations, and beg that He grant us peace and abundant mercy.

 

Kontakion

O man of purity, who could describe your glory? Many are the miracles and healings you perform. Since you are a theologian and the beloved of Christ, intercede with Him for the salvation of our souls. 

 

Readings for the feast

Epistle

1 John 4: 12-19

Dearly beloved: No one has ever seen God. Yet if we love one another God dwells in us, and his love is brought to perfection in us. The way we know we remain in him and he in us is that he has given us his Spirit. We have seen for ourselves, and can testify, that the Father has sent the Son as savior of the world. When anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwells in him and he in God. We have come to know and to believe in the love God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him. Our love is brought to perfection in this, that we should have confidence on the day of judgment; for our relation to this world is just like his. Love has no room for fear; rather, perfect love casts out all fear. And since fear has to do with punishment, love is not yet perfect in one who is afraid. We, for our part, love because he first loved us. 

 

Gospel

John 19: 25-27; 21: 24-25

At that time near the cross of Jesus there stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. Seeing his mother there with the disciples whom he loved, Jesus said to his mother, “Woman, there is your son.” In turn he said to the disciple, “There is your mother.” From that hour onward, the disciple took her into his care. 

It is the same disciple who is witness to these things; it is he who wrote them down and his testimony, we know, is true. There are still many other things that Jesus did, yet if they were written about in detail, I doubt there would be room enough in the entire world to hold the books to record them. 

Readings for the day

Epistle

1 Corinthians 15: 39-45

Brothers and sisters: Not all bodily nature is the same. Men have one kind of body, animals another. Birds are of their kind, fish are of theirs. There are heavenly bodies and there are earthly bodies. The splendor of heavenly bodies is one thing, that of the earthly another. The sun has a splendor of its own, so has the moon, and the stars have theirs. Even among the stars, one differs from another in brightness. So is it with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown in the earth is subject to decay, what rises is incorruptible. What is sown is ignoble, what rises is glorious. Weakness is sown, strength rises up. A natural body is put down and a spiritual body comes up. If there is a natural body, be sure there is also a spiritual body. Scripture has it that Adam, the first man, became a living soul; the last Adam has become a life-giving spirit.

 

Gospel

Luke 4: 31-37

At that time Jesus went down to Capernaum, a town of Galilee, where he began instructing them on the sabbath day. They were spellbound by his teaching, for his words had authority.

In the synagogue there was a man with an unclean spirit, who shrieked in a loud voice: “Leave us alone! What do you want of us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are: the Holy One of God.” Jesus said to him sharply, “Be quiet! Come out of him.” At that, the demon threw the man to the ground before everyone’s eyes and came out of him without doing him any harm. All were struck with astonishment, and they began saying to one another: “What is there about his speech? He commands the unclean spirits with authority and power, and they leave.” His renown kept spreading through the surrounding country.

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com

 

Our venerable mother Euphrosyna was born to parents long childless, who brought her up in the Christian faith. She presented herself, in man’s clothing, to the abbot of a local monastery, who admitted her and placed her in the spiritual care of the monk Agapetus. After thirty-eight years of living the monastic life, her father visited the monastery. Just before her death, she identified herself to him. She fell asleep in the Lord and was buried in the monastery in the year 479.

 

Troparion

In you, O mother, the divine image was strictly preserved; taking up your cross, you followed Christ. You taught us by example how to spurn the flesh, for it passes away, and how to care for the soul, which is immortal. Therefore, O venerable Euphrosyna, your soul rejoices with the angels. 

 

Kontakion

When you longed for life in the highest, you turned away from the longest delight of the world. You put on the clothing of a man, all beautiful one, and abandoned your earthly betrothed for Christ your Bridegroom before the time. 

 

Epistle

Ephesians 6: 18-24

Brothers and sisters: At every opportunity pray in the Spirit, using prayers and petition of every sort. Pray constantly and attentively for all in the holy company. Pray for me that God may put his words on my lips, that I may courageously make known the mystery of the gospel–that mystery for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may have courage to proclaim it as I ought. 

Tychicus, my dear brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will keep you informed as to how I am and what I am doing. I have sent him to you for the very purpose of giving you news about me for your hearts’ consolation.

May God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ grant the brothers peace and love and faith. Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with unfailing love. 

 

Gospel

Luke 4: 22-30

At that time, all who were present in the synagogue spoke favorably of Jesus; they marveled at the appealing discourse which came from his lips. They also asked, “Is this not Joseph’s son?”

Jesus said to them, “You will doubtless quote me the proverb, ‘Physician, heal yourself,’ and say, ‘Do here in your own country the things we have heard you have done in Capernaum.’ But in fact,” he went on, “no prophet gains acceptance in his native place. Indeed, let me remind you, there were many widows in Israel in the days of Elijah when the heavens remained closed for three and a half years and a great famine spread over the land. It was to none of these that Elijah was sent, but to a widow of Zarephath near Sidon. Recall, too, the many lepers in Israel in the time of Elisha the prophet; yet not one was cured except Naaman the Syrian.”

At these words the whole audience in the synagogue was filled with indignation. They rose up and expelled him from the town, leading him to the brow of the hill on which it was built and intending to hurl him over the edge. But he went straight through their midst and walked away. 

 

Icon courtesy of Jack Figel, Eastern Christian Publications – ecpubs.com