Syria Folder, its rivers and mountains, Greater Syria - The Fertile Crecent.kmz

Syria Folder, its rivers and mountains, Greater Syria - The Fertile Crecent

Syria, Greater Syria (The Fertile Crescent, a country without a nation)
Greater Syria (The Fertile Crescent); The Pace Teamswin Locations Abstract of the Fertile Crescent; St Theodore the Bishop of Edessa, Commemorated on July 9 ; Hieromartyr Pancratius the Bishop of Taormina in Sicily, Commemorated on July 9 ; Venerable Patermuthius the Ascetic of Egypt, Commemorated on July 9; St Joseph of Damascus and his companions, Commemorated July 10 ; Icon of the Mother of God œof the Three HandsÂ on Mt Athos, Commemorated on July 12 ; MACRINA THE YOUNGER, MONASTIC AND TEACHER (19 JUL 379) ; Venerable Dius the Abbot of Antioch, Commemorated on July 19; Prophet Ezekiel, Commemorated on July 21 ; Venerable Simeon of Emessa the Fool-For-Christ, Commemorated on July 21; Hieromartyr Apollinaris the Bishop of Ravenna, Commemorated on July 23; St Hilarion of Tvali, Commemorated on July 24; Appearance of the Smolensk œDirectressÂ Icon of the Mother of God brought from Constantinople, Commemorated on July 28 ; Martyr Acacius of Apamea, Commemorated July 28 ; Virginmartyr Seraphima (Serapia) of Antioch, Commemorated on July 29; Apostle Silas of the Seventy, Commemorated July 30 ; WILLIAM WILBERFORCE [and ANTHONY ASHLEY-COOPER, 7th EARL OF SHAFTESBURY], PROPHETIC WITNESSES, 1833, 1885, Commemorated July 30 ; 7 Holy Maccabee Martyrs, Commemorated on August 1; Venerable Cosmas the Eunuch and Hermit of Palestine, Commemorated on August 3; Martyr Eusignius of Antioch, Commemorated on August 5; Martyr Dometius of Persia, Commemorated on August 7; Apostle Matthias of the Seventy, Commemorated on August 9 ; Translation of the relics of St Maximus the Confessor, Commemorated on August 13; Hieromartyr Marcellus the Bishop of Apamea, Commemorated August 14 ; Translation of the Image œNot-Made-By-HandsÂ of our Lord Jesus Christ from Edessa to Constantinople, the Third œFeast of the Savior in AugustÂ, Commemorated on August 16 ; Venerable Gerasimus the New Ascetic of Cephalonia, Commemorated on August 16 ; Martyr Paul of Syria, Commemorated on August 17; Martyr Andrew Stratelates in Cilicia, Commemorated on August 19; Venerable Theophanes of Dochiariou of Mt Athos, Commemorated on August 19; BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX, ABBOT, THEOLOGIAN, AND POET (20 AUGUST 1153); Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated August 21 ; Martyr Bassa of Edessa, and her sons, Commemorated on August 21; Hieromartyr Athanasius the Bishop of Tarsus in Cilicia, Commemorated on August 22 ; Venerable Anthusa the Nun, Commemorated August 22 ; Return of the Relics of the Apostle Bartholomew from Anastasiopolis to Lipari, Commemorated August 25 : By the power of God the chests did not sink into the depths of the sea, but miraculously floated upon the waves and reached Italy. The chest with the relics of the Apostle Bartholomew came to land at the island of Lipari, and the remaining chests continued their journey and came to land at various places in Italy. The chest with the relics of the Martyr Papian halted at Sicily, the Martyr Lucian at Messina, the Martyr Gregory at Calabria, and the Martyr Acacius at Askalon. ; St Barses the Confessor, Commemorated August 25 ; The Beheading of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist John, Commemorated on August 29 ; St Gabriel I the Patriarch, Commemorated on August 30; St Simeon Stylites, the Elder, Commemorated September 1 ; Venerable Martha the Mother of St Simeon Stylites, Commemorated on September 1 ; Martyr Aristion the Bishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on September 3 ; Martyr Juventinus the Soldier at Antioch, Commemorated on September 5 ; Martyr Sarbelus of Edessa, Commemorated September 5 ; Martyr Eudoxius, Commemorated September 6 ; Apostle Evodius (Euodias) of the Seventy, Commemorated September 7 ; Forefeast of the Nativity of the Mother of God. Commemorated September 7 ; Apostle Lucius of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 10; JOHN CHRYSOSTOM, BISHOP OF ANTIOCH AND OF CONSTANTINOPLE, PREACHER, THEOLOGIAN, LITURGIST (13 Sept. 407) ; New Martyr Isaac of Georgia, Commemorated on September 16 ; Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 1 ; Martyr David the Prince of Georgia, Commemorated on October 2; Hieromartyr Dionysius the Bishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on October 5; St Agabbas of Syria, Commemorated on November 22 ; JOHN OF DAMASCUS, HYMN-WRITER, DEFENDER OF ICONS (4 DEC 750); Martyr Athenodorus of Mesopotamia, Commemorated December 7 ; Venerable Daniel the Stylite of Constantinople, Commemorated on December 11 ; St Modestus the Archbishop of Jerusalem, Commemorated December 18 ; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20 ; St Philogonius the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated December 20 ; Venerable Marcellus the Abbot of the Monastery of the "Unsleeping Ones", Commemorated December 29 ; Apostle Timon the Deacon of the Seventy, Commerated December 30 ; Venerable Melania the Younger of Rome, Commemorated on December 31 ; St Basil the Great the Archbishop of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated January 1 ; St Sylvester the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on January 2 ; Apostle and Evangelist Luke of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Euodius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Mark the Evangelist of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Lucius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Synaxis of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John, Commemorated January 7 ; St Eustratius the Wonderworker, Commemorated on January 9 ; St Theodosius of Antioch, Commemorated Janaury 11; St James the Bishop of Nisibis, Commemorated January 13 ; St Ephraim the Lesser, Commemorated January 18 ; Venerable Marcian of Cyrrhus in Syria, Commemorated January 18 ; St Macarius the Stylite of Martkobsk, Georgia, Commemorated on January 19 ; Venerable Euthymius the Great, Commemorated on January 20 ; St Maximus the Confessor, Commemorated January 21 ; Venerable Mausimas the Syrian, Commemorated January 23 ; St Macedonius the Hermit of Syria, Commemorated January 24 ; St Gregory the Theologian the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated on January 25 ; St Mares the Singer in Syria, Commemorated January 25 ; St Publius the Ascetic of Syria, Commemorated January 25 ; SILAS, MISSIONARY COMPANION OF PAUL, Commemorated January 26 ; St Isaac the Syrian the Bishop of Nineveh, Commemorated on January 28 ; Venerable Ephraim the Syrian, Commemorated on January 28 ; Venerable Palladius the Hermit, of Antioch, Commemorated on January 28 ; Martyr Ashot Curapalati, King of of Artanuji, Commemorated on January 29 ; Martyr Romanus at Samosata, Commemorated January 29 ; Martyr Silvanus Bishop of Emesa, Commemorated January 29 ; St Aphraates of Persia, Commemorated on January 29 ; St Sarbelus of Edessa, January 29 ; Translation of the relics of the Hieromartyr Ignatius, the Godbearer and Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on January 29 ; Venerable Zeno the Hermit of Antioch the Disciple of St Basil the Great, Commemorated January 30 ; Wonderworker and Unmercenary Cyrus, Commemorated on January 31 ; Martyr Tryphon of Campsada Near Apamea in Syria, Commemorated on February 1 ; Venerable Peter the Hermit of Galatia Near Antioch, in Syria, Commemorated on February 1 ; The Meeting of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the Temple, Commemorated on February 2 ; Martyr Julian of Emesa, Commemorated on February 6 ; St Arsenius of Iqalto in Georgia, Commemorated on February 6; Martyr Nicephorus of Antioch, in Syria, Commemorated on February 9 ; Venerable Shio Mgvime, Commemorated February 9 ; Martyr Luke of Jerusalem, the Georgian, Commemorated on February 12 ; St Meletius the Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on February 12 ; St Prochorus of Georgia, Commemorated February 12 ; St Eulogius the Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated February 13 ; St Abraham the Bishop of Charres in Mesopotamia, Commemorated on February 14 ; Venerable Maron the Hermit of Syria, Commemorated February 14 ; Venerable Maron the Hermit of Syria, Commemorated February 14 ; Venerable Eusebius the Hermit of Syria, Commemorated on February 15; St Flavian, Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on February 16 ; St Maruthas the Bishop of Martyropolis in Mesopotamia, Commemorated on February 16; St Eugene the Presbyter and Confessor at Antioch, Commemorated February 19 ; St Rabulas of Samosata, Commemorated February 19 ; St Eustathius the Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on February 21; Martyr Maurice at Apamea in Syria, Commemorated February 22 ; Venerable Baradates, Hermit of Syria, Commemorated February 22 ; Venerable Alexander the founder of the Monastery, of the œUnsleeping OnesÂ, Commemorated on February 23; Venerable John, Ascetic of the Syrian Deserts, Commemorated February 23 ; Venerable Moses, Ascetic of the Syrian Deserts, Commemorated February 23 ; First and second finding of the Honorable Head of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist of the Lord, John, Commemorated on February 24; Repose of St Raphael the Bishop of Brooklyn, Commemorated February 27 ; St Asclepius of Syria, Commemorated on February 27; Venerable Thalelaeus the Hermit of Syria, Commemorated on February 27 ; Venerable Marana of Syria, Commemorated on February 28 ; Martyrs Marcellus and Anthony of Syria, Commemorated on March 1; Virginmartyr Domnina of Syria, Commemorated on March 1 ; Martyr Antonina of Nicea, in Bithynia, Commemorated on March 1; Martyr Eudokia of Heliopolis, Commemorated on March 1; St James the Faster of Phoenicia, Syria, Commemorated on March 4; 42 Martyrs of Ammoria in Phrygia, Commemorated on March 6; Hieromartyr Theodoritus of Antioch, Commemorated on March 8; Martyr Quadratus and the rest of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 10 ; St Sophronius the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Commemorated on March 11; Martyr Julian of Anazarbus, Commemorated on March 16; Venerable Alexis the Man of God, Commemorated on March 17; Venerable Aninas of the Euphrates, Commemorated on March 18; St Cyril the Bishop of Catania, Commemorated on March 21 ; Martyr Bathusius in the Crimea, Commemorated on March 26; St Malchus of Chalcis in Syria, Commemorated on March 26 ; Venerable Hilarion the New the Abbot of Pelecete, Commemorated on March 28; Hieromartyr Mark the Bishop of Arethusa, who suffered under Julian the Apostate, Commemorated on March 29; Martyr Cyril the Deacon of Heliopolis, who suffered under Julian the Apostate, Commemorated on March 29 ; St Platonida (Platonis) of Nisibis, Syria, Commemorated on April 6; St Celestine the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on April 8 ; Monkmartyr Menas of Palestine, Commemorated on April 12; St Isaac the Syrian, Abbot of Spoleto, Commemorated on April 12; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13; Icon of the Mother of God of Vilnius, Commemorated on April 14; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15; Apostle Trophimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15 ; St Ephraim the Great of Atsquri, Commemorated on April 15; St Acacius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on April 17; Venerable Anastasius the Abbot of Sinai, Commemorated on April 20; GEORGE, SOLDIER and MARTYR, 23 APRIL 303, Commemorated April 23; Venerable Thomas the Fool of Syria, Commemorated on April 24; Apostle and Evangelist Mark, Commemorated on April 25; MARK THE EVANGELIST, (25 APR NT) ; EARLY ABBOTS of CLUNY, 30 April 909 ; Martyr Bata the Persian, Commemorated on May 1; Hieromartyr Erasmus the Bishop of Formia in Campania, Commemorated on May 4; Greatmartyr Irene of Thessalonica, Commemorated on May 5; St John Zedazneli of Zaden, in Georgia with his 12 Disciples, Commemorated on May 7; GREGORY OF NAZIANZUS, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (9 MAY 389); Martyr Christopher of Lycia, Commemorated on May 9 ; Repose of the Venerable Shio the Anchorite of Georgia, Commemorated on May 9; Martyr Hesychius of Antioch, Commemorated on May 10; Hieromartyr Hermogenes the Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, Commemorated on May 12; St Pausicacus the Bishop of Synnada, Commemorated on May 13; Martyr Michael œthe Black-RobedÂ of St Sava Monastery, Commemorated on May 23; Venerable Simeon Stylites the Younger of Wonderful Mountain, Commemorated on May 24; St Eutychius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on May 28; Martyr Justin the Philosopher and those with him at Rome, Commemorated on June 1; St Metrophanes the first Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on June 4 ; St Ephraim the Patriarch of Antioch, Commemorated on June 8; Translation of the relics of the Greatmartyr Theodore Stratelates, Commemorated on June 8; Venerable Zosimus of Phoenicia, Syria, Commemorated on June 8; St David Gareji, Commemorated on June 9; EPHREM OF EDESSA, DEACON AND HYMN-WRITER (10 JUNE 373); Venerable Theophanes of Antioch, Commemorated on June 10; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated on June 11 ; Apostle Bartholomew of the Twelve, Commemorated on June 11 ; Venerable Peter of Mt. Athos, Commemorated on June 12 ; Prophet Elisha, Commemorated on June 14; St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15; Martyr Leontius at Tripoli in Syria, Commemorated on June 18 ; Apostle Jude the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on June 19; Martyr Julian of Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on June 21 ; Hieromartyr Eusebius the Bishop of Samosata, Commemorated on June 22; Martyr Eustochius of Ancyra, Commemorated on June 23; ISABEL FLORENCE HAPGOOD, ECUMENIST and JOURNALIST, 1929, Commemorated June 26 ; Venerable George of Mt. Athos, Georgian, Commemorated on June 27; Icon of the Mother of God of œthe Three HandsÂ, Commemorated on June 28; IRENAEUS, BISHOP OF LYONS, THEOLOGIAN (28 JUN 202) ; PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES AND MARTYRS (29 JUN 64); The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leader of the Apostles, Paul, Commemorated on June 29; The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leaders of the Apostles, Peter and Paul, Commemorated on June 29 ; St Alexander the Founder of the Monastery of the œUnsleeping OnesÂ, Commemorated on July 3 ; St George the God-Bearer, Commemorated on July 3; St Andrew the Archbishop of Crete, Commemorated on July 4; Venerable Martha the Mother of the Venerable Simeon Stylites the Younger, Commemorated on July 4 ; Greatmartyr Procopius of Caesarea, in Palestine, Commemorated on July 8;

Syria, Levant (The Fertile Crescent)
Levant (Latin name for The Fertile Crescent, from the Eastern sunrise, levitate); The Pace Teamswin Locations Abstract of the Fertile Crescent; Greater Syria (The Fertile Crescent); St Agabbas of Syria, Commemorated on November 22 ; Martyr Athenodorus of Mesopotamia, Commemorated December 7 ; St Modestus the Archbishop of Jerusalem, Commemorated December 18 ; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20 ; St Philogonius the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated December 20 ; Apostle Timon the Deacon of the Seventy, Commerated December 30 ; Apostle and Evangelist Luke of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Synaxis of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John, Commemorated January 7 ; Venerable Peter the Hermit of Galatia Near Antioch, in Syria, Commemorated on February 1 ; Venerable Thalelaeus the Hermit of Syria, Commemorated on February 27 ; St Platonida (Platonis) of Nisibis, Syria, Commemorated on April 6; St Celestine the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on April 8 ; Monkmartyr Menas of Palestine, Commemorated on April 12; St Isaac the Syrian, Abbot of Spoleto, Commemorated on April 12; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13; Icon of the Mother of God of Vilnius, Commemorated on April 14; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15; Martyr Bata the Persian, Commemorated on May 1; Hieromartyr Erasmus the Bishop of Formia in Campania, Commemorated on May 4; Greatmartyr Irene of Thessalonica, Commemorated on May 5; Hieromartyr Hermogenes the Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, Commemorated on May 12; St Pausicacus the Bishop of Synnada, Commemorated on May 13; Martyr Julian of Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on June 21 ; ANTHONY ASHLEY-COOPER, 7th EARL OF SHAFTESBURY], PROPHETIC WITNESS, 1885 "a country without a nation" for "a nation without a country";

Zargos Mountains - Around the Fertile Crescent
Zargos Mountains, around the Fertile Crescent;

Syria, Middle East (Greater Syria, Levant)
Middle East; Rex Humbard, PENTECOSTAL SAINT, 2007, Commemorated September 21 ; St Agabbas of Syria, Commemorated on November 22 ; Martyr Athenodorus of Mesopotamia, Commemorated December 7 ; St Modestus the Archbishop of Jerusalem, Commemorated December 18 ; St Philogonius the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated December 20 ; Apostle and Evangelist Luke of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Synaxis of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John, Commemorated January 7 ;

Syria, Syrian Deserts (Land of the Saracens)
Syrian Deserts; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Venerable John, Ascetic of the Syrian Deserts, Commemorated February 23 ; Venerable Antiochus and Antoninus, ascetics of the Syrian Deserts, Commemorated on February 23; Venerable Zebinas, Ascetic of the Syrian Deserts, Commemorated February 23;; Venerable Polychronius, Ascetic of the Syrian Deserts, Commemorated February 23; Venerable Moses, Ascetic of the Syrian Deserts, Commemorated on February 23; Venerable Damian, Ascetic of the Syrian Deserts, Commemorated February 23; Venerable Alexander the founder of the Monastery, of the "Unsleeping Ones", Commemorated February 23 ; Monkmartyr Menas of Palestine, Commemorated on April 12;

Syria, Damascus
Syria; Hieromartyr Pancratius the Bishop of Taormina in Sicily, Commemorated on July 9 ; St Theodore the Bishop of Edessa, Commemorated on July 9 ; Venerable Patermuthius the Ascetic of Egypt, Commemorated on July 9; St Joseph of Damascus and his companions, Commemorated July 10 ; Icon of the Mother of God ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Âœof the Three HandsÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂÂÂÂ on Mt Athos, Commemorated on July 12 ; MACRINA THE YOUNGER, MONASTIC AND TEACHER (19 JUL 379) ; Venerable Dius the Abbot of Antioch, Commemorated on July 19; Prophet Ezekiel, Commemorated on July 21 ; Venerable Simeon of Emessa the Fool-For-Christ, Commemorated on July 21; Appearance of the Smolensk ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂœDirectressÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂÂÂÂ Icon of the Mother of God brought from Constantinople, Commemorated on July 28 ; Martyr Acacius of Apamea, Commemorated July 28 ; Virginmartyr Seraphima (Serapia) of Antioch, Commemorated on July 29; 7 Holy Maccabee Martyrs, Commemorated on August 1; Venerable Cosmas the Eunuch and Hermit of Palestine, Commemorated on August 3; Martyr Eusignius of Antioch, Commemorated on August 5; Martyr Dometius of Persia, Commemorated on August 7; Apostle Matthias of the Seventy, Commemorated on August 9; Translation of the relics of St Maximus the Confessor, Commemorated on August 13; Hieromartyr Marcellus the Bishop of Apamea, Commemorated August 14 ; Translation of the Image ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂœNot-Made-By-HandsÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂÂÂÂ of our Lord Jesus Christ from Edessa to Constantinople, the Third ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂœFeast of the Savior in AugustÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂÂÂÂ, Commemorated on August 16 ; Venerable Gerasimus the New Ascetic of Cephalonia, Commemorated on August 16 ; Martyr Paul of Syria, Commemorated on August 17; Martyr Andrew Stratelates in Cilicia, Commemorated on August 19; Venerable Theophanes of Dochiariou of Mt Athos, Commemorated on August 19; BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX, ABBOT, THEOLOGIAN, AND POET (20 AUGUST 1153); Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated August 21 ; Martyr Bassa of Edessa, and her sons, Commemorated on August 21; Hieromartyr Athanasius the Bishop of Tarsus in Cilicia, Commemorated on August 22 ; Venerable Anthusa the Nun, Commemorated August 22 ; St Gabriel I the Patriarch, Commemorated on August 30; St Simeon Stylites, the Elder, Commemorated September 1 ; Venerable Martha the Mother of St Simeon Stylites, Commemorated on September 1 ; Martyr Aristion the Bishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on September 3 ; Martyr Juventinus the Soldier at Antioch, Commemorated on September 5 ; Martyr Sarbelus of Edessa, Commemorated September 5 ; Apostle Evodius (Euodias) of the Seventy, Commemorated September 7 ; Forefeast of the Nativity of the Mother of God. Commemorated September 7 ; Apostle Lucius of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 10 ; JOHN CHRYSOSTOM, BISHOP OF ANTIOCH AND OF CONSTANTINOPLE, PREACHER, THEOLOGIAN, LITURGIST (13 Sept. 407) ; New Martyr Isaac of Georgia, Commemorated on September 16 ; Martyr David the Prince of Georgia, Commemorated on October 2; St Abercius the Bishop and Wonderworker of Hieropolis, Equal of the Apostles, Commemorated on October 22; Martyr Sergius in Syria; Venerable Akepsimas the Hermit of Cyrrhus in Syria, Commemorated November 3 ; Apostle and Evangelist Matthew, November 16 ; St Agabbas of Syria, Commemorated on November 22 ; Venerable James the Solitary of Syria, Commemorated on November 26; JOHN OF DAMASCUS, HYMN-WRITER, DEFENDER OF ICONS (4 DEC 750); Martyr John of Damascus, Commemorated December 4 ; Venerable Daniel the Stylite of Constantinople, Commemorated on December 11 ; St Modestus the Archbishop of Jerusalem, Commemorated December 18 ; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20 ; St Philogonius the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated December 20 ; Hieromartyr Gregory (Peradze) of Georgia; Sunday after the Nativity: Commemoration of the Holy Righteous David the King, Joseph the Betrothed, and James the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated December 26 ; Venerable Marcellus the Abbot of the Monastery of the "Unsleeping Ones", Commemorated December 29 ; Apostle Timon the Deacon of the Seventy, Commerated December 30 ; Venerable Melania the Younger of Rome, Commemorated on December 31 ; St Basil the Great the Archbishop of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated January 1 ; St Sylvester the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on January 2 ; Apostle and Evangelist Luke of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Euodius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Mark the Evangelist of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Synaxis of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John, Commemorated January 7 ; St Eustratius the Wonderworker, Commemorated on January 9 ; St Theodosius of Antioch, Commemorated Janaury 11; St Meletius the Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on February 12 ; St James the Bishop of Nisibis, Commemorated January 13 ; St Ephraim the Lesser, Commemorated January 18 ; Venerable Marcian of Cyrrhus in Syria, Commemorated January 18 ; St Macarius the Stylite of Martkobsk, Georgia, Commemorated on January 19 ; Venerable Euthymius the Great, Commemorated on January 20 ; St Maximus the Confessor, Commemorated January 21 ; Venerable Mausimas the Syrian, Commemorated January 23 ; St Macedonius the Hermit of Syria, Commemorated January 24 ; St Gregory the Theologian the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated on January 25 ; St Publius the Ascetic of Syria, Commemorated January 25 ; St Mares the Singer in Syria, Commemorated January 25 ; SILAS, MISSIONARY COMPANION OF PAUL, Commemorated January 26 ; Venerable Ephraim the Syrian, Commemorated on January 28 ; St Isaac the Syrian the Bishop of Nineveh, Commemorated on January 28 ; Venerable Palladius the Hermit, of Antioch, Commemorated on January 28 ; Martyr Ashot Curapalati, King of of Artanuji, Commemorated on January 29 ; Martyr Romanus at Samosata, Commemorated January 29 ; Martyr Silvanus Bishop of Emesa, Commemorated January 29 ; St Aphraates of Persia, Commemorated on January 29 ; St Sarbelus of Edessa, January 29 ; Translation of the relics of the Hieromartyr Ignatius, the Godbearer and Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on January 29 ; Venerable Zeno the Hermit of Antioch the Disciple of St Basil the Great, Commemorated January 30 ; Wonderworker and Unmercenary Cyrus, Commemorated on January 31 ; Martyr Tryphon of Campsada Near Apamea in Syria, Commemorated on February 1 ; Venerable Peter the Hermit of Galatia Near Antioch, in Syria, Commemorated on February 1 ; The Meeting of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the Temple, Commemorated on February 2 ; Martyr Julian of Emesa, Commemorated on February 6 ; St Arsenius of Iqalto in Georgia, Commemorated on February 6; Martyr Nicephorus of Antioch, in Syria, Commemorated on February 9 ; Venerable Shio Mgvime, Commemorated February 9 ; Martyr Luke of Jerusalem, the Georgian, Commemorated on February 12 ; St Prochorus of Georgia, Commemorated February 12 ; St Eulogius the Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated February 13 ; St Abraham the Bishop of Charres in Mesopotamia, Commemorated on February 14 ; Venerable Maron the Hermit of Syria, Commemorated February 14 ; Venerable Eusebius the Hermit of Syria, Commemorated February 15 ; St Flavian, Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on February 16 ; St Maruthas the Bishop of Martyropolis in Mesopotamia, Commemorated on February 16; St Eugene the Presbyter and Confessor at Antioch, Commemorated February 19 ; St Rabulas of Samosata, Commemorated February 19 ; St Eustathius the Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on February 21; Martyr Maurice at Apamea in Syria, Commemorated February 22 ; Venerable Limnaeus Hermit of Syria, Commemorated February 22 ; Venerable Baradates, Hermit of Syria, Commemorated February 22 ; Hieromartyr Polycarp the Bishop of Smyrna, Commemorated on February 23; Venerable Alexander the founder of the Monastery, of the ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂœUnsleeping OnesÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂÂÂÂ, Commemorated on February 23; Venerable John, Ascetic of the Syrian Deserts, Commemorated February 23 ; Venerable Moses, Ascetic of the Syrian Deserts, Commemorated February 23 ; First and second finding of the Honorable Head of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist of the Lord, John, Commemorated on February 24; Repose of St Raphael the Bishop of Brooklyn, Commemorated February 27 ; Venerable Thalelaeus the Hermit of Syria, Commemorated on February 27 ; St Asclepius of Syria, Commemorated on February 27 ; Venerable John-Barsanuphius the Bishop of Damascus, Commemorated on February 28 ; Venerable Marana of Syria, Commemorated on February 28 ; Virginmartyr Domnina of Syria, Commemorated on March 1 ; 42 Martyrs of Ammoria in Phrygia, Commemorated on March 6; Hieromartyr Theodoritus of Antioch, Commemorated on March 8; Martyr Quadratus and the rest of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 10 ; St Sophronius the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Commemorated on March 11; Martyr Julian of Anazarbus, Commemorated on March 16; Venerable Alexis the Man of God, Commemorated on March 17; Venerable Aninas of the Euphrates, Commemorated on March 18; St Cyril the Bishop of Catania, Commemorated on March 21 ; Martyr Bathusius in the Crimea, Commemorated on March 26; St Malchus of Chalcis in Syria, Commemorated on March 26; Venerable Hilarion the New the Abbot of Pelecete, Commemorated on March 28; Hieromartyr Mark the Bishop of Arethusa, who suffered under Julian the Apostate, Commemorated on March 29; St Platonida (Platonis) of Nisibis, Syria, Commemorated on April 6; St Celestine the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on April 8 ; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13; Icon of the Mother of God of Vilnius, Commemorated on April 14; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15; Apostle Trophimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15 ; St Ephraim the Great of Atsquri, Commemorated on April 15; St Acacius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on April 17; Venerable Anastasius the Abbot of Sinai, Commemorated on April 20; GEORGE, SOLDIER and MARTYR, 23 APRIL 303, Commemorated April 23; Venerable Thomas the Fool of Syria, Commemorated on April 24; Apostle and Evangelist Mark, Commemorated on April 25; MARK THE EVANGELIST, (25 APR NT) ; EARLY ABBOTS of CLUNY, 30 April 909 ; Martyr Bata the Persian, Commemorated on May 1; Hieromartyr Erasmus the Bishop of Formia in Campania, Commemorated on May 4; Greatmartyr Irene of Thessalonica, Commemorated on May 5; St John Zedazneli of Zaden, in Georgia with his 12 Disciples, Commemorated on May 7; GREGORY OF NAZIANZUS, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (9 MAY 389); Martyr Christopher of Lycia, Commemorated on May 9 ; Repose of the Venerable Shio the Anchorite of Georgia, Commemorated on May 9; Martyr Hesychius of Antioch, Commemorated on May 10; Hieromartyr Hermogenes the Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, Commemorated on May 12; St Pausicacus the Bishop of Synnada, Commemorated on May 13; Martyr Michael ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Âœthe Black-RobedÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂÂÂÂ of St Sava Monastery, Commemorated on May 23; Venerable Simeon Stylites the Younger of Wonderful Mountain, Commemorated on May 24; St Eutychius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on May 28; Martyr Justin the Philosopher and those with him at Rome, Commemorated on June 1; St Metrophanes the first Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on June 4 ; St Ephraim the Patriarch of Antioch, Commemorated on June 8; Translation of the relics of the Greatmartyr Theodore Stratelates, Commemorated on June 8; Venerable Zosimus of Phoenicia, Syria, Commemorated on June 8; St David Gareji, Commemorated on June 9; EPHREM OF EDESSA, DEACON AND HYMN-WRITER (10 JUNE 373); Venerable Theophanes of Antioch, Commemorated on June 10; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated on June 11; Apostle Bartholomew of the Twelve, Commemorated on June 11 ; Venerable Peter of Mt. Athos, Commemorated on June 12 ; Martyr Aquilina of Byblos in Syria, Commemorated on June 13 ; Prophet Elisha, Commemorated on June 14; St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15; Apostle Jude the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on June 19; Martyr Julian of Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on June 21 ; Hieromartyr Eusebius the Bishop of Samosata, Commemorated on June 22; Martyr Eustochius of Ancyra, Commemorated on June 23; Icon of the Mother of God of ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Âœthe Three HandsÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂÂÂÂ, Commemorated on June 28; IRENAEUS, BISHOP OF LYONS, THEOLOGIAN (28 JUN 202) ; PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES AND MARTYRS (29 JUN 64); The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leader of the Apostles, Paul, Commemorated on June 29; The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leaders of the Apostles, Peter and Paul, Commemorated on June 29 ; St Alexander the Founder of the Monastery of the ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂœUnsleeping OnesÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂÂÂÂ, Commemorated on July 3 ; St George the God-Bearer, Commemorated on July 3; Venerable Martha the Mother of the Venerable Simeon Stylites the Younger, Commemorated on July 4 ; Greatmartyr Procopius of Caesarea, in Palestine, Commemorated on July 8;

Syria, 586 BC-516 BC, Prophet Ezekiel, During the 70 Yrs
Jerusalem, 586 BC-516 BC, Prophet Ezekiel, During the 70 Yrs Jerusalem Prophet, 586 BC-551 BC, Habakkuk, During the 70 Yrs; Jerusalem Prophet, 586 BC-516 BC, Daniel, During the 70 Yrs; Jerusalem King, 586 BC-551 BC, Shealtiel, Fall of Jerusalem, Begin 70 Yrs ; Holy Prophet Malachi, Commemorated on January 3;

Syria, 240-63 BC, Seleucid Empire in Antioch
Syria, 240-63 BC, Seleucid Empire in Antioch; 7 Holy Maccabee Martyrs, Commemorated on August 1;

Syria, 64 BC-314 AD, Roman Province (Antioch)
Syria, Roman Province; Hieromartyr Pancratius the Bishop of Taormina in Sicily, Commemorated on July 9 ; St Theodore the Bishop of Edessa, Commemorated on July 9 ; MACRINA THE YOUNGER, MONASTIC AND TEACHER (19 JUL 379) ; Venerable Dius the Abbot of Antioch, Commemorated on July 19; Hieromartyr Apollinaris the Bishop of Ravenna, Commemorated on July 23; St Hilarion of Tvali, Commemorated on July 24; Appearance of the Smolensk ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂœDirectressÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂÂÂÂ Icon of the Mother of God brought from Constantinople, Commemorated on July 28 ; Martyr Acacius of Apamea, Commemorated July 28 ; Virginmartyr Seraphima (Serapia) of Antioch, Commemorated on July 29; Apostle Silas of the Seventy, Commemorated July 30 ; 7 Holy Maccabee Martyrs, Commemorated on August 1; Venerable Cosmas the Eunuch and Hermit of Palestine, Commemorated on August 3; Martyr Dometius of Persia, Commemorated on August 7; Apostle Matthias of the Seventy, Commemorated on August 9 ; Translation of the relics of St Maximus the Confessor, Commemorated on August 13; Venerable Gerasimus the New Ascetic of Cephalonia, Commemorated on August 16 ; St Gabriel I the Patriarch, Commemorated on August 30; JOHN CHRYSOSTOM, BISHOP OF ANTIOCH AND OF CONSTANTINOPLE, PREACHER, THEOLOGIAN, LITURGIST (13 Sept. 407) ; Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 1 ; Hieromartyr Dionysius the Bishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on October 5; St Agabbas of Syria, Commemorated on November 22 ; St Modestus the Archbishop of Jerusalem, Commemorated December 18 ; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20 ; St Philogonius the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated December 20 ; Apostle Timon the Deacon of the Seventy, Commerated December 30 ; Apostle and Evangelist Luke of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Synaxis of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John, Commemorated January 7 ; St Flavian, Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on February 16 ; St Maruthas the Bishop of Martyropolis in Mesopotamia, Commemorated on February 16; St Sophronius the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Commemorated on March 11; St Celestine the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on April 8 ; GEORGE, SOLDIER and MARTYR, 23 APRIL 303, Commemorated April 23; Venerable Thomas the Fool of Syria, Commemorated on April 24; Apostle and Evangelist Mark, Commemorated on April 25; MARK THE EVANGELIST, (25 APR NT) ; Hieromartyr Erasmus the Bishop of Formia in Campania, Commemorated on May 4; Martyr Hesychius of Antioch, Commemorated on May 10; Hieromartyr Hermogenes the Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, Commemorated on May 12; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated on June 11; Martyr Eustochius of Ancyra, Commemorated on June 23; Venerable George of Mt. Athos, Georgian, Commemorated on June 27; IRENAEUS, BISHOP OF LYONS, THEOLOGIAN (28 JUN 202) ; St Alexander the Founder of the Monastery of the ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂœUnsleeping OnesÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂÂÂÂ, Commemorated on July 3 ; St George the God-Bearer, Commemorated on July 3; Venerable Martha the Mother of the Venerable Simeon Stylites the Younger, Commemorated on July 4 ;

Syria, 314-637, Byzantine Province (Antioch and Apamea)
Syria - Byzantine Province (Antioch and Apamea), 314-637;

Syria, 526, Antioch earthquake
Syria - 526 Antioch earthquake; Venerable Simeon Stylites the Younger of Wonderful Mountain, Commemorated on May 24; Venerable Zosimus of Phoenicia, Syria, Commemorated on June 8;

Syria, 637, Arab Moslem Conquest of Antioch, Iron Bridge Battle
Syria, 637, Arab Moslem Conquest of Antioch; Battle of the Iron Bridge; In 637, during the reign of the Byzantine emperor Heraclius, Antioch was conquered by the Rashidun Caliphate during the Battle of the Iron Bridge.;

Syria, First Muslim Civil War, 656-661
Syria, First Muslim Civil War, 656-661;

Syria, 661-750, Arab Umayyad Caliphate, Sunni Islam
Syria, Arab Umayyad Caliphate, 661-750, Sunni Islam; Martyr David the Prince of Georgia, Commemorated on October 2; Martyr Peter of Capetolis, Commemorated on October 4; JOHN OF DAMASCUS, HYMN-WRITER, DEFENDER OF ICONS (4 DEC 750); Martyr John of Damascus, Commemorated on December 4;

Syria, 750-1517, Abbasid, Caliphates, Arab, based in Baghdad, Shia
Abbasid, Caliphates, 750-1517, Arab, based in Baghdad, Shia; Apostle and Evangelist Mark, Commemorated on April 25;

Coelesyria (all of Syria)
Coelesyria (all of Syria), from the hollow of the Beqaa Valley between Lebanon and Anti-Lebanon to Antioch, and over to Damascus and Aleppo, 1 Maccabees Ch 10,

Seleucia, Syria, Messopotamia & Persia (Tigris River 7)
Seleucia; Hieromartyr Athanasius the Bishop of Tarsus in Cilicia, Commemorated on August 22 ; Venerable Anthusa the Nun, Commemorated August 22 ; Virginmartyr Syra of Persia, Commemorated on August 24; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated December 20 ; Apostle Mark the Evangelist of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; St Cyril the Archbishop of Jerusalem, Commemorated on March 18; Virginmartyr Pherbutha (Phermoutha) of Persia, with her sister and servant, Commemorated on April 4; Apostle and Evangelist Mark, Commemorated on April 25; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated on June 11;

Syria 740BC-1831, Syria History Folder

Syria, 740BC, History Folder, Israel Assyrian Captivity

Syria, 740 BC, Israel Assyrian Captivity, Gozan, Syria, Chebar River
Gozan, Syria, Assyrian captivity, 740 BC 2 Kings 17:5-8,13-18, Israel Carried Captive to Assyria;

Syria, 240BC to 63BC, History Folder, Seleucid Empire

Syria, 240-63 BC, Seleucid Empire in Antioch, Helenist
Syria, 240-63 BC, Seleucid Empire in Antioch; 7 Holy Maccabee Martyrs, Commemorated on August 1;

Syria, 175-164 BC, Syrian King, Antiochus IV Epiphanes
Syrian King, BC 175-164, Antiochus IV Epiphanes; 7 Holy Maccabee Martyrs, Commemorated on August 1;

Syria, 166 BC, 7 Holy Maccabee Martyrs, Antiocus IV at Antioch, Eleazar, the 7 & their mother s faithful, inspired Judas M
Jerusalem, 166 BC, 7 Holy Maccabee Martyrs, at Antioch, Antiocus IV Epiphanes desecrated Temple, Eleazar, the 7 & their mother stayed faithful, tongue cut out, hands feet off, caldron, frying pan, these inspired Judas Maccabeus lead revolt and purify temple; Temple in Jerusalem; ,, Commemorated on August 1; seven holy Maccabee martyrs Abim, Antonius, Gurias, Eleazar, Eusebonus, Alimus and Marcellus, their mother Solomonia and their teacher Eleazar in the year 166 before Christ under the impious Syrian king Antiochus IV Epiphanes. foolish ruler loved pagan and Hellenistic customs, and held Jewish customs in contempt. He did everything possible to turn people from the Law of Moses and from their covenant with God. desecrated the Temple of the Lord, placed a statue of the pagan god Zeus there, and forced the Jews to worship it. people abandoned the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, but there were also those who continued to believe that the Savior would come. ninety-year-old elder, the scribe and teacher Eleazar, was brought to trial for his faithfulness to the Mosaic Law. He suffered tortures and died at Jerusalem. disciples of Saint Eleazar, the seven Maccabee brothers and their mother Solomonia, also displayed great courage. were brought to trial in Antioch by King Antiochus Epiphanes. They fearlessly acknowledged themselves as followers of the True God, and refused to eat pig’s flesh, which was forbidden by the Law. eldest brother acted as spokesmen for the rest, saying that they preferred to die rather than break the Law. He was subjected to fierce tortures in sight of his brothers and their mother. tongue was cut out, he was scalped, and his hands and feet were cut off. a cauldron and a large frying pan were heated, and the first brother was thrown into the frying pan, and he died. next five brothers were tortured one after the other. seventh and youngest brother was the last one left alive. Antiochus suggested to Saint Solomonia to persuade the boy to obey him, so that her last son at least would be spared. the brave mother told him to imitate the courage of his brothers. child upbraided the king and was tortured even more cruelly than his brothers had been. all her seven children had died, Saint Solomonia, stood over their bodies, raised up her hands in prayer to God and died. martyric death of the Maccabee brothers inspired Judas Maccabeus, and he led a revolt against Antiochus Epiphanes. God’s help, he gained the victory, and then purified the Temple at Jerusalem. He also threw down the altars which the pagans had set up in the streets. All these events are related in the Second Book of Maccabees (Ch. 8-10). Fathers of the Church preached sermons on the seven Maccabees, including Saint Cyprian of Carthage, Saint Ambrose of Milan, Saint Gregory Nazianzus and Saint John Chrysostom.

