February 19
Reading:
Saint Philothei was born in Athens in 1522 to an
illustrious family. Against her will, she was married to a man who
proved to be most cruel. When he died three years later, the Saint took
up the monastic life and established a convent, in which she became a
true mother to her disciples. Many women enslaved and abused by the
Moslem Turks also ran to her for refuge. Because of this, the Turkish
rulers became enraged and came to her convent, dragged her by force out
of the church, and beat her cruelly. After a few days, she reposed,
giving thanks to God for all things. This came to pass in the year
1589. She was renowned for her almsgiving, and with Saints Hierotheus
and Dionysius the Areopagite is considered a patron of the city of
Athens.
Apolytikion in the Plagal of the First Tone
The famed city of Athens doth honour Philothei, the righteous
Martyr, whose relics it now revereth with joy; for while living in
sobriety and holiness, she hath exchanged all earthly things for the
everlasting life through great contests as a Martyr; and she entreateth
the Saviour to grant His mercy unto all of us.
Kontakion in the Third Tone
We all honour Philothei with jubilation of spirit, as this day we
rev'rently worship her ven'rable relics. For she lived her whole life
working kindness and mercy; and the righteous one, receiving a martyr's
ending, is deemed worthy to entreat God that all be granted eternal life
with the Saints.
SOURCE:
SAINT OR FEAST POSTED THIS DATE 2013(with 2012's link here also and further, 2011, 2010, 2009 and even 2008!)
.jpg)
No comments:
Post a Comment