December 31
Reading:
Saint Melania the Younger, who was born in 388, was the
grand-daughter of Saint Melania the Elder (see June 8). Her father
Publicola was an Eparch of Rome. She was joined in wedlock to a husband
and became the mother of two children, both of which she lost shortly
thereafter. Thus, having agreed with her husband to pass the rest of
their lives in abstinence and chastity, and taking her mother Albina
with her, she went off to Africa. They ransomed 8,000 captives;
furthermore, they built two monasteries - one for men and one for women -
in the city of Tagaste, which was in the district of Tunis. After seven
years they moved to Jerusalem. Thereafter Melania shut herself up in a
small and narrow hermitage by the Mount of Olives, and wearing away her
body with fasting and vigil, she reposed in 434.
Because of the
Apodosis of the Feast of the Nativity on the 31st of this month, the
hymns of Saint Melania the Younger are transferred to December 30th
along with the Martyr Anysia.
Apolytikion of Righteous Melania in the Plagal of the Fourth Tone
The image of God, was faithfully preserved in you, O Mother. For
you took up the Cross and followed Christ. By Your actions you taught us
to look beyond the flesh for it passes, rather to be concerned about
the soul which is immortal. Wherefore, O Holy Melania, your soul
rejoices with the angels.
Kontakion of Righteous Melania in the Third Tone
As a doubly-shining lamp * of truly mystical brightness * do ye
shine upon the Church * like a high-towering beacon: * thou with beams
of martyr's glory, * O Anysia; * thou with rays of great ascetic deeds, O
Melania. * Now together ye are honoured * by Christ your Bridegroom *
for your travails in His Name.
SOURCE:
SOURCE FOR ICON:
SAINT OR FEAST POSTED THIS DATE 2013(with 2012's link here also and further, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008 and even 2007!)
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