Syria, 64BC-314AD, History Folder, Roman Province (Antioch)

Syria, 64 BC-314 AD - Roman Province (Antioch)
Syria, Roman Province; Hieromartyr Pancratius the Bishop of Taormina in Sicily, Commemorated on July 9 ; St Theodore the Bishop of Edessa, Commemorated on July 9 ; MACRINA THE YOUNGER, MONASTIC AND TEACHER (19 JUL 379) ; Venerable Dius the Abbot of Antioch, Commemorated on July 19; Hieromartyr Apollinaris the Bishop of Ravenna, Commemorated on July 23; St Hilarion of Tvali, Commemorated on July 24; Appearance of the Smolensk œDirectressÂ Icon of the Mother of God brought from Constantinople, Commemorated on July 28 ; Martyr Acacius of Apamea, Commemorated July 28 ; Virginmartyr Seraphima (Serapia) of Antioch, Commemorated on July 29; Apostle Silas of the Seventy, Commemorated July 30 ; 7 Holy Maccabee Martyrs, Commemorated on August 1; Venerable Cosmas the Eunuch and Hermit of Palestine, Commemorated on August 3; Martyr Dometius of Persia, Commemorated on August 7; Apostle Matthias of the Seventy, Commemorated on August 9 ; Translation of the relics of St Maximus the Confessor, Commemorated on August 13; Venerable Gerasimus the New Ascetic of Cephalonia, Commemorated on August 16 ; St Gabriel I the Patriarch, Commemorated on August 30; JOHN CHRYSOSTOM, BISHOP OF ANTIOCH AND OF CONSTANTINOPLE, PREACHER, THEOLOGIAN, LITURGIST (13 Sept. 407) ; Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 1 ; Hieromartyr Dionysius the Bishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on October 5; St Agabbas of Syria, Commemorated on November 22 ; St Modestus the Archbishop of Jerusalem, Commemorated December 18 ; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20 ; St Philogonius the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated December 20 ; Apostle Timon the Deacon of the Seventy, Commerated December 30 ; Apostle and Evangelist Luke of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Synaxis of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John, Commemorated January 7 ; St Flavian, Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on February 16 ; St Maruthas the Bishop of Martyropolis in Mesopotamia, Commemorated on February 16; St Sophronius the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Commemorated on March 11; St Celestine the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on April 8 ; GEORGE, SOLDIER and MARTYR, 23 APRIL 303, Commemorated April 23; Venerable Thomas the Fool of Syria, Commemorated on April 24; Apostle and Evangelist Mark, Commemorated on April 25; MARK THE EVANGELIST, (25 APR NT) ; Hieromartyr Erasmus the Bishop of Formia in Campania, Commemorated on May 4; Martyr Hesychius of Antioch, Commemorated on May 10; Hieromartyr Hermogenes the Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, Commemorated on May 12; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated on June 11; Martyr Eustochius of Ancyra, Commemorated on June 23; Venerable George of Mt. Athos, Georgian, Commemorated on June 27; IRENAEUS, BISHOP OF LYONS, THEOLOGIAN (28 JUN 202) ; St Alexander the Founder of the Monastery of the œUnsleeping OnesÂ, Commemorated on July 3 ; St George the God-Bearer, Commemorated on July 3; Venerable Martha the Mother of the Venerable Simeon Stylites the Younger, Commemorated on July 4 ;

Syria, 9 BC - AD 40, Aretas IV Philopatris, King of Damascus, whose daugter was divorced from Herod Antipas, war with Herod
Syria, 9 BC - AD 40, Aretas IV Philopatris, King of Damascus, whose daugter was divorced from Herod Antipas, war with Herod; IV Philopatris [1] was the King of the Nabataeans from roughly 9 BC to AD 40. daughter Phasaelis was married to, and divorced from, Herod Antipas. Herod then married his stepbrother's wife, Herodias. It was opposition to this marriage that led to the beheading of John the Baptist. After he received news of the divorce, Aretas invaded the territory of Herod Antipas and defeated his army. Damascus (Barada River foothills); The Beheading of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist John, Commemorated on August 29 ; THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST, (24 JUNE NT), Commemorated June 24;

Syria, 4 BC - 50 AD, Syrian and Armenian King, Abgar V
Syrian King, BC 4 - AD 50, Abgar V; Translation of the Image œNot-Made-By-Hands of our Lord Jesus Christ from Edessa to Constantinople, the Third œFeast of the Savior in August, Commemorated on August 16; Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated on August 21; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 27; Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4;

Syria, 10-66, Evodius, Syrian Saint, Bishop, writer, mary birth at 15, died under Nero in 66
Syrian Saint, 10-66, Evodius; Evodius or Euodias (died circa 69) was an Early Christian bishop of Antioch, succeeding Saint Peter. He is regarded as one of the first identifiable Christians, and venerated as a saint. is known of the life of Evodius. the time, Antioch was an opulent and cosmopolitan city where both Hellenized Jews and pagans were influenced by monotheism. According to the Book of Acts, one of the first evangelised communities were these Jews and pagans of Antioch. It was there that the term "Christian" was coined for these Gentiles, mainly Syrian and Greek converts.[citation needed] Peter became the bishop of Antioch and led the church there. Evodius is said to have been one of the pagans converted to Christianity due to the apostolic work of Saint Peter.[citation needed] eventually succeeded Peter as bishop of Antioch when Peter left for Rome.[1] Evodius was bishop of Antioch until 66 AD, and was succeeded by Saint Ignatius of Antioch. Catholic tradition says it is likely that Saint Evodius died of natural causes, however, the Eastern Orthodox tradition holds that he was martyred under Emperor Nero in 66 AD.[2] As one of the first pagans to come to the new church, he is venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church as well as in the Eastern Orthodox Church and in Oriental Orthodoxy including the Assyrian Church of the East. His feast day is 6 May in the Catholic Church and 7 September in the Eastern Orthodox Church. Apostle Evodius (Euodias) of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 7; Holy Apostle Evodius of the Seventy was, after the holy Apostle Peter, the first bishop in Syrian Antioch. His successor, the Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer (December 20), disciple of the holy Apostle John the Theologian, mentions him in his Letter to the Antiochians: “Remember your blessed father Evodus, who was made your first pastor by the Apostles.” Evodius served as bishop for 27 years and died as a martyr under the emperor Nero (54-68). Saint Evodus wrote several compositions. In one of them he writes that the Most Holy Virgin Mary gave birth to the Savior of the world at the age of fifteen. writings of the saint have not survived. A book entitled THE STAR is mentioned by the fourteenth century church historian Nikēphóros Callistus. Saint Evodus received the crown of martyrdom in the year 66.

Syria, 30-45, Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, Damascus bishop, h Paul's eyes& baptized h, healed m, prayed f stoners
Syria, 30-67, Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, bishop of Damascus, Syria (Barada River foothills, Kings Highway 17, Way of the Sea 17), restored Paul's eyes & baptized him, went to Eleutheropolis, healed many, tortured, stoned, prayed for stoners; Damascus (Barada River foothills); Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 1 ; Holy Apostle Ananias of the Seventy (October 1), the first Bishop of Damascus. Lord ordered him to restore the sight of Saul, the former persecutor of Christians, then baptize him (Acts 9:10-19, 22:12). became the great preacher and Apostle Paul. Ananias boldly and openly confessed Christianity before the Jews and the pagans, despite the danger. Damascus he went to preach at Eleutheropolis, he healed many of their infirmities. the prefect of the city, tried to persuade the holy one to offer sacrifice to idols. Because of Ananias’ staunch and solid confession of Christ, Lucian ordered that he be tortured. Harsh torments did not sway the witness of Truth. the torturers led him out beyond the city, where they stoned him. The saint prayed for those who put him to death. His relics were later transferred to Constantinople.

Syria, 30-66, Apostle Evodius (Euodias) of the Seventy, 2nd bishop of Antioch, Syria, for 27 yrs, writer, wrote MOG birth at 15
Syria, 30-66, Apostle Evodius (Euodias) of the Seventy, 2nd bishop of Antioch, Syria (Orontes River 7), for 27 yrs, writer, wrote MOG birth at 15; Antioch (Orontes River 7); Apostle Evodius (Euodias) of the Seventy, Commemorated September 7 ; Holy Apostle Evodius of the Seventy was, after the holy Apostle Peter, the first bishop in Syrian Antioch. successor, the Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer (December 20), disciple of the holy Apostle John the Theologian, mentions him in his Letter to the Antiochians: “Remember your blessed father Evodus, who was made your first pastor by the Apostles.” Evodius served as bishop for 27 years and died as a martyr under the emperor Nero (54-68). Evodus wrote several compositions. In one of them he writes that the Most Holy Virgin Mary gave birth to the Savior of the world at the age of fifteen. writings of the saint have not survived. A book entitled THE STAR is mentioned by the fourteenth century church historian Nikēphóros Callistus. Saint Evodus received the crown of martyrdom in the year 66.

Syria, 30-70, Lucius of the Seventy, Apostle, Laodicia, Syria, then controlled by Parthia, Med China trade
Laodicea in Syria; Apostle Lucius of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 10; Apostle Lucius of the Seventy, Commemorated September 10; Saint Luke (or Loukias) Luke, or Loukias (not the Evangelist), lived during the first century. Some lists of these Saints identify him as the Evangelist Luke, who was also one of the 70 Apostles, but Greek sources say he was someone other than the Evangelist Luke. However, Saint Demetrios of Rostov, and Slavic Tradition say that he was the Evangelist Luke (See his Life on October 18). Saint was consecrated as the Bishop of Laodikeia in Syria, and completed the course of his life spreading the Gospel and caring for his flock, as a faithful servant of Jesus Christ. Apostle Lucius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; ----------- Repose of St Raphael the Bishop of Brooklyn, Commemorated on February 27; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13;

Syria, 30-84, Luke t Evangelist&Apostle, f Antioch, a salvation preaching f Christ, Luke&Acts, icons h Jesus' Grace& MOG mercy
Syria, 30-84, Luke the Evangelist and Apostle, Antioch, Syria (Orontes River 7), hearing about Christ accepted salvation preaching from Christ, Luke and Acts, Paul's companion, physician, iconographer, MOG said his icons have Jesus' grace and MOG mercy, chronologica order L and A, council of Jerusalem in 51, Acts focus on Holy Spirit ; Antioch (Orontes River 7); Apostle and Evangelist Luke, Commemorated on October 18; Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke, was a native of Syrian Antioch, companion of the holy Apostle Paul (Phil.1:24, 2 Tim. 4:10-11), a physician enlightened in the Greek medical arts. about Christ, Luke arrived in Palestine and fervently accepted the preaching of salvation from the Lord Himself. one of the Seventy Apostles, Saint Luke was sent by the Lord with the others to preach the Kingdom of Heaven during the Savior’s earthly life (Luke 10:1-3). the Resurrection, the Lord Jesus Christ appeared to Saints Luke and Cleopas on the road to Emmaus. accompanied Saint Paul on his second missionary journey, and from that time they were inseparable. Paul’s coworkers had forsaken him, only Luke remained to assist him in his ministry (2 Tim. 4:10-11). the martyric death of the First-Ranked Apostles Peter and Paul, Saint Luke left Rome to preach in Achaia, Libya, Egypt and the Thebaid. ended his life by suffering martyrdom in the city of Thebes. credits Saint Luke with painting the first icons of the Mother of God. “Let the grace of Him Who was born of Me and My mercy be with these Icons,” said the All-Pure Virgin after seeing the icons. Luke also painted icons of the First-Ranked Apostles Peter and Paul. Luke’s Gospel was written in the years 62-63 at Rome, under the guidance of the Apostle Paul. the preliminary verses (1:1-3), Saint Luke precisely sets forth the purpose of his work. proposes to record, in chronological order, everything known by Christians about Jesus Christ and His teachings. doing this, he provided a firmer historical basis for Christian teaching (1:4). carefully investigated the facts, and made generous use of the oral tradition of the Church and of what the All-Pure Virgin Mary Herself had told him (2:19, 51). Saint Luke’s Gospel, the message of the salvation made possible by the Lord Jesus Christ, and the preaching of the Gospel, are of primary importance. Luke also wrote the Acts of the Holy Apostles at Rome around 62-63 A.D. Book of Acts, which is a continuation of the four Gospels, speaks about the works and the fruits of the holy Apostles after the Ascension of the Savior. the center of the narrative is the Council of the holy Apostles at Jerusalem in the year 51, Church event of great significance, which resulted in the separation of Christianity from Judaism and its independent dissemination into the world (Acts 15:6-29). theological focus of the Book of Acts is the coming of the Holy Spirit, Who will guide the Church “into all truth” (John 16:13) until the Second Coming of Christ. holy relics of Saint Luke were taken from Constantinople and brought to Padua, Italy at some point in history. this was during the infamous Crusade of 1204. In 1992, Metropolitan Hieronymus (Jerome) of Thebes requested the Roman Catholic bishop in Thebes to obtain a portion of Saint Luke’s relics for the saint’s empty sepulchre in the Orthodox cathedral in Thebes. Roman Catholic bishop Antonio Mattiazzo of Padua, noting that Orthodox pilgrims came to Padua to venerate the relics while many Catholics did not even know that the relics were there, a committee to investigate the relics in Padua, and the skull of Saint Luke in the Catholic Cathedral of Saint Vico in Prague. skeleton was determined to be that of an elderly man of strong build. 2001, a tooth found in the coffin was judged to be consistent with the DNA of Syrians living near the area of Antioch dating from 72-416 A.D. skull in Prague perfectly fit the neck bone of the skelton. tooth found in the coffin in Padua was also found to fit the jawbone of the skull. Mattiazzo sent a rib from the relics to Metropolitan Hieronymus to be venerated in Saint Luke’s original tomb in the Orthodox cathedral at Thebes. Luke is also commemorated on April 22. LUKE THE EVANGELIST, (18 OCTOBER) ; all that we know about Luke comes from the New Testament. was a physician (Col 4:14), a companion of Paul on some of his missionary journeys (Acts 16:10ff; 20:5ff; 27-28). found in his Gospel and not elsewhere includes much of the account of Our Lord's birth and infancy and boyhood, some of the most moving parables, such as that of the Good Samaritan and that of the Prodigal Son, and three of the sayings of Christ on the Cross: "Father, forgive them," "Thou shalt be with me in Paradise," and "Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit." Luke's account of the Gospel, we find an emphasis on the human love of Christ, on His compassion for sinners and for suffering and unhappy persons, for outcasts such as the Samaritans, tax collectors, lepers, shepherds (not a respected profession), and for the poor. role of women in Christ's ministry is more emphasized in Luke than in the other Gospel writings. the book of Acts, we find the early Christian community poised from the start to carry out its commission, confident and aware of Divine guidance. see how the early Christians at first preached only to Jews, then to Samaritans (a borderline case), then to outright Gentiles like Cornelius, and finally explicitly recognized that Gentiles and Jews are called on equal terms to the service and fellowship of Christ. St. Luke, from an old Book of Common Prayer makes many casual references throughout his writings (especially in Acts) to local customs and practices, often with demonstrable and noteworthy precision. mention just one example, he refers to two centurions by name, Cornelius in Acts 10 and Julius in Acts 27, and he calls them both by nomen only, rather than by nomen and cognomen (Sergius Paulus in Acts 13;7) or cognomen only (Gallio in Acts 18:12), as he does when speaking of civilian officials. is a distinction that would have been routine at the time that Luke is writing about, but one that had largely died out by, say, 70 AD. preserving it shows either that (1) he wrote fairly close to the events he described, or (2) he was describing persons and events on which he had good information, or (3) he was an expert historical novelist, with an ear for the authentic-sounding detail. is commonly thought to be the only non-Jewish New Testament writer. writings place the life of Christ and the development of the early Church in the larger context of the Roman Empire and society. the other hand, his writings are focused on Jerusalem and on the Temple. Gospel begins and ends in the Temple, and chapters nine through nineteen portray Jesus as journeying from Galilee to Jerusalem. the Book of Acts describes the Church in Jerusalem (and worshipping in the Temple) and then describes the missionary journeys of Paul as excursions from and returns to Jerusalem. ***** ***** ***** ***** writer wrote more pages of the New Testament than anyone else? If you say Paul, try again. In my pocket Bible, Acts and the Gospel of Luke occupy a total of sixty pages, while all the letters traditionally attributed to Paul (not counting Hebrews) total fifty-six. writer of the Third Gospel and the Book of Acts does not give his name in his writings. (Except for Nehemiah, no Biblical writer of a narrative book does.) does claim to be a traveling companion of Paul, and his interests and vocabulary suggest that he is a physician. Since Paul tells us that he had a companion named Luke who was a physician, the conclusion that Luke is the writer we are looking for is reasonable. the two-volume work Luke-Acts in fact written by a companion of Paul? Scholars are not agreed on the answer. and large, most German writers favor a negative answer. reasons are that (1) the chronology of Paul's life found in the Book of Acts presents certain apparent conflicts with that found in Paul's letter to the Galatians, and that (2) the writer seems unfamiliar with the geography of Israel. the other hand, most English scholars favor an affirmative answer. reasons are that the "We" sections in Acts (the sections in which the author explicitly claims to have been present at the events he describes) contain a wealth of circumstantial detail that make invention extremely unlikely. (Thus, for example, Mr. James Smith of Jordan Hill, FRS, having sailed a vessel over the same route described in Acts 27-28, argues in his book, The Voyage and Shipwreck of Saint Paul, that the account must have been written by someone who had sailed that route. It used to be a popular theory that the writer had somehow gotten his hands on a travel diary of the real "Luke" and incorporated it into his work. However, a detailed analysis of the writing style of various sections of the work shows none of the differences that would be expected on this theory. on the affirmative side generally answer the negative objections mentioned above by supposing that (1) the conferences mentioned in Acts 15 and Galatians 2 are not the same conference, and that (2) Luke uses the word "Judea" sometimes to mean the southern portion of the land of Israel, and sometimes to mean the whole land. some comments on the historical reliability of the opening chapters of the Gospel of Luke, go to the following URLs: by James Kiefer

Syria, 30-84 , Apostle Luke of the Seventy, f Antioch S Dr, Emmaus, w Paul, Achaia, Libya, Egypt, Thebaid, Icons, Gospel & Acts
Syria, 30-84 , Apostle Luke of the Seventy; Antioch (Orontes River 7); Apostle and Evangelist Luke, Commemorated on October 18 ; Holy Apostle and Evangelist Luke, was a native of Syrian Antioch, a companion of the holy Apostle Paul (Phil.1:24, 2 Tim. 4:10-11), and a physician enlightened in the Greek medical arts. about Christ, Luke arrived in Palestine and fervently accepted the preaching of salvation from the Lord Himself. one of the Seventy Apostles, Saint Luke was sent by the Lord with the others to preach the Kingdom of Heaven during the Savior’s earthly life (Luke 10:1-3). the Resurrection, the Lord Jesus Christ appeared to Saints Luke and Cleopas on the road to Emmaus. accompanied Saint Paul on his second missionary journey, and from that time they were inseparable. When Paul’s coworkers had forsaken him, only Luke remained to assist him in his ministry (2 Tim. 4:10-11). the martyric death of the First-Ranked Apostles Peter and Paul, Saint Luke left Rome to preach in Achaia, Libya, Egypt and the Thebaid. He ended his life by suffering martyrdom in the city of Thebes. credits Saint Luke with painting the first icons of the Mother of God. “Let the grace of Him Who was born of Me and My mercy be with these Icons,” said the All-Pure Virgin after seeing the icons. Luke also painted icons of the First-Ranked Apostles Peter and Paul. Luke’s Gospel was written in the years 62-63 at Rome, under the guidance of the Apostle Paul. In the preliminary verses (1:1-3), Saint Luke precisely sets forth the purpose of his work. He proposes to record, in chronological order, everything known by Christians about Jesus Christ and His teachings. By doing this, he provided a firmer historical basis for Christian teaching (1:4). He carefully investigated the facts, and made generous use of the oral tradition of the Church and of what the All-Pure Virgin Mary Herself had told him (2:19, 51). Saint Luke’s Gospel, the message of the salvation made possible by the Lord Jesus Christ, and the preaching of the Gospel, are of primary importance. Luke also wrote the Acts of the Holy Apostles at Rome around 62-63 A.D. The Book of Acts, which is a continuation of the four Gospels, speaks about the works and the fruits of the holy Apostles after the Ascension of the Savior. the center of the narrative is the Council of the holy Apostles at Jerusalem in the year 51, a Church event of great significance, which resulted in the separation of Christianity from Judaism and its independent dissemination into the world (Acts 15:6-29). The theological focus of the Book of Acts is the coming of the Holy Spirit, Who will guide the Church “into all truth” (John 16:13) until the Second Coming of Christ. holy relics of Saint Luke were taken from Constantinople and brought to Padua, Italy at some point in history. Perhaps this was during the infamous Crusade of 1204. 1992, Metropolitan Hieronymus (Jerome) of Thebes requested the Roman Catholic bishop in Thebes to obtain a portion of Saint Luke’s relics for the saint’s empty sepulchre in the Orthodox cathedral in Thebes. Roman Catholic bishop Antonio Mattiazzo of Padua, noting that Orthodox pilgrims came to Padua to venerate the relics while many Catholics did not even know that the relics were there, appointed a committee to investigate the relics in Padua, and the skull of Saint Luke in the Catholic Cathedral of Saint Vico in Prague. skeleton was determined to be that of an elderly man of strong build. In 2001, a tooth found in the coffin was judged to be consistent with the DNA of Syrians living near the area of Antioch dating from 72-416 A.D. The skull in Prague perfectly fit the neck bone of the skelton. The tooth found in the coffin in Padua was also found to fit the jawbone of the skull. Mattiazzo sent a rib from the relics to Metropolitan Hieronymus to be venerated in Saint Luke’s original tomb in the Orthodox cathedral at Thebes. Saint Luke is also commemorated on April 22. LUKE THE EVANGELIST, (18 OCTOBER) ;

Syria, 30- 1st century, Timon tDeacon, Bishop oBosra, Syria ot70, ot7deacons, converted many, crucified after red-hot furnace
Syria, 30- 1st century, Timon the Deacon, Bishop of Bosra in Syria (Kings Highway 16) of the Seventy, red hot furnace, ot7 deacons, Bishop oBosra, converted many, crucified after red-hot furnace; Apostle Timon; holy, glorious and all-laudable Apostle Timon of the Seventy was among the first deacons in the Church along with Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Parmenas and Nicholas. they died at various times and in various places, they are commemorated together on July 28. St. Timon is also commemorated on December 30. the Acts of the Apostles (6:1-6) it is said that the twelve Apostles chose seven men full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, and appointed them to serve as deacons. Timon was later appointed by the Apostles as bishop of the city of Bostra in Arabia suffered from the Jews and pagans for preaching the Gospel. was thrown into a furnace, but by the power of God he came out of it unharmed. tradition of the Roman Church says that St. Timon died by crucifixion. Bosra in Syria; Apostle Timon the Deacon of the Seventy, Commerated December 30 ; Holy Apostle Timon was one of the seven deacons appointed by the Apostles (Acts 6:5) to minister to destitute Christian widows. he was chosen bishop of the city of Bosra in Syria, where he led many to Christianity. was thrown into a red-hot furnace and received the crown of martyrdom. He is also commemorated on July 28.

Syria, 30 1st Century, Hieropolis, Apostle Philip
Syria, 1st Century, Hieropolis, Apostle Philip ; Holy, All-Praised Apostle Philip, Commemorated on November 14; Azotus the Apostle Philip set out to Syrian Hieropolis (there were several cities of this name) where, stirred up by the Pharisees, the Jews burned the house of Heros, who had taken in the Apostle Philip, and they wanted to kill the apostle. The apostle performed several miracles: the healing of the hand of the city official Aristarchus, withered when he attempted to strike the apostle; and restoring a dead child to life. When they saw these marvels, they repented and many accepted holy Baptism. After making Heros the bishop at Hieropolis, the Apostle Philip went on to Syria, Asia Minor, Lydia, Emessa, and everywhere preaching the Gospel and undergoing sufferings. Both he and his sister Mariamne (February 17) were pelted with stones, locked up in prison, and thrown out of villages. Holy and All-praised Apostle Philip was a native of the city of Bethsaida in Galilee. He had a profound depth of knowledge of the Holy Scripture, and rightly discerning the meaning of the Old Testament prophecies, he awaited the coming of the Messiah. Through the call of the Savior (John 1:43), Philip followed Him. Apostle Philip is spoken about several times in the Holy Gospel: he brought to Christ the Apostle Nathaniel (i.e. Bartholomew, April 22, June 30, and August 25. See John. 1:46). The Lord asks him where to buy bread for five thousand men (John. 6: 5-7). He brought certain of the Hellenized Jews wanting to see Jesus (John. 12:21-22); and finally, at the Last Supper he asked Christ to show them the Father (John. 14:8). the Ascension of the Lord, the Apostle Philip preached the Word of God in Galilee, accompanying his preaching with miracles. Thus, he restored to life a dead infant in the arms of its mother. From Galilee he went to Greece, and preached among the Jews that had settled there. Some of them reported the preaching of the Apostle to Jerusalem. In response, some scribes arrived in Greece from Jerusalem, with one of the Jewish chief priests at their head, to interrogate the Apostle Philip. Apostle Philip exposed the lie of the chief priest, who said that the disciples of Christ had stolen away and hidden the body of Christ. Philip told instead how the Pharisees had bribed the soldiers on watch, to deliberately spread this rumor. When the Jewish chief priest and his companions began to insult the Lord and lunged at the Apostle Philip, they suddenly were struck blind. By his prayer the Apostle restored everyone’s sight. Seeing this miracle, many believed in Christ. The Apostle Philip provided a bishop for them, by the name of Narcissus (one of the Seventy Apostles, January 4). Greece the Apostle Philip went to Parthia, and then to the city of Azotus, where he healed an eye affliction of the daughter of a local resident named Nikoklides, who had received him into his home, and then baptized his whole family. Azotus the Apostle Philip set out to Syrian Hieropolis (there were several cities of this name) where, stirred up by the Pharisees, the Jews burned the house of Heros, who had taken in the Apostle Philip, and they wanted to kill the apostle. The apostle performed several miracles: the healing of the hand of the city official Aristarchus, withered when he attempted to strike the apostle; and restoring a dead child to life. When they saw these marvels, they repented and many accepted holy Baptism. After making Heros the bishop at Hieropolis, the Apostle Philip went on to Syria, Asia Minor, Lydia, Emessa, and everywhere preaching the Gospel and undergoing sufferings. Both he and his sister Mariamne (February 17) were pelted with stones, locked up in prison, and thrown out of villages. the Apostle Philip arrived in the city of Phrygian Hieropolis, where there were many pagan temples. There was also a pagan temple where people worshiped an enormous serpent as a god. The Apostle Philip by the power of prayer killed the serpent and healed many bitten by snakes. those healed was the wife of the city prefect, Amphipatos. Having learned that his wife had accepted Christianity, the prefect Amphipatos gave orders to arrest Saint Philip, his sister, and the Apostle Bartholomew traveling with them. At the urging of the pagan priests of the temple of the serpent, Amphipatos ordered the holy Apostles Philip and Bartholomew to be crucified. an earthquake struck, and it knocked down all those present at the place of judgment. Hanging upon the cross by the pagan temple of the serpent, the Apostle Philip prayed for those who had crucified him, asking God to save them from the ravages of the earthquake. Seeing this happen, the people believed in Christ and began to demand that the apostles be taken down from the crosses. The Apostle Bartholomew was still alive when he was taken down, and he baptized all those believing and established a bishop for them. the Apostle Philip, through whose prayers everyone remained alive, except for Amphipatos and the pagan priests, died on the cross. his sister buried his body, and went with the Apostle Bartholomew to preach in Armenia, where the Apostle Bartholomew was crucified (June 11); Mariamne herself then preached until her own death at Lykaonia. holy Apostle Philip is not to be confused with Saint Philip the Deacon (October 11), one of the Seventy.

Syria, 33-117, Holy Apostles ot70&first Deacons: Prochorus,Nicanor,Timon,& Parmenas, full HS&Wiscom, various times&places
Bithynia, 33-117, Holy Apostles of the Seventy and Deacons: Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, and Parmenas, first Deacons otChurch, full Holy Spirit & Wiscom, various times&places, Prochorus wPeter&Bishop Nicomedia, after Dormition wJohn tPatmos, wrote down Book Revelation, returned Nicomedia, then Antioch pagans conversion & martyrdom, Nicanor martyred same day wStephen, Timon tBostra Arabia, into furnace bJews&pagans unharmed, crucified, Parmenas iMacedonia to 117 ; Antioch (Orontes River 7); Holy Apostles of the Seventy and Deacons: Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, and Parmenas, Commemorated on July 28; Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon and Parmenas, Apostles of the Seventy were among the first deacons in the Church of Christ. the Acts of the Holy Apostles (6:1-6) it is said that the twelve Apostles chose seven men: Stephen, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas and Nicholas, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, and appointed them to serve as deacons. are commemorated together on July 28, although they died at various times and in various places. first, Saint Prochorus accompanied the holy Apostle Peter, who made him bishop in the city of Nicomedia. After the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos, Prochorus was a companion and coworker of the holy Apostle John the Theologian and was banished with him to the island of Patmos. There he wrote down the Book of Revelation concerning the final fate of the world. Upon returning to Nicomedia, Saint Prochorus converted pagans to Christ in the city of Antioch, where he suffered martyrdom. Saint Nicanor suffered on the same day that the holy Protomartyr Stephen (December 27) and many other Christians were killed by stoning, he is also commemorated on December 28. Timon was later appointed by the Apostles as bishop of the city of Bostra in Arabia and suffered from the Jews and pagans for preaching the Gospel. He was thrown into a furnace, but by the power of God he came out of it unharmed. The tradition of the Roman Church says that Saint Timon died by crucifixion. Saint Timon is also commemorated on December 30. Parmenas zealously preached Christ in Macedonia. He died after being afflicted with an illness. Some say that Saint Parmenas suffered martyrdom under Trajan (98-117) in the final year of his reign.

Syria, 40, CONVERSION oPaul, near Damascus, Syria, , formerly enemy otChurch, led by grace, tChief Spokesman, had vision oChrist
Cilicia, 40, CONVERSION oPAUL, oTarsus, Cilicia (Seyhan River Mouth), formerly enemy otChurch, led by grace, tbChief Spokesman, questions of authorship oPaul's Letters and Acts: info sources: 1. several NT letters, 2. Luke's account of him in Acts, forger's difficulties, during lifetime, I never wrote anything like that, after death, why didn't we recieve, argument applies only to letters to congregations, or general form letters, so, pastoral letters Timothy&Titus signed by Paul are questioned, Hebrews not signed, Paul first opposed Church, had vision oChrist, converted, devoted rest oLife tSpreading Gospel oChrist, Luke was his companion fPart of his journeys, well established comparison oStyle Acts written by companion oPaul, but chronology differences Acts and Pauls autobiography accts some scholars dispute genuiness oActs; Damascus (Barada River foothills); THE CONVERSION OF THE APOSTLE PAUL, (JANUARY 25) ; January 25 we remember how Saul (or Paul) of Tarsus, formerly an enemy and persecutor of the early Christian Church, was led by God's grace to become one of its chief spokesmen. detail of the Conversion of Paul, by Peter Bruegel chief sources of information about the Apostle Paul are several of his own letters, preserved for us in the New Testament, and the account of him given by Luke in the book of Acts. One naturally asks whether we can be sure that the letters attributed to Paul are in fact his. partial answer is that a forger would run into difficulty. If he wrote a letter, say, to the church at Corinth during Paul's lifetime, and signed Paul's name, the Corinthians would naturally mention it the next time they sent a message to Paul, and Paul would naturally reply: "What are you talking about? I never wrote anything like that!" a letter supposedly to Corinth were circulated after Paul's death, sooner or later a copy would reach Corinth, and the members of the church there would ask, "If Paul wrote this letter and sent it to us while he lived, how does it happen that no one here has ever heard of it?" it would be difficult to obtain credence for a forged letter to a congregation. argument does not apply to a letter to an individual (such as Timothy or Titus). it arguably does not apply to the Letter to the Ephesians. Although some ancient copies of this letter begin: an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, to the saints who are [at Ephesus and] faithful in Christ Jesus: ancient copies read simply "also" instead of the bracketed words. Thus, it is widely supposed that the letter was written as a general form letter to many churches, with the name of the church to be filled in in each particular copy. view is supported by the fact that the letter contains no personal greetings and makes no references to the past history of the congregation addressed. a forger might write such a form letter, circulate it after Paul's death, and escape detection, since no particular congregation could say, "Since we did not hear of this letter before, Paul could not have written it." And accordingly, we find that it is precisely Ephesians and the Pastorals (the letters to Timothy and Titus) that are questioned by some scholars who acknowledge Paul's authorship of all the other letters claiming to be by him. (I am not counting the letter to the Hebrews, which is not signed.) Conversion of Paul, by Caravaggio Our other source of information is the book of Acts, where Paul (at first called Saul) appears in 7:58-8:1; 9:1-30; 11:25-30; 12:25--28:31. we read how Paul at first opposed and persecuted the Church, how he had a vision of Christ and was converted, and devoted the rest of his life to spreading the Gospel of Christ. of this account include statements like "we then crossed over to Troas," which are taken to mean that Luke was a companion of Paul for part of Paul's journeys. these accounts, particularly those of the shipwreck on Paul's last voyage, show every sign of being accurate eyewitness accounts (see the book The Voyage and Shipwreck of Saint Paul, by James Smith of Jordan Hill, FRS) and since a comparison of the style of various portions of the book of Acts makes it highly improbable that it is a scissors-and-paste job, with portions of one man's work inserted into a story by someone else, many scholars consider the claim that Acts was written by a companion of Paul to be well established. the other hand, it is not always clear how the chronology of Luke's account of the life of Paul is to be fitted with the autobiographical snippets we find in Paul's own writings, and for this reason some scholars dispute the genuineness of the book of Acts. an old but still worth-while introduction to the subject, and a defense of the conservative position, I refer the reader to A Historical Introduction to the New Testament (the title varies a bit from one edition to another) by George Salmon, FRS. A portion of this book (dealing with the authorship of the Fourth Gospel) can be obtained at READING Acts 26:9-21 (Paul, on trial before Agrippa, recounts the story of his conversion at Damascus) PSALM 67 (God has blest us, and all the ends of the earth shall revere Him) EPISTLE Galatians 1:11-24 (Paul writes of his conversion, and its implications) THE HOLY GOSPEL Matthew 10:16-22 (Christ warns His disciples of persecutions to come, and encourages them to stand firm and trust God) by James Kiefer

Syria, 45-107, Ignatius the God-Bearer, Antioch, Theologian John's disciple w Polycarp, Jesus hugged him, bore God in his heart
Syria, 45-107, Ignatius the God-Bearer, Antioch, Syria (Orontes River 7), Theologian John's disciple w Polycarp, 2nd Bishop of Antioch, little boy Jesus hugged, bore God in his heart, prayed unceasingly, antiphonal singing, by angels example, Trajan 107, I came to him, T sent I to Rome for wild beasts to I joy, from Seleucia to Smyrna and Polycarp, to Troas, to Neapolis, to Philippi, visited churches, wrote 7 epistles to Ephesus, Magnesia, Tralles, Rome, Philidelphia, Smyrna, to Polycarp; joy of roman christians meeting, lions tore him to pieces leaving heart w gold JC, Trajan stopped persecution, relics to Antioch then to San Clemente church Rome; Antioch (Orontes River 7); Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20 ; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer, was a disciple of the holy Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian, as was also Saint Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna (February 23). Saint Ignatius was the second bishop of Antioch, and successor to Bishop Euodius, Apostle of the Seventy (September 7). suggests that when Saint Ignatius was a little boy, the Savior hugged him and said: “Unless you turn and become as little children, you shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven” (Mt. 18:3). The saint was called “God-Bearer” (Theophoros), because he bore God in his heart and prayed unceasingly to Him. He also had this name because he was held in the arms of Christ, the incarnate Son of God. Ignatius was a disciple of the Apostle John the Theologian, together with Saint Polycarp of Smyrna. As Bishop of Antioch, Saint Ignatius was zealous and spared no effort to build up the church of Christ. To him is attributed the practice of antiphonal singing (by two choirs) during church services. He had seen a vision of the angels in heaven alternately singing praises to God, and divided his church choir to follow this example. In the time of persecution he was a source of strength to the souls of his flock, and was eager to suffer for Christ. the year 106 the emperor Trajan (98-117), after his victory over the Scythians, ordered everyone to give thanks to the pagan gods, and to put to death any Christians who refused to worship the idols. In the year 107, Trajan happened to pass through Antioch. Here they told him that Bishop Ignatius openly confessed Christ, and taught people to scorn riches, to lead a virtuous life, and preserve their virginity. Saint Ignatius came voluntarily before the emperor, so as to avert persecution of the Christians in Antioch. Saint Ignatius rejected the persistent requests of the emperor Trajan to sacrifice to the idols. The emperor then decided to send him to Rome to be thrown to the wild beasts. Saint Ignatius joyfully accepted the sentence imposed upon him. His readiness for martyrdom was attested to by eyewitnesses, who accompanied Saint Ignatius from Antioch to Rome. the way to Rome, the ship sailed from Seleucia stopped at Smyrna, where Saint Ignatius met with his friend Bishop Polycarp. Clergy and believers from other cities and towns thronged to see Saint Ignatius. He exhorted everyone not to fear death and not to grieve for him. In his Epistle to the Roman Christians, he asked them to assist him with their prayers, and to pray that God would strengthen him in his impending martyrdom for Christ: “I seek Him Who died for us; I desire Him Who rose for our salvation... In me, desire has been nailed to the cross, and no flame of material longing is left. Only the living water speaks within me, saying, ‘Hasten to the Father.’” Smyrna, Saint Ignatius went to Troas. Here he heard the happy news of the end of the persecution against Christians in Antioch. From Troas, Saint Ignatius sailed to Neapolis (in Macedonia) and then to Philippi. the way to Rome Saint Ignatius visited several churches, teaching and guiding the Christians there. He also wrote seven epistles: to the churches of Ephesus, Magnesia, Tralles, Rome, Philadelphia, and Smyrna. He also addressed a letter to Saint Polycarp, who mentions a collection of the letters of Saint Ignatius in his letter to the Philippians (Ch. 13). Saint Irenaeus of Lyons quotes from Saint Ignatius’s letter to the Romans (AGAINST HERESIES 5:28:4). All these letters have survived to the present day. Roman Christians met Saint Ignatius with great joy and profound sorrow. Some of them hoped to prevent his execution, but Saint Ignatius implored them not to do this. Kneeling down, he prayed together with the believers for the Church, for love between the brethren, and for an end to the persecution against Christians. December 20, the day of a pagan festival, they led Saint Ignatius into the arena, and he turned to the people: “Men of Rome, you know that I am sentenced to death, not because of any crime, but because of my love for God, by Whose love I am embraced. I long to be with Him, and offer myself to him as a pure loaf, made of fine wheat ground fine by the teeth of wild beasts.” this the lions were released and tore him to pieces, leaving only his heart and a few bones. Tradition says that on his way to execution, Saint Ignatius unceasingly repeated the name of Jesus Christ. When they asked him why he was doing this, Saint Ignatius answered that this Name was written in his heart, and that he confessed with his lips Him Whom he always carried within. When the saint was devoured by the lions, his heart was not touched. When they cut open the heart, the pagans saw an inscription in gold letters: “Jesus Christ.” After his execution Saint Ignatius appeared to many of the faithful in their sleep to comfort them, and some saw him at prayer for the city of Rome. of the saint’s great courage, Trajan thought well of him and stopped the persecution against the Christians. The relics of Saint Ignatius were transferred to Antioch (January 29), and on February 1, 637 were returned to Rome and placed in the church of San Clemente.

Syria, 45-108 , Ignatius, 2nd Bishop of Antioch, God Bearer, gold J C in his heart, to Rome, incouraging letters and preacing
Syria, 45-107, Ignatius the God-Bearer, Antioch, Syria (Orontes River 7), Theologian John's disciple w Polycarp, 2nd Bishop of Antioch, little boy Jesus hugged, bore God in his heart, prayed unceasingly, antiphonal singing, by angels example, Trajan 107, I came to him, T sent I to Rome for wild beasts to I joy, from Seleucia to Smyrna and Polycarp, to Troas, to Neapolis, to Philippi, visited churches, wrote 7 epistles to Ephesus, Magnesia, Tralles, Rome, Philidelphia, Smyrna, to Polycarp; joy of roman christians meeting, lions tore him to pieces leaving heart w gold JC, Trajan stopped persecution, relics to Antioch then to San Clemente church Rome; Syria, 107-18 , Ignatius of Antioch; of Antioch (died c. 108/140 AD),[3][4][7][8][9] also known as Ignatius Theophorus (the God-bearing), was an early Christian writer and Patriarch of Antioch. While en route to Rome, where he met his martyrdom, Ignatius wrote a series of letters. This correspondence now forms a central part of a later collection of works known to be authored by the Apostolic Fathers. He is considered to be one of the three most important of these, together with Clement of Rome and Polycarp. His letters also serve as an example of early Christian theology. Important topics they address include ecclesiology, the sacraments, and the role of bishops. Antioch (Orontes River 7); IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH, BISHOP AND MARTYR (17 OCT 107) ; the Apostles, Ignatius was the second bishop of Antioch in Syria. His predecessor, of whom little is known, was named Euodius. he knew any of the Apostles directly is uncertain. is known of his life except for the very end of it. in the second century (perhaps around 107 AD, during the reign of the Emperor Trajan), he was arrested by the Imperial authorities, condemned to death, and transported to Rome to die in the arena. thus dealing with a leader, the rulers hoped to terrify the rank and file. Ignatius took the opportunity to encourage them, speaking to groups of Christians at every town along the way. the prison escort reached the west coast of Asia Minor, it halted before taking ship, and delegations from several Asian churches were able to visit Ignatius, to speak with him at length, to assist him with items for his journey, and to bid him an affectionate farewell and commend him to the grace of God. response he wrote seven letters that have been preserved: five to congregations that had greeted him, en masse or by delegates (Ephesians, Magnesians, Trallians, Philadelphians, and Smyrnaeans), one to the congregation that would greet him at his destination (Romans), and one to Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna and disciple of the Apostle John. His letters are available in several modern translations. Perhaps the most accessible is the Penguin Paperback, Early Christian Writings, translated by Maxwell Staniforth. The themes with which he is chiefly concerned are (1) the importance of maintaining Christian unity in love and sound doctrine (with warnings against factionalism and against the heresy of Docetism -- the belief that Christ was not fully human and did not have a material body or really suffer and die), (2) the role of the clergy as a focus of Christian unity, (3) Christian martyrdom as a glorious privilege, eagerly to be grasped. He writes: I am God's wheat, ground fine by the lion's teeth to be made purest bread for Christ. No early pleasures, no kingdoms of this world can benefit me in any way. I prefer death in Christ Jesus to power over the farthest limits of the earth. He who died in place of us is the one object of my quest. He who rose for our sakes is my one desire. The time for my birth is close at hand. Forgive me, my brothers. Do not stand in the way of my birth to real life; do not wish me stillborn. My desire is to belong to God. Do not, then, hand me back to the world. do not try to tempt me with material things. Let me attain pure light. Only on my arrival there can I be fully a human being. Give me the privilege of imitating the passion of my God. by James Kiefer Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer, Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer, was a disciple of the holy Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian, as was also Saint Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna (February 23). Saint Ignatius was the second bishop of Antioch, and successor to Bishop Euodius, Apostle of the Seventy (September 7). suggests that when Saint Ignatius was a little boy, the Savior hugged him and said: “Unless you turn and become as little children, you shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven” (Mt. 18:3). saint was called “God-Bearer” (Theophoros), because he bore God in his heart and prayed unceasingly to Him. He also had this name because he was held in the arms of Christ, the incarnate Son of God. Ignatius was a disciple of the Apostle John the Theologian, together with Saint Polycarp of Smyrna. Bishop of Antioch, Saint Ignatius was zealous and spared no effort to build up the church of Christ. To him is attributed the practice of antiphonal singing (by two choirs) during church services. He had seen a vision of the angels in heaven alternately singing praises to God, and divided his church choir to follow this example. the time of persecution he was a source of strength to the souls of his flock, and was eager to suffer for Christ. the year 106 the emperor Trajan (98-117), after his victory over the Scythians, ordered everyone to give thanks to the pagan gods, and to put to death any Christians who refused to worship the idols. the year 107, Trajan happened to pass through Antioch. Here they told him that Bishop Ignatius openly confessed Christ, and taught people to scorn riches, to lead a virtuous life, and preserve their virginity. Ignatius came voluntarily before the emperor, so as to avert persecution of the Christians in Antioch. Saint Ignatius rejected the persistent requests of the emperor Trajan to sacrifice to the idols. The emperor then decided to send him to Rome to be thrown to the wild beasts. Ignatius joyfully accepted the sentence imposed upon him. His readiness for martyrdom was attested to by eyewitnesses, who accompanied Saint Ignatius from Antioch to Rome. the way to Rome, the ship sailed from Seleucia stopped at Smyrna, where Saint Ignatius met with his friend Bishop Polycarp. Clergy and believers from other cities and towns thronged to see Saint Ignatius. He exhorted everyone not to fear death and not to grieve for him. In his Epistle to the Roman Christians, he asked them to assist him with their prayers, and to pray that God would strengthen him in his impending martyrdom for Christ: “I seek Him Who died for us; I desire Him Who rose for our salvation... In me, desire has been nailed to the cross, and no flame of material longing is left. Only the living water speaks within me, saying, ‘Hasten to the Father.’” Smyrna, Saint Ignatius went to Troas. Here he heard the happy news of the end of the persecution against Christians in Antioch. From Troas, Saint Ignatius sailed to Neapolis (in Macedonia) and then to Philippi. the way to Rome Saint Ignatius visited several churches, teaching and guiding the Christians there. He also wrote seven epistles: to the churches of Ephesus, Magnesia, Tralles, Rome, Philadelphia, and Smyrna. He also addressed a letter to Saint Polycarp, who mentions a collection of the letters of Saint Ignatius in his letter to the Philippians (Ch. 13). Saint Irenaeus of Lyons quotes from Saint Ignatius’s letter to the Romans (AGAINST HERESIES 5:28:4). All these letters have survived to the present day. Roman Christians met Saint Ignatius with great joy and profound sorrow. Some of them hoped to prevent his execution, but Saint Ignatius implored them not to do this. Kneeling down, he prayed together with the believers for the Church, for love between the brethren, and for an end to the persecution against Christians. December 20, the day of a pagan festival, they led Saint Ignatius into the arena, and he turned to the people: “Men of Rome, you know that I am sentenced to death, not because of any crime, but because of my love for God, by Whose love I am embraced. I long to be with Him, and offer myself to him as a pure loaf, made of fine wheat ground fine by the teeth of wild beasts.” this the lions were released and tore him to pieces, leaving only his heart and a few bones. Tradition says that on his way to execution, Saint Ignatius unceasingly repeated the name of Jesus Christ. When they asked him why he was doing this, Saint Ignatius answered that this Name was written in his heart, and that he confessed with his lips Him Whom he always carried within. When the saint was devoured by the lions, his heart was not touched. When they cut open the heart, the pagans saw an inscription in gold letters: “Jesus Christ.” After his execution Saint Ignatius appeared to many of the faithful in their sleep to comfort them, and some saw him at prayer for the city of Rome. of the saint’s great courage, Trajan thought well of him and stopped the persecution against the Christians. The relics of Saint Ignatius were transferred to Antioch (January 29), and on February 1, 637 were returned to Rome and placed in the church of San Clemente.

Syria, 45-108, Syrian Saint, Ignatius of Antioch, wrote important letters en route to Rome
Syria, 45-107, Ignatius the God-Bearer, Antioch, Syria (Orontes River 7), Theologian John's disciple w Polycarp, 2nd Bishop of Antioch, little boy Jesus hugged, bore God in his heart, prayed unceasingly, antiphonal singing, by angels example, Trajan 107, I came to him, T sent I to Rome for wild beasts to I joy, from Seleucia to Smyrna and Polycarp, to Troas, to Neapolis, to Philippi, visited churches, wrote 7 epistles to Ephesus, Magnesia, Tralles, Rome, Philidelphia, Smyrna, to Polycarp; joy of roman christians meeting, lions tore him to pieces leaving heart w gold JC, Trajan stopped persecution, relics to Antioch then to San Clemente church Rome; Syria, 55-108, Syrian Saint, Ignatius of Antioch; of Antioch (died c. 108/140 AD),[3][4][7][8][9] also known as Ignatius Theophorus ( lit. "the God-bearing"), was an early Christian writer and bishop of Antioch. en route to Rome, where he met his martyrdom, Ignatius wrote a series of letters. This correspondence now forms a central part of a later collection of works known to be authored by the Apostolic Fathers. He is considered to be one of the three most important of these, together with Clement of Rome and Polycarp. His letters also serve as an example of early Christian theology. Important topics they address include ecclesiology, the sacraments, and the role of bishops. Hieromartyr Polycarp the Bishop of Smyrna, Commemorated on February 23;

Syria, 50-65, SILAS, MISSIONARY COMPANION oPAUL, Prison wP aPhillipi, beaten, in stocks, freed bPsalms &Earthquake
Syria, 50, SILAS, MISSIONARY COMPANION OF PAUL, oAntioch, Syria (Orontes River 7), Inner Prison wP aPhillipi, beaten severly, in stocks, Psalms &Earthquake freed them, first mention Silas and Judas Barnabus sent back from Jerusalem to convey council decision on the Law and Gentile converts, Silas replaced John Mark with Paul in Turkey (Pamphylia, Pisidia, Iconium, Lystra, Derbe) into Europe (Phillipi, Thessalonica, Berea, Athens, Corinth, riots each place, Silas ended in martytrdom, no details, Bye the Way this story taken off the Episcopal Website sometime after I first found it there. ; Antioch (Orontes River 7); SILAS, MISSIONARY COMPANION OF PAUL, Commemorated January 26 ; - SILAS, MISSIONARY COMPANION OF PAUL: is chiefly remembered as the companion of the Apostle Paul who was arrested with him at Philippi (Acts 16:19-40). were beaten severely and confined in the inner prison, with their feet in stocks. they sang hymns in the night, and an earthquake shook the prison, and released them. a result, the jailer and his household became believers. first mention of Silas is earlier. Paul and Barnabas went on a missionary journey (A 13:1-5), taking with them John Mark, who (for unspecified reasons) parted from them and went home in the middle of the journey (A 13:13). and Barnabas completed their mission and returned to Antioch. had made many Gentile converts on their mission, and the question arose whether a Gentile could become a Christian without also becoming a Jew, being circumcised if male, and undertaking to observe the Law of Moses (A 15:1). congregation at Antioch referred the question to the Apostles at Jerusalem, and Paul and Barnabas went to Jerusalem to present their case. council of apostles and elders at Jerusalem judged that, with a few specified exceptions, the Law of Moses was not to be imposed on Gentile Christians, and they sent two men from Jerusalem back to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas to convey their reply. men were Judas Barsabbas (not otherwise mentioned) and Silas (A 15:22). Paul and Barnabas undertook to visit again the congregations they had founded on their previous journey, and Barnabas wished to take John Mark with them, but Paul thought this unwise, and so they determined to travel separately, Barnabas taking Mark, and Paul taking Silas (A 15:36-40). so Paul and Silas (joined in progress by Timothy and by Luke) went through part of what is now Turkey and then crossed over into Europe and preached at Philippi (where they made converts and were arrested as described above), and went on to Thessalonica and Berea, being the center of riots in each place (A 17:1-13), after which Paul went on to Athens and thence to Corinth, and was soon joined there by Silas and Timothy (A 18:5). And that is the last we hear of Silas. name "Silas" is a shortened form of "Silvanus", and the Silvanus whom Paul mentions in his writings to the Corinthians (2 C 1:19) and the Thessalonians (1 Th 1:1; 2 Th 1:1) is almost certainly the Silas of Acts, and probably the same as the Silvanus who carried the Apostle Peter's first letter (1 P 5:12) to its scattered recipients. details of the life of Silas are not known, but he is customarily honored as a martyr. by James Kiefer

Syria, 54-91, Eutychius the Bishop of Melitene, Armenia, fell out of window
Armenia, 54-91, Eutychius the Bishop of Melitene; Malatya; St Eutychius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on May 28;

Syria, 60, 1st Century, Edessa, Armenia, Apostle Jude
Persia, 70, 1st Century, Parthia, Apostle Jude; Apostle Jude the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on June 19;

Syria, 66-70, Martyr Acasius of Apamea, brought to 3 governors, Syria, Thessalonica, Ephesus, Phrygia
Syria, 66-70, Martyr Acasius of Apamea, brought to 3 governors, Syria, Greece, Phrygia; Apamea, Syria; Martyr Acacius of Apamea, Commemorated July 28 ; Holy Martyr Acacius was brought to trial for his belief in Christ. Three governors attempted to compel the holy martyr to offer sacrifice to idols, having subjected him to fierce tortures. Governor Licinius gave orders to rend the body of Saint Acacius with instruments of torture. He then sent him to Governor Terence, who gave orders to throw Acacius into a cauldron filled with boiling tar and tallow, but the martyr remained unharmed. Terence went to the cities of Apamea and Apollonia and gave orders to bring the martyr after him. In one of these cities Saint Acacius was led into a pagan temple, but by his prayer all the idols there fell down. beat the saint viciously and gave him over to be eaten by wild beasts. When they saw that he remained unharmed, they threw him into a red-hot furnace. The martyr also remained unharmed there. The governor, wanting to check whether the furnace was sufficiently hot, went near it and was burned himself. They then took the holy Martyr Acacius for torture to a certain Posidonius, who put heavy fetters on the holy martyr and gave orders to take him to the city of Miletus. There also the saint, by his prayer, destroyed idols. Finally, the exhausted torturers beheaded Saint Acacius. A priest by the name of Leontius buried his body in the city of Synados (Asia Minor). Greatmartyr Procopius of Caesarea, in Palestine, "Procopius in Apamea on the way to Alexandria" ; Hieromartyr Marcellus the Bishop of Apamea, Commemorated August 14 ; Martyr Aristion the Bishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on September 3 ; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated September 27 ; Martyr Anthony of Apamea, Commemorated on November 9 ; Venerable Marcellus the Abbot of the Monastery of the "Unsleeping Ones", Commemorated December 29 ; Martyr Tryphon of Campsada Near Apamea in Syria, Commemorated on February 1 ; Martyr Maurice at Apamea in Syria, Commemorated February 22 ; Martyr Quadratus and the rest of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 10 ; Hieromartyr Mark the Bishop of Arethusa, who suffered under Julian the Apostate, Commemorated on March 29; Icon of the Mother of God of Vilnius, Commemorated on April 14; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15; St Pausicacus the Bishop of Synnada, Commemorated on May 13; Greatmartyr Procopius of Caesarea, in Palestine, Commemorated on July 8;

Syria, 98-117, Sarbelus & Bebaia oEdessa, Martyred bTrajan, Pagan priest. both converted by Edessa Bishop Barsimaius
Armenia, 98-117, Sarbelus oEdessa, Syria (Intersection and Euphrates River 3), Martyred with his sister bTrajan, Pagan priest & sister Bebaia converted by Edessa Bishop Barsimaius; Edessa, Syria; St Sarbelus of Edessa, January 29 ; Holy Martyr Sarbelus was a pagan priest who lived during the reign of the emperor Trajan (98-117) and his sister Bebaia were converted by Barsimaius, the Bishop of Edessa. both received the crown of martyrdom. Saints Sarbelus and Bebaia are also commemorated on October 15.

Syria, 108, 438, 540 or 637, Ignatius relics transfer, Rome tAntioch and back, listen to your bishops
Syria, 108, 438, 540 or 637, Ignatius relics transfer, Rome tAntioch, Syria (Orontes River 7), Trajan had him thrown to the lions in 107, Christians gathered his bons at Rome, 108 his relics buried at Gate oDaphne, Antioch, 43i8 transferred tRome because Persians captured A, 540 placed Clement's church Rome, or 637, Ignatius introduced antiphonal singing, he left 7 arcpastoral epistles with instructions faith, love, good works, he also urged preservation unity otFaith, beware heretics, hono&obey bishops, regard as Lord himself, example letter to Polycarp, listen to your bishop ifyou want God to listen to you; Translation of the relics of the Hieromartyr Ignatius, the Godbearer and Bishop of Antioch ; Transfer of the Relics of the Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer: (See December 20). the holy hieromartyr Ignatius was thrown to the lions in the year 107 on the orders of the emperor Trajan, gathered up his bones and preserved them at Rome. in the year 108, the saint’s relics were collected and buried outside the gate of Daphne at Antioch. second transfer, to the city of Antioch itself, took place in the year 438. the capture of Antioch by the Persians, the relics of the Hieromartyr Ignatius were returned to Rome and placed into the church of the holy Hieromartyr Clement in the year 540 (in 637, according to other sources). Ignatius introduced antiphonal singing into Church services. has left us seven archpastoral epistles in which he provided instructions on faith, love and good works. also urged his flock to preserve the unity of the faith and to beware of heretics. He encouraged people to honor and obey their bishops, “We should regard the bishop as we would the Lord Himself.” (To the Ephesians 6) his Letter to Polycarp, Saint Ignatius writes: “Listen to the bishop, if you want God to listen to you... let your baptism be your shield, your faith a helmet, your charity a spear, your patience, like full armor.” (Compare Eph. 6:14-17 and the Wisdom of Solomon 5:17-20. Also The Ladder 4:2)

Syria, 63BC-114, History Folder, Kingdom of Osroene, Parthian Empire

Syria, 63BC-114, Kingdom of Osroene, Parthian Empire including Armenia
Syria, 63BC-114, Kingdom of Osroene, Parthian Empire; Syrian King, BC 4 - AD 50, Abgar V;

Syria, 114-314, Roman Syria, with Palmyra under Rome

Syria, 100, 2nd C Folder, Ariston&Theosis, Victor unharmed, hWife, Theophilus oA

Syria, 120-160, Aristion, Bishop, Lesser Alexandria, Cilician Gates r, boyhood f martyr Anthony, life's purpose-theosis
Alexandria in Cilicia (Asia Minor), Alexandria is probably Kitikien of the Ptolemaic Empire, along the Cilician Gates route ; Martyr Anthony of Alexandria, Commemorated on August 9; Martyr Anthony, a native of the city of Alexandria, was a Christian. For his confession of faith they tied him to a tree and tore at his body with iron hooks, and then sentenced him to burning. Standing in the fire, he calmly exhorted those standing about to toil not for the body but for the soul in aspiring towards God. After the fire flared up, the body of the saint remained unharmed. The time of his death is unknown. Martyr Aristion the Bishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on September 3 ; Aristion was the bishop of lesser Alexandria in Cilicia (Asia Minor). He was born in the small town of Aribazo in the eparchy of Apamea, Syria at the beginning of the second century. His parents were pagans, and he spent his early years in an atmosphere of idolatry. do not know what sort of early education Saint Aristion received, nor where he studied, but it did not satisfy his search for the truth. A ten-year-old boy who lived in the same town, the future martyr Anthony, showed him the path which led to the truth. Anthony instructed him in the true Faith, and Aristion increased in piety and zeal for God. is significant that Anthony, despite the constant fear of persecution, exile and even danger to his own life, was not just a member of the local church, but also preached the Faith to others. It is certain that Aristion prayed for his young friend and remembered his courage and strength, for Anthony’s efforts to bring Aristion to the saving Faith had born fruit and were not in vain. Not only did Anthony give himself to the Church through his martyrdom at the age of twenty, he also gave it another saint and martyr: Saint Aristion later, Saint Aristion was consecrated bishop for Isso in Cilicia, which is found in lesser Alexandria. He was a good shepherd to his flock, and cared diligently for their souls. day the ruler of Alexandria had Saint Aristion arrested because he was a Christian. Although he was placed on public trial, the holy bishop was calm and showed no fear. His whole demeanor made the Roman eparch realize that it would not easy to deal with this man who stood before him. He tried to turn Aristion from Christ through flattery and promises of reward, but the saint stood firm. Seeing that his words had no effect on the bishop, he threatened him with fierce tortures. He was not influenced by these threats, however. Aristion stood before the eparch and his counselors, gazing at them with love and concern for their salvation. Even in his weakness, this captive was stronger than his captors, and he refused to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. a multitude of idolaters, Saint Aristion spoke of the Triune God, by Whom all things were created. He also told them about the Incarnation of the Lord Jesus Christ, which was accomplished through God’s saving dispensation. He explained that Christ brings salvation to fallen man, thereby giving him another chance to attain the true purpose of his life—theosis. “How poor these soulless statues of the gods are,” the bishop said, “and how helpless the eparch looks in his radiant apparel.” who heard the saint speak were amazed and asked one another where he got such courage. Aristion invited them to believe in the truth which he was revealing to them. Those who watched understood that this holy man was someone special, and they wanted to hear more about his beliefs. Roman eparch could not find any way to resist Aristion except through violence, so he sentenced him to death. He commanded his soldiers to prepare a large furnace and then throw him into the flames.The saint went to his martyrdom without resistance, remaining brave and strong until the end. The few Christians who were present tried not to weep.They whispered prayers for him, and were saddened because their father was leaving them. They knew, however, that their archpastor would not cease praying for them, especially now that he was going to Christ. They could hear Saint Aristion singing hymns in the fire until his last breath. eparch did not know what a terrible mistake he had made. He did not realize that death is not the end for men, nor for the truth. Nothing could separate Saint Aristion from the Fountain of Life, and so the Lord bestowed upon him an imperishable crown of glory. the flames died down, his spiritual children approached the furnace and collected as many of his bones as they could. With great reverence they put the holy relics in a secret place, which remains unknown to the present day. more detailed biography of the saint has been published (in Greek): THE HOLY HIEROMARTYR ARISTION, by John G. Thalassinos (Athens, 2003). This volume also contains the Service to the saint, which was composed by Hieromonk Athanasius of Simonopetra Monastery on Mt. Athos. Martyr Anthony of Alexandria Commemorated on August 9

Syria, 161-180, Victor, Soldier martyred aDamascus, Syria, tortured but unharmed, converted sorcerer wPrayer power, blind healed
Syria, 161-180, Victor, Soldier martyred aDamascus, Syria, tortured but unharmed, converted sorcerer wPrayer power, blind got sight, Stehpanida witnessed&converted; Syria, 161-180, Victor, Soldier and Martyr at Damascus, Syria; Victor and Corona (also known as Saints Victor and Stephanie) are two Christian martyrs. was a Roman soldier who was tortured and killed; Corona was killed for comforting him. Corona is invoked as a patron of causes involving money; she was not historically associated with pandemics or disease, but has been invoked against the coronavirus pandemic. St Victor of Siena (left) and St Corona by the Master of the Palazzo Venezia Madonna in the National Gallery of Denmark. legend states that Victor was a Roman soldier of Italian ancestry, who was tortured, including having his eyes gouged out, and was beheaded. sources state that he and Corona were killed in Roman Syria during the reign of Marcus Aurelius (around the 160s-170s AD), but various hagiographical texts disagree about the site of their martyrdom, with some stating that it was Damascus, while Coptic sources state that it was Antioch. Some Western sources state that Alexandria or Sicily was their place of martyrdom. also disagree about the date of their martyrdom. They may have been martyred during the reign of Antoninus Pius, or Diocletian, while the Roman Martyrology states that it was in the third century when they met their death.[1] he was suffering from the tortures, the sixteen-year-old wife of another soldier, named Corona or Stephanie (or Stefania or Stephana, the Greek version of her Latin name, which also means "crown")[2][3][4] comforted and encouraged him. this, she was arrested and interrogated. According to the passio of Corona, Corona was bound to two bent palm trees and torn apart as the trunks were released; the passio is considered largely fictional, and she herself may also be fictional.[5] Other sources state that Victor and Corona were husband and wife.[6][7] is also debate as to where Corona was from; differing accounts place her in Syria, Sicily, and Marseille.[7] and Corona's memorial day is 24 November (11 November in the Orthodox church calendar). feast day is 14 May. the town of Feltre in northern Italy, on the slopes of Mount Miesna, is the church of SS. Vittore e Corona, erected by the Crusaders from Feltre after the First Crusade. is especially venerated in Austria and eastern Bavaria. There is a chapel dedicated to her in Sauerlach, near Munich.[7] There are two churches named after her in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Passau and two towns named after her in Lower Austria.[7] A statue of her stands in the Münster Cathedral.[7] 1000 AD Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor brought Corona's relics to Aachen in western Germany.[7] relics were rediscovered during excavation work at Aachen Cathedral in 1910. The relics were removed from a crypt and placed in a shrine inside the cathedral.[7] is the patroness of causes involving money, such as gambling and treasure hunting, a result of a later treasure hunter who credited his success to invoking her.[5][8][9] She is called upon by a treasure hunter to bring treasure, and then sent away through a similarly elaborate ritual.[10] was not historically a patron saint of or invoked against pandemics or disease, but has been invoked against the COVID-19 pandemic.[5][9] Her relics will be available for public veneration once the pandemic has passed.[9][11] Damascus (Barada River foothills); Martyr Victor at Damascus, Commemorated on November 11 ; Holy Martyr Victor at Damascus was a soldier during the reign of the emperor Marcus Aurelius the Philosopher (161-180). the emperor began a persecution against Christians, Victor refused to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. Such obligatory sacrifices were a test of a soldier’s loyalty to the gods, the emperor and the state. The saint was given over to torture, but he came through all the torments unharmed. By the power of prayer he was victorious over a sorcerer, who from that point gave up give sorcery and became a Christian. Saint Victor’s prayers, blind soldiers suddenly received their sight. the miracle worked by the Lord through Saint Victor, Stephanida, the young Christian wife of one of the torturers, openly glorified Christ, for which she was condemned to a cruel death. She was tied to two palm trees bent to the ground, which when released, sprung back and tore her apart. She was fifteen years old. torturer ordered that the holy Martyr Victor be beheaded. Hearing the commander’s order, Saint Victor told his executioners that they would all die in twelve days, and that the commander would be captured by the enemy in twenty-four days. As he foretold, so it came to pass. martyrs suffered in the second century at Damascus, where their venerable relics were buried. Martyr Stephanida of Spain, Commemorated November 11 ; Stephanida witnessed the martyrdom at Damascus of the Holy Martyr Victor, a soldier, during the reign of the emperor Marcus Aurelius the Philosopher (161-180). was tortured, but he came through all the torments unharmed. the power of prayer he was victorious over a sorcerer, who from that point gave up give sorcery and became a Christian. Saint Victor’s prayers, blind soldiers suddenly received their sight. the miracle worked by the Lord through Saint Victor, Stephanida, the young Christian wife of one of the torturers, openly glorified Christ, for which she was condemned to a cruel death. was tied to two palm trees bent to the ground, which when released, sprung back and tore her apart. She was fifteen years old. martyrs suffered in the second century at Damascus, where their venerable relics were buried.

Syria, 161-180, Stephanida of Spain, wVictor, 15yr old torturers' wife glorified Christ, two palm trees tore her apart
Syria, 161-180, Stephanida of Spain, with Victor, 15yr old torturers' wife glorified Christ, two palm trees tore her apart, aka Corona, martyred at Damascus, she witnessed V tortured but unharmed, relics buried aDamascus; Syria, 161-180, Stephanida of Spain, with Victor, Martyr at Damascus; Victor and Corona (also known as Saints Victor and Stephanie) are two Christian martyrs. was a Roman soldier who was tortured and killed; Corona was killed for comforting him. Corona is invoked as a patron of causes involving money; she was not historically associated with pandemics or disease, but has been invoked against the coronavirus pandemic. St Victor of Siena (left) and St Corona by the Master of the Palazzo Venezia Madonna in the National Gallery of Denmark. legend states that Victor was a Roman soldier of Italian ancestry, who was tortured, including having his eyes gouged out, and was beheaded. sources state that he and Corona were killed in Roman Syria during the reign of Marcus Aurelius (around the 160s-170s AD), but various hagiographical texts disagree about the site of their martyrdom, with some stating that it was Damascus, while Coptic sources state that it was Antioch. Some Western sources state that Alexandria or Sicily was their place of martyrdom. also disagree about the date of their martyrdom. They may have been martyred during the reign of Antoninus Pius, or Diocletian, while the Roman Martyrology states that it was in the third century when they met their death.[1] he was suffering from the tortures, the sixteen-year-old wife of another soldier, named Corona or Stephanie (or Stefania or Stephana, the Greek version of her Latin name, which also means "crown")[2][3][4] comforted and encouraged him. this, she was arrested and interrogated. According to the passio of Corona, Corona was bound to two bent palm trees and torn apart as the trunks were released; the passio is considered largely fictional, and she herself may also be fictional.[5] Other sources state that Victor and Corona were husband and wife.[6][7] is also debate as to where Corona was from; differing accounts place her in Syria, Sicily, and Marseille.[7] and Corona's memorial day is 24 November (11 November in the Orthodox church calendar). feast day is 14 May. the town of Feltre in northern Italy, on the slopes of Mount Miesna, is the church of SS. Vittore e Corona, erected by the Crusaders from Feltre after the First Crusade. is especially venerated in Austria and eastern Bavaria. There is a chapel dedicated to her in Sauerlach, near Munich.[7] There are two churches named after her in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Passau and two towns named after her in Lower Austria.[7] A statue of her stands in the Münster Cathedral.[7] 1000 AD Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor brought Corona's relics to Aachen in western Germany.[7] relics were rediscovered during excavation work at Aachen Cathedral in 1910. The relics were removed from a crypt and placed in a shrine inside the cathedral.[7] is the patroness of causes involving money, such as gambling and treasure hunting, a result of a later treasure hunter who credited his success to invoking her.[5][8][9] She is called upon by a treasure hunter to bring treasure, and then sent away through a similarly elaborate ritual.[10] was not historically a patron saint of or invoked against pandemics or disease, but has been invoked against the COVID-19 pandemic.[5][9] Her relics will be available for public veneration once the pandemic has passed.[9][11] Damascus (Barada River foothills); Martyr Stephanida of Spain, Commemorated November 11 ; Stephanida witnessed the martyrdom at Damascus of the Holy Martyr Victor, a soldier, during the reign of the emperor Marcus Aurelius the Philosopher (161-180). was tortured, but he came through all the torments unharmed. the power of prayer he was victorious over a sorcerer, who from that point gave up give sorcery and became a Christian. Saint Victor’s prayers, blind soldiers suddenly received their sight. the miracle worked by the Lord through Saint Victor, Stephanida, the young Christian wife of one of the torturers, openly glorified Christ, for which she was condemned to a cruel death. was tied to two palm trees bent to the ground, which when released, sprung back and tore her apart. She was fifteen years old. martyrs suffered in the second century at Damascus, where their venerable relics were buried. Martyr Victor at Damascus, Commemorated on November 11 ; Holy Martyr Victor at Damascus was a soldier during the reign of the emperor Marcus Aurelius the Philosopher (161-180). the emperor began a persecution against Christians, Victor refused to offer sacrifice to the pagan gods. Such obligatory sacrifices were a test of a soldier’s loyalty to the gods, the emperor and the state. The saint was given over to torture, but he came through all the torments unharmed. By the power of prayer he was victorious over a sorcerer, who from that point gave up give sorcery and became a Christian. Saint Victor’s prayers, blind soldiers suddenly received their sight. the miracle worked by the Lord through Saint Victor, Stephanida, the young Christian wife of one of the torturers, openly glorified Christ, for which she was condemned to a cruel death. She was tied to two palm trees bent to the ground, which when released, sprung back and tore her apart. She was fifteen years old. torturer ordered that the holy Martyr Victor be beheaded. Hearing the commander’s order, Saint Victor told his executioners that they would all die in twelve days, and that the commander would be captured by the enemy in twenty-four days. As he foretold, so it came to pass. martyrs suffered in the second century at Damascus, where their venerable relics were buried.

Syria, 169-185, Syrian Saint and Patriarch, Theophilus of Antioch
Syria, 169-185, Syrian Sain tand Patriarch, Theophilus of Antioch; Appearance of the Smolensk œDirectress Icon of the Mother of God brought from Constantinople, Commemorated on July 28; Smolensk Hodegetria Icon of the Theotokos, or “She who leads the way,” was, according to Church Tradition, painted by the holy Evangelist Luke during the earthly life of the Most Holy Theotokos. The holy hierarch Demetrius of Rostov suggests that this icon was painted at the request of Theophilus, the prefect of Antioch. From Antioch the holy image was transferred to Jerusalem. From there the empress Eudokia, the spouse of Arcadius, gave it at Constantinople to Pulcheria, the sister of the emperor, who put the holy icon in the Blachernae church. 1046, the Byzantine emperor Constantine IX Monomachos (1042-1054), gave his daughter Anna in marriage to Prince Vsevolod Yaroslavich, the son of Yaroslav the Wise. He blessed her on her way with this icon. After the death of Prince Vsevolod the icon went to his son Vladimir Monomachos, who transferred it at the beginning of the twelfth century into the Smolensk cathedral church in honor of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos. From that time, the icon was known as the Smolensk Hodēgḗtria. the year 1238, at the bespeaking of the icon, the self-sacrificing Orthodox warrior Mercurius went by night into the camp of Batu and killed many of the enemy, in whose number was their most powerful warrior. Having accepted a martyr’s death in battle, he was included by the Church in the ranks of the Saints (November 24). the fourteenth century, Smolensk came into the possession of the Lithuanian princes. The daughter of prince Vitovt, Sophia, was given in marriage to the Moscow Great Prince Basil Dimitrievich (1398-1425). In 1398, she brought the Smolensk Icon of the Mother of God with her to Moscow. They set the holy image in the Annunciation cathedral of the Kremlin, on the right side of the Royal Doors. 1456, at the request of the inhabitants of Smolensk with Bishop Misael at the head, the icon was solemnly returned to Smolensk in a church procession, and at Moscow there remained two copies. One was put in the Annunciation cathedral, and the other, “a measure for measure,” was put in the Novodevichi monastery, founded in memory of the return of Smolensk to Russia. The monastery was built on Devichi Pole (Virgin’s Field), where “with many tears” the Muscovites handed over the holy icon to Smolensk. In 1602 an exact copy was painted from the wonderworking icon (in 1666 together with the ancient icon they brought a new copy to Moscow for restoration), which they placed in the tower of the Smolensk fortress wall over the Dneprovsk Gates, under a specially constructed cover. Afterwards, in 1727, a wooden church was built there, and in 1802, a stone church. new copy took on the power of the old image, and when the Russian armies left Smolensk on August 5, 1812, they took the icon with them for defense from the enemy forces. On the eve of the Battle of Borodino they carried this icon through the camp, to encourage and inspire the soldiers to great deeds. The ancient image of the Smolensk Hodēgḗtria, taken to the Dormition cathedral on the day of the Battle of Borodino went in procession with the Ivḗron and Vladimir Icons of the Mother of God through the Belo and Kitai quarters and the Kremlin walls, and then they sent it to the sick and wounded at the Lefortovo palace. After leaving Moscow, the icon was taken to Yaroslavl. were these sister-icons preserved, and the Mother of God defended Russia through Her icons. After the victory over the enemy forces the Hodēgḗtria Icon was returned to Smolensk together with its glorified copy. celebration in honor of this wonderworking icon on July 28 was established in the year 1525 in memory of the return of Smolensk to Russia. exist many venerated copies of the Smolensk Hodegetria, for which the celebration is set on this day. There is also a day of celebration for the Smolensk Icon (November 5), glorified in the nineteenth century when this image was returned to Smolensk on the orders of the commander-in-chief of the Russian army M. I. Kutuzov. In memory of the expulsion of the enemy from Russia, it was decided to celebrate this day annually at Smolensk. holy icon of the Hodegetria Mother of God is one of the chief holy objects of the Russian Church. Believers have received and do receive from it an abundant help of grace. The Mother of God through Her holy icon intercedes for and strengthens us, guiding us on the way to salvation, and we call out to Her, “Thou art the All-Blessed Hodegetria for faithful peoples, Thou art the affirmation, the Praiseworthy of Smolensk and all the Russian land. Rejoice, Hodegetria, salvation of Christians!”

Syria, 200, 3rd C Folder, Artemon animals speak, Babylas blocking Desius, B's Bhouse, C&D Drs, G's vision, N's forgvnss, Synods

Syria, 227-303, Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, great story, animals speaking and more
Syria, 227-303, Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, animals speaking and prophecising, very old, destroyed pagan temple gods, Patricius healed but thought by witchcraft, Artémon followed by six wild donkeys and two deer by Word of Christ, eagle angels throw P caldron burning pitch; Laodicea in Syria; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13; Hieromartyr Artémon was born of Christian parents in Laodίkeia, Syria in the III century. his youth, he devoted himself to the service of the Church, and was a Reader for sixteen years. For his zeal, Bishop Sisίnnius ordained him as a Deacon. Saint Artémon also carried out this service with fervor and diligence for twenty-eight years, then he was ordained to the priesthood. In that position, Saint Artémon served the Church of God for another thirty-three years, preaching Christianity among pagans. Emperor Diocletian (reigned 284-305) began his fierce persecution of the Church, issuing an edict ordering Christians to offer sacrifice to the idols, Saint Artémon was already quite old. of the impending arrival of the military commander Patricius at Laodίkeia, Saint Sisίnnius went with the priest Artémon and some other Christians into the temple of the "goddess" Artemis. There they smashed and burned the idols, reducing them all to dust. Saint Sisίnnius and Saint Artémon gathered the flock into the church and fervently exhorted the Christians to remain firm in the Faith, and not to fear the threats of torturers. he arrived in Laodίkeia, Patricius celebrated a five-day festival in honor of the pagan "gods," and then entered the temple of Artemis to offer sacrifice. When he was told who had destroyed the temple, he went with a detachment of soldiers to the church where the Christians were praying. he approached the church, Patricius suddenly felt a chill, and then developed a fever, which left him scarcely alive. He was carried him home and put to bed. “The Christians have put a curse on me, and their God torments me,” he said to those around him. Although Patricius prayed to the idols, they did not relieve his sufferings. sent a messenger to Bishop Sisίnnius, asking for his help, and promised to set up a gold statue of that Hierarch in the middle of the city. The Saint replied, “Keep your gold, but if you believe in Christ, He will heal you.” was afraid of death, so he declared that he believed in Christ, and the affliction left him. But even this miracle did not affect the obdurate pagan's soul. Although he did not raise a hand against Bishop Sisίnnius, he did enforce the imperial edict against other Christians in the city of Caesarea. the way he encountered Saint Artémon, who was followed by six wild donkeys and two deer. Patricius asked how he was able to control these wild beasts, Saint Artémon replied that he held them with the Word of Christ. learned from the idolaters that it was Artémon who had destroyed the pagan temple of Artemis, so he ordered that Artémon be arrested and taken to the city of Caesarea. The Saint went with the soldiers without fear, but he told the animals to go to Saint Sisίnnius. Seeing the animals, Bishop Sisίnnius asked, “Why have these animals come here?” doe received the gift of speech from God and said, “The servant of God Artémon is being held by the impious Patricius, and is being brought to Caesarea in chains. He commanded us to come here to give you this news.” not be astonished that the Lord, Who opened the mouth of Balaam’s ass (Numbers 22:28), also permitted the doe to speak. The Bishop sent Deacon Phileas to Caesarea to verify what he had been told. Caesarea, Patricius brought Saint Artémon to trial and tried to force him to offer sacrifice in the temple of Asclepius. In that pagan temple there were many poisonous vipers. The pagan priest never opened the doors, nor did he place the sacrifice before the idol. Saint Artémon, calling on the Name of Jesus Christ, went into the temple and drove the snakes out. The pagans fled, but the Saint stopped them and killed the snakes by his breath. Vitalius, one of the pagan priests, believed in Christ and asked Saint Artémon to baptize him. thought that Saint Artémon killed the snakes by sorcery, and again he interrogated and tortured him. the doe which had spoken arrived at Caesarea. She lay down at the Martyr's feet, licking his wounds. By God’s command the doe spoke again, denouncing the impious pagans. Addressing Patricius, the doe predicted that he would be seized by two birds of prey, and dropped into a cauldron of burning pitch. was enraged because he had been censured by a wild beast. He commanded his soldiers to shoot the doe with arrows, but she escaped. that the miracles performed by Saint Artémon would attract more people to him, Patricius ordered his execution. enormous cauldron was filled with boiling pitch, and the soldiers intended to throw Saint Artémon into it. But when Patricius rode up to the cauldron on horseback to see if the pitch was indeed boiling, two Angels in the form of eagles seized him and dropped him into the cauldron. His body was consumed so that not a single bone remained, but Saint Artémon survived. this miracle, everyone ran away except Saint Artémon, who blessed and glorified God. When the Saint finished his prayer, a spring of water gushed forth from the ground. Saint Artémon baptized the pagan priest Vitalius and many pagans, who had come to believe in Christ. On the following morning, Saint Artémon communed the newly-baptized with the Holy Mysteries. Many of the baptized were ordained to the diaconate and the priesthood, and Vitalius was made Bishop of Palestine. Bishop of Caesarea came to visit Saint Artémon, noting the place where he had suffered. Subsequently, a church was built on that site. by God's voice, Saint Artémon preached the Gospel in Asia Minor. Then an Angel appeared and transported him to the place which had been revealed to him, and there he converted many to Christ. The pagans arrested the Saint and beheaded him († 303). the Roman Martyrology, Saint Artémon is listed under October 8, while in Greek usage he is commemorated on April 12. Artémon the Presbyter of Laodίkeia should not be confused with Saint Artémon the Bishop of Seleukeia (March 24).

Syria, 249-251, Hieromartyr Babylas of Antioch, blocked Decius, Lord's e not worthy respect, these chains venerable
Syria, 249-251, Hieromartyr Babylas, bishop of Antioch, Syria (Orontes River 7), blocked curious Decius f church, fired church, why insult, not worthy respect, Lord's enemy, these chains venerable, suffering desirable, death precious, 3 spiritual children, test them, whipped by age, Decius lied about them, but B not believe, all burned and beheaded ; Antioch (Orontes River 7); Hieromartyr Babylas, Bishop of Antioch, and those with him, Commemorated on September 4; Hieromartyr Babylas and with him the three youths Urban, Prilidian, Epolonius and their mother Christodoula died as martyrs under the emperor Decius (249-251). his stay in their city of Antioch, the emperor arranged for a large festival in honor of the pagan gods. the same time, Babylas, the holy and God-fearing Bishop of Antioch, was serving the Divine Liturgy in church. He prayed for his flock and taught them to endure all tribulations for Christ with courage. idolater Decius, curious to witness the Divine Mysteries, decided to enter the church. of this reached the bishop, so he went out to meet Decius and blocked the path to the church, for he was unwilling to permit impiety in the temple of God. the emperor approached the church doors, Saint Babylas refused to let him enter, so the emperor had to abandon his intention. He wanted to take revenge on the saint right away, but when he saw the large throng of Christians, he feared they might riot. next day the angry emperor ordered that the church be set on fire, and for Bishop Babylas to be brought before him. asked why he had insulted the imperial dignity by not allowing the emperor to enter the church, the holy bishop answered, “Anyone who would rise up against God and want to desecrate His sanctuary, is not worthy of respect, but has become the enemy of the Lord.” declared that the holy bishop must worship the idols in order to make up for his lack of respect for the emperor, or else face execution. convincing himself that the martyr would remain steadfast in his faith, he commanded the military commander Victorinus to put him in heavy chains and lead him through the city in disgrace. holy martyr replied, “Emperor, these chains are as venerable for me as your imperial crown is for you. For me, suffering for Christ is as desirable as the imperial power is for you. Death for the Immortal King is as precious to me as your life is to you.” the trial with Bishop Babylas were three young brothers, who did not forsake him even in this most difficult moment. Seeing them, the emperor asked, “Who are these children? “ “These are my spiritual children,” the saint replied, “and I have raised them in piety, I have given them an education, cultivated them with guidance, and here before you in a small body are these great young men and perfect Christians. Test them and see.” emperor tried in all sorts of ways to entice the youths and their mother Christodoula to renounce Christ, but in vain. in a rage, he ordered each of them to be whipped with a number of blows corresponding to their age. The first received twelve blows, the second, ten, and the third, seven. the mother and children, the torturer again summoned the bishop, telling him that the children had renounced Christ. He did not believe the lie, however. he commanded all the martyrs be tied to a tree and burned with fire. Seeing the stoic bravery of the saints, the emperor finally condemned them to be beheaded with the sword.

Syria, 250 3rd Century, Barbara and Juliana at Heliopolis, B's Bathhouse, trinity of light, traced cross miraculously etched
Syria, 250 3rd Century, Barbara and Juliana at Heliopolis, in Syria, tower, pagan teachers, beauty, first cause questions, idols human hands w, not able to make, desire to know god life' goal, virginity, fame her beauty, refused marriage, warned father of split, permitted freedom, christian maidens, priest disguised merchant, baptism, Barbara's bathhouse, trinity of light, traced cross, miraculously etched, footprints too, healing water, many B miracles, father's rage, escape, hill opens up, crevice, shepherds, torture, Jesus, Juliana's sympathetic loud voice, torture, angel c nakedness w robe, beheaded by f and perfect, both killed by lightning; Barbara, known in the Eastern Orthodox Church as the Great Martyr Barbara, was an early Christian Lebanese and Greek saint and martyr. Accounts place her in the 3rd century in Heliopolis Phoenicia, present-day Baalbek, Lebanon.[1][2] There is no reference to her in the authentic early Christian writings nor in the original recension of Saint Jerome's martyrology. Despite the legends detailing her story, the earliest references to her supposed 3rd-century life do not appear until the 7th century, and veneration of her was common, especially in the East, from the 9th century.[3] of doubts about the historicity of her legend,[4] she was removed from the General Roman Calendar in the 1969 revision, though not from the Catholic Church's list of saints.[5] Barbara is often portrayed with miniature chains and a tower. As one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers, Barbara continues to be a popular saint in modern times, perhaps best known as the patron saint of armourers, artillerymen, military engineers, miners and others who work with explosives because of her legend's association with lightning, and also of mathematicians. A 15th-century French version of her story credits her with thirteen miracles, many of which reflect the security she offered that her devotees would not die before getting to make confession and receiving extreme unction.[3] Heliopolis, in Syria (Baalbeck, Lebanon); Greatmartyr Barbara at Heliopolis, in Syria, Commemorated December 4 ; Holy Great Martyr Barbara lived and suffered during the reign of the emperor Maximian (305-311). Her father, the pagan Dioscorus, was a rich and illustrious man in the Syrian city of Heliopolis. After the death of his wife, he devoted himself to his only daughter. Barbara’s extraordinary beauty, Dioscorus decided to hide her from the eyes of strangers. Therefore, he built a tower for Barbara, where only her pagan teachers were allowed to see her. From the tower there was a view of hills stretching into the distance. By day she was able to gaze upon the wooded hills, the swiftly flowing rivers, and the meadows covered with a mottled blanket of flowers; by night the harmonious and majestic vault of the heavens twinkled and provided a spectacle of inexpressible beauty. the virgin began to ask herself questions about the First Cause and Creator of so harmonious and splendid a world. she became convinced that the souless idols were merely the work of human hands. her father and teachers offered them worship, she realized that the idols could not have made the surrounding world. desire to know the true God so consumed her soul that Barbara decided to devote all her life to this goal, to spend her life in virginity. fame of her beauty spread throughout the city, and many sought her hand in marriage. But despite the entreaties of her father, she refused all of them. warned her father that his persistence might end tragically and separate them forever. Dioscorus decided that the temperament of his daughter had been affected by her life of seclusion. therefore permitted her to leave the tower and gave her full freedom in her choice of friends and acquaintances. Barbara met young Christian maidens in the city, and they taught her about the Creator of the world, about the Trinity, and about the Divine Logos. the Providence of God, a priest arrived in Heliopolis from Alexandria disguised as a merchant. After instructing her in the mysteries of the Christian Faith, he baptized Barbara, then returned to his own country. this time a luxurious bathhouse was being built at the house of Dioscorus. By his orders the workers prepared to put two windows on the south side. But Barbara, taking advantage of her father’s absence, asked them to make a third window, thereby forming a Trinity of light. one of the walls of the bath-house Barbara traced a cross with her finger. The cross was deeply etched into the marble, as if by an iron instrument. her footprints were imprinted on the stone steps of the bathhouse. water of the bathhouse had great healing power. Simeon Metaphrastes (November 9) compared the bathhouse to the stream of Jordan and the Pool of Siloam, because by God’s power, many miracles took place there. Dioscorus returned and expressed dissatisfaction about the change in his building plans, his daughter told him about how she had come to know the Triune God, about the saving power of the Son of God, and about the futility of worshipping idols. went into a rage, grabbed a sword and was on the point of striking her with it. The holy virgin fled from her father, and he rushed after her in pursuit. His way became blocked by a hill, which opened up and concealed the saint in a crevice. the other side of the crevice was an entrance leading upwards. Saint Barbara managed then to conceal herself in a cave on the opposite slope of the hill. a long and fruitless search for his daughter, Dioscorus saw two shepherds on the hill. One of them showed him the cave where the saint had hidden. Dioscorus beat his daughter terribly, and then placed her under guard and tried to wear her down with hunger. he handed her over to the prefect of the city, named Martianus. They beat Saint Barbara fiercely: they struck her with rawhide, and rubbed her wounds with a hair cloth to increase her pain. By night Saint Barbara prayed fervently to her Heavenly Bridegroom, and the Savior Himself appeared and healed her wounds. Then they subjected the saint to new, and even more frightful torments. the crowd where the martyr was tortured was the virtuous Christian woman Juliana, an inhabitant of Heliopolis. Her heart was filled with sympathy for the voluntary martyrdom of the beautiful and illustrious maiden. Juliana also wanted to suffer for Christ. She began to denounce the torturers in a loud voice, and they seized her. martyrs were tortured for a long time. Their bodies were raked and wounded with hooks, and then they were led naked through the city amidst derision and jeers. Through the prayers of Saint Barbara the Lord sent an angel who covered the nakedness of the holy martyrs with a splendid robe. Then the steadfast confessors of Christ, Saints Barbara and Juliana, were beheaded. Dioscorus himself executed Saint Barbara. The wrath of God was not slow to punish both torturers, Martianus and Dioscorus. They were killed after being struck by lightning. the sixth century the relics of the holy Great Martyr Barbara were transferred to Constantinople. Six hundred years later, they were transferred to Kiev (July 11) by Barbara, the daughter of the Byzantine Emperor Alexius Comnenos, Barbara, wife of the Russian prince Michael Izyaslavich. They rest even now at Kiev’s Saint Vladimir cathedral, where an Akathist to the saint is served each Tuesday. pious Orthodox Christians are in the habit of chanting the Troparion of Saint Barbara each day, recalling the Savior’s promise to her that those who remembered her and her sufferings would be preserved from a sudden, unexpected death, and would not depart this life without benefit of the Holy Mysteries of Christ.

Syria, 250-287, Cosmos& Damien, Mom's example, physicians healing gift, for animals, 3eggs story, camel spoke, appeared aDeath
Cilicia, 250-287, Unmercenaries, Saints, Cosmos and Damien, fAsia Minor or Macedonia, Mother's example, skilled physicians, plus holy spirit gift oHealing, even animals, free services, wide fame as unmercenary physicians, 3eggs story, healed hopeless condition, but payment broke vow, Camel spoke, eggs as respect God's name, so buried together aThereman, then many miracles, C&D appeared aServants oChrist to rescue woman, thanks to their Icon, then brothers venerated as protectors marriage; Cilicia, 250-287, Unmercenaries, Saints, Cosmos and Damien; Holy Wonderworkers and Unmercenaries Cosmas and Damian of Mesopotamia, Commemorated on November 1; Holy Wonderworkers and Unmercenary Physicians Cosmas and Damian and their mother Saint Theodota were natives of Asia Minor (some sources say Mesopotamia). pagan father died while they were still quite small children. mother raised them in Christian piety. her own example, and by reading holy books to them, Saint Theodota preserved her children in purity of life according to the command of the Lord, and Cosmas and Damian grew up into righteous and virtuous men. and skilled as physicians, they received from the Holy Spirit the gift of healing people’s illnesses of body and soul by the power of prayer. even treated animals. fervent love for both God and neighbor, they never took payment for their services. strictly observed the command of our Lord Jesus Christ, “Freely have you received, freely give.” (Mt. 10:8). fame of Saints Cosmas and Damian spread throughout all the surrounding region, and people called them unmercenary physicians. the saints were summoned to a grievously ill woman named Palladia, whom all the doctors had refused to treat because of her seemingly hopeless condition. faith and through the fervent prayer of the holy brothers, the Lord healed the deadly disease and Palladia got up from her bed perfectly healthy and giving praise to God. gratitude for being healed and wishing to give them a small gift, Palladia went quietly to Damian. presented him with three eggs and said, “Take this small gift in the Name of the Holy Life-Creating Trinity, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.” Hearing the Name of the Holy Trinity, the unmercenary one did not dare to refuse. Saint Cosmas learned what had happened, became very sad, for he thought that his brother had broken their strict vow. his deathbed he gave instructions that his brother should not be buried beside him. Damian also died shortly afterward, and everyone wondered where Saint Damian’s grave should be. through the will of God a miracle occurred. A camel, which the saints had treated for its wildness, spoke with a human voice that they should have no doubts about whether to place Damian beside Cosmas, because Damian did not accept the eggs from the woman as payment, but out of respect for the Name of God. venerable relics of the holy brothers were buried together at Thereman (Mesopotamia). miracles were worked after the death of the holy unmercenaries. lived at Thereman, near the church of Cosmas and Damian, a certain man by the name of Malchus. day he went on a journey, leaving his wife all alone for what would be a long time. He prayerfully entrusted her to the heavenly protection of the holy brothers. the Enemy of the race of mankind took on the appearance of one of Malchus’ friends, and planned to kill the woman. A certain time went by, and this man went to her at home and said that Malchus had sent him to bring her to him. The woman believed him and went along. He led her to a solitary place intending to kill her. woman, seeing that disaster threatened her, called upon God with deep faith. fierce-some men then appeared, and the devil let go of the woman and fled, falling off a cliff. The two men led the woman home. At her own home, bowing to them deeply she asked, “My rescuers, to whom I shall be grateful to the end of my days, what are your names?” replied, “We are the servants of Christ, Cosmas and Damian,” and became invisible. woman with trembling and with joy told everyone about what had happened to her. God, she went up to the icon of the holy brothers and tearfully offered prayers of thanksgiving for her deliverance. from that time the holy brothers were venerated as protectors of the holiness and inviolability of Christian marriage, and as givers of harmony to conjugal life. ancient times, their veneration spread also to Russia. Unmercenary Saints Cosmas and Damian of Asia Minor should not be confused with the Unmercenary Saints Cosmas and Damian of Rome (July 1), or the Unmercenary Saints Cosmas and Damian of Arabia (October 17). Wonderworker and Unmercenary Cosmas of Asia Minor, Commemorated on November 1 ; Wonderworker and Unmercenary Damian of Mesopotamia, Commemorated on November 1 ;

Syria, 250-287, Cosmos&Damian, unmercenary physicians, practiced iAegae, Cilicia & across Gulf in Rossos, Syria
Cilicia, 250-287, Unmercenaries, Saints, Cosmos and Damien, fAsia Minor or Macedonia, Mother's example, skilled physicians, plus holy spirit gift oHealing, even animals, free services, wide fame as unmercenary physicians, 3eggs story, healed hopeless condition, but payment broke vow, Camel spoke, eggs as respect God's name, so buried together aThereman, then many miracles, C&D appeared aServants oChrist to rescue woman, thanks to their Icon, then brothers venerated as protectors marriage; Aegeae, Cilicia; Cilicia, 250-287, Unmercenaries, Saints, Cosmos and Damien; and Damian ( c.  3rd century – c.  287 or 303 AD) two Arab physicians and early Christian martyrs.[3][4] practised their profession in the seaport of Aegeae, then in the Roman province of Syria.[5] and Damian were third century Arabian-born twin brothers who embraced Christianity and practised medicine and surgery without a fee. This led them to being named anargyroi (from the Greek Ἀνάργυροι, 'the silverless' or 'unmercenaries'); by this, they attracted many to the Christian faith.[6] They reputedly cured blindness, fever, paralysis and reportedly expelled a breast serpent. They were arrested by Lysias, governor of Cilicia (modern day Çukurova, Turkey) during the Diocletian persecution because of their faith and fame as healers. Emperor Diocletian was a religious fanatic and favoured the pantheism of the Olympian Gods. He issued a series of edicts that condemned the Christians in his attempt to wipe out Christianity from his empire.[7] Saint Cosmas and Saint Damian, by Gerard Seghers, 17th century, Private collection, U.S. Nothing is known of their lives except that they suffered martyrdom in Syria during the persecution of the Emperor Diocletian. According to Christian traditions, the twin brothers were born in Arabia and became skilled doctors.[8] d'Ascoli, a 15th century Italian physician, claims that the medieval electuary, a pasty mass consisting of a drug mixed with sugar and water or honey suitable for oral administration,[9] known as opopira,[10] a complex compound medicine used to treat diverse maladies including paralysis, was invented by Cosmas and Damian.[11] the persecution under Diocletian, Cosmas and Damian were arrested by order of the Prefect of Cilicia, one Lysias who is otherwise unknown, who ordered them under torture to recant. However, according to legend they stayed true to their faith, enduring being hung on a cross, stoned and shot by arrows and finally suffered execution by beheading. Anthimus, Leontius and Euprepius, their younger brothers, who were inseparable from them throughout life, shared in their martyrdom.[5] and Damian miraculously transplant the black leg of the Ethiopian onto the white body of the patient. (1400/1420) in St. Michael's Church, Munich containing the alleged skulls of Cosmas and Damian. The convent of the Poor Clares in Madrid also has two skulls alleged to be of Cosmas and Damian. Felix IV presents Saints Cosmas and Damian with the basilica he rededicated to them. veneration of Cosmas and Damian quickly spread beyond Constantinople; accounts of their martyrdom were rewritten by various authors such as Andrew of Crete, Peter of Argos, Theodore II Laskaris, and a certain Maximus around 1300. The legends are preserved also in Syriac, Coptic, Georgian, Armenian, and Latin.[12] early as the 4th century, churches dedicated to the twin saints were established at Jerusalem, in Egypt and in Mesopotamia. Devotion to the two saints spread rapidly in both East and West. Theodoret records the division of their reputed relics. Their relics, deemed miraculous, were buried in the city of Cyrrhus in Syria. Churches were built in their honor by Archbishop Proclus and by Emperor Justinian I (527–565), who sumptuously restored the city of Cyrrhus and dedicated it to the twins, but brought their purported relics to Constantinople; there, following his cure, ascribed to the intercession of Cosmas and Damian, Justinian, in gratitude also built and adorned their church at Constantinople,[8] and it became a celebrated place of pilgrimage. At Rome, Pope Felix IV (526–530) rededicated the Library of Peace (Bibliotheca Pacis) as a basilica of Santi Cosma e Damiano in the Forum of Vespasian in their honour. The church is much rebuilt but still famed for its sixth-century mosaics illustrating the saints. are said to be their skulls are venerated in the Convent of Las Descalzas Reales of the Clares in Madrid, where they have been since 1581, the gift of Maria, daughter of Emperor Charles V. They had previously been removed from Rome to Bremen in the tenth century, and thence to Bamberg. Other skulls said to be theirs were discovered in 1334 by Burchard Grelle, Archbishop of Bremen. He "personally 'miraculously' retrieved the relics of the holy physicians Cosmas and Damian, which were allegedly immured and forgotten in the choir of the Bremen Cathedral.[13] In celebration of the retrieval Archbishop and Chapter arranged a feast at Pentecost 1335, when the relics were translated from the wall to a more dignified place.[14] Grelle claimed the relics were those Archbishop Adaldag brought from Rome in 965. The cathedral master-builder Johann Hemeling made a shrine for the relics, which was finished around 1420. The shrine, made from carved oak wood covered with gilt and rolled silver is considered an important mediaeval gold work.[15] In 1649 Bremen's Chapter, Lutheran by this time, sold the shrine without the heads to Maximilian I of Bavaria. The two heads remained in Bremen and came into the possession of the small Roman Catholic community. They were shown from 1934 to 1968 in the Church of St. Johann and in 1994 they were buried in the crypt.[16] The shrine is now shown in the Jesuit church of St Michael in Munich. At least since 1413 another supposed pair of skulls of the saints has been stored in St Stephens's Cathedral in Vienna. Other relics are claimed by the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice. martyrdom of Saints Cosmas and Damian by Fra Angelico (Musée du Louvre, Paris). martyr twins are invoked in the Canon of the Mass[8] in the prayer known as the Communicantes (from the first Latin word of the prayer): "In communion with the whole Church, they venerate above all others the memory of the glorious ever-virgin Mary, Mother of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ, then of blessed Joseph, husband of the Virgin, your blessed Apostles and Martyrs, Peter and Paul, Andrew, James, ...John and Paul, Cosmas and Damian and all your Saints: grant through their merits and prayers that in all things we may be defended by the help of your protection." They are also invoked in the Litany of the Saints, and in the older form of the Roman rite, in the Collect for Thursday in the Third Week of Lent, as the station church for this day is Santi Cosma e Damiano. feast day in the General Roman Calendar, which had been on 27 September, was moved in 1969 to 26 September because 27 September is the dies natalis ("day of birth" into Heaven) of Vincent de Paul, now more widely venerated in the Latin Church.[17][original research?] In Canada it has been moved to 25 September (as 26 September is the Feast of the Canadian Martyrs in Canada).[18] Cosmas and Damian are regarded as the patrons of physicians, surgeons, and pharmacists and are sometimes represented with medical emblems. They are also regarded as the patron saints of twins. and Damian are depicted as supporters of the arms of the guild of barber-surgeons carved into a capital, 15th century, from the Carmes monastery in Trie-sur-Baïse in southwestern France. The inscription reads, "Saints Cosmas and Damian pray for us". Brazil, the twin saints are regarded as protectors of children, and 27 September is commemorated, especially in Rio de Janeiro, by giving children bags of candy with the saints' effigy printed on them and throughout the entire state of Bahia where Catholics and adepts of Candomblé religion offer typical food such as caruru. The ritual consists of first offering the food to seven children that are no older than seven years old and then having them feast while sitting on the floor and eating with their hands. The Church of Saints Cosmas and Damian, in Igarassu, Pernambuco is Brazil's oldest church, built in 1535. the UK Damian is the dexter side supporter in the coat of arms of the British Dental Association. and Damian are venerated every year in Utica, New York at St. Anthony's Parish during the annual pilgrimage which takes place on the last weekend of September (close to the 27 September feast day). There are thousands of pilgrims who come to honor the saints. Over 80 busloads come from Canada and other destinations. The 2-day festival includes music (La Banda Rosa), much Italian food, masses and processions through the streets of East Utica. It is one of the largest festivals honoring saints in the northeast USA. Christianity[edit] of Saints Cosmas and Damian (17th century, Historic Museum in Sanok, Poland). In the Eastern Orthodox Church, Eastern Catholic Churches, and the Oriental Orthodox Churches, Cosmas and Damian are venerated as a type of saint known as Unmercenary Physicians (Greek: ἀνάργυροι, anargyroi, "without money"). This classification of saints is unique to the Eastern Church and refers to those who heal purely out of love for God and man, strictly observing the command of Jesus: "Freely have you received, freely give." («Δωρεὰν ἐλάβετε, δωρεὰν δότε...» Matthew 10:8) While each of the Unmercenaries has his own feast days, all are commemorated together on the first Sunday in November, in a feast known as the Synaxis of the Unmercenary Physicians. Orthodox celebrate no less than three different sets of saints by the name of Cosmas and Damian, each with their own distinct feast day: Saints Cosmas and Damian of Cilicia (Arabia) (17 October) Brothers, according to Christian legend they were beaten and beheaded together with three other Christians: Leontius, Anthimus, and Eutropius. Saints Cosmas and Damian of Asia Minor — alternately, of Mesopotamia (1 November) Twin sons of Theodota of Philippi. Died peacefully and were buried together at Thereman in Mesopotamia. Saints Cosmas and Damian of Rome (1 July) Brothers, according to Christian tradition they were martyred outside Rome by a jealous pagan physician during the reign of the Roman Emperor Carinus (283–284). Orthodox icons of the saints depict them vested as laymen holding medicine boxes. Often each will also hold a spoon with which to dispense medicine. The handle of the spoon is normally shaped like a cross to indicate the importance of spiritual as well as physical healing, and that all cures come from God. Holy Wonderworkers and Unmercenaries Cosmas and Damian of Mesopotamia, Commemorated on November 1; Holy Wonderworkers and Unmercenary Physicians Cosmas and Damian and their mother Saint Theodota were natives of Asia Minor (some sources say Mesopotamia). pagan father died while they were still quite small children. mother raised them in Christian piety. her own example, and by reading holy books to them, Saint Theodota preserved her children in purity of life according to the command of the Lord, and Cosmas and Damian grew up into righteous and virtuous men. and skilled as physicians, they received from the Holy Spirit the gift of healing people’s illnesses of body and soul by the power of prayer. even treated animals. fervent love for both God and neighbor, they never took payment for their services. strictly observed the command of our Lord Jesus Christ, “Freely have you received, freely give.” (Mt. 10:8). fame of Saints Cosmas and Damian spread throughout all the surrounding region, and people called them unmercenary physicians. the saints were summoned to a grievously ill woman named Palladia, whom all the doctors had refused to treat because of her seemingly hopeless condition. faith and through the fervent prayer of the holy brothers, the Lord healed the deadly disease and Palladia got up from her bed perfectly healthy and giving praise to God. gratitude for being healed and wishing to give them a small gift, Palladia went quietly to Damian. presented him with three eggs and said, “Take this small gift in the Name of the Holy Life-Creating Trinity, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.” Hearing the Name of the Holy Trinity, the unmercenary one did not dare to refuse. Saint Cosmas learned what had happened, became very sad, for he thought that his brother had broken their strict vow. his deathbed he gave instructions that his brother should not be buried beside him. Damian also died shortly afterward, and everyone wondered where Saint Damian’s grave should be. through the will of God a miracle occurred. A camel, which the saints had treated for its wildness, spoke with a human voice that they should have no doubts about whether to place Damian beside Cosmas, because Damian did not accept the eggs from the woman as payment, but out of respect for the Name of God. venerable relics of the holy brothers were buried together at Thereman (Mesopotamia). miracles were worked after the death of the holy unmercenaries. lived at Thereman, near the church of Cosmas and Damian, a certain man by the name of Malchus. day he went on a journey, leaving his wife all alone for what would be a long time. He prayerfully entrusted her to the heavenly protection of the holy brothers. the Enemy of the race of mankind took on the appearance of one of Malchus’ friends, and planned to kill the woman. A certain time went by, and this man went to her at home and said that Malchus had sent him to bring her to him. The woman believed him and went along. He led her to a solitary place intending to kill her. woman, seeing that disaster threatened her, called upon God with deep faith. fierce-some men then appeared, and the devil let go of the woman and fled, falling off a cliff. The two men led the woman home. At her own home, bowing to them deeply she asked, “My rescuers, to whom I shall be grateful to the end of my days, what are your names?” replied, “We are the servants of Christ, Cosmas and Damian,” and became invisible. woman with trembling and with joy told everyone about what had happened to her. God, she went up to the icon of the holy brothers and tearfully offered prayers of thanksgiving for her deliverance. from that time the holy brothers were venerated as protectors of the holiness and inviolability of Christian marriage, and as givers of harmony to conjugal life. ancient times, their veneration spread also to Russia. Unmercenary Saints Cosmas and Damian of Asia Minor should not be confused with the Unmercenary Saints Cosmas and Damian of Rome (July 1), or the Unmercenary Saints Cosmas and Damian of Arabia (October 17). Wonderworker and Unmercenary Cosmas of Asia Minor, Commemorated on November 1 ; Wonderworker and Unmercenary Damian of Mesopotamia, Commemorated on November 1 ;

Syria, 253, Galacteon & w Epistemis at Emessa, childless rich family, prayer always granted to faith, crowns vision
Syria, 253, Galacteon and wife Epistemis at Emessa, Syria (Homs, Orontes River 2), childless rich family, prayer always granted to faith, son, educated, marriage but monastic life, radiant king and crowns vision, terrible torments, hands & Legs, tongues, beheaded; Emesa, Syria (Homs); Martyr Galacteon and his wife at Emesa, Commemorated on November 5; was a rich and distinguished couple named Kletophon and Leukippe, who lived in the Syrian city of Emesa, and for a long time they were childless. They gave much gold to the pagan priests, but still they remained childless. city of Emesa was governed by a Syrian named Secundus, put there by the Roman Caesars. was a merciless and zealous persecutor of Christians, and to intimidate them he ordered that the instruments of torture be displayed on the streets. slightest suspicion of belonging to “the sect of the Galilean” (as thus Christians were called by the pagans), was enough to get a man arrested and handed over for torture. spite of this, many Christians voluntarily surrendered themselves into the hands of the executioners, in their desire to suffer for Christ. certain old man by the name of Onuphrius concealed his monastic and priestly dignity beneath his beggar’s rags. He walked from house to house in Emesa, begging alms. At the same time, whenever he saw the possibility of turning people away from the pagan error, he preached about Christ. he came to the magnificent house of Leukippe. Accepting alms from her, he sensed that the woman was in sorrow, and he asked what was the cause of this sadness. told the Elder about her familial misfortune. In consoling her, Onuphrius began to tell her about the one true God, about His omnipotence and mercy, and how He always grants the prayer of those turning to Him with faith. filled the soul of Leukippe. She believed and accepted Holy Baptism. after this it was revealed to her in a dream that she would give birth to a son, who would be a true follower of Christ. first, Leukippe concealed her delight from her husband, but after the infant was born, she revealed the secret to her husband and also persuaded him to be baptized. named the baby Galaction and his parents raised him in the Christian Faith and provided him a fine education. could make an illustrious career for himself, but Galaction sought rather an unsullied monastic life in solitude and prayer. Galaction turned twenty-four, his father resolved to marry him off and they found him a bride, a beautiful and illustrious girl by the name of The son did not oppose the will of his father, but by the will of God, the wedding was postponed for a time. his betrothed, Galaction gradually revealed his faith to her. Eventually, he converted her to Christ and he secretly baptized her himself. Episteme he baptized also one of her servants, Eutolmius. newly-illumined decided on the initiative of Galaction, to devote themselves to the monastic life. the city, they hid themselves away on Mount Publion, where there were two monasteries, one for men and the other for women. new monastics had to take with them all the necessities for physical toil, since the inhabitants of both monasteries were both old and infirm. several years the monastics struggled in work, fasting and prayer. Episteme had a vision in her sleep: she and Galaction stood in a wondrous palace before a radiant King, and the King bestowed golden crowns on them. was a prefiguring of their impending martyrdom. pagans became aware of the existence of the monasteries, and a military detachment was sent to apprehend their inhabitants. the monks and the nuns succeeded in hiding themselves in the hills. however, had no desire to flee and so he remained in his cell, reading Holy Scripture. Episteme saw that the soldiers were leading Galaction away in chains, she began to implore the Abbess to permit her to go also, since she wanted to accept torture for Christ together with her fiancé and teacher. The Abbess tearfully blessed Episteme to do so. saints endured terrible torments, while supplicating and glorifying Christ. Their hands and legs were cut off, their tongues were cut out, and then they were beheaded. the former servant of Episteme, and who had become her brother in Christ and fellow ascetic in monastic struggles, secretly buried the bodies of the holy martyrs. He later wrote an account of their virtuous life and their glorious martyrdom, for his contemporaries and for posterity.

Syria, 253-268, Nikephoros of Antioch, friends Sapricius and N b enemies, N a forgiveness, S s no, after apostacy N dies for S
Syria, 253-268, Nikephoros of Antioch, Syria (Orontes River 7) friends Sapricius and N become enemies, N asks forgiveness, but S says no, N dies for S after S apostacy; Antioch (Orontes River 7); Martyr Nikephoros of Antioch, in Syria, Commemorated on February 9; Holy Martyr Nikephoros lived in the city of Syrian Antioch. In this city lived also the presbyter Sapricius, with whom Nikephoros was very friendly, so that they were considered as brothers. They quarreled because of some disagreement, and their former love changed into enmity and hate. a certain time Nikephoros came to his senses, repented of his sin and more than once asked Sapricius, through mutual friends, to forgive him. Sapricius, however, did not wish to forgive him. Nikephoros then went to his former friend and fervently asked forgiveness, but Sapricius was adamant. this time the emperors Valerian (253-259) and Gallius (260-268) began to persecute Christians, and one of the first brought before the court was the priest Sapricius. He firmly confessed himself a Christian, underwent tortures for his faith and was condemned to death by beheading with a sword. As they led Sapricius to execution, Nikephoros tearfully implored his forgiveness saying, “O martyr of Christ, forgive me if I have sinned against you in any way.” priest Sapricius remained stubborn, and even as he approached death he refused to forgive his fellow Christian. Seeing the hardness of his heart, the Lord withdrew His blessing from Sapricius, and would not let him receive the crown of martyrdom. At the last moment, he suddenly became afraid of death and agreed to offer sacrifice to idols. In vain did Saint Nikephoros urge Sapricius not to lose his reward through apostasy, since he already stood on the threshold of the heavenly Kingdom. Nikephoros then said to the executioner, “I am a Christian, and I believe in our Lord Jesus Christ. Execute me in place of Sapricius.” The executioners reported this to the governor. He decided to free Sapricius, and to behead Nikephoros in his place. Thus did Saint Nikephoros inherit the Kingdom and receive a martyr’s crown.

Syria, 264-269, 3 Synods of Antioch, Council of Antioch
Syria, 264-269, 3 Synods of Antioch; Hieromartyr Dionysius the Bishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on October 5;

Syria, 280-350, James oNisibis, great ascetic Armenia Persian border, clairvoyant, 18 Chapters Orthodox Faith, 1st EC defender
Armenia, 280-350, James oNisibis, Armenia (Tigris River 3), Prince's son, educated, loved solitude, lived in mts around Nizba, Persian Roman Border, ascetic exploits, open sky, tree fruits greens food, goat skins dress, all time in prayer, 284-305 faith confession courage, 314 chosen bishop, glorified bZeal, miracles, clairvoyance, his prayers saved N fInvasion Persian Sapor, 325 1st EC Orthodox faith defender, teacher iHis public school, Great Armenia bishop Gregory requested he write about Orthodox faith, sent 18 chapters, faith, love, fasting, prayer, spiritual warfare, resurrection, pastor duties, circumcision, food choice, Christ as Son oGod, etc, a persuasive clear composition, died peacefully 350 ; Nisibis (Mesopotamia); St James the Bishop of Nisibis, Commemorated January 13 ; James, Bishop of Nisibis, was the son of prince Gefal (Armenia) and received a fine upbringing. the time of his youth he loved solitude, for a long time he lived in the mountains around about the city of Niziba (on the border of the Persian and Roman Empires), he carried out strict ascetic exploits: lived under the open sky, himself with tree fruits and greens, dressed himself in goat-skins. monk passed all this time in prayerful conversations with God. a persecution by the emperor Maximian (284-305) was glorified by a courageous confession of faith. of his strict and pious life the inhabitants of Nisibis chose him as their bishop (no later than the year 314). James was glorified by his ardent zeal for the Orthodox Faith, great miracles by the gift of clairvoyance. his prayers Nisibis was saved from an invasion by Sapor, the emperor of Persia. James, among the Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council, one of the prominent defenders of the Orthodox Faith. wise and educated pastor, he constructed a public school at Nisibis, which he himself was an instructor. made a strong impression on the hearts of his listeners by the high morality of his life. Gregory, bishop of great Armenia, turned to him with a request to write about the faith, the Nisibis pastor sent to him by way of reply a detailed Discourse (18 Chapters): the faith, love, warfare, resurrection of the dead, duties of pastors, circumcision (against the Jews), the choice of foods, Christ as the Son of God, and so on. His composition distinguishes itself by its persuasive clear exposition and warmth. James died peacefully in about the year 350.

Syria, 280-350. Saint James of Nisibis, Jacob, Gregory's Kin, Armenia (Tigris River 3)
Armenia, 280-350. Saint James of Nisibis, Armenia (Tigris River 3) Nisibis (Mesopotamia); St James the Bishop of Nisibis, Commemorated January 13 ; Venerable Ephraim the Syrian, Commemorated January 28 ;

Syria, 284-323, Philogonius, Bishop oAntioch, Syria, Lawyer fPoor, profound theological knowledge, anti Arian confessor
Syria, 284-323, Philogonius, Bishop oAntioch, Syria (Orontes River 7), lawyer defending poor, widowed, orphaed before selected bishop, selected bishop after wife died, profound theological knowledge, fought Arian heresy, prevented church unrest, confessor, John Chrysostom wrote his eulogy i386; Antioch (Orontes River 7); St Philogonius the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated December 20 ; becoming a bishop, Saint Philogonius was a laywer who defended the poor, the widowed and the orphaned. his wife died, he was chosen as Bishop of Antioch. by profound theological knowledge, Saint Philogonius successfully defended Orthodoxy against the Arian heresy and by this prevented unrest in the Church. the persecution against Christians under the emperors Maximian (284-305)and Licinius (311-324), Philogonius proved himself a confessor of the Orthodox Faith. He died peacefully in about the year 323. Saint John Chrysostom wrote a eulogy for Saint Philogonius in 386.

Syria, 300, 4th C Folder, J tSolitary raising dead, Cyrenia&Juli walked naked, Julian oEmesa, physician martyr

Syria, 301, James t Solitary of Syria, chains, evening food o, constant prayer, spiritual p, deliverance, healing, raising dead
Syria, 300, James the Solitary of Syria, Cyrrhus, Syria (Afrin River 1), chains, evening food only, constant prayer, high spiritual perfection, deliverance, healing, raising dead; Cyrrhus; Venerable James the Solitary of Syria, Commemorated November 26 ; James the Solitary (Hermit) was the disciple of Saint Maron (February 14). lived in asceticism on a mountain not far from the city of Cyrrhus in Syria. suffered grievous ills, but he always wore chains, ate food only in the evening, and prayed constantly. such efforts he attained to high spiritual perfection, from the Lord power over demons, the gift of healing and even of raising the dead. James peacefully fell asleep in the Lord.

Syria, 305-311, Cyrenia &Juliana, Charity, orphans, sick fFree, c pagans, Confess Christ, C walked naked, C&J burnt alive
Cilicia, 305-311, Cyrenia fTarsus, Cilicia &Juliana fRoso, Syria, Charity, Philanthropy, orphans, poor widows, sick fFree, poverty, injustice support, converted pagans, arrested bMarcian oCilicia, refused deny Christ, C walked naked Tarsus, C&J burnt alive iRosso; Tarsus; Martyr Cyrenia in Cilicia, Commemorated on November 1 ; Holy Martyr Kyriaina aka Cyrenia (Κυριαίνα) was from Tarsus in Cilicia, and Saint Juliana was from the city of Roso. virtuous women devoted themselves to works of charity and Christian philanthropy during the reign of Emperor Maximian Galerius (305-311). cared for orphans, comforted poor widows and treated the sick without charging any fee. knew how to read and write somewhat, but they were very eager and always found a way to support the faith of those who suffered from poverty, injustice, or other trials. times they succeeded in bringing pagans to the light of Christ through the Gospel, and by their own patience and goodness. Saints were arrested by Marcian, the governor of Cilicia, who tried to make them to deny Christ, but they refused to do this. Marcian had Kyriaina's hair and eyebrows shaved, and forced her to walk naked through the streets of Tarsus. she and Juliana were taken to the city of Roso, where they were burnt alive. endured this horrible death with admirable steadfastness and self-denial, thereby obtaining the incorruptible crown of martyrdom from Christ.

Syria, 312, Julian of Emesa, Phoenecia Segunda, skilled physician, converted many,encouraged martyrs, martyred w long nails
Syria, 312, Julian of Emesa, Syria or Phoenecia Segunda (Homs, Orontes River 2), skilled physician, converted many,encouraged martyrs, martyred w long nails; Emesa, Syria (Homs); Martyr Julian of Emesa, Commemorated on February 6 ; Holy Martyr Julian was a native of the Phoenician city of Emesa, and he suffered in the year 312 under the emperor Maximian. was a skilled physician, and healed illnesses not only of the body but also of the soul, and he converted many people to faith in Christ the Savior. they led away the holy Martyrs Bishop Silvanus, Deacon Luke and the Reader Mocius (February 29) to be eaten by wild beasts, Julian encouraged them and urged them not to fear death for the Lord. was also arrested and put to death. His head, hands and feet were pierced with long nails.

Syria, 312, Bishop Silvanus and his deacon&reader thrown tWild beasts after tortures exhaustion hunger, untouched bAnimals
Syria, 312, Silvanus the bishop suffered in the city of Phoenician Emesa Syria (Homs, Orontes River 2) in 312 along with Saint Luke the deacon and Mocius the Reader, thrown tWild Beasts after tortures, prison, exhaustion, hunger, untouched by animals, died praying, Julian encouraged them not to fear death; Emesa, Syria (Homs); Martyr Silvanus Bishop of Emesa, Commemorated January 29 ; - Martyr Silvanus Bishop of Emesa, Commemorated on January 29: Silvanus the bishop suffered in the city of Phoenician Emesa (Homs) in 312 along with Saint Luke the deacon and Mocius the Reader. tortures, imprisonment and exhaustion by hunger, they were thrown to the wild beasts. holy martyrs died praying, untouched by the animals. took up the bodies of the holy martyrs by night and buried them with reverence. Martyr Julian of Emesa, Commemorated on February 6 ; Holy Martyr Julian was a native of the Phoenician city of Emesa, and he suffered in the year 312 under the emperor Maximian. was a skilled physician, and healed illnesses not only of the body but also of the soul, and he converted many people to faith in Christ the Savior. they led away the holy Martyrs Bishop Silvanus, Deacon Luke and the Reader Mocius (February 29) to be eaten by wild beasts, encouraged them and urged them not to fear death for the Lord. was also arrested and put to death. His head, hands and feet were pierced with long nails.

Syria, 314-673, History Folder, Byzantine Province of Syria

Syria, 300, 4th C Folder,Orthodox&Arians, J Chrystom&mentors, Hymn writer, tortured boy lives t80, prayer burns, Ismaelite Saint
Syria, 300, 4th C Folder,Orthodox Eustathius oAntioch, Arian Eusebius oNicomedia, Marican oCyrrhus divine light, J Barsanuphius oDamascus tEgypt, Ephrem tHymn writer, prophet Artemius oAntioch, Orthodox Esubius oSamosata, Flavian&Melitius rChrystm, C oAntioch, Theodosius oAntioch waves calmed, Titus of Bostra, J Chrysostom, Theodore oAntioch tortured a15 for moving relics lived t80, Marcellus BoApamea, prayer burned temple, Ismaelite St Agabbas

Syria, 320-337, Syrian Saint, Eustathius of Antioch, Orthodox
Syria, 320-337, Syrian Saint, Eustathius of Antioch, Orthodox; First and second finding of the Honorable Head of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist of the Lord, John, Commemorated on February 24;

Syria, 320-341, Eusebius of Nicomedia, Arian
Syria, 320-341, Eusebius of Nicomedia, Arian; First and second finding of the Honorable Head of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist of the Lord, John, Commemorated on February 24;

Syria, 320-388, St Marcian of Cyrrhus, Syria, Divine Light for reading
Syria, 320-388, St Marcian of Cyrrhus, Syria, Divine Light for reading Cyrrhus; St Marcian of Cyrrhus, Commemorated on November 2 ; Marcian of Cyrrhus lived during the fourth century. He went into the desert, where he lived for many years in solitude, unceasing prayer, and strict fasting. He built a small cell, and settled in it. saint never lit candles for reading at night when he fulfilled his Rule of prayer, for the cell was filled with a divine light. several years the monk accepted two disciples, settling them beside him, but he continued to live as a hermit. Patriarch Flavian of Antioch (February 18) and other bishops entreated the monk to abandon his strict solitude for the benefit of Christians, but he would not agree. while not quitting his cell, he taught those coming to him for instruction and he turned many away from heresy and led them to the Orthodox Faith. Before his end, Saint Marcian instructed his disciple Eusebius to bury him secretly far from his cell, in order to shun posthumous glory and avoid contention among those wanting his relics for nearby churches. Saint Marcian died in the year 388.

Syria, 320-390, John-Barsanuphius, Bishop oDamascus, Syria , withdrew t Nitria&Thebaid, Egypt
Syria, 320-390, John-Barsanuphius, Bishop oDamascus, Syria (Barada River foothills, Way of the Sea 17, Kings Highway 17), fPalestine, baptized at 18, became Monk, c Archbishop of Damascus, withdrew tAlexandria, Nitria, Theodore oNitria, withdrew (Thebaid); Damascus (Barada River foothills); Venerable John-Barsanuphius the Bishop of Damascus, Commemorated on February 28; John, called Barsanuphius, was a native of Palestine. was baptized when he was eighteen years old, and later became a monk. of his ascetic life, Saint John was consecrated Archbishop of Damascus. of his love for the solitary life, Saint John gave up his position as hierarch and secretly withdrew to Alexandria, calling himself Barsanuphius. he went into the Nitrian desert, arrived at a monastery, and begged the igumen to accept him into the monastery to serve the Elders. conscientiously fulfilled this obedience by day, and spent his nights in prayer. of Nitria saw the monk, and knew that he was a bishop. Saint John concealed himself again and withdrew into Egypt, where he lived in asceticism until the end of his days.

Syria, 330-380, Publius tAscetic, Syrian Senator, gave all, Archimandrite 2 monasteries, died 380, strict ascetic monk 40yrs
Syria, 330-380, Publius tAscetic, fZeugma, Syria iGreater Armenia (Euphrates River 3), Syrian Senator, renounced world, gave possessions, became monk, ascetical life mountain cave Syrian wilderness, founded 2 monasteries, 1Greek, 1Syrian, so eventually Archimandrite, died 380, though elevated remained strict ascetic 40yrs; Zeugma, Syria; St Publius the Ascetic of Syria, Commemorated January 25 ; Publius of Syria was born in the city of Zeugma on the Euphrates and was a senator. the world, he gave away his possessions, became a monk, and lived an ascetical life in a cave on a mountain in the Syrian wilderness. Publius founded two monasteries: one for Greeks, and another for Syrians. died in the year 380. his disciples, Saints Theoteknos, Theodotus, Gregory, and Aphthonius were particularly known for the sanctity of their life. Publius guided the monastery for over forty years and was eventually made an archimandrite. elevated in rank, he changed neither his garb nor his manner of life, but remained a strict ascetic.

Syria, 326-373, Saint, Ephrem the Syrian, Hymn writer, theologian, popular
Syria, 326-373, Saint, Ephrem the Syrian; the Syrian (Classical Syriac:; c. 306 – 373), also known as Saint Ephrem, Ephrem of Edessa or Ephrem of Nisibis, ----------------------------------was a prominent Christian theologian and writer, who is revered as one of the most notable hymnographers of the Eastern Christianity. ------------------------------------ He was born in Nisibis, served as a deacon and later lived in Edessa.[1][2] is venerated as a saint by all traditional Churches. He is especially revered in Syriac Christianity, most notaby in the Syriac Orthodox Church, and also counted as a Venerable Father (i.e., a sainted Monk) in the Eastern Orthodox Church. His feast day is celebrated on 28 January and on the Saturday of the Venerable Fathers. He was declared a Doctor of the Church in the Roman Catholic Church in 1920. wrote a wide variety of hymns, poems, and sermons in verse, as well as prose exegesis. These were works of practical theology for the edification of the Church in troubled times. So popular were his works, that, for centuries after his death, Christian authors wrote hundreds of pseudepigraphal works in his name. He has been called the most significant of all of the fathers of the Syriac-speaking church tradition.[3] The Nativity of our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ, Commemorated on December 25; Venerable Ephraim the Syrian, Commemorated on January 28; EPHREM OF EDESSA, DEACON AND HYMN-WRITER (10 JUNE 373), Commemorated June 10;

Syria, 330-429, Peter tHermit, fBlack Sea, down to Galatia, then mts oAntioch, performed miracles like Christ, even his clothes
Syria, 330-429, Peter tHermit, oAntioch, Syria, fBlack Sea, down to Galatia, then tPalestine, then to mts oAntioch, Syria (Orontes River 7), able to perform miracles like Christ, even his clothes had miraculous power, like Paul's handkerchiefs, people came, gift of having demons his subjects, delivered Daniel who later co-struggler with him, healed 23 yr old mother of historian bishop oCyprus, her incurable eye disease, first cured fondness fine clothing, we dishonor God's creation by defacing it, she repented, asked for prayer, he put hand on eye made sign otCross, healed her, he blinded magistrate who wanted rape nun, historian Bishop Theodoret wrote his life reported many other great miracles, Peter lived 99yrs; Antioch (Orontes River 7); Venerable Peter the Hermit of Galatia Near Antioch, in Syria, Commemorated on February 1 ; Peter of Galatia lived during the IV-V century, and came from the region of the Black Sea. a young age was distinguished by his fervent piety and his determination to acquire spiritual treasures. he was seven years old, he went to Galatia and then to Palestine, where his faith grew even stronger. the second quarter of the IV century, He lived an ascetical life in the mountains, had been glorified by so many great spiritual athletes and teachers of Christianity. Peter was able to perform miracles, just as Christ did, that even his garments had miraculous power, just as the Apostle Paul's handkerchiefs and aprons did (Acts 29:22). did not take long for his spiritual fruits to be noticed, many people came to him, reaping valuable advice and solace for the wounds of their souls, which were very difficult to cure. of his great virtue, he also received from God the gift (charism, χάρισμα) of having demons subject to him. delivered a possessed man named Daniel from the demons, he instructed in asceticism, and then accepted him as his co-struggler. he healed the mother of the historian Bishop Theodoret of Cyrrhus, devout woman who suffered from an incurable disease in one eye. about Saint Peter's gift of working miracles, she hoped that he would heal her of this terrible affliction. mother was only twenty-three years old when she went to see him. was very beautiful, and she wore a lot of make-up, an expensive silk dress, and gold bracelets on her arms, as well as gold rings in her ears. the holy monk looked at her, he discerned some good soil (Matthew 13:8) in her for a word of profitable instruction, decided that first he would cure her fondness for fine clothing. said, "My child, just as a painter who does not paint according to the rules of his art, but as he pleases, insults the art of painting, do those who cover their faces with red, white, or black paint, offend the Creator; in this way they seem to accuse Him of imperfection in His creation, He has the power to do as He wishes. the Prophet-King David wrote: that the Lord willed, He created' (Psalm 134/135:6). He gives to everyone everything that is useful, and nothing which is harmful. Do not disfigure the divine image created by God." monk's words fell on fertile ground and produced good fruit. young woman fell at the ascetic's feet and begged him to pray for her and to heal her. Peter replied, "If you have firm faith in God's help, you will be cured of your illness; for God is always ready to grant the petitions of a believing soul." he placed his hand on the afflicted eye and, making the Sign of the Cross, he healed her. Saint once blinded a city magistrate, who wanted to rape a certain nun, thereby preventing him from carrying out his unholy desire. Peter performed many other great miracles, as Bishop Theodoret (who wrote his Life) relates. living in a God-pleasing manner for ninety-nine years, Saint Peter surrendered his soul to God and received the reward for his spiritual and ascetical labors in the year 429 at the age of 95 (or 99, according to other sources). Greek usage, Saint Peter is commemorated on November 25. should not be confused with the other Saint Peter of Galatia, who lived during the IX century, and is commemorated on October 9.

Syria, 337-362, Greatmartyr Artemius of Antioch, Julian tortured, Jesus encouraged, he prophesied J death
Egypt, 337-362, Greatmartyr Artemius at Antioch, viceroy of Egypt, spread C in E, b relics to Constantinople, then Julian tortured him, Jesus appeared w angels, encouraged him, he prophesied Julians death; Egypt; Rahab; Greatmartyr Artemius at Antioch, Commemorated on October 20; Great Martyr Artemius of Antioch was a prominent military leader during the reigns of the emperor Constantine the Great (May 21), and his son and successor Constantius (337-361). received many awards for distinguished service and courage. was appointed viceroy of Egypt. this official position he did much for the spreading and strengthening Christianity in Egypt. Artemius was sent by the emperor Constantius to bring the relics of the holy Apostle Andrew from Patras, the relics of the holy Apostle Luke from Thebes of Boeotia, Constantinople. holy relics were placed in the Church of the Holy Apostles beneath the table of oblation. The emperor rewarded him by making him ruler of Egypt. emperor Constantius was succeeded on the throne by Julian the Apostate (361-363). in his desire to restore paganism was extremely antagonistic towards Christians, sending hundreds to their death. Antioch he ordered the torture of two bishops unwilling to forsake the Christian Faith. this time, Saint Artemius arrived in Antioch and publicly denounced Julian for his impiety. enraged Julian subjected the saint to terrible tortures and threw the Great Martyr Artemius into prison. Artemius was praying, Christ, surrounded by angels, appeared to him and said, “Take courage, Artemius! I am with you and will preserve you from every hurt which is inflicted upon you, and I already have prepared your crown of glory. Since you have confessed Me before the people on earth, so shall I confess you before My Heavenly Father. Therefore, take courage and rejoice, you shall be with Me in My Kingdom.” this, Artemius rejoiced and offered up glory and thanksgiving to Him. the following day, Julian demanded that Saint Artemius honor the pagan gods. Meeting with steadfast refusal, the emperor resorted to further tortures. The saint endured all without a single moan. saint told Julian that he would be justly recompensed for his persecution of Christians. became furious and resorted to even more savage tortures, but they did not break the will of the saint. Finally the Great Martyr Artemius was beheaded. relics were buried by Christians. After the death of Saint Artemius, his prophecy about Julian the Apostate’s impending death came true. left Antioch for a war with the Persians. Near the Persian city of Ctesiphon, Julian came upon an elderly Persian, who agreed to betray his countrymen and guide Julian’s army. The old man deceived Julian and led his army into the Karmanite wilderness, where there was neither food nor water. Tired from hunger and thirst, Julian’s army battled against fresh Persian forces. retribution caught up with Julian the Apostate. During the battle he was mortally wounded by an unseen hand and an unseen weapon. groaned deeply said, “You have conquered, Galilean!” the death of the apostate emperor, the relics of the Great Martyr Artemius were transferred with honor from Antioch to Constantinople. Artemius is invoked by those suffering from hernias.

Syria, 339-388, Marcian oCyrrhusl, asceticism attracted monastery, wonderworking, snake killed by hCross, heavenly reading light
Syria, 339-388, Marcian oCyrrhus, Syria (Afrin River 1), desert dweller near C, small hut, prayer, singing psalms, spiritual reading, ate little, just enough, many zealous attracted, estab m for them, wonderworking, examples snake killed by his cross, heavenly light for his reading, many others for bros, died 388 ; Cyrrhus; Venerable Marcian of Cyrrhus in Syria, Commemorated January 18 ; Marcian of Cyrrhus lived in the desert near the city of Cyrrhus. built a small hut and settled in it, passing his time in prayer, singing Psalms and reading spiritual books. ate very little food, just enough to keep him alive. of his holy life attracted to him many zealous ascetics, Saint Marcian established a monastery for them. ’s blessing rested upon the saint, and he possessed the gift of wonderworking. a serpent crawled into his cell. saint made the Sign of the Cross and the serpent perished, burned up by flames. night, when the ascetic read, a heavenly light shone for him. monk also worked many other miracles on behalf of the brethren. died in peace about the year 388.

Syria, 340-379, Eusebius of Samosata, Syrian Saint, Orthodox, persecuted by Arians
Syrian Saint, 340-379, Eusebius of Samosata ; Hieromartyr Eusebius the Bishop of Samosata, Commemorated on June 22; Hieromartyr Eusebius, Bishop of Samosata, stood firmly for the Orthodox Confession of Faith proclaimed at the First Ecumenical Council at Nicea in the year 325. this he underwent persecution by the Arians, being repeatedly deprived of his see and banished. emperor Constantius (337-361), patron of the Arians, learned that Saint Eusebius kept a conciliar decree regarding the election of the Orthodox Archbishop Meletius to the See of Antioch. commanded him to give up the decree. The saint boldly refused to do as ordered. The enraged emperor sent a message that if he did not give up the decree, then his right hand would be cut off. Eusebius stretched out both hands to the emissary saying, “Cut them off, but I will not give up the Decree of the Council, which denounces the wickedness and iniquity of the Arians.” The emperor Constantius marveled at the audacity of the bishop, but did not harm him. the reign of Julian the Apostate (361-363), even more difficult times ensued, and an open persecution against Christians began. Saint Eusebius, having concealed his identity, went about in the garb of a soldier across the whole of Syria, Phoenicia and Palestine, urging Christians to the Orthodox Faith. established priests and deacons in desolated churches, and he consecrated bishops who renounced the Arian heresy. Julian the Apostate’s death, he was succeeded by the pious emperor Jovian (363-364), during whose reign the persecutions stopped. from exile, Saint Meletius (February 12) convened a local Council at Antioch in the year 379 on the advice of Saint Eusebius. Twenty-seven bishops participated, and it reaffirmed the Orthodox teaching of the First Ecumenical Council. Arians signed the conciliar definition, fearing the steadfast defenders of Orthodoxy, the holy hierarchs Meletius, Eusebius and Pelagios, who had great influence with the emperor. After the death of Jovian the Arian Valentinian (364-378) came to power. Orthodox were again subjected to persecution. Saint Meletius was banished to Armenia, Saint Pelagius to Arabia, and Saint Eusebius was condemned to exile in Thrace. Having received the imperial decree, Saint Eusebius left Samosata by night so as to prevent tumult among the people that esteemed him. Having learned of of the bishop’s departure, believers followed after him and with tears entreated him to return. The saint refused the entreaty of those who had come, saying that he had to obey the authorities. The saint urged his flock to hold firm to Orthodoxy, blessed them and set off to the place of exile. The Arian Eunomios became Bishop of Samosata, but the people did not accept the heretic. The Orthodox would not go to the church and avoided meeting with him. The heretical Arian perceived that it was impossible to attract the independent flock to him. emperor Gracian (375-383) came upon the throne, and all the Orthodox hierarchs banished under the Arians were brought back from exile. Saint Eusebius also returned to Samosata and continued with the task of building up the Church. Together with Saint Meletius he supplied Orthodox hierarchs and clergy to Arian places. In the year 380 he arrived in the Arian city of Dolikhina to establish the Orthodox bishop Marinus there. An Arian woman threw a roof tile at the holy bishop’s head. As he lay dying, he asked her for wine and requested those around not to do her any harm. The body of Saint Eusebius was taken to Samosata and was buried by his flock. The saint’s nephew, Antiochus, succeeded him and the Samosata Church continued to confess the Orthodox Faith, firmly spread through the efforts of the holy Hieromartyr Eusebius.

Syria, 340-404, Flavian I of Antioch and Tarsus, Syrian Saint, Raised Chrysostom, Orthodox
Saint Flavian, Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on September 27; Flavian, Archbishop of Antioch, was a contemporary of Saint John Chrysostom. He attempted to obtain from the emperor Theodosius (379-395) a pardon for the citizens of Antioch, who had angered the emperor by destroying his statue. Saint Flavian’s death was peaceful and without illness. He is also commemorated on February 16. Saint Flavian, Archbishop of Antioch; Flavian, Archbishop of Antioch, was a contemporary of Saint John Chrysostom. He attempted to obtain from the emperor Theodosius (379-395) a pardon for the citizens of Antioch, who had angered the emperor by destroying his statue. Saint Flavian’s death was peaceful and without illness. He is also commemorated on September 27. Syria, 399-404, Syrian Saint, Flavian I of Antioch and Tarsus, Raised Chrysostom, Orthodox; Flavian I of Antioch (Latin: Flavianus I; c. 320 – February 404) was a bishop or Patriarch of Antioch from 381 until his death. He was born about 320, most probably in Antioch. He inherited great wealth, but resolved to devote his riches and his talents to the service of the church. In association with Diodore, afterwards bishop of Tarsus, he supported the orthodox Faith against the Arian heretic Leontius, who had succeeded Eustathius as Patriarch of Antioch. The two friends assembled their adherents outside the city walls for religious services (according to Theodoret, it was in these meetings that the practice of antiphonal singing was first introduced in the services of the church).[1] When Meletius was appointed bishop of Antioch in 361 he ordained Flavian to the priesthood, and on the death of Meletius in 381 Flavian was chosen to succeed him. The schism between the two parties was, however, far from being healed. The Bishop of Rome and the Patriarch of Alexandria refused to acknowledge Flavian, and Paulinus, who by the extreme Eustathians had been elected bishop in opposition to Meletius, continued to exercise authority over a portion of the church.[1] On the death of Paulinus in about 383, Evagrius was chosen as his successor. After the death of Evagrius, (c. 393) Flavian succeeded in preventing the election of a successor, though the Eustathians still continued to hold separate meetings. Through the intervention of John Chrysostom soon after his elevation to the patriarchate of Constantinople in 398, and the influence of the emperor Theodosius I, Flavian was acknowledged in 399 as the sole legitimate bishop of Antioch.[1] Nevertheless, the Eustathian schism was not finally healed until 415 due to the reconciliation efforts of Alexander (appointed bishop 412), successor to Porphyrios (also spelled Porphyrus).[2] Flavian is posthumously venerated in both the Western and Eastern churches as a Saint.[1] Saint John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated on November 13; John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople, one of the Three Hierarchs [January 30], was born at Antioch in about the year 347 into the family of a military commander. His father, Secundus, died soon after the birth of his son. His mother, Anthusa, widowed at twenty years of age, did not seek to remarry but rather devoted all her efforts to the raising of her son in Christian piety. The youth studied under the finest philosophers and rhetoricians. But, scorning the vain disciplines of pagan knowledge, the future hierarch turned himself to the profound study of Holy Scripture and prayerful contemplation. Saint Meletius, Bishop of Antioch (February 12), loved John like a son, guided him in the Faith, and in the year 367 baptized him. After three years John was tonsured as a Reader. When Saint Meletius had been sent into exile by the emperor Valens in the year 372, John and Theodore (afterwards Bishop of Mopsuestia) studied under the experienced instructors of ascetic life, the presbyters Flavian and Diodorus of Tarsus. The highly refined Diodorus had particular influence upon the youth. When John’s mother died, he embraced monasticism, which he called the “true philosophy.” Soon John and his friend Basil were being considered as candidates for the episcopal office, and they decided to withdraw into the wilderness to avoid this. While Saint John avoided the episcopal rank out of humility, he secretly assisted in Basil’s consecration. During this period Saint John wrote his “Six Discourses on the Priesthood,” a great work of Orthodox pastoral theology. The saint spent four years struggling in the wilderness, living the ascetic life under the guidance of an experienced spiritual guide. And here he wrote three books entitled, “Against the Opponents of Those Attracted to the Monastic Life”, and a collection entitled, “A Comparison of the Monk with the Emperor” (also known as “Comparison of Imperial Power, Wealth and Eminence, with the True and Christian Wisdom-Loving Monastic Life”), both works which are marked by a profound reflection of the worthiness of the monastic vocation. For two years, the saint lived in a cave in complete silence, but was obliged to return to Antioch to recover his health. Saint Meletius, the Bishop of Antioch, ordained him deacon in the year 381. The following years were devoted to work on new theological writings: “Concerning Providence” (“To the Ascetic Stagirios”), “Book Concerning Virginity,” “To a Young Widow” (2 discourses), and the “Book of Saint Babylos, and Against Julian and the Pagans.” In the year 386 Saint John was ordained presbyter by Bishop Flavian of Antioch. Saint John was a splendid preacher, and his inspired words earned him the name “Golden-Mouthed” (“Chrysostom”). For twelve years the saint preached in church, usually twice a week, but sometimes daily, deeply stirring the hearts of his listeners. In his pastoral zeal to provide Christians with a better understanding of Holy Scripture, Saint John employed hermeneutics, an interpretation and analysis of the Word of God (i.e. exegesis). Among his exegetical works are commentaries on entire books of the Holy Scripture (Genesis, the Psalter, the Gospels of Matthew and John, the Epistles of the Apostle Paul), and also many homilies on individual texts of the Holy Bible, but also instructions on the Feastdays, laudations on the Saints, and also apologetic (i.e. defensive) homilies (against Anomoeans, Judaizers and pagans). As a priest, Saint John zealously fulfilled the Lord’s command to care for the needy. Under Saint John, the Antiochian Church provided sustenance each day to as many as 3,000 virgins and widows, not including in this number the shut-ins, wanderers and the sick. Saint John began his commentary on Genesis at the beginning of Great Lent in 388, preaching thirty-two homilies during the forty day period. During Holy Week he spoke of how Christ was betrayed, and about the Cross. During Bright Week, his pastoral discourse was devoted to the Resurrection. His exegesis of the Book of Genesis was concluded only at the end of October (388). At Pascha in the following year the saint began his homilies on the Gospel of John, and toward the end of the year 389 he took up the Gospel of Matthew. In the year 391 the Christians of Antioch listened to his commentary on the Epistles of the holy Apostle Paul to the Romans and to the Corinthians. In 393 he explained the Epistles to the Galatians, the Ephesians, Timothy, Titus, and the Psalms. In his homily on the Epistle to the Ephesians, Saint John denounced a schism in Antioch, “I tell you and I witness before you, that to tear asunder the Church means nothing less than to fall into heresy. The Church is the house of the heavenly Father, one Body and one Spirit.” The fame of the holy preacher grew, and in the year 397 with the death of Archbishop Nectarius of Constantinople, successor to Saint Gregory the Theologian, Saint John Chrysostom was summoned from Antioch, and elected to the See of Constantinople. At the capital, the holy archpastor was not able to preach as often as he had at Antioch. Many matters awaited the saint’s attention, and he began with the most important -- the spiritual perfection of the priesthood. He himself was the best example of this. The financial means apportioned for the archbishop were channeled by the saint into the upkeep of several hospices for the sick and two hostels for pilgrims. He fasted strictly and ate very little food, and usually refused invitations to dine because of his delicate stomach. The saint’s zeal in spreading the Christian Faith extended not only to the inhabitants of Constantinople, but also to Thrace to include Slavs and Goths, and to Asia Minor and the Pontine region. He established a bishop for the Bosphorus Church in the Crimea. Saint John sent off zealous missionaries to Phoenicia, to Persia, and to the Scythians, to convert pagans to Christ. He also wrote letters to Syria to bring back the Marcionites into the Church, and he accomplished this. Preserving the unity of the Church, the saint would not permit a powerful Gothic military commander, who wanted the emperor to reward his bravery in battle, to open an Arian church at Constantinople. The saint exerted much effort in enhancing the splendor of the church services: he compiled a Liturgy, he introduced antiphonal singing for the all-night Vigil, and he wrote several prayers for the rite of anointing the sick with oil. The saintly hierarch denounced the dissolute morals of people in the capital, especially at the imperial court, irrespective of person. When the empress Eudoxia connived to confiscate the last properties of the widow and children of a disgraced dignitary, the saint rose to their defense. The arrogant empress would not relent, and nursed a grudge against the archpastor. Eudoxia’s hatred of the saint blazed forth anew when malefactors told her that the saint apparently had her in mind during his sermon on vain women. A court was convened composed of hierarchs who had been justly condemned by Chrysostom: Theophilus of Alexandria, Bishop Severian of Gabala, who had been banished from the capital because of improprieties, and others. This court of judgment declared Saint John deposed, and that he be executed for his insult to the empress. The emperor decided on exile instead of execution. An angry crowd gathered at the church, resolved to defend their pastor. In order to avoid a riot, Saint John submitted to the authorities. That very night there was an earthquake at Constantinople. The terrified Eudoxia urgently requested the emperor to bring the saint back, and promptly sent a letter to the banished pastor, beseeching him to return. Once more, in the capital church, the saint praised the Lord in a short talk, “For All His Ways.” The slanderers fled to Alexandria. But after only two months a new denunciation provoked the wrath of Eudoxia. In March 404, an unjust council was convened, decreeing the exile of Saint John. Upon his removal from the capital, a fire reduced the church of Hagia Sophia and also the Senate building to ashes. Devastating barbarian incursions soon followed, and Eudoxia died in October 404. Even pagans regarded these events as God’s punishment for the unjust judgment against the saint. In Armenia, the saint strove all the more to encourage his spiritual children. In numerous letters (245 are preserved) to bishops in Asia, Africa, Europe and particularly to his friends in Constantinople, Saint John consoled the suffering, guiding and giving support to his followers. In the winter of 406 Saint John was confined to his bed with sickness, but his enemies were not to be appeased. From the capital came orders to transfer Saint John to desolate Pityus in Abkhazia on the Black Sea. Worn out by sickness, the saint began his final journey under military escort, traveling for three months in the rain and frost. He never arrived at his place of exile, for his strength failed him at Comana. At the crypt of Saint Basiliscus (May 22), Saint John was comforted by a vision of the martyr, who said, “Despair not, brother John! Tomorrow we shall be together.” After receiving the Holy Mysteries, the hierarch fell asleep in the Lord on September 14, 407. His last words were, “Glory to God for all things!” The holy relics of Saint John Chrysostom were solemnly transferred to Constantinople in the year 438. The disciple of Saint John, the venerable Isidore of Pelusium (February 4), wrote: “The house of David is grown strong, and the house of Saul enfeebled. He is victor over the storms of life, and has entered into heavenly repose.” Although he died on September 14, Saint John’s celebration was transferred to this day because of the Feast of the Elevation of the Holy Cross. Saint John Chrysostom is also celebrated on January 27 and January 30. Syrian Saint, 367-407, St John Chrysostom ; Chrysostom (/ˈkrɪsəstəm, krɪˈsɒstəm/; Greek: Ἰωάννης ὁ Χρυσόστομος; Ge'ez[citation needed] :ቅዱስ ዮሐንስ አፈወርቅ c. 347 – 14 September 407)[5] was an important Early Church Father who served as archbishop of Constantinople. He is known for his preaching and public speaking, his denunciation of abuse of authority[6] by both ecclesiastical and political leaders, his Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom, and his ascetic sensibilities. The epithet Χρυσόστομος (Chrysostomos, anglicized as Chrysostom) means "golden-mouthed" in Greek and denotes his celebrated eloquence.[1][7] Chrysostom was among the most prolific authors in the early Christian Church, although both Origen of Alexandria[8] and Augustine of Hippo[9] exceeded Chrysostom. He is honoured as a saint in the Oriental Orthodox, Eastern Orthodox, Catholic, Anglican, and Lutheran churches, as well as in some others. The Eastern Orthodox, together with the Byzantine Catholics, hold him in special regard as one of the Three Holy Hierarchs (alongside Basil the Great and Gregory of Nazianzus). The feast days of John Chrysostom in the Eastern Orthodox Church are 14 September, 13 November and 27 January. In the Roman Catholic Church he is recognized as a Doctor of the Church. Because the date of his death is occupied by the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross (14 September), the General Roman Calendar celebrates him since 1970 on the previous day, 13 September; from the 13th century to 1969 it did so on 27 January, the anniversary of the translation of his body to Constantinople.[10] Of other Western churches, including Anglican provinces and Lutheran churches, some commemorate him on 13 September, others on 27 January. John Chrysostom is honored on the calendars of the Church of England and the Episcopal Church on 13 September.[11][12] The Coptic Church also recognizes him as a saint (with feast days on 16 Thout and 17 Hathor).[13] Biography[edit] Early life[edit] John was born in Antioch (modern-day Antakya, Hatay, Turkey) in 347.[14][15] Different scholars describe his mother Anthusa as a pagan or as a Christian.[16] His father was a high-ranking military officer. John's father died soon after his birth and he was raised by his mother. He was baptised in 368 or 373 and tonsured as a reader (one of the minor orders of the church). It is sometimes said that he was bitten by a snake when he was ten years old, leading to him getting an infection from the bite.[b] As a result of his mother's influential connections in the city, John began his education under the pagan preacher Libanius.[17] From Libanius, John acquired the skills for a career in rhetoric, as well as a love of the Greek language and literature.[18] Eventually, he became a lawyer. As he grew older, however, John became more deeply committed to Christianity and went on to study theology under Diodore of Tarsus, founder of the re-constituted School of Antioch. According to the Christian historian Sozomen, Libanius was supposed to have said on his deathbed that John would have been his successor "if the Christians had not taken him from us".[19] John lived in extreme asceticism and became a hermit in about 375; he spent the next two years continually standing, scarcely sleeping, and committing the Bible to memory. As a consequence of these practices, his stomach and kidneys were permanently damaged and poor health forced him to return to Antioch.[20] Diaconate and service in Antioch[edit] Further information: Meletian schism John was ordained as a deacon in 381 by the bishop Meletius of Antioch who was not then in communion with Alexandria and Rome. After the death of Meletius, John separated himself from the followers of Meletius, without joining Paulinus, the rival of Meletius for the bishopric of Antioch. But after the death of Paulinus he was ordained a presbyter (priest) in 386 by Flavian, the successor of Paulinus.[21] He was destined later to bring about reconciliation between Flavian I of Antioch, Alexandria, and Rome, thus bringing those three sees into communion for the first time in nearly seventy years.[22] In Antioch, over the course of twelve years (386–397), John gained popularity because of the eloquence of his public speaking at the Golden Church, Antioch's cathedral, especially his insightful expositions of Bible passages and moral teaching. The most valuable of his works from this period are his homilies on various books of the Bible. He emphasised charitable giving and was concerned with the spiritual and temporal needs of the poor. He spoke against abuse of wealth and personal property: Do you wish to honour the body of Christ? Do not ignore him when he is naked. Do not pay him homage in the temple clad in silk, only then to neglect him outside where he is cold and ill-clad. He who said: "This is my body" is the same who said: "You saw me hungry and you gave me no food", and "Whatever you did to the least of my brothers you did also to me"... What good is it if the Eucharistic table is overloaded with golden chalices when your brother is dying of hunger? Start by satisfying his hunger and then with what is left you may adorn the altar as well.[23] His straightforward understanding of the Scriptures – in contrast to the Alexandrian tendency towards allegorical interpretation – meant that the themes of his talks were practical, explaining the Bible's application to everyday life. Such straightforward preaching helped Chrysostom to garner popular support.[1] One incident that happened during his service in Antioch illustrates the influence of his homilies. When Chrysostom arrived in Antioch, Flavian, the bishop of the city, had to intervene with emperor Theodosius I on behalf of citizens who had gone on a rampage mutilating statues of the emperor and his family. During the weeks of Lent in 387, John preached more than twenty homilies in which he entreated the people to see the error of their ways. These made a lasting impression on the general population of the city: many pagans converted to Christianity as a result of the homilies. The city was ultimately spared from severe consequences.[6] Archbishop of Constantinople[edit] See also: Origenist Crises John Chrysostom confronting Aelia Eudoxia, in a 19th-century anti-clerical painting by Jean-Paul Laurens In the autumn of 397, John was appointed archbishop of Constantinople, after having been nominated without his knowledge by the eunuch Eutropius. He had to leave Antioch in secret due to fears that the departure of such a popular figure would cause civil unrest.[24] During his time as archbishop he adamantly refused to host lavish social gatherings, which made him popular with the common people, but unpopular with wealthy citizens and the clergy. His reforms of the clergy were also unpopular. He told visiting regional preachers to return to the churches they were meant to be serving – without any pay-out.[25] Also he founded a number of hospitals in Constantinople.[26][27] His time in Constantinople was more tumultuous than his time in Antioch. Theophilus, the patriarch of Alexandria, wanted to bring Constantinople under his sway and opposed John's appointment to Constantinople. Theophilus had disciplined four Egyptian monks (known as "the Tall Brothers") over their support of Origen's teachings. They fled to John and were welcomed by him. Theophilus therefore accused John of being too partial to the teaching of Origen. He made another enemy in Aelia Eudoxia, wife of emperor Arcadius, who assumed that John's denunciations of extravagance in feminine dress were aimed at herself.[6] Eudoxia, Theophilus and other of his enemies held a synod in 403 (the Synod of the Oak) to charge John, in which his connection to Origen was used against him. It resulted in his deposition and banishment. He was called back by Arcadius almost immediately, as the people became "tumultuous" over his departure, even threatening to burn the imperial palace.[28][unreliable source?] There was an earthquake the night of his arrest, which Eudoxia took for a sign of God's anger, prompting her to ask Arcadius for John's reinstatement.[29][unreliable source?] Peace was short-lived. A silver statue of Eudoxia was erected in the Augustaion, near his cathedral, the Constantinian Hagia Sophia. John denounced the dedication ceremonies as pagan and spoke against the empress in harsh terms: "Again Herodias raves; again she is troubled; she dances again; and again desires to receive John's head in a charger",[30][unreliable source?] an allusion to the events surrounding the death of John the Baptist. Once again he was banished, this time to the Caucasus in Abkhazia.[31] His banishment sparked riots among his supporters in the capital, and in the fighting the cathedral built by Constantius II was burnt down, necessitating the construction of the second cathedral on the site, the Theodosian Hagia Sophia. Around 405, John began to lend moral and financial support to Christian monks who were enforcing the emperors' anti-pagan laws, by destroying temples and shrines in Phoenicia and nearby regions.[32] Exile and death[edit] The causes of John's exile are not clear, though Jennifer Barry suggests that they have to do with his connections to Arianism. Other historians, including Wendy Mayer and Geoffrey Dunn, have argued that "the surplus of evidence reveals a struggle between Johannite and anti-Johannite camps in Constantinople soon after John's departure and for a few years after his death".[33] Faced with exile, John Chrysostom wrote an appeal for help to three churchmen: Pope Innocent I; Venerius, the bishop of Mediolanum (Milan); and Chromatius, the bishop of Aquileia.[34][35][36] In 1872, church historian William Stephens wrote: The Patriarch of the Eastern Rome appeals to the great bishops of the West, as the champions of an ecclesiastical discipline which he confesses himself unable to enforce, or to see any prospect of establishing. No jealousy is entertained of the Patriarch of the Old Rome by the patriarch of the New Rome. The interference of Innocent is courted, a certain primacy is accorded him, but at the same time he is not addressed as a supreme arbitrator; assistance and sympathy are solicited from him as from an elder brother, and two other prelates of Italy are joint recipients with him of the appeal.[37] Pope Innocent I protested John's banishment from Constantinople to the town of Cucusus (Göksun) in Cappadocia, but to no avail. Innocent sent a delegation to intercede on behalf of John in 405. It was led by Gaudentius of Brescia; Gaudentius and his companions, two bishops, encountered many difficulties and never reached their goal of entering Constantinople.[38] John wrote letters which still held great influence in Constantinople. As a result of this, he was further exiled from Cucusus (where he stayed from 404 to 407) to Pitiunt (Pityus) (in modern Georgia) where his tomb is a shrine for pilgrims. He never reached this destination, as he died at Comana Pontica (modern-day Gümenek, Tokat, Turkey) on 14 September 407 during the journey.[29] He died in the Presbyterium or community of the clergy belonging to the church of Saint Basiliscus of Comana.[39] His last words are said to have been "Δόξα τῷ Θεῷ πάντων ἕνεκεν" ('Glory be to God for all things').[29] Veneration and canonization[edit] Byzantine 11th-century soapstone relief of John Chrysostom, Louvre John came to be venerated as a saint soon after his death. Almost immediately after, an anonymous supporter of John (known as pseudo-Martyrius) wrote a funeral oration to reclaim John as a symbol of Christian orthodoxy.[33] But three decades later, some of his adherents in Constantinople remained in schism.[40] Proclus, archbishop of Constantinople (434–446), hoping to bring about the reconciliation of the Johannites, preached a homily praising his predecessor in the Church of Hagia Sophia. He said, "O John, your life was filled with sorrow, but your death was glorious. Your grave is blessed and reward is great, by the grace and mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ O graced one, having conquered the bounds of time and place! Love has conquered space, unforgetting memory has annihilated the limits, and place does not hinder the miracles of the saint."[41] These homilies helped to mobilize public opinion, and the patriarch received permission from the emperor to return Chrysostom's relics to Constantinople, where they were enshrined in the Church of the Holy Apostles on 28 January 438. The Eastern Orthodox Church commemorates him as a "Great Ecumenical Teacher", with Basil the Great and Gregory the Theologian. These three saints, in addition to having their own individual commemorations throughout the year, are commemorated together on 30 January, a feast known as the Synaxis of the Three Hierarchs.[42] In the Eastern Orthodox Church there are several feast days dedicated to him: 27 January, Translation of the relics of Saint John Chrysostom from Comana to Constantinople[43] 30 January, Synaxis of the Three Great Hierarchs[43] 14 September, Repose of Saint John Chrysostom[43] 13 November, celebration was transferred from 14 September by the 10th century AD as the Exaltation of the Holy Cross became more prominent.[43] According to Brian Croke, 13 November is the date news of John Chrysostom's death reached Constantinople.[44] In 1908 Pope Pius X named him the patron saint of preachers.[4] Writings[edit] Some 700 sermons and 246 letters by John Chrysostom survive, plus biblical commentaries, moral discourses, and theological treatises.[citation needed] Homilies[edit] Paschal Homily[edit] The Byzantine emperor Nicephorus III receives a book of homilies from John Chrysostom; the Archangel Michael stands on his left (11th-century illuminated manuscript). The best known of his many homilies is an extremely brief one, the Paschal Homily (Hieratikon), which is read at the first service of Pascha (Easter), the midnight Orthros (Matins), in the Eastern Orthodox Church.[45] General[edit] Chrysostom's extant homiletical works are vast, including many hundreds of exegetical homilies on both the New Testament (especially the works of Paul the Apostle) and the Old Testament (particularly on Genesis). Among his extant exegetical works are sixty-seven homilies on Genesis, fifty-nine on the Psalms, ninety on the Gospel of Matthew, eighty-eight on the Gospel of John, and fifty-five on the Acts of the Apostles.[1] The homilies were written down by stenographers and subsequently circulated, revealing a style that tended to be direct and greatly personal, but formed by the rhetorical conventions of his time and place.[46] In general, his homiletical theology displays much characteristic of the Antiochian school (i.e., somewhat more literal in interpreting biblical events), but he also uses a good deal of the allegorical interpretation more associated with the Alexandrian school.[1] John's social and religious world was formed by the continuing and pervasive presence of paganism in the life of the city. One of his regular topics was the paganism in the culture of Constantinople, and in his homilies he thunders against popular pagan amusements: the theatre, horseraces, and the revelry surrounding holidays.[47] In particular, he criticizes Christians for taking part in such activities: If you ask [Christians] who is Amos or Obadiah, how many apostles there were or prophets, they stand mute; but if you ask them about the horses or drivers, they answer with more solemnity than sophists or rhetors.[47] One of the recurring features of John's homilies is his emphasis on care for the needy.[48] Echoing themes found in the Gospel of Matthew, he calls upon the rich to lay aside materialism in favor of helping the poor, often employing all of his rhetorical skills to shame wealthy people to abandon conspicuous consumption: Do you pay such honor to your excrements as to receive them into a silver chamber-pot when another man made in the image of God is perishing in the cold?[49] Along these lines, he wrote often about the need for almsgiving and its importance alongside fasting and prayer, e.g. "Prayer without almsgiving is unfruitful."[50] 11th-century conch mosaic of John Chrysostom from the south-east apse of the nave of the Hosios Loukas monastery Cyril of Alexandria attributed the destruction of the Ephesian Temple of Artemis to John Chrysostom, referring to him as "the destroyer of the demons and overthrower of the temple of Diana". A later Archbishop of Constantinople, Proclus repeated the allegation, saying "In Ephesus, he despoiled the art of Midas". Both claims are considered spurious.[51] Homilies against Jews and Judaizing Christians[edit] Main article: Adversus Judaeos During his first two years as a presbyter in Antioch (386–387), John denounced Jews and Judaizing Christians in a series of eight homilies delivered to Christians in his congregation who were taking part in Jewish festivals and other Jewish observances.[52][53] It is disputed whether the main targets were specifically Judaizers or Jews in general. His homilies were expressed in the conventional manner, utilizing the uncompromising rhetorical form known as the psogos (Greek: blame, censure).[52] One of the purposes of these homilies was to prevent Christians from participating in Jewish customs, and thus prevent the perceived erosion of Chrysostom's flock. In his homilies, John criticized those "Judaizing Christians", who were participating in Jewish festivals and taking part in other Jewish observances, such as the shabbat, submitted to circumcision and made pilgrimage to Jewish holy places.[52] There had been a revival of Jewish faith and tolerance in Antioch in 361, so Chrysostom's followers and the greater Christian community were in contact with Jews frequently, and Chrysostom was concerned that this interaction would draw Christians away from their faith identity.[54] John claimed that synagogues were full of Christians, especially Christian women, on the shabbats and Jewish festivals, because they loved the solemnity of the Jewish liturgy and enjoyed listening to the shofar on Rosh Hashanah, and applauded famous preachers in accordance with the contemporary custom.[55] Due to Chrysostom's stature in the Christian church, both locally and within the greater church hierarchy, his sermons were fairly successful in spreading anti-Jewish sentiment. This prompted the introduction of anti-Jewish legislation and social regulations, increasing the separation between the two communities.[citation needed] In Greek the homilies are called Kata Ioudaiōn (Κατὰ Ἰουδαίων), which is translated as Adversus Judaeos in Latin and 'Against the Jews' in English.[56] The original Benedictine editor of the homilies, Bernard de Montfaucon, gives the following footnote to the title: "A discourse against the Jews; but it was delivered against those who were Judaizing and keeping the fasts with them [the Jews]."[56] According to Patristics scholars, opposition to any particular view during the late 4th century was conventionally expressed in a manner, utilizing the rhetorical form known as the psogos, whose literary conventions were to vilify opponents in an uncompromising manner; thus, it has been argued that to call Chrysostom an "anti-Semite" is to employ anachronistic terminology in a way incongruous with historical context and record.[57] This does not preclude assertions that Chrysostom's theology was a form of anti-Jewish supersessionism.[58] Anglican priest James Parkes called Chrysostom's writing on Jews "the most horrible and violent denunciations of Judaism to be found in the writings of a Christian theologian".[59] According to historian William I. Brustein, his sermons against Jews gave further momentum to the idea that Jews are collectively responsible for the death of Jesus.[60] Steven T. Katz cites Chrysostom's homilies as "the decisive turn in the history of Christian anti-Judaism, a turn whose ultimate disfiguring consequence was enacted in the political antisemitism of Adolf Hitler."[61] John Chrysostom with Basil of Caesarea and Gregory of Nazianzus on a late-15th-century icon of the Three Holy Hierarchs from the Cathedral of St Sophia, Novgorod Homily against homosexuality[edit] According to Robert H. Allen, "Chrysostom's learning and eloquence spans and sums up a long age of ever-growing moral outrage, fear and loathing of homosexuality."[62] His most notable discourse in this regard is his fourth homily on Romans 1:26,[63] where he argues as follows: All these affections then were vile, but chiefly the mad lust after males; for the soul is more the sufferer in sins, and more dishonored, than the body in diseases. ... [The men] have done an insult to nature itself. And a yet more disgraceful thing than these is it, when even the women seek after these intercourses, who ought to have more sense of shame than men.[64] He says the active male victimizes the passive male in a way that leaves him more enduringly dishonored than even a victim of murder since the victim of this act must "live under" the shame of the "insolency".[64] The victim of a murder, by contrast, carries no dishonor. He asserts that punishment will be found in Hell for such transgressors and that women can be guilty of the sin as much as men. Chrysostom argues that the male passive partner has effectively renounced his manhood and become a woman – such an individual deserves to be "driven out and stoned". He attributes the cause to "luxury". "Do not, he means (Paul), because you have heard that they burned, suppose that the evil was only in desire. For the greater part of it came of their luxuriousness, which also kindled into flame their lust".[64] According to scholar Michael Carden, Chrysostom was particularly influential in shaping early Christian thought that same-sex desire was an evil, claiming that he altered a traditional interpretation of Sodom as a place of inhospitality to one where the sexual transgressions of the Sodomites became paramount.[65] However, other scholars – such as Kruger[66] and Nortjé-Meyer[67] – dispute this, arguing that the author of the Epistle of Jude already interpreted the sin of Sodom as homosexuality in the New Testament. Treatises[edit] Apart from his homilies, a number of John's other treatises have had a lasting influence. One such work is John's early treatise Against Those Who Oppose the Monastic Life, written while he was a deacon (sometime before 386), which was directed to parents, pagan as well as Christian, whose sons were contemplating a monastic vocation.[68] Chrysostom wrote that, already in his day, it was customary for Antiochenes to send their sons to be educated by monks.[69] Another important treatise written by John is titled On the Priesthood (written 390/391, it contains in Book 1 an account of his early years and a defence of his flight from ordination by bishop Meletios of Antioch, and then proceeds in later books to expound on his exalted understanding of the priesthood). Two other notable books by John are Instructions to Catechumens and On the Incomprehensibility of the Divine Nature.[70] In addition, he wrote a series of letters to the deaconess Olympias, of which seventeen are extant.[71] Liturgy[edit] Beyond his preaching, the other lasting legacy of John is his influence on Christian liturgy. Two of his writings are particularly notable. He harmonized the liturgical life of the church by revising the prayers and rubrics of the Divine Liturgy, or celebration of the Holy Eucharist. To this day, Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic Churches of the Byzantine Rite typically celebrate the Divine Liturgy of Saint John Chrysostom as the normal Eucharistic liturgy, although his exact connection with it remains a matter of debate among experts.[72] Legacy and influence[edit] A sculpture of John Chrysostom in Saint Patrick's Cathedral, New York City During a time when city clergy were subject to criticism for their high lifestyle, John was determined to reform his clergy in Constantinople. These efforts were met with resistance and limited success. He was an excellent preacher[72] whose homilies and writings are still studied and quoted. As a theologian, he has been and continues to be very important in Eastern Christianity, and is generally considered among the Three Holy Hierarchs of the Greek Church, but has been less important to Western Christianity. His writings have survived to the present day more so than any of the other Greek Fathers.[1] Influence on the Catechism of the Catholic Church and clergy[edit] Regardless of his lesser influence compared to, say, Thomas Aquinas, John's influence on church teachings is interwoven throughout the current Catechism of the Catholic Church (revised 1992).[citation needed] The Catechism cites him in eighteen sections, particularly his reflections on the purpose of prayer and the meaning of the Lord's Prayer:[citation needed] Consider how [Jesus Christ] teaches us to be humble, by making us see that our virtue does not depend on our work alone but on grace from on high. He commands each of the faithful who prays to do so universally, for the whole world. For he did not say "thy will be done in me or in us", but "on earth", the whole earth, so that error may be banished from it, truth take root in it, all vice be destroyed on it, virtue flourish on it, and earth no longer differ from heaven.[73] Christian clerics, such as R. S. Storr, refer to him as "one of the most eloquent preachers who ever since apostolic times have brought to men the divine tidings of truth and love",[This quote needs a citation] and the 19th-century John Henry Newman described John as a "bright, cheerful, gentle soul; a sensitive heart".[74] Music and literature[edit] John's liturgical legacy has inspired several musical compositions. Particularly noteworthy[citation needed] are Sergei Rachmaninoff's Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom, Op. 31, composed in 1910,[75] one of his two major unaccompanied choral works; Pyotr Tchaikovsky's Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom, Op. 41; and Ukrainian composer Kyrylo Stetsenko's Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom. Arvo Pärt's Litany sets Chrysostom's twenty-four prayers, one for each hour of the day,[76] for soli, mixed choir and orchestra. And the compositions of Alexander Grechaninovs Liturgy of Johannes Chrysostomos No. 1, Op. 13 (1897), Liturgy of Johannes Chrysostomos No. 2, Op. 29 (1902), Liturgia Domestica (Liturgy Johannes Chrysostomos No. 3), Op. 79 (1917) and Liturgy of Johannes Chrysostomos No. 4, Op. 177 (1943) are noteworthy.[citation needed] James Joyce's novel Ulysses includes a character named Mulligan who brings 'Chrysostomos' into another character (Stephen Dedalus)'s mind because Mulligan's gold-stopped teeth and his gift of the gab earn him the title which St. John Chrysostom's preaching earned him, 'golden-mouthed':[77] "[Mulligan] peered sideways up and gave a long low whistle of call, then paused awhile in rapt attention, his even white teeth glistening here and there with gold points. Chrysostomos."[78] Legend of the penance of Saint John Chrysostom[edit] The Penance of St. John Chrysostom. Engraving by Lucas Cranach the Elder, 1509. The saint can be seen in the background on all fours, whilst the princess and their baby dominate the foreground. A late medieval legend relates that, when John Chrysostom was a hermit in the desert, he was approached by a royal princess in distress.[citation needed][c] John, thinking she was a demon, at first refused to help her, but the princess convinced him that she was a Christian and would be devoured by wild beasts if she were not allowed to enter his cave. He therefore admitted her, carefully dividing the cave in two parts, one for each of them. In spite of these precautions, the sin of fornication was committed, and in an attempt to hide it the distraught John took the princess and threw her over a precipice. He then went to Rome to beg absolution, which was refused. Realising the appalling nature of his crimes, Chrysostom made a vow that he would never rise from the ground until his sins were expiated, and for years he lived like a beast, crawling on all fours and feeding on wild grasses and roots. Subsequently, the princess reappeared, alive, and suckling John's baby, who miraculously pronounced his sins forgiven. This last scene was very popular from the late 15th century onwards as a subject for engravers and artists. The theme was depicted by Albrecht Dürer around 1496,[79] Hans Sebald Beham and Lucas Cranach the Elder, among others. Martin Luther mocked this same legend in his Die Lügend von S. Johanne Chrysostomo (1537) to analyse the pitfalls of the Christian Legendary (hagiography).[80][81] The legend was recorded in Croatia in the 16th century.[82][non-primary source needed] Relics[edit] The return of the relics of Saint John Chrysostom to the Church of the Holy Apostles in Constantinople John Chrysostom died in the city of Comana in 407 on his way to his place of exile. There his relics remained until 438 when, thirty years after his death, they were transferred to Constantinople during the reign of the empress Eudoxia's son, the emperor Theodosius II (408–450), under the guidance of John's disciple, Proclus, who by that time had become archbishop of Constantinople (434–447).[83] Most of John's relics were looted from Constantinople by crusaders in 1204 and taken to Rome, but some of his bones were returned to the Orthodox Church on 27 November 2004 by Pope John Paul II.[84][85][86] Since 2004 the relics have been enshrined in the Church of St. George, Istanbul.[87] The skull, however, having been kept at the monastery at Vatopedi on Mount Athos in northern Greece, was not among the relics that were taken by the crusaders in the 13th century. In 1655, at the request of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich, the skull was taken to Russia, for which the monastery was compensated in the sum of 2,000 rubles. In 1693, having received a request from the Vatopedi Monastery for the return of Saint John's skull, Tsar Peter the Great ordered that the skull remain in Russia but that the monastery was to be paid 500 rubles every four years. The Russian state archives document these payments up until 1735. The skull was kept at the Moscow Kremlin, in the Cathedral of the Dormition of the Mother of God, until 1920, when it was confiscated by the Soviets and placed in the Museum of Silver Antiquities. In 1988, in connection with the 1,000th anniversary of the Baptism of Russia, the head, along with other important relics, was returned to the Russian Orthodox Church and kept at the Epiphany Cathedral, until being moved to the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour after its restoration.[citation needed] Today, the monastery at Vatopedi posits a rival claim to possessing the skull of John Chrysostom, and there a skull is venerated by pilgrims to the monastery as that of Saint John. Two sites in Italy also claim to have the saint's skull: the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence and the Dal Pozzo chapel in Pisa. The right hand of Saint John[88][unreliable source?] is preserved on Mount Athos, and numerous smaller relics are scattered throughout the world.[89]

Syria, 341 or 264-383, Council of Antioch, the matter of Paul of Samosata and homoousios
Council of Antioch (383); with three synods convened between 264 and 269 in the matter of Paul of Samosata, more than thirty councils were held in Antioch in ancient times. Most of these dealt with phases of the Arian and of the Christological controversies.[1] For example, the Catholic Encyclopedia article on Paul of Samosata states: must be regarded as certain that the council which condemned Paul rejected the term homoousios; but naturally only in a false sense used by Paul; not, it seems because he meant by it a unity of Hypostasis in the Trinity (so St. Hilary), but because he intended by it a common substance out of which both Father and Son proceeded, or which it divided between them, — so St. Basil and St. Athanasius; but the question is not clear. The objectors to the Nicene doctrine in the fourth century made copious use of this disapproval of the Nicene word by a famous council.[2] most celebrated convened in the summer of 341 at the dedication of the Domus Aurea, and is therefore called in encaeniis or dedication council. Nearly a hundred Eastern bishops were present, but the bishop of Rome was not represented. The emperor Constantius II attended in person.[1] Synods of Antioch in 264-269[edit] [icon] This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. (June 2021) Synod of Antioch in 341[edit] council approved three creeds.[3] Whether or not the so-called "fourth formula"[4] is to be ascribed to a continuation of this synod or to a subsequent but distinct assembly of the same year, its aim is like that of the first three; while repudiating certain Arian formulas it avoids the orthodox term homoousios, fiercely advocated by Athanasius of Alexandria and accepted by the First Council of Nicaea (Nicaea I). The somewhat colourless compromise doubtless proceeded from the party of Eusebius of Nicomedia, and proved not unacceptable to the more nearly orthodox members of the synod.[1] twenty-five canons adopted regulate the so-called metropolitan constitution of the church. Ecclesiastical power is vested chiefly in the metropolitan (later called archbishop), and the biannual provincial synod (see Nicaea I, canon 5.), which he summons and over which he presides. Consequently, the powers of country bishops (chorepiscopi) are curtailed, and direct recourse to the emperor is forbidden. The sentence of one judicatory is to be respected by other judicatories of equal rank; re-trial may take place only before that authority to whom appeal regularly lies.[5] Without due invitation, a bishop may not ordain, or in any other way interfere with affairs lying outside his proper territory; nor may he appoint his own successor. Penalties are set on the refusal to celebrate Easter in accordance with the Nicaea I decree, as well as on leaving a church before the service of the Eucharist is completed.[1] numerous objections made by scholars in past centuries about the canons ascribed to this council have been elaborately stated and probably refuted by Hefele. The canons formed part of the Codex canonum used at Chalcedon in 451 and are found in later Eastern and Western collections of canons.[1] Paul of Samosata, 220-275, Bishop of Antioch and Theif of Samosata ( lived from 200 to 275 AD) was Bishop of Antioch from 260 to 268 and the originator of the Paulianist heresy named after him. He was a believer in monarchianism, a nontrinitarian doctrine; his teachings reflect adoptionism. was born at Samosata into a family of humble origin. He was elected bishop of Antioch in 260. He held the civil office of Procurator ducenarius.[1] Monarchianist teachings aroused strong opposition in the church. He was also accused of corruption on a grand scale. Edward Gibbon describes him as follows: wealth of that prelate was a sufficient evidence of his guilt, since it was neither derived from the inheritance of his fathers, nor acquired by the arts of honest industry. But Paul considered the service of the church as a very lucrative profession. His ecclesiastical jurisdiction was venal and rapacious; he extorted frequent contributions from the most opulent of the faithful, and converted to his own use a considerable part of the public revenue. By his pride and luxury the Christian religion was rendered odious in the eyes of the Gentiles. His council chamber and his throne, the splendour with which he appeared in public, the suppliant crowd who solicited his attention, the multitude of letters and petitions to which he dictated his answers, and the perpetual hurry of business in which he was involved, were circumstances much better suited to the state of a civil magistrate than to the humility of a primitive bishop. When he harangued his people from the pulpit, Paul affected the figurative style and the theatrical gestures of an Asiatic sophist, while the cathedral resounded with the loudest and most extravagant acclamations in the praise of his divine eloquence. Against those who resisted his power, or refused to flatter his vanity, the prelate of Antioch was arrogant, rigid, and inexorable; but he relaxed the discipline, and lavished the treasures of the church on his dependent clergy, who were permitted to imitate their master in the gratification of every sensual appetite. For Paul indulged himself very freely in the pleasures of the table, and he had received into the episcopal palace two young and beautiful women, as the constant companions of his leisure moments.[2] 269, seventy bishops, priests and deacons assembled at Antioch as a Pre-Ecumenical synod or council called the Synods of Antioch. Egypt to the Euxine Sea, the bishops were in arms and in motion. Several councils were held, confutations were published, ex-communications were pronounced, ambiguous explanations were by turns accepted and refused, treaties were concluded and violated.[3] synod deposed Paul as bishop and elected Dominus as his successor. They also wrote an encyclical letter to Dionysius and Maximus, bishops of Rome and Alexandria respectively. This letter is the only indisputably contemporary document concerning him and was preserved in Eusebius of Caesarea's Ecclesiastical History.[4] because the synod had acted without consulting the clergy or the people, its authority was in question,[3] enabling Paul to claim continued possession of his bishopric. Since he had friendly relations with Zenobia, the separatist queen of Palmyra ruling in Syria, he maintained his occupancy of the bishop's house in Antioch for another four years. Late in 272, however, when the emperor Aurelian defeated Zenobia, Paul lost her protection. Aurelian allowed the two parties, for and against Paul, to present their cases before his own tribunal. Aurelian was not a Christian and had no interest in the doctrinal issues of the Church. Wishing only to restore order, he relied on the judgment of the bishops of Italy and Rome. The unanimous verdict was for Paul to relinquish his position as bishop. ruling of Aurelian occurred during the "Little Peace of the Church", a roughly 40-year period when Christianity flourished without official sanctions from the central government. It was the first time the Church had sought the emperor's intervention in an internal dispute.[5] teaching is a form of Monarchianism, which emphasized the oneness of God. Paul taught that Jesus was born a mere man, but that he was infused with the divine Logos or word of God. Hence, Jesus was seen not as God-become-man but as man-become-God. In his Discourses to Sabinus, of which only fragments are preserved in a book against heresies ascribed to Anastasius, Paul writes: been anointed by the Holy Spirit he received the title of the anointed (i.e. Christos), suffering in accordance with his nature, working wonders in accordance with grace. For in fixity and resoluteness of character he likened himself to God; and having kept himself free from sin was united with God, and was empowered to grasp as it were the power and authority of wonders. By these he was shown to possess over and above the will, one and the same activity (with God), and won the title of Redeemer and Saviour of our race." Saviour became holy and just; and by struggle and hard work overcame the sins of our forefather. By these means he succeeded in perfecting himself, and was through his moral excellence united with God; having attained to unity and sameness of will and energy (i.e. activity) with Him through his advances in the path of good deeds. This will be preserved inseparable (from the Divine), and so inherited the name which is above all names, the prize of love and affection vouchsafed in grace to him." do not award praise to beings which submit merely in virtue of their nature; but we do award high praise to beings which submit because their attitude is one of love; and so submitting because their inspiring motive is one and the same, they are confirmed and strengthened by one and the same indwelling power, of which the force ever grows, so that it never ceases to stir. It was in virtue of this love that the Saviour coalesced with God, so as to admit of no divorce from Him, but for all ages to retain one and the same will and activity with Him, an activity perpetually at work in the manifestation of good." not that the Saviour had one will with God. For as nature manifests the substance of the many to subsist as one and the same, so the attitude of love produces in the many a unity and a sameness of will which is manifested by unity and sameness of approval and well-pleasingness." was an early forerunner of Adoptionism. It was suggested that the Paulicians of Armenia adhered to his teachings, and received their name from him. However, historical records show that the Paulicians were bitterly persecuted more for their gnostic and iconoclastic views than for their adherence to Adoptionism. pupil Lucian of Antioch is considered to have had a major influence on Arius the founder of Arianism. account[edit] major source of information we have of Paul of Samosata comes from Eusebius of Caesarea, who described some of the doctrines and practices Paul displayed openly, which included: Receiving money for his religious services,[6] as well as paying others to preach his doctrines.[7] Preferring to be called an imperial procurator of queen Zenobia, rather than bishop.[8] He stopped the production of psalms to Christ, and trained women to sing psalms to himself[9] as an angel come down from heaven.[10] Likewise, Eusebius hints to the fact that Paul was "too familiar" with his women followers,[11] whom he called "subintroductae".[7] 19 of the First Council of Nicaea dealt with the Paulianists: the Paulianists who have flown for refuge to the Catholic Church, it has been decreed that they must by all means be rebaptized; and if any of them who in past time have been numbered among their clergy should be found blameless and without reproach, let them be rebaptized and ordained by the Bishop of the Catholic Church; but if the examination should discover them to be unfit, they ought to be deposed. Likewise in the case of their deaconesses, and generally in the case of those who have been enrolled among their clergy, let the same form be observed. And we mean by deaconesses such as have assumed the habit, but who, since they have no imposition of hands, are to be numbered only among the laity.[12] of Alexandria explained that despite the fact that the followers of Paul of Samosata baptised in the name of the Trinity, they did not make it in the orthodox sense, making their baptism invalid.[13] The Paulianists seemed to have disappeared soon after the council, although the Paulicianists, a 7th-century dualistic sect, were often misidentified as being one and the same.[14] St Maruthas the Bishop of Martyropolis in Mesopotamia, Commemorated on February 16;

Syria, 342-412, Theodosius of Antioch, Syria, conquered passions, labored plaiting ropes, waves calmed at his name, Marathon
Syria, 342-412, Theodosius of Antioch, Syria, prostrations, lying on ground, hairshirt, iron chains, long hair, continuious fasting and prayer, much labor, conquered passions, labored much, plaiting ropes, waves calmed at his name, Marathon; Antioch (Orontes River 7); St Theodosius of Antioch, Commemorated Janaury 11; Theodosius of Antioch in his early years left the rich home of his illustrious parents and entered upon the straight and arduous path of asceticism. settled into a small cell on the shore of the Gulf of Isska, near the city of Ossos. saint weakened his body with prostrations and by lying upon the bare ground. also wore a hairshirt and heavy iron chains. His hair grew so long that it covered his feet. continuous feats of fasting and prayer he conquered his fleshly and spiritual passions, he quieted his temper, and drove away unclean thoughts. labored much, tilling his garden and occupying himself with plaiting ropes. his native land Saint Theodosius founded a monastery (Skupela). He imparted to the monks a love for physical toil and for spiritual deeds. Saint Theodosius had a special concern for strangers. sublime life of the saint was known even beyond the confines of the monastery. Both Christians and pagans knew him. Seafarers in time of peril called out for help to “the God of Theodosius.” happened that at the mere mention of Saint Theodosius, the waves of the sea were calmed. feared and respected him, and sought his prayers. the praise of people, the saint settled near the village of Maraton, founding here the Maratonia monastery. There the great ascetic peacefully finished the days of his God-pleasing life (412).

Syria, 350-390, Simeon tAncient, oSinai iArab Lands, Arab Syrian Deserts, extreme ascetic child, 2Monasteries Aman, wonderworker
Arabs, 350-390, 4th C, Simeon tAncient oSinai / Mt Horeb in Median, Land of the Arabs. the elder not the stylite, 5th Century Ascetic iSyria, lived cave Syrian wilderness as child, complete solitude, Unceasing prayer, meditation, and contemplation of God were his constant occupation, ate only grass about his cave, to preserve silence left cave when people came, tMts oAman Range, but many visitors, tMt Sinai where Moses received revelation, short stay by divine province, returned Aman, founded 2Monasteries, one on top, other at base Mt Aman, guided monks, warned wiles otEnemy, taught struggle temptations, encouraged ascetic deeds, rousing salvation thoughts, Simeon received wonderworking gift, departed 390 ; Mt Sinai / Horeb up from the Desert of Sin and Jethro's home in Midian (not Mt Sinai in Egypt); St Simeon “the Ancientâ€ of Mt. Sinai, Commemorated on January 26 ; Simeon the Elder was so named in order to distinguish him from Saint Simeon the Stylite (September 1). practiced asceticism in Syria in the fifth century, in his childhood years went out into the Syrian wilderness and lived in a cave in complete solitude. prayer, meditation, and contemplation of God were his constant occupation. ascetic ate only the grass which grew about his cave. people began to come to him to receive guidance, he wished to preserve his silence, he left his cave and settled on one of the mountains of the Aman range. here also his solitude was disturbed by many visitors. Simeon withdrew to Mount Sinai, formerly the Prophet Moses (September 4) received a revelation from God. divine Providence, the holy ascetic returned to Aman after a short stay on Sinai founded two monasteries: one at the top of the mountain, the other at its base. head of these monasteries, Saint Simeon guided the monks, them about the wiles of the Enemy of mankind, and he taught them how to struggle against temptations. inspired and encouraged them in ascetic deeds, rousing them to think of their salvation. of the holiness of his life Saint Simeon received from God the gift of wonderworking. the many labors of his ascetic life, Saint Simeon departed to God around the year 390.

Syria, 350-400, Palladius tHermit, oBlack Mountains Desert, Wonderworker, Writer, Raised dead man to name his murderers
Syria, 350-400, Palladius tHermit, oBlack Mountains or Wonderful Mountain West, near Antioch, Wonderworker, Writer, Raised the dead man to name his murderers, Levitation, desert dweller, ascetic, mountain cave near Syrian Antioch, accused of murdering merchant near his cave, raised him to name murders, died end of 4th C, left several edifyiing works; Black Mountains or Wonderful Mountain, East or West, near Antioch; Venerable Palladius the Hermit, of Antioch, Commemorated on January 28; Palladius the Desert Dweller led an ascetical life in a certain mountain cave near Syrian Antioch. of his struggles, he received from the Lord a gift of wonderworking. a merchant was found murdered by robbers near his cave. People accused Saint Palladius of the murder, through the prayer of the saint, the dead man rose up and named his murderers. saint died at the end of the fourth century, leaving behind several edifying works.

Syria, 350-410, Eusebius tHermit oSyria, extreme ascetic, open sky, heat and cold, skins, pea&bean pods, 15 figs for 40day fast
Syria, 350-410, Eusebius tHermit oSyria, Greater Syria (The Fertile Crescent, a country without a nation), lived iAsceticism on Mt near Asicha, Syria, open sly, summer heat, winter cold, skins fClothing, pea and bean pods fFood, only 15 figs during 40 day great fast, people flocked so he went nearby monestery, built small enclosure at monastery walls, lived there until death, died at 90 after 400; Greater Syria (The Fertile Crescent); Venerable Eusebius the Hermit of Syria, Commemorated on February 15; Eusebius the Hermit lived in the fourth century lived in asceticism on a mountain near the village of Asicha in Syria. led a very strict life under the open sky, patiently enduring the summer heat and winter cold. wore skins for clothing, and nourished himself on the pods of peas and beans. he was elderly and infirm, he ate only fifteen figs during the Great Forty day Fast. many people began to flock to Saint Eusebius, went to a nearby monastery, built a small enclosure at the monastery walls and lived in it until his death. Eusebius died at the age of ninety, sometime after the year 400.

Syria, 357-381, Meletius of Antioch, Syrian Saint, Raised Chrysostom, 3 Exiles, Orthodox
Syria, 357-381, Syrian Saint, Meletius of Antioch; St. Meletius the Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on February 12; Syrian Saint, 367-407, St John Chrysostom ; St John Chrysostom the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated on November 13;

Syria, 357-381, Meletius oAntioch, Syria, lightning like fire surrounded him after he raised three fingers, withdrawing two
Syria, 357-381, Meletius of Antioch, Syria, lightning like fire surrounded him after he raised three fingers, withdrawing two, explaining three hypostaties and one nature,381 led 2nd EC and passed away there, 357 Bishop oSebaste, Armenia, summoned to Antioch bConstantius tCombat Arians, C then became Arian, and deposed M twice, M extraordinary gentle, led by example, virtue&kind disposition, so true teaching would sprout, M ordained Basil tGreat, baptized John Chrysostom, Julian tApostate expelled M, 363 Jovian and M wrote his "Exposition oFaith" treatise, it converted many Arians, 381 Theodosius convened 2nd EC aConstantinople, presided by M, before it began m explained 3 hypostases and 1 nature with his fingers, and lightening fire, M died during the council, Gregory oNyssa eulogy, M's treatises on consubstantiality of Jesus with his father, letter tJovian about Trinity, Relics tansferred to Antioch; Syria, 357-381, Syrian Saint, Meletius of Antioch; St. Meletius the Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on February 12; Meletius, Archbishop of Antioch, Bishop of Sebaste in Armenia (ca. 357), afterwards he was summoned to Antioch by the emperor Constantius to help combat the Arian heresy, and was appointed to that See. Meletius struggled zealously against the Arian error, through the intrigues of the heretics he was thrice deposed from his cathedra by the Emperor Constantius had become surrounded by the Arians and had accepted their position. all this Saint Meletius was distinguished by an extraordinary gentleness, he constantly led his flock by the example of his own virtue and kindly disposition, that the seeds of the true teaching sprout more readily on such soil. Meletius was the one who ordained the future hierarch Saint Basil the Great as deacon. Meletius also baptized and encouraged another of the greatest luminaries of Orthodoxy, Saint John Chrysostom, later eulogized his former archpastor. Constantius, the throne was occupied by Julian the Apostate, the saint again was expelled, to hide himself in secret places for his safety. under the emperor Jovian in the year 363, Saint Meletius wrote his theological treatise, “Exposition of the Faith,” which facilitated the conversion of many of the Arians to Orthodoxy. the year 381, under the emperor Theodosius the Great (379-395), the Second Ecumenical Council was convened. the year 380 the saint had set off on his way to the Second Ecumenical Council at Constantinople, came to preside over it. the start of the Council, Saint Meletius raised his hand displaying three fingers, then withdrawing two fingers and leaving one extended he blessed the people, proclaiming: “We understand three hypostases, and we speak about a single nature.” this declaration, fire surrounded the saint like lightning. the Council Saint Meletius fell asleep in the Lord. Gregory of Nyssa honored the memory of the deceased with a eulogy. Meletius has left treatises on the consubstantiality of the Son of God with the Father, a letter to the emperor Jovian concerning the Holy Trinity. relics of Saint Meletius were transferred from Constantinople to Antioch.

Syria, 358-405, Zeno tHermit oAntioch, fPontus, Basil tGreat's disciple, also rich, served Emperor, then 40 yr Antioch Cave
Armenia, 358-405, Zeno tHermit oAntioch, fPontus (Eupatoria, a crossroads, Isis and Kelkit Rivers), Basil tGreat's disciple, fRich family, served Emperor Valens, delivered imperial edicts, left world tAntioch cave upon V's death, 40 yrs there sloitude cleansing soul, church each Sunday, no bed fireplace or lamp, old rags, bread&water, tedious tWell in city, borrowed holy books fSpiritual counciled, filled wSpiritual Grace but considered self poor in Spirit, died beginning 5th C; Eupatoria (Pontus); Venerable Zeno the Hermit of Antioch the Disciple of St Basil the Great, Commemorated January 30 ; Zeno, the disciple of Saint Basil the Great, born in the city of Pontus into a rich family. served at the court of the emperor Valens (364-378), among the soldiers who were sent out to deliver the imperial edicts. the death of Valens, Saint Zeno left the world and settled in a cave near the city of Antioch. forty years he lived in this cave, and he lived an austere life in complete solitude, cleansing his soul, and meditating on God. Zeno went to church each Sunday and received the Holy Mysteries of Christ. his cell he had neither bed, nor fireplace, nor lamp. The ascetic wore old rags, and ate only bread and water, for which he had to make a tedious journey into the city to the well. Zeno was particularly fond of holy books, which he borrowed from those who came to him for spiritual counsel. his deep humility the blessed ascetic, filled with the gifts of grace, considered himself poor in spirit. Zeno died at the beginning of the fifth century.

Syria, 360-378, Titus of Bostra, Bishop, theologian, anti manichaean works, literal exegesis
Syrian Saint, 360-378, Saint and Bishop Titus of Bostra; of Bostra (died c. 378[1]) was a Christian theologian and bishop. Sozomen[2] names Titus among the great men of the time of Constantius. also tells[3] of a mean trick played upon Titus by Julian the Apostate. It was expected that the reestablishment of paganism would cause riots, as it had elsewhere. Julian wrote to Titus, as bishop of Bostra (now Bosra) that he would hold him and the clergy responsible for any disorder. Titus replied that though the Christians were equal in number to the pagans they would obey him and keep quiet. Julian then wrote to the Bostrians urging them to expel Titus because he had calumniated them by attributing their quiet conduct not to their own good dispositions but to his influence. Titus remained bishop at Bostra until c. 371.[4] to Socrates[5] Titus was one of the bishops who signed the Synodal Letter, addressed to Jovian by the Council of Antioch (363), in which the Nicene Creed was accepted, though with a clause "intended somewhat to weaken and semiarianize the expression homoousios".[6] Jerome[7] names Titus among writers whose secular erudition is as marvellous as their knowledge of Scripture; in his De Viris Illustribus, cii, he speaks of his "mighty" (fortes) books against the Manichaean and nonnulla alia. He places his death under Valens. the nonnulla alia only fragments of exegetical writings have survived. These show that Titus followed the Antiochene School of Scripture exegesis in keeping to the literal as opposed to the allegorical interpretation. Contra Manichæos is the most important work of the kind that has come down to us; it is extremely valuable because of the number of quotations it contains from Manichaean writers. The work consists of four books of which the fourth and the greater part of the third are only extant in a Syriac translation. The Greek and Syriac texts of the Contra Manichæos were published by Paul de Lagarde (Berlin, 1859). Earlier editions of the Greek text suffer from an insertion from a work of Serapion owing to the misplacement of a leaf in the original codex. The latest edition by Paul-Huber Poirier of the extant Greek text and the more extensive Syriac translation appeared 2013 (Corpus Christianorum Series Graeca 82).[8] In 2015 a French translation of the texts in this edition appeared in the Corpus Christianorum in Translation-series.[9] one passage Titus seems to favour Origen's view that the pains of the damned are not eternal.[10] Commentary on the Gospel of St. Luke is attributed to Titus, which survives in excerpts principally in catenae. For this, and other writings attributed to Titus see Migne and Gallandi. The genuine exegetical fragments of this commentary were published by Sickenberger.[11] Venerable James the Solitary of Syria, Commemorated on November 26; St Metrophanes the first Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on June 4 ;

Syria, 360-390, Mausimas tSyrian,fCyrrhus, voluntarily embraced poverty, gave bread & oil to anyon who came, vessels never empty
Syria, 360-390, Mausimas tSyrian, lived at Cyrrhus, Syria (Afrin River 1), voluntarily embraced poverty, gave bread & oil to anyon who came, vessels never empty; Cyrrhus; Venerable Mausimas the Syrian, Commemorated January 23 ; Mausimas the Syrian lived in Syria, near the city of Cyrrhus. voluntarily embraced poverty and devoted his life to the service of his neighbor. doors of his hut were always open to anyone who had need of him. his hut there were two vessels: one with bread, and the other with oil. in need came to him and received the food from his hand. vessels never became empty. saint died at the end of the fourth century.

Syria, 360-400, Salamanes tSilent, honored by Orthodox Church first saint complete silence maintained until death
Syria, 360-400, Salamanes tSilent, honored by Orthodox Church first saint complete silence maintained until death, fKapersana on west bank Euphrates River 9. iSyria or Mesopotamia, loved solitary life, towns bishop wanted him for Priest, Archpastor ordered him dismantel part wall for his entry, spoke about priesthood grace, but S quiet, bishop departed with order to rebuild wall, S content wSilence, prayer, Word study, thus comforted bGod, led souls tChrist, both hometown people&P across the river wanted him&moved him, S did not complain or agree, still silent, dead to this world, seeking obey God's will, praying for himself&Other servants oGod, so he could say like Paul, no longer I who live but Christ in me, so I live by faith in Son oGod, who loved me and died for me, still silent, speaking only to God; Kapersana (Euphrates River 9) Venerable Salamanes the Silent of the Euphrates, Commemorated January 23 ; Salamanēs (Σαλαμάνης) was from the town of Kapersana (Καπερσανά) in Syria, on the west bank of the Euphrates River. he loved the solitary life, he followed the path of monasticism, building his cell near the Euphrates River. Bishop of the town, who was informed of the virtue of the venerable one, to see him in order to ordain him to the priesthood. at the Saint's cell, the Archpastor ordered him to dismantle part of the wall so that he might enter. Bishop spoke to him about the grace of the priesthood, during the time he was in the cell, the Hierarch did not hear a single word from the Saint. he departed, after ordering him to rebuild the wall. Salamanēs was content with his silence, prayer, and study of the Word of God. comforted by God, he led people's souls to Christ. the Synaxarion it is said that people from the place where Saint Salamanēs was born went to his cell because they wanted him to live near them. did not protest their actions, nor agree to them, but maintained his silence. they picked him up and brought him to their town, they built a cell similar to the other one and enclosed him within. Saint also remained in this cell in silence and prayer. few days later, some people went there by night from a town on other side of the river, took the Saint and brought him to their town. did not object when they took him away, neither opposing nor agreeing to it. the inhabitants of the village on the other side of the river came at night to his new dwelling heard him say this prayer: "O Lord Jesus Christ, have mercy on me and all the servants of Thy name, and those who worship Thee, our true God." Salamanēs was dead to this world, seeking only to obey the will of God. he could say with Saint Paul: "It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me, and the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself up for me" (Galatians 2:20). ascetic did not interrupt his feat of silence, speaking only to God. Orthodox Church honors him as the first Saint to embrace complete silence, he maintained until his death († ca. 400).

Syria, 361-420, Theodore of Antioch, tortured at 15 for transfering relics, angel relieved suffering, lived to 80
Constantinople, 361-420, Theodore of Antioch, tortured at 15 for transfering relics, angel relieved suffering, lived to 80; Antioch (Orontes River 7); Martyr Theodore of Antioch, Commemorated on November 23 ; Holy Martyr Theodore of Antioch, a fifteen-year-old youth, was condemned to fierce torments by the emperor Julian the Apostate (361-363). Because he was responsible for the translation of the relics of Saint Babylas (September 4) from Daphne to Antioch, he was arrested and tortured. The executioners were dismayed that the saint could rejoice during the torture, and didn’t seem to feel any pain. They reported this miracle to the emperor, and he gave orders to release the saint. Theodore later said that when they were tormenting him, an angel appeared and relieved his suffering. When the angel left after the torture, the saint began to feel the pain. The holy Martyr Theodore lived to old age and peacefully fell asleep in the Lord.

Syria, 361, Theodoritus of Antioch, sacred vessel keeper, Golder Chapel, predicted both Julian's deaths
Syria, 361, Theodoritus of Antioch, Syria (Orontes River 7), sacred vessel keeper, Constantine's Golder Chapel, apostate Julian closed churches, valuables to treasurery, Theodoritus tortured and predicted both Julian's death ; Antioch (Orontes River 7); Hieromartyr Theodoritus of Antioch, Commemorated on March 8; Theodoritus was a presbyter and keeper of sacred vessels at the cathedral church in Antioch. This church was built and richly adorned by the emperor Saint Constantine the Great (May 21) and his son Constantius, and the people called it “the Golden church.” Having occupied the throne after the death of the emperor Constantius (337-361), Julian the Apostate (361-363) decided to restore paganism throughout the Roman Empire. emperor appointed his uncle, also named Julian, as prefect of Antioch. He ordered him to close the Christian churches, and to send the valuables within them to the imperial treasury. Wanting to please the emperor, the prefect, also an apostate from Christianity, set about his impious task with zeal. at Antioch with the dignitary Felix, he gave orders to lock up the priest Theodoritus under guard, and he began his plundering, defiling the altar and the holy altar table. One of those present, Euzoios, tried to admonish him for his impiety, and for this he was killed. Julian accused Theodoritus of hiding the church valuables, but the venerable keeper of vessels denied the accusation and openly denounced Julian for his apostasy. beastly tortures, the holy martyr maintained his faith in Christ the Savior, and predicted a speedy death for Julian and the emperor for their sacrilege. soldiers torturing the faithful presbyter were struck by his firmness and endurance, and by the power of the Word of God. They were converted to Christ, for which they were drowned in the sea. holy confessor was beheaded. The mockery and sacrilege of the pagans did not go unpunished, and the predictions of Saint Theodoritus were soon fulfilled. The prefect Julian died in agony from a grievous illness, and the emperor Julian perished in a campaign against the Persians.

Syria, 361-363, Eugene tPresbyter oAntioch, wMacarius, refused orgies, tortured, exiled, prayer lightning killed Giant Snake
Syria, 361-363, Eugene tPresbyter&Confessor oAntioch, Syria (Orontes River 7), with presbyter Macarius, tortured by Julian tApostate, refused pagan orgies, fierce tortures, prayer and spiritual rejoicing, exile aOasim, Arabian Desert, on hill, giant snake there, in a cave, warned by local people, asked point him out, prayer brought lightning to hit cave and kill snake, they then lived in the cave, They prayed to die together, they did in 363.; Antioch (Orontes River 7); St Eugene the Presbyter and Confessor at Antioch, Commemorated February 19 ; Holy Confessors Eugene and Macarius were presbyters of the Antiochian Church. the reign of Julian the Apostate (361-363) they were brought to the emperor for trial for their refusal to participate in pagan orgies. presbyters boldly denounced him for his apostasy and they were given over to fierce tortures, which they underwent with prayer and spiritual rejoicing. the tortures, they sent them off to exile at Oasim, an oasis in the Arabian desert, they intended to settle there upon a hill. local people warned the saints that they should immediately abandon the place, since an enormous snake lived there. holy martyrs asked them to point out this place, and through their prayer a lightning bolt struck the cave, reducing the monster to ashes. Eugene and Macarius began to live in this cave. The confessors prayed that they might die together. Lord heard their prayer, and they died in 363 at the same time.

Syria, 363-423, Maron, Hermit oSyria, Prayer, vigil, ascetical works, strict fasting, Healing&Deliverance, many monasteries
Syria, 363-423, Maron, Hermit oSyria, fCyrrhus, Syria (Afrin River 1), time spend open sky iPrayer, vigil, ascetical works, strict fasting, obtaine fGod gift oHealing and deliverance, counciled, be temperate, salvation concern, guard against avarice (extreme greed for wealth) and anger, advanced age, Chrysostom's friend, his disciples, James tHermit, Limnius, Domnina, founded many monasteries near Cyrrhus, near Antioch converted pagan temple to church; Cyrrhus; Venerable Maron the Hermit of Syria, Commemorated February 14 ; Maron was born in the fourth century near the city of Cyrrhus in Syria. spent almost all his time beneath the open sky in prayer, vigil, ascetical works and strict fasting. obtained from God the gift of healing the sick and casting out demons. counselled those who turned to him for advice be temperate, to be concerned for their salvation, and to guard against avarice and anger. Maron, a friend of Saint John Chrysostom, died before 423 at an advanced age. of Saint Maron’s disciples were James the Hermit (November 26), Limnius (February 23), and Domnina (March 1). Maron founded many monasteries around Cyrrhus, converted a pagan temple near Antioch into a Christian church.

Syria, 367-407, John Chrysostom, Syrian Saint, Preacher and Public Speaker, Archbishop of C
Syrian Saint, 367-407, St John Chrysostom ; St John Chrysostom the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated on November 13; John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople, one of the Three Hierarchs [January 30], was born at Antioch in about the year 347 into the family of a military commander. father, Secundus, died soon after the birth of his son. mother, Anthusa, widowed at twenty years of age, did not seek to remarry but rather devoted all her efforts to the raising of her son in Christian piety. youth studied under the finest philosophers and rhetoricians. scorning the vain disciplines of pagan knowledge, the future hierarch turned himself to the profound study of Holy Scripture and prayerful contemplation. Meletius, Bishop of Antioch (February 12), loved John like a son, guided him in the Faith, and in the year 367 baptized him. three years John was tonsured as a Reader. When Saint Meletius had been sent into exile by the emperor Valens in the year 372, John and Theodore (afterwards Bishop of Mopsuestia) studied under the experienced instructors of ascetic life, the presbyters Flavian and Diodorus of Tarsus. highly refined Diodorus had particular influence upon the youth. John’s mother died, he embraced monasticism, which he called the “true philosophy.” John and his friend Basil were being considered as candidates for the episcopal office, and they decided to withdraw into the wilderness to avoid this. While Saint John avoided the episcopal rank out of humility, he secretly assisted in Basil’s consecration. this period Saint John wrote his “Six Discourses on the Priesthood,” a great work of Orthodox pastoral theology. saint spent four years struggling in the wilderness, living the ascetic life under the guidance of an experienced spiritual guide. here he wrote three books entitled, “Against the Opponents of Those Attracted to the Monastic Life”, and a collection entitled, “A Comparison of the Monk with the Emperor” (also known as “Comparison of Imperial Power, Wealth and Eminence, with the True and Christian Wisdom-Loving Monastic Life”), both works which are marked by a profound reflection of the worthiness of the monastic vocation. two years, the saint lived in a cave in complete silence, but was obliged to return to Antioch to recover his health. Meletius, the Bishop of Antioch, ordained him deacon in the year 381. following years were devoted to work on new theological writings: “Concerning Providence” (“To the Ascetic Stagirios”), “Book Concerning Virginity,” “To a Young Widow” (2 discourses), and the “Book of Saint Babylos, and Against Julian and the Pagans.” the year 386 Saint John was ordained presbyter by Bishop Flavian of Antioch. John was a splendid preacher, and his inspired words earned him the name “Golden-Mouthed” (“Chrysostom”). twelve years the saint preached in church, usually twice a week, but sometimes daily, deeply stirring the hearts of his listeners. his pastoral zeal to provide Christians with a better understanding of Holy Scripture, Saint John employed hermeneutics, an interpretation and analysis of the Word of God (i.e. exegesis). Among his exegetical works are commentaries on entire books of the Holy Scripture (Genesis, the Psalter, the Gospels of Matthew and John, the Epistles of the Apostle Paul), and also many homilies on individual texts of the Holy Bible, but also instructions on the Feastdays, laudations on the Saints, and also apologetic (i.e. defensive) homilies (against Anomoeans, Judaizers and pagans). a priest, Saint John zealously fulfilled the Lord’s command to care for the needy. Under Saint John, the Antiochian Church provided sustenance each day to as many as 3,000 virgins and widows, not including in this number the shut-ins, wanderers and the sick. John began his commentary on Genesis at the beginning of Great Lent in 388, preaching thirty-two homilies during the forty day period. During Holy Week he spoke of how Christ was betrayed, and about the Cross. During Bright Week, his pastoral discourse was devoted to the Resurrection. His exegesis of the Book of Genesis was concluded only at the end of October (388). Pascha in the following year (389) the saint began his homilies on the Gospel of John, and toward the end of the year 389 he took up the Gospel of Matthew. the year 391 the Christians of Antioch listened to his commentary on the Epistles of the holy Apostle Paul to the Romans and to the Corinthians. 393 he explained the Epistles to the Galatians, the Ephesians, Timothy, Titus, and the Psalms. In his homily on the Epistle to the Ephesians, Saint John denounced a schism in Antioch, “I tell you and I witness before you, that to tear asunder the Church means nothing less than to fall into heresy. The Church is the house of the heavenly Father, one Body and one Spirit.” fame of the holy preacher grew, and in the year 397 with the death of Archbishop Nectarius of Constantinople, successor to Saint Gregory the Theologian, Saint John Chrysostom was summoned from Antioch, and elected to the See of Constantinople. the capital, the holy archpastor was not able to preach as often as he had at Antioch. Many matters awaited the saint’s attention, and he began with the most important -- the spiritual perfection of the priesthood. He himself was the best example of this. The financial means apportioned for the archbishop were channeled by the saint into the upkeep of several hospices for the sick and two hostels for pilgrims. He fasted strictly and ate very little food, and usually refused invitations to dine because of his delicate stomach. saint’s zeal in spreading the Christian Faith extended not only to the inhabitants of Constantinople, but also to Thrace to include Slavs and Goths, and to Asia Minor and the Pontine region. established a bishop for the Bosphorus Church in the Crimea. John sent off zealous missionaries to Phoenicia, to Persia, and to the Scythians, to convert pagans to Christ. also wrote letters to Syria to bring back the Marcionites into the Church, and he accomplished this. Preserving the unity of the Church, the saint would not permit a powerful Gothic military commander, who wanted the emperor to reward his bravery in battle, to open an Arian church at Constantinople. saint exerted much effort in enhancing the splendor of the church services: he compiled a Liturgy, he introduced antiphonal singing for the all-night Vigil, and he wrote several prayers for the rite of anointing the sick with oil. saintly hierarch denounced the dissolute morals of people in the capital, especially at the imperial court, irrespective of person. When the empress Eudoxia connived to confiscate the last properties of the widow and children of a disgraced dignitary, the saint rose to their defense. The arrogant empress would not relent, and nursed a grudge against the archpastor. ’s hatred of the saint blazed forth anew when malefactors told her that the saint apparently had her in mind during his sermon on vain women. A court was convened composed of hierarchs who had been justly condemned by Chrysostom: Theophilus of Alexandria, Bishop Severian of Gabala, who had been banished from the capital because of improprieties, and others. court of judgment declared Saint John deposed, and that he be executed for his insult to the empress. The emperor decided on exile instead of execution. An angry crowd gathered at the church, resolved to defend their pastor. In order to avoid a riot, Saint John submitted to the authorities. very night there was an earthquake at Constantinople. The terrified Eudoxia urgently requested the emperor to bring the saint back, and promptly sent a letter to the banished pastor, beseeching him to return. Once more, in the capital church, the saint praised the Lord in a short talk, “For All His Ways.” slanderers fled to Alexandria. But after only two months a new denunciation provoked the wrath of Eudoxia. In March 404, an unjust council was convened, decreeing the exile of Saint John. Upon his removal from the capital, a fire reduced the church of Hagia Sophia and also the Senate building to ashes. Devastating barbarian incursions soon followed, and Eudoxia died in October 404. Even pagans regarded these events as God’s punishment for the unjust judgment against the saint. Armenia, the saint strove all the more to encourage his spiritual children. In numerous letters (245 are preserved) to bishops in Asia, Africa, Europe and particularly to his friends in Constantinople, Saint John consoled the suffering, guiding and giving support to his followers. In the winter of 406 Saint John was confined to his bed with sickness, but his enemies were not to be appeased. From the capital came orders to transfer Saint John to desolate Pityus in Abkhazia on the Black Sea. Worn out by sickness, the saint began his final journey under military escort, traveling for three months in the rain and frost. He never arrived at his place of exile, for his strength failed him at Comana. the crypt of Saint Basiliscus (May 22), Saint John was comforted by a vision of the martyr, who said, “Despair not, brother John! Tomorrow we shall be together.” After receiving the Holy Mysteries, the hierarch fell asleep in the Lord on September 14, 407. His last words were, “Glory to God for all things!” holy relics of Saint John Chrysostom were solemnly transferred to Constantinople in the year 438. The disciple of Saint John, the venerable Isidore of Pelusium (February 4), wrote: “The house of David is grown strong, and the house of Saul enfeebled. He is victor over the storms of life, and has entered into heavenly repose.” he died on September 14, Saint John’s celebration was transferred to this day because of the Feast of the Elevation of the Holy Cross. Saint John Chrysostom is also celebrated on January 27 and January 30. St Proclus the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated on November 20 ; Venerable James the Solitary of Syria, Commemorated on November 26;

Syria, 370, Aphraates fPersia, tEdessa&Antioch, disavvowed illustrious lineage, attracted many to his holy life, preached
Armenia, 370, Aphraates fPersia, tEdessa&Antioch, disavvowed illustrious lineage, attracted many to his holy life, preached word of God to them, died 370; Edessa, Syria; St Aphraates of Persia, Commemorated on January 29 ; Aphraates, a Persian who came to believe in Christ, disavowed his illustrious lineage and left his pagan countrymen by going to Edessa, and then to Antioch. attracted many by his holy life, and preached the Word of God to them. He died in the year 370.

Syria, 370-420, Macedonius tHermit, began ascetic wanderer, 45yrs deep uncovered pit, crowds fSpiritual advise, only barley&watr
Syria, 370-420, Macedonius tHermit oSyria, fNear Cyrrhus (a small town near Antioch), Syria (Orontes River 7), began ascetic life as wanderer, Phoenecia, Cilicia, Syria, then 45 yrs in deep wilderness pit, open sky no roof, shunning human glory (fool for christ), called pit (Gouvas), crowds visited, spiritual advise, ate only barley&water, called barley eater, old age moved to cell & ate baked bread, lived advance age 70; Antioch (Orontes River 7); Saint Macedonius the Hermit of Syria, Commemorated on January 24; Macedonius, a Syrian hermit, lived during the end of the fourth century and the beginning of the fifth. he first embarked upon the path of asceticism, he led the life of a wanderer, roaming through the cities of Phoenicia, Cilicia, and Syria. he spent forty-five years in the wilderness, in a deep pit, living under the open sky with no roof over his head, shunning human glory. he was called "Gouvas," which means "pit" in Syrian. of people visited him, seeking spiritual help and guidance. in his old age did he accede to the requests of those who begged him to live in a narrow cell they built for him. his life Saint Macedonius ate just barley and water. Therefore, he was called “Krithophagos" (Κριθοφάγος), or "Barley-Eater." as he felt his strength fading did he agree to eat baked bread. of his ascetical life, God granted him the power to cast out demons, and to heal the sick. also healed the mother of the historian Theodoret of Cyrrhus (a small town near Antioch), who had been barren for a long time before she conceived. labor, however, something went wrong, and she feared that she would lose the child. Saint traced the Sign of the Cross in a vessel of water with his fingers, and told her to drink it. The child was born without any further difficulty. Macedonius performed many other miracles. lived to an advanced age and reposed in peace around the year 420, after reaching his seventieth year.

Syria, 372-422, Maruthas, Bishop oMartyropolis, tPersian Shah twice, persuaded favorable Christian disposition, much more
Mesopotamia, 372-422, Maruthas, Bishop oMartyropolis, Syria, Mesopotamia, and Armenia (Tigris River 2), Bishop oTagrith (Martyropolis), city he founded, between Byzantine Empire and Persia, knowledge&piety fame, wrote about martyrs, suffered under Sapor, Syrian Language Commentary otGospel, Verses oMaruthas, 73 Cannons ot 325 EC at Nicea, Acts otCouncil, 381 2nd EC participant aConstantinople, against Macedonius, 383 attended Council oAntioch against Messalians, 403-404 off to Constantinople, plead Arcadius protect Persian Christians, two times sent by Theodosius tYounger to Shah in Izdegerd to secure peace, 414 persuaded Shah favorable disposition tChristians, for freedom Christians iPersia, located Persian saints relics, transferred them tMartyropolis, rebuilt Churches razed by Sapor, died iPersia 422, relics trans tEgypt, skete Monastery otMOG; Martyropolis; St Maruthas the Bishop of Martyropolis in Mesopotamia, Commemorated on February 16; Maruthas was Bishop of Tagrith (Martyropolis), city which he founded between the Byzantine Empire and Persia. was famed for his knowledge and his piety, wrote about the martyrs, he suffered for his faith in Christ under the Persian emperor Sapor. also left behind other works in the Syrian language, which the most famous are: “Commentary on the Gospel,” “Verses of Maruthas,” “Liturgy of Maruthas” “The 73 Canons of the Ecumenical Council at Nicea” (325) with an account of the acts of the Council. the year 381 Saint Maruthas participated in the Second Ecumenical Council at Constantinople, against the heresy of Macedonius. 383, he attended the Council of Antioch against the Messalians. the years 403-404 Saint Maruthas set off to Constantinople plead with the emperor Arcadius to protect Persian Christians. was twice sent by the emperor Theodosius the Younger to the Shah Izdegerd to secure the peace between the Empire and Persia. the year 414 Saint Maruthas, having done his duty as envoy to the court of Izdegerd, the Shah to a favorable disposition towards Christians, and he assisted greatly in the freedom of Christians in Persia. rebuilt Christian churches razed during the persecution by the Persian ruler Sapor. also located relics of saints who had suffered martyrdom and transferred them to Martyropolis. died there in 422. relics of Saint Maruthas were later transferred to Egypt placed in a skete monastery of the Mother of God.

Syria, 375, Hieromartyr Marcellus the Bishop of Apamea, permission to destroy Temple, Lesser Blessing of Water, temple destroyed
Syria, 375, Hieromartyr Marcellus the Bishop of Apamea, Syria (Orontes River 5), permission to destroy Temple, temporary wood woould not burn, Lesser Blessing of Water, wood burned, caught destroying another temple, thrown into fire; Apamea, Syria; Hieromartyr Marcellus the Bishop of Apamea, Commemorated August 14 ; Hieromartyr Marcellus, Bishop of Apamea, was born of illustrious parents on the island of Cyprus. received a fine education, he occupied a high civil office. marveled at his purity of life, mildness, kindness and eloquence. the year 375, the saint left his wife and children, and devoted himself to a monastic life in Syria. people of Apamea, having him come to the city on some practical matter, elected him as bishop. the account of Theodoret of Cyrrhus we learn that Saint Marcellus received permission from the emperor Saint Theodosius the Great (379-395) to destroy a strongly built temple of Jupiter at Apamea, the saint didn’t know how to accomplish this. certain worker promised to help him. He undermined three of the huge columns, propping them up temporarily with olive wood. he tried to set them afire, but the wood would not burn. Saint Marcellus learned of this, he performed the Lesser Blessing of Water, he commanded that this water be faithfully sprinkled around the wood. this, the wood burned quickly, the columns fell down and the whole pagan temple collapsed in upon itself. soldiers near Aulona in the Apamea district demolished another pagan temple, the saint, watching from a distance, was seized by pagans and thrown into a fire. killers were found, and the saint’s sons wanted to take revenge. local Council forbade them to do this, decreeing that it would be wrong to avenge such a death as the saint had received. Instead, they ought to give thanks to God.

Syria, 379-417, Ismaelite Saint Agabbas, silence, loin chains, always standing or kneeling, constant prayer, died in peace
Arabs, 379-417, Ismaelite Saint Agabbas of Syria, Saracens, Arabs, Land of the Saracens (Syrian Desert, Pre Islamic Arabia), inner prayer & silence, hermit 38 yrs, barefoot, loin chains, never sat or lay down, always standing or kneeling, constant prayer, died in peace; Saracens; Saint Agabbas of Syria, Commemorated on November 22; Agabbas was by birth an Ishmaelite (Arab) and pursued asceticism in Syria. was a novice under the Monk Eusebius, from whom he learned inner prayer and silence, he lived thirty-eight years as a hermit. saint always went barefoot, wore chains on his loins and never sat nor lay down. Agabbas spent both day and night standing or kneeling, constantly at prayer. finished his ascetic life in peace.

Syria, 379-440, Theodolous, Eparch oConstantinople, Stylite oEdessa, resigned position, gave wealth, ate once aWeek as Stylite
Armenia, 379-440, Theodolous, Eparch oConstantinople, Stylite oEdessa, Armenia (Intersection and Euphrates River 3), resigned position, gave wealth tPoor, became monk, ate once aWeek as Stylite; Edessa, Syria; St Theodoulus the Eparch of Constantinople, Commemorated December 3 ; Theodoulus was an eparch during the reign of Theodosius the Great. resigned his position because he did not want to be distracted by vain worldly cares. his wife’s death, Saint Theodoulus gave his wealth away to the poor and became a monk. traveled to Edessa and lived on top of a pillar for thirty years, eating only once a week. Theodoulus the Stylite departed to the Lord around 440.

Syria, 393-430, Mares tSinger, fNear Cyrrhus, lived iHut, ascetic 37yrs, rough food, goat skins, handsome, pleasant singng voice
Syria, 393-430, Mares tSinger, fNear Cyrrhus, Syria (Afrin River 1), lived in hut, fasting&prayer, 37yrs, rough food, wild goat skins, handsome, pleasant singing voice; Cyrrhus; St Mares the Singer in Syria, Commemorated January 25 ; Mares the Singer lived in a hut in fasting and prayer for thirty-seven years in the village of Homeron, not far from the city of Cyrrhus in Syria. ate rough food, and wore clothes made from the hide of wild goats. was handsome, and had a pleasant singing voice. Mares reposed in the year 430.

Syria, 400, 5th C Folder, Stylites iWell, 40dFast, clairvoyance&angels, Nestorian Theologian, abbess igumen, Forerunner's Head
Syria, 400, 5th C Folder, Simeon Stylites iWell, 40dFast, Marcellus oApamea clairvoyance&angels, Nestorian Theologian Theodoret oCyrrhus, Daniel tStylite oSamosata, Miraculous Romanos oCicilia Antioch cave, Matrona tConstantinople abbess igumen iHoms, Beiruit, Nestorian John oAntioch, ascetics syrian desert bread salt only, never sat down, shoulder heavy root, small box lentils, Forerunner Head Finding

Syria, 401-459, Saint, Simeon Stylites the Elder, lived in a well, angels, back, stone cave, 40 d s fast, first pillar
Syria, 400-459, Saint, Simeon Stylites the Elder (Queig (Aleppo) River 2); St Simeon Stylites, the Elder, Commemorated September 1 ; Simeon the Stylite was born in the Cappadocian village of Sisan of Christian parents, Sisotian and Martha. At thirteen years of age he began to tend his father’s flock of sheep. He devoted himself attentively and with love to this, his first obedience. after he heard the Beatitudes in church, he was struck by their profundity. Not trusting to his own immature judgment, he turned therefore with his questions to an experienced Elder. The Elder readily explained to the boy the meaning of what he had heard. The seed fell on good soil, and it strengthened his resolve to serve God. Simeon was eighteen, he received monastic tonsure and devoted himself to feats of the strictest abstinence and unceasing prayer. His zeal, beyond the strength of the other monastic brethren, so alarmed the igumen that he told Simeon that to either moderate his ascetic deeds or leave the monastery. Simeon then withdrew from the monastery and lived in an empty well in the nearby mountains, where he was able to carry out his austere struggles unhindered. After some time, angels appeared in a dream to the igumen, who commanded him to bring back Simeon to the monastery. monk, however, did not long remain at the monastery. After a short while he settled into a stony cave, situated not far from the village of Galanissa, and he dwelt there for three years, all the while perfecting himself in monastic feats. Once, he decided to spend the entire forty days of Great Lent without food or drink. With the help of God, the monk endured this strict fast. From that time he abstained from food completely during the entire period of the Great Lent, even from bread and water. For twenty days he prayed while standing, and for twenty days while sitting, so as not to permit the corporeal powers to relax. whole crowd of people began to throng to the place of his efforts, wanting to receive healing from sickness and to hear a word of Christian edification. Shunning worldly glory and striving again to find his lost solitude, the monk chose a previously unknown mode of asceticism. He went up a pillar six to eight feet high, and settled upon it in a little cell, devoting himself to intense prayer and fasting. of Saint Simeon reached the highest church hierarchy and the imperial court. Patriarch Domninos II (441-448) of Antioch visited the monk, celebrated Divine Liturgy on the pillar and communed the ascetic with the Holy Mysteries. living in the desert heard about Saint Simeon, who had chosen a new and strange form of ascetic striving. Wanting to test the new ascetic and determine whether his extreme ascetic feats were pleasing to God, they sent messengers to him, who in the name of these desert fathers were to bid Saint Simeon to come down from the pillar. the case of disobedience they were to forcibly drag him to the ground. But if he was willing to submit, they were to leave him on his pillar. Saint Simeon displayed complete obedience and deep Christian humility. The monks told him to stay where he was, asking God to be his helper. Simeon endured many temptations, and he invariably gained the victory over them. He relied not on his own weak powers, but on the Lord Himself, Who always came to help him. The monk gradually increased the height of the pillar on which he stood. His final pillar was 80 feet in height. Around him a double wall was raised, which hindered the unruly crowd of people from coming too close and disturbing his prayerful concentration. in general, were not permitted beyond the wall. The saint did not make an exception even for his own mother, who after long and unsuccessful searches finally succeeded in finding her lost son. He would not see her, saying, “If we are worthy, we shall see one another in the life to come.” Saint Martha submitted to this, remaining at the foot of the pillar in silence and prayer, where she finally died. Saint Simeon asked that her coffin be brought to him. He reverently bid farewell to his dead mother, and a joyful smile appeared on her face. Simeon spent 80 years in arduous monastic feats, 47 years of which he stood upon the pillar. Many pagans accepted Baptism, struck by the moral staunchness and bodily strength which the Lord bestowed upon His servant. first one to learn of the death of the saint was his close disciple Anthony. Concerned that his teacher had not appeared to the people for three days, he went up on the pillar and found the dead body stooped over at prayer. Patriarch Martyrius of Antioch performed the funeral before a huge throng of clergy and people. They buried him near his pillar. At the place of his ascetic deeds, Anthony established a monastery, upon which rested the special blessing of Saint Simeon. pray to Saint Simeon for the return to the Church of those who have forsaken Her, or have been separated from Her. Venerable Martha the Mother of St Simeon Stylites, Commemorated on September 1 ; Venerable James the Solitary of Syria, Commemorated on November 26; Hieromartyr Abibus, Bishop of Nekressi in Georgia, Commemorated on November 29; St Macarius the Stylite of Martkobsk, Georgia; Venerable Shio Mgvime;

Syria, 401-485, Marcellus, Apamea, Syria, monastic schema, spiritual talents, clairvoyance, angels encircling, igumen Unsleeping
Syria, 401-485, Marcellus, Apamea, Syria, monastic schema, spiritual talents, clairvoyance, angels encircling, igumen Unsleeping Ones Monastery, fApamea, wealthy parents died early, ed aAntioch&Ephesus, distributed tPoor, tUnsleeping M Constantinople & Alexander, monk, great spiritual talents incl clairvoyance, left before he knew A would die tAvoid igumen, returned aJohn named igumen, John's assistant, after J's death Igumen for 60 yrs, many people came rich&poor, many times angels encircling him, attending&guarding him, many monks came, built Church, hospital, &hostel fHomeless, treated sick, cast devils, worked miracles, example ill monk called out mentally fAnkara, M heard at once prayed monk healed at once, same for ship wMonks on Black Sea, fire raging aConstantinople he stopped from his monastery by prayer, another example, servant John unjustly accused hid at the monastery, his lord Ardaburios demanded him back, refused, sent detachment, soldiers surrounded m threatening kill anyone, brethern wanted to fold, Marcellus signed cross went out alone, lightning, thunder, & Cross appeared brighter than the sun, soldiers ran, Ardaburios pardoned servant, departed 485, 5days later appreared to disciple Lukian conforting him fortelling L's death; Apamea, Syria; Venerable Marcellus the Abbot of the Monastery of the "Unsleeping Ones", Commemorated December 29 ; Marcellus, igumen of the Monastery called “the Unsleeping Ones,” was a native of the city of Apamea in Syria. parents were wealthy, but died when he was young. received his education first at Antioch, and then at Ephesus. his possessions left him by his parents he distributed to the poor, thereby sundering his ties to the world. the guidance of an experienced elder at Ephesus, Marcellus entered upon the path of asceticism. later went on to Byzantium to Saint Alexander, igumen of the monastery named “the Unsleeping.” The monastery received its name because in it psalmody was done constantly, both day and night, by alternating groups of monks. Alexander accepted Marcellus and tonsured him into the monastic schema. in the works of watchfulness, fasting and prayer, the saint received great spiritual talents and the gift of clairvoyance. foresaw the day of Abba Alexander’s death and his own election as igumen. However, since he was still young, he did not want to rule others. So he slipped out of the monastery to visit other provinces and other monasteries, where he received edification from the monks who lived there. the death of Saint Alexander, when Abba John had already been chosen as igumen, Marcellus returned to the great joy of the brethren. Abba John made Marcellus his own closest assistant. After John’s death, Saint Marcellus was chosen igumen of the monastery in spite of his own wishes, and in this position he remained for sixty years. of his saintly life spread far. People came to Marcellus from afar, both the illustrious and the common, rich and the poor. times they saw angels encircling the saint, attending and guarding him. the help of God, the monastery of “the Unsleeping Ones” flourished. many monks came to place themselves under the direction of Saint Marcellus that it became necessary to enlarge the monastery and the church. Marcellus received donations from believers for expansion, and built a beautiful large church, a hospital, and a hostel for the homeless. his prayers the monk treated the sick, cast out devils and worked miracles. example, one of the monks was sent to Ankara and fell ill. near death, he called out mentally to his abba. that very hour Saint Marcellus heard his disciple in the monastery, and he began to pray for him. He who was sick recovered at once. a ship with his monks came into danger on the Black Sea, the saint calmed the tempest by his prayers. time, when they told him that a fire was raging at Constantinople, he prayed tearfully for the city, and the fire subsided as if extinguished by the tears of the monk. the servant of a certain Arian nobleman named Ardaburios, was unjustly accused of something, and he hid out at the monastery to escape his master’s wrath. twice demanded that Saint Marcellus hand John over to him, but he refused. then sent out a detachment of soldiers, who surrounded the monastery, threatening to slay anyone who interfered with their mission. brethren went to the abba, asking him to surrender John and save the monastery. Marcellus signed himself with the Sign of the Cross, then boldly went out alone through the monastery gate towards the soldiers. flashed in the sky, thunder rumbled, and the Cross appeared shining brighter than the sun. soldiers threw down their weapons and took to flight. Ardaburios, learning from the soldiers what had happened, was frightened, and because of Saint Marcellus he pardoned the servant. Marcellus peacefully departed to the Lord in the year 485. His faithful disciple Lukian grieved terribly over him, but on the fifth day after the death Saint Marcellus appeared to him and comforted him, foretelling his own impending end.

Syria, 413-466, Theologian, Theodoret of Cyrrhus, pro Nestorius, anti Cyril, writings condemned
Syria, 413-466, Theologian, Theodoret of Cyrrhus, Syria (Afrin River 1) ; of Cyrus or Cyrrhus (c. AD 393 - c. 458/466) was an influential theologian of the School of Antioch, biblical commentator, and Christian bishop of Cyrrhus (423–457). played a pivotal role in several 5th-century Byzantine Church controversies that led to various ecumenical acts and schisms. wrote against Cyril of Alexandria's 12 Anathemas which were sent to Nestorius and did not personally condemn Nestorius until the Council of Chalcedon. writings against Cyril were included in the Three Chapters Controversy and were condemned at the Second Council of Constantinople. Some Chalcedonian and East Syriac Christians regard him as a "full" saint.[a] Cyrrhus; Venerable Maximus the Greek, Commemorated on January 21;

Syria, 420-480, Daniel t Stylite, Samosata, Armenia (Euphrates River 3), Stylite Simeon visited, prophecy his S, Thrace w
Syria, 420-480, Daniel the Stylite, Samosata, Armenia (Euphrates River 3), mother dedicated him, after 5 yrs received name, left for manastery at 12, angelic garb, Stylite Simeon visited, prophecy his S, ascetic life, S place vision, Thrace wilderness, on p 33 yrs, healing, prayers for B Emperors, great fire prophecy, gracious words, 80 yrs; Samosata; Venerable Daniel the Stylite of Constantinople, Commemorated on December 11 ; Daniel the Stylite was born in the village of Bethara, near the city of Samosata in Mesopotamia. mother Martha was childless for a long while and in her prayers she vowed that if she had a child, she would dedicate him to the Lord. Her prayers were heard, and Martha soon gave birth to a son, who was without a name until he was five years of age. boy’s parents desired that since he was born through the good-will of God, he should also receive his name from God. took their son to a monastery located nearby and approached the igumen. The igumen gave orders to take down one of the service books, and unrolled it at random. He found the Prophet Daniel (December 17) mentioned in it. Thus did the boy receive his name. parents asked that he might remain at the monastery, but the igumen would not accept him, since he was still only a small boy. At twelve years of age, saying nothing to anyone, the child left home for the monastery. parents were happy when they learned where their son was, and they went to the monastery. Seeing that he was still going about in his worldly clothes, they besought that the igumen should clothe him in the angelic garb. That Sunday the igumen fulfilled their request, but permitted them often to visit their son. The brethren of the monastery were astonished at the saint’s ascetical efforts. Saint Simeon the Stylite (September 1) visited the monastery. He foretold to the young monk that he too would undertake the feat of pillar-dwelling. Daniel continued with his ascetic life in seclusion. the place of a new exploit was revealed to him in a vision, he withdrew into the Thracian wilderness together with two disciples. They set up a pillar, upon which Saint Daniel dwelt for 33 years. thronged to the pillar, the unfortunate and those who were sick, and all received help and healing from Saint Daniel. emperors also sought the prayers of the holy ascetic. most notable of the saint’s predictions was about a great fire in Constantinople. Saint Daniel possessed also the gift of gracious words. He guided many onto the path of correcting their lives. The monk reposed in his eightieth year.

Syria, 420-480, Romanos of Cilicia, cave near Antioch, fasting, hair shirt chains, no fire, miracles grace, healed infertility
Cilicia, 420-480, Venerable Romanos of Cilicia of Asia Minor, cave near Antioch, Syria, fasting, heavy chains under hair shirt, no fire, miracles grace, crowds, healed infertility; Cilicia Region of Asia Minor ; Cilicia (Roman province); Cilicia; Venerable Romanos of Cilicia, Commemorated on November 27; Romanos was from the city of Roson in Cilicia, he spent his anchoritic life in strict fasting in a cave near Antioch during the V century. at the foot of a mountain, he built a small cell, in which he struggled as an ascetic. He wore heavy chains under his hair shirt, and for many years he did not light a fire in his cell. of his most holy life, God granted him the grace of working miracles. of his holiness attracted great crowds of the faithful to him, who asked for his blessing. Saint healed several persons who suffered from grave illnesses, and through his prayers, many infertile women were able to give birth to healthy children. charisma1 of working miracles did not make him proud. Quite the contrary! The Saint often quoted the words of Saint Paul: "Therefore, let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall" (I Corinthians 10:12). also said that it is no great thing to perform miracles, but rather to do works of righteousness and to keep God's commandments. after leading a God-pleasing life, Saint Romanos reposed in peace. He is also commemorated on February 9. Romanos is one of many Saints whose intercession we seek for deliverance from childlessness and barreness. of the others are: Saint Stylianos (November 26), Saint Hypatios the Igoumen of Rufinianus in Chalcedon († March 31, 446), Saints Theodore and John (July 12). χάρισματα = Extraordinary powers given to certain individuals by God, enabling them to serve the Church by the grace of the Holy Spirit.

Syria, 420-480, Romanos of Cilicia, lived in cave near Antioch, great miracles but take heed, right works tBig Deal
Cilicia, 450, 5th Century, Romanos oCilicia, Region of Asia Minor, lived in cave near Antioch, from Roson, heavy chains, hair shirt, no fire for many years, grace of working miracles, great crowds, healed grave ilnesses, healed infertility, not proud for miracles, think stand take heed lest fall, miracles no big deal, righteousness the big deal Antioch (Orontes River 7); Cilicia Region of Asia Minor ; Venerable Romanós of Cilicia, Commemorated on February 9; Romanós was from the city of Rosón in Cilicia, but he spent his anchoritic life in strict fasting in a cave near Antioch during the V century. at the foot of a mountain, he built a small cell, in which he struggled as an ascetic. He wore heavy chains under his hair shirt, and for many years he did not light a fire in his cell. of his most holy life, God granted him the grace of working miracles. of his holiness attracted great crowds of the faithful to him, who asked for his blessing. The Saint healed several persons who suffered from grave illnesses, and through his prayers, many infertile women were able to give birth to healthy children. charisma1 of working miracles did not make him proud. Quite the contrary! The Saint often quoted the words of Saint Paul: "Therefore, let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall" (I Corinthians 10:12). also said that it is no great thing to perform miracles, but rather to do works of righteousness and to keep God's commandments. after leading a God-pleasing life, Saint Romanós reposed in peace. He is also commemorated on November 27. Romanós is one of many Saints whose intercession we seek for deliverance from childlessness and barreness. Some of the others are: Saint Stylianos (November 26), Saint Hypatios the Igoumen of Rufinianus in Chalcedon († March 31, 446), Saints Theodore and John (July 12). χάρισματα = Extraordinary powers given to certain individuals by God, enabling them to serve the Church by the grace of the Holy Spirit.

Syria, 420-500, Matrona tConstantinople Abbess, left hubby, igumen iHoms&Beriut&Constan, miraculous gifts, paradise vision
Lykaonia, 420-500, Matrona tConstantinople Abbess, fPerge (Pergamum), Pamphylia, Lykaonia, left marriage, hid in men's monastery, discovered by pierced ear&dreams, to women's m in emesa aka Homs, became igumen, miraculous healing gifts, husband coming, tJerusalem, tMt Sinai, t abandoned Temple in Beriut, converted local pagans, formed monastery there, God's will fulfilled per Dream, tConstantinople, husband had died, founded monastery strict rule virtuous life, vision in extreme old age 100 of her place in Paradise Perge; Venerable Matrona the Abbess of Constantinople, Commemorated on November 9 ; Matrona, Abbess of Constantinople was born in the city of Perge Pamphylia (Asia Minor) in the fifth century. gave her in marriage to a wealthy man named Dometian. her daughter Theodota was born, they resettled in Constantinople. twenty-five-year-old Matrona loved to walk to the temple of God. She spent entire days there, ardently praying to the Lord and weeping for her sins. the church the saint met two pious Eldresses, Eugenia and Susanna, who from their youth lived there in asceticism, work and prayer. began to imitate the God-pleasing life of an ascetic, humbling her flesh by abstinence and fasting, which she had to endure criticism by her husband. soul yearned for a full renunciation of the world. long hesitation, Saint Matrona decided to leave her family entreated the Lord to reveal whether her intent was pleasing to Him. The Lord heard the prayer of His servant. during a light sleep, she had a dream that she had fled from her husband, who was in pursuit of her. The saint concealed herself in a crowd of monks approaching her, and her husband did not notice her. accepted this dream as a divine directive to enter a men’s monastery, where her husband would not think to look for her. gave her fifteen-year-old daughter to be raised by the Eldress Susanna, having cut her own hair and disguised herself in men’s attire, she went to the monastery of Saint Bassion (October 10). the Nun Matrona passed herself off as the eunuch Babylos and was accepted as one of the brethren. lest the monks learn that she was a woman, the saint passed her time in constant quietude and much work. The brethren marveled at the great virtue of Babylos. time the saint was working in the monastery vineyard with the other monks. The novice monk Barnabas noted that her ear-lobe was pierced and asked about it. “It is necessary, brother, to till the soil and not watch other people, which is not proper for a monk,” answered the saint. a certain while it was revealed in a dream to Saint Bassion, the igumen of the monastery, that the eunuch Babylos was a woman. was also revealed to Acacius, igumen of the nearby Abraham monastery. Bassion summoned Saint Matrona and asked in a threatening voice why she had entered the monastery: to corrupt the monks, or to shame the monastery. tears the saint told the igumen about all her past life, about her husband, hostile to her efforts and prayers, and about the vision directing her to go to the men’s monastery. that her intent was pure and chaste, Saint Bassion sent Saint Matrona to a women’s monastery in the city of Emesa. In this monastery the saint dwelt for many years, inspiring the sisters by her high monastic achievement. When the Abbess died, by the unanimous wish of the nuns the Nun Matrona became head of the convent. fame of her virtuous activities, and miraculous gift of healing, which she acquired from the Lord, spread far beyond the walls of the monastery. also heard about the deeds of the nun. Saint Matrona learned that her husband was coming to the monastery and wanted to see her, she secretly went off to Jerusalem, and then to Mount Sinai, from there to Beirut, where she settled in an abandoned pagan temple. local inhabitants learned of her seclusion, and began to come to her. The holy ascetic turned many from their pagan impiety and converted them to Christ. and girls began to settle by the dwelling of the nun and soon a new monastery was formed. fulfilled the will of God, revealed to her in a dream, the saint left Beirut and journeyed to Constantinople where she learned that her husband had died. the blessing of her spiritual Father, Saint Bassion, the ascetic founded a women’s monastery in Constantinople, to which sisters from the Beirut convent she founded also transferred. Constantinople monastery of Saint Matrona was known for its strict monastic rule and the virtuous life of its sisters. extreme old age Saint Matrona had a vision of the heavenly Paradise and the place prepared for her there after 75 years of monastic labor. At the age of one hundred, Saint Matrona blessed the sisters,and quietly fell asleep in the Lord.

Syria, 428-442, John of Antioch, Patriarch, Nestorius supporter, council, robber c, then Formula of Reunion
Syrian Patriarch, 428-442, John of Antioch; I of Antioch was Patriarch of Antioch (429–441).[1] He led a group of moderate Eastern bishops during the Nestorian controversy. He is sometimes confused with John Chrysostom, who is occasionally also referred to as John of Antioch. gave active support to his friend Nestorius in the latter's dispute with Cyril of Alexandria. In the year 431, he arrived too late for the opening meeting of the First Council of Ephesus. Cyril, suspecting John of using procrastinating tactics to support Nestorius, decided not to wait and convened the council without John and his supporters, condemning Nestorius. When John reached Ephesus a few days after the council had begun, he convened a counter-council which condemned Cyril and vindicated Nestorius. years later, in 433 John reconciled with Cyril based on the Formula of Reunion, a theological formula devised as a compromise. In the process, John lost many of his own supporters within his patriarchate. Some of his letters are extant. St Cyril the Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on June 9; Cyril, Archbishop of Alexandria, a distinguished champion of Orthodoxy and a great teacher of the Church, came from an illustrious and pious Christian family. studied the secular sciences, including philosophy, but most of all he strove to acquire knowledge of the Holy Scriptures and the truths of the Christian Faith. his youth Cyril entered the monastery of Macarius in the Nitreia hills, where he stayed for six years. Theophilus (385-412), the Patriarch of Alexandria, ordained him as a deacon, numbered him among the clergy and entrusted him to preach. the death of Patriarch Theophilus, Cyril was unanimously chosen to the patriarchal throne of the Alexandrian Church. He led the struggle against the spread of the Novatian heresy in Alexandria, which taught that any Christian who had fallen away from the Church during a time of persecution, could not be received back into it. seeing the futility of admonishing the heretics, sought their expulsion from Alexandria. The Jews appeared a greater danger for the Church, repeatedly causing riots, accompanied by the brutal killing of Christians. The saint long contended with them. In order to wipe out the remnants of paganism, the saint cast out devils from an ancient pagan temple and built a church on the spot, and the relics of the Holy Unmercenaries Cyrus and John were transferred into it. A more difficult struggle awaited the saint with the emergence of the Nestorian heresy. a presbyter of the Antiochian Church, was chosen in 428 to the see of Constantinople and there he was able to spread his heretical teaching against the dogma about the uncommingled union of two natures in the Person of the Lord Jesus Christ. Nestorius called the Mother of God not the Theotokos, but rather Christotokos or “Birth-giver of Christ,” implying that she gave birth not to God, but only to the man Christ. The holy Patriarch Cyril repeatedly wrote to Nestorius and pointed out his error, but Nestorius continued to persevere in it. Then the saint sent out epistles against Nestorianism to the clergy of Constantinople and to the holy emperor Theodosius the Younger (408-450), denouncing the heresy. Cyril wrote also to other Churches, to Pope Celestine and to the other Patriarchs, and even to monks of several monasteries, warning of the emergence of a dangerous heresy. started an open persecution against the Orthodox. In his presence one of his partisans, Bishop Dorotheus, pronounced an anathema against anyone who would call the Most Holy Virgin Mary the Theotokos. hated Cyril and brought out against him every kind of slander and fabrication, calling him a heretic. The saint continued to defend Orthodoxy with all his powers. The situation became so aggravated, that it became necessary to call an Ecumenical Council, which convened in the city of Ephesus in the year 431. At the Council 200 bishops arrived from all the Christian Churches. awaiting the arrival of Bishop John of Antioch and other Syrian bishops, did not agree to the opening of the Council. But the Fathers of the Council began the sessions with Cyril presiding. Having examined the teaching of Nestorius, the Council condemned him as a heretic. did not submit to the Council, and Bishop John opened a “robber council”, which decreed Cyril a heretic. The unrest increased. By order of the emperor, Patriarch Cyril of Alexandria and Archbishop Memnon of Ephesus were locked in prison, and Nestorius was deposed. Saints Cyril and Memnon were freed, and the sessions of the Council continued. Nestorius, not submitting himself to the determinations of the Council, was deprived of priestly rank. By order of the emperor he was sent to the faraway place Sasim in the Libyan wilderness, where he died in grievous torments. His tongue, having blasphemed the Mother of God, was overtaken by punishment -- in it there developed worms. Even Bishop John of Antioch and the remaining Syrian bishops signed the decrees of the Council of Ephesus. guided the Alexandrian Church for 32 years, and towards the end of his life the flock was cleansed of heretics. Gently and cautiously Cyril approached anyone, who by their own simpleness and lack of knowledge, fell into false wisdom. There was a certain Elder, an ascetic of profound life, who incorrectly considered the Old Testament Priest Melchizedek to be the Son of God. Cyril prayed for the Lord to reveal to the Elder the correct way to view the righteous one. After three days the Elder came to Cyril and said that the Lord had revealed to him that Melchizedek was a mere man. learned to overcome his prejudice against the memory of the great John Chrysostom (November 13). Theophilus, the Patriarch of Alexandria, and uncle of Cyril, was an antagonist of John, and presided in a council in judgment of him. Cyril thus found himself in a circle antagonistic to John Chrysostom, and involuntarily acquired a prejudice against him. Isidore of Pelusium (February 4) repeatedly wrote to Cyril and urged him to include the name of the great Father of the Church into the diptychs of the saints, but Cyril would not agree. in a dream he saw a wondrous temple, in which the Mother of God was surrounded by a host of angels and saints, in whose number was John Chrysostom. When Cyril wanted to approach the All-Holy Lady and venerate her, John Chrysostom would not let him. The Theotokos asked John to forgive Cyril for having sinned against him through ignorance. Seeing that John hesitated, the Mother of God said, “Forgive him for my sake, since he has labored much for my honor, and has glorified me among the people calling me Theotokos.” John answered, “By your intercession, Lady, I do forgive him,” and then he embraced Cyril with love. repented that he had maintained anger against the great saint of God. Having convened all the Egyptian bishops, he celebrated a solemn feast in honor of John Chrysostom. died in the year 444, leaving behind many works. In particular, the following ought to be mentioned: commentaries On the Gospel of Luke, On the Gospel of John, On the Epistles of the Apostle Paul to the Corinthians and to the Hebrews; also an Apologia in Defense of Christianity against the Emperor Julian the Apostate (361-363). Of vast significance are his Five Books against Nestorius; a work on the Most Holy Trinity under the title Thesaurus, written against Arius and Eunomios. Also two dogmatic compositions on the Most Holy Trinity, distinguished by a precise exposition of the Orthodox teaching on the Procession of the Holy Spirit. Cyril wrote Against Anthropomorphism for several Egyptians, who through ignorance depicted God in human form. Among Cyril’s works are also the Discussions, among which is the moving and edifying Discourse on the Exodus of the Soul, inserted in the Slavonic “Following Psalter”. we commemorate the repose of this great Father of the Church. He is also remembered on January 18, the date of his flight from Alexandria.

Syria, 438, Ignatius relics transfer, back to Rome from Syria because Persia took Antioch
Syria, 108, 438, 540 or 637, Ignatius relics transfer, Rome tAntioch, Syria (Orontes River 7), Trajan had him thrown to the lions in 107, Christians gathered his bons at Rome, 108 his relics buried at Gate oDaphne, Antioch, 43i8 transferred tRome because Persians captured A, 540 placed Clement's church Rome, or 637, Ignatius introduced antiphonal singing, he left 7 arcpastoral epistles with instructions faith, love, good works, he also urged preservation unity otFaith, beware heretics, hono&obey bishops, regard as Lord himself, example letter to Polycarp, listen to your bishop ifyou want God to listen to you; Translation of the relics of the Hieromartyr Ignatius, the Godbearer and Bishop of Antioch ; Transfer of the Relics of the Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer: (See December 20). the holy hieromartyr Ignatius was thrown to the lions in the year 107 on the orders of the emperor Trajan, gathered up his bones and preserved them at Rome. in the year 108, the saint’s relics were collected and buried outside the gate of Daphne at Antioch. second transfer, to the city of Antioch itself, took place in the year 438. the capture of Antioch by the Persians, the relics of the Hieromartyr Ignatius were returned to Rome and placed into the church of the holy Hieromartyr Clement in the year 540 (in 637, according to other sources). Ignatius introduced antiphonal singing into Church services. has left us seven archpastoral epistles in which he provided instructions on faith, love and good works. also urged his flock to preserve the unity of the faith and to beware of heretics. He encouraged people to honor and obey their bishops, “We should regard the bishop as we would the Lord Himself.” (To the Ephesians 6) his Letter to Polycarp, Saint Ignatius writes: “Listen to the bishop, if you want God to listen to you... let your baptism be your shield, your faith a helmet, your charity a spear, your patience, like full armor.” (Compare Eph. 6:14-17 and the Wisdom of Solomon 5:17-20. Also The Ladder 4:2)

Syria, 450. 5th Century, Anthony, Apamea, stone mason building church, killed by pagan townspeople at night w sword,
Syria, 450. 5th Century, Anthony, Apamea, stone mason building church, killed by pagan townspeople at night w sword, ; Syria, 450, Martyr Anthony, Apamea; Apamea, Syria; Martyr Anthony of Apamea, Commemorated on November 9 ; Holy Martyr Anthony, a Syrian, lived during the fifth century and was a stone-mason. With the blessing of the bishop of the Syrian city of Apamea, he started to build a church dedicated to the Holy Trinity. When the pagan townspeople learned of this, they rushed into his house by night and murdered him with a sword.

Syria, 450, 5th Century, Antiochus and Antoninus, ascetics otSyrian Deserts (Land of the Saracens) w John
Saints Antiochus & Antoninus also lived in asceticism w Saint John. They continued their ascetical struggles until they reached an advanced age, offering an example of spiritual strength, and overcoming every obstacle. ; Syrian Deserts; Venerable Antiochus and Antoninus, ascetics of the Syrian Deserts, Commemorated on February 23; Antiochus and Antoninus also lived in asceticism with Saint John. They continued their ascetical struggles until they reached an advanced age, offering an example of spiritual strength, and overcoming every obstacle.

Syria, 450, 5th Century, John, ascetic otSyrian Deserts, shelterless life, bread&salt only, heavy chains, refused almond tree
Syria, 450, 5th Century, John, ascetic otSyrian Deserts (Land of the Saracens), shelterless life, on hill 25yrs, bread&salt only, heavy chains, refused almond tree to deny body respite ; Syrian Deserts; Venerable John, Ascetic of the Syrian Deserts, Commemorated February 23 ; John, disciple of Saint Limnaeus (February 22), lived in Syria in the fifth century, and chose for himself the ascetic struggle of “a shelterless life.” settled on a hill, sheltered from the wind on all sides, and lived there for twenty-five years. He ate only bread and salt, and he exhausted his body under heavy chains. one of the nearby ascetics planted an almond tree on the hill so that Saint John could enjoy its shade and get out of the vicious heat, the saint told him to cut it down. This he did in order to deny his body any respite.

Syria, 450, 5th Century, Moses, ascetic otSyrian Deserts (Land of the Saracens) wJohn under Polychroniius
Syrian Deserts; Venerable Moses, Ascetic of the Syrian Deserts, Commemorated on February 23; Moses lived in Syria in the fifth century. Imitating Saint John, he settled on a high mountain near the village of Rama. He was a disciple of Saint Polychronius, and lived with him. Emulating his Elder in everything, Saint Moses was the very model of an austere ascetical life. Saint Moses died in Syria in the fifth century.

Syria, 450, 5th Century, Zebinas, ascetic otSyrian Deserts (Land of the Saracens) uJohn,w Moses, never sat down
Syrian Deserts; Venerable Zebinas, Ascetic of the Syrian Deserts, Commemorated February 23;; Zebinas lived in Syria during the fifth century. He lived an ascetical life on the same mountain as Saint Moses. He never sat down during his Rule of prayer, but sometimes he leaned on his staff. The neighboring inhabitants venerated Saint Zebinas, and they received great help in their sorrows and needs through his prayers. He reached a great old age, then departed to the Lord.

Syria, 450, 5th Century, Polychronius, ascetic otSyrian Deserts (Land of the Saracens) underZebinas, heavy root on shoulders
Syrian Deserts; Venerable Polychronius, Ascetic of the Syrian Deserts, Commemorated February 23; Polychronius lived in Syria in the fifth century. He was the disciple of Saint Zebinas, and imitated the life of his Elder, spending both day and night in fasting and vigil. Saint Polychronius had no chains, but he dug up a heavy oaken root from the earth and carried it on his shoulders when he prayed. Saint Polychronius asked God to send rain during a drought, and he filled up a stone vessel with oil for the needy.

Syria, 450, 5th Century, Damian, ascetic otSyrian Deserts (Land of the Saracens), withdrew to Ieros, solitary, small box lentils
Syrian Deserts; Venerable Damian, Ascetic of the Syrian Deserts, Commemorated February 23; Damian lived in Syria in the fifth century. He withdrew to a monastery named Ieros and lived there in asceticism. In his cell he had only a small box of lentils from which he ate.

Syria, 452,330&452, 1st&2nd finding Forerunner's Head,1st 330 Mt Olives F told f monks,2nd cave near Emesa 452 F showed c monk
Jerusalem, 330 & 452, First and second finding Forerunner's Head, Joanna wife of steward Chuza, Innocents Mt Olives Church and Cell, found head diggng foundation, signs of grace, hid it again same place, 330 Constantine time Forerunner appeared twice monks Jerusalem pilgrimage, way home potter carrying bag, Forerunner appeared ordering potter to flee from careless monks, gave it to sister in jug, heretic Eustathius buried it in cave near Emesa, monks settled in the cave and monastery arose, in 452 Forerunner appeared to Marcellus archmandrite and exposed head, second finding, to Emesa, to Constantinople ; Mount of Olives; First and second finding of the Honorable Head of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist of the Lord, John, Commemorated February 24 ; the Beheading of the Holy Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John (August 29), his body was buried by disciples in the Samarian city of Sebaste, and his venerable head was hidden by Herodias in an unclean place. Joanna (June 27), the wife of King Herod’s steward Chuza (Luke 8:3), secretly took the holy head and placed it into a vessel and buried it on the Mount of Olives in one of Herod’s properties. many years, this property passed into the possession of a government official who became a monk with the name of Innocent. He built a church and a cell there. they started to dig the foundation, the vessel with the venerable head of John the Baptist was uncovered. Innocent recognized its great holiness from the signs of grace emanating from it. Thus occurred the First Finding of the Head. Innocent preserved it with great piety, fearful that the holy relic might be abused by unbelievers, before his own death he again hid it in that same place, where it was found. Upon his death the church fell into ruin and was destroyed. the days of Saint Constantine the Great (May 21), when Christianity began to flourish, the holy Forerunner appeared twice to two monks journeying to Jerusalem on pilgrimage to the holy places, and he revealed the location of his venerable head. monks uncovered the holy relic and, placing it into a sack of camel-hair, they proceeded homewards. Along the way they encountered an unnamed potter and gave him the precious burden to carry. knowing what he was carrying, the potter continued on his way. the holy Forerunner appeared to him and ordered him to flee from the careless and lazy monks, with what he held in his hands. potter concealed himself from the monks and at home he preserved the venerable head with reverence. Before his death he placed it in a water jug and gave it to his sister. that time the venerable head was successively preserved by devout Christians, the priest Eustathius (infected with the Arian heresy) came into possession of it. He beguiled a multitude of the infirm who had been healed by the holy head, ascribing their cures to the fact that it was in the possession of an Arian. When his blasphemy was uncovered, he was compelled to flee. After he buried the holy relic in a cave, near Emesa, the heretic intended to return later and use it for disseminating falsehood. however, did not permit this. Pious monks settled in the cave, and then a monastery arose at this place. the year 452 Saint John the Baptist appeared to Archimandrite Marcellus of this monastery, and indicated where his head was hidden. This became celebrated as the Second Finding. The holy relic was transferred to Emesa, and later to Constantinople.

Syria, 470-530, Rabulas oSamosata, Syria, young monk iSyrian deserts, later Phoenicia, spiritual gifts, monasteries, man oPrayer
Syria, 470-530, Rabulas oSamosata, Syria (Euphrates River 3), excellent ed, young monk struggling iDeserts&Mountains, like Elias&John tBaptist, later tPhoencia, long time asceticism, received spiritual gifts, Emperor Zeno gave him money to help build manastery with Bishop John oBeriut, monks of new monestery converted nearby pagans, Under Anastasius, Zeno's successor, Rabulas came to Constantinople, built several more monasteries in various places with A's help, one named Rabulas' m, Rabulas whole life at work, gentle, Kind, well-disposed towards people, man oGreat Prayer, lived to 80, to 530; Samosata; St Rabulas of Samosata, Commemorated February 19 ; Rabulas was born in the Syrian city of Samosata he received an excellent education. still young, he became a monk and struggled in the deserts and on the mountains, the example of the holy Prophet Elias (July 20) and Saint John the Baptist of the Lord (January 7, February 24, May 25, June 24, August 29, September 23, October 12). later, Saint Rabulas went to Phoenicia, for a long while he lived in asceticism and was glorified by spiritual gifts. emperor Zeno gave Saint Rabulas monetary help to build a monastery, with the assistance of Bishop John of Beruit. the new monastery lived many pagans, who were gradually converted to Christianity through the efforts of the monks. Xeno’s successor Anastasius (491-518), Saint Rabulas came to Constantinople, having received financial help from the emperor, he built several more monasteries in various places. One of them was named after the holy ascetic. Rabulas spent all his life at work, and he was gentle and kind and well-disposed towards people. was also a man of great prayer. lived to be eighty, before his death he heard a voice: “Come unto Me all ye who labor and are heavy laden” (Mt. 11:28). Rabulas fell asleep in the Lord around the year 530 after a short illness.

Syria, 500, 6th C Folder, Romanos tMelodist,13 Georgian Fathers fAntioch Wilderness, Antioch EQuake then Persian war wByzantines
Syria, 500, 6th C Folder, Romanos tMelodist, 13 Georgian Fathers from Antiochian Wilderness, Antioch Earthquake, Simeon Stylites tYounger, Chosroes I war wByzantines aEarthquake, Consantinople Partiarch J Scholasticus fAntioch Law&Hymn writer

Syria, 510-556, Saint Romanos the Melodist
Syria, 510-556, Saint Romanos the Melodist; Venerable Romanus the Melodist, œSweet-SingerÂ, Commemorated on October 1;

Syria, 520's - 540's, Saint John of Zadazeni, he and the 13 Georgian Fathers were from Antioch Wilderness
Syria, 540's, Saint John of Zadazeni, he and the 13 Georgian Fathers were from Antioch Wilderness; Saint John Zedazeni of Zaden, Georgia, with his 12 disciples, Commemorated on May 7; Holy Father John of Zedazeni and his twelve disciples, Abibus of Nekresi, Anthony of Martqopi, David of Gareji, Zenon of Iqalto, Thaddeus of Stepantsminda, Jesse of Tsilkani, Joseph of Alaverdi, Isidore of Samtavisi, Michael of Ulumbo, Pyrrhus of Breti, Stephen of Khirsa, and Shio of Mgvime, were Syrian ascetics and the founding fathers of Georgian monastic life. John received his spiritual education in Antioch. Early in his youth he was tonsured a monk and withdrew to the wilderness. The Lord, recognizing his humility, diligence in fasting, and devout watchfulness, blessed His faithful servant with the gift of healing the sick and casting out demons. Saint John was celebrated for his holy deeds and miracles. Curious crowds would swarm around him, and after some time he found it necessary to withdraw into even deeper seclusion. with him several of his disciples, he chose a remote area, fashioned for himself a cell, and began to labor as a hermit. Once the Most Holy Theotokos appeared to Saint John and told him, “Take twelve monks and go with them to Georgia, the nation enlightened by the Equal-to-the-Apostles Nino, and strengthen the Christian soul of its people.â€ John related the vision to his disciples, and after much fasting and prayer he chose twelve of them: Abibus, Anthony, David, Zenon, Thaddeus, Isidore, Joseph, Jesse, Michael, Pyrrhus, Stephen, and Shio. He left his remaining disciples in the wilderness in the care of the abbot, the blessed elder Euthymius, and set off for Georgia with the twelve he had chosen. divine revelation the Georgian king Parsman and Catholicos Evlavios received the good news that the venerable fathers were in Mesopotamia, on their way to Georgia, and they hurried to greet them with the proper honors. King Parsman and Catholicos Evlavios met the holy fathers as they were approaching Mtskheta. holy fathers venerated the myrrh-streaming wood of the Living Pillar and the Robe of Christ at Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. From there Saint John and his disciples traveled throughout Georgia, visiting its many holy sites. the blessing of Catholicos Evlavios, Saint John and his disciples settled on Zedazeni Mountain, where a pagan temple to the idol Zadeni had previously stood. The monks lived in wretched cells, eating only plants and praying ceaselessly.

Syria, 520's - 540's, Saint Shio of Mgvine, from Antioch and John's Antiochian Wilderness
Syria, 540's, Saint Shio of Mgvine, from Antioch and John's Antiochian Wilderness; Antiochian by birth, Saint Shio of Mgvime was among the Thirteen Syrian Fathers who preached the Christian Faith in Georgia. His parents were pious nobles who provided their son with a sound education. When the twenty-year-old Shio heard about the great ascetic labors of Saint John of Zedazeni and his disciples who labored in the wilderness, he went in secret to visit them. Saint John promised to receive Shio as a disciple, provided his parents agreed to his decision. ----------------------------------------------- But when Shio returned home he said nothing to his parents about what had transpired. passed and Shio’s parents both entered the monastic life. Shio sold all his possessions, distributed the profits to the poor, widows, orphans, and hermits, freed all his family’s slaves, and returned to Fr. John. John received Shio joyfully, tonsured him a monk, and blessed him to remain in the wilderness. He labored there with Saint John for twenty years. Then John was told in a divine revelation to choose twelve disciples and travel to Georgia to increase the faith of its people. Shio was one of the disciples chosen to follow him on this holy mission. Syria, 540's, Saint John of Zadazeni, he and the 13 Georgian Fathers were from Antioch Wilderness; Saint John Zedazeni of Zaden, Georgia, with his 12 disciples, Commemorated on May 7; Holy Father John of Zedazeni and his twelve disciples, Abibus of Nekresi, Anthony of Martqopi, David of Gareji, Zenon of Iqalto, Thaddeus of Stepantsminda, Jesse of Tsilkani, Joseph of Alaverdi, Isidore of Samtavisi, Michael of Ulumbo, Pyrrhus of Breti, Stephen of Khirsa, and Shio of Mgvime, were Syrian ascetics and the founding fathers of Georgian monastic life. John received his spiritual education in Antioch. Early in his youth he was tonsured a monk and withdrew to the wilderness. The Lord, recognizing his humility, diligence in fasting, and devout watchfulness, blessed His faithful servant with the gift of healing the sick and casting out demons. Saint John was celebrated for his holy deeds and miracles. Curious crowds would swarm around him, and after some time he found it necessary to withdraw into even deeper seclusion. with him several of his disciples, he chose a remote area, fashioned for himself a cell, and began to labor as a hermit. Once the Most Holy Theotokos appeared to Saint John and told him, “Take twelve monks and go with them to Georgia, the nation enlightened by the Equal-to-the-Apostles Nino, and strengthen the Christian soul of its people.â€ John related the vision to his disciples, and after much fasting and prayer he chose twelve of them: Abibus, Anthony, David, Zenon, Thaddeus, Isidore, Joseph, Jesse, Michael, Pyrrhus, Stephen, and Shio. He left his remaining disciples in the wilderness in the care of the abbot, the blessed elder Euthymius, and set off for Georgia with the twelve he had chosen. divine revelation the Georgian king Parsman and Catholicos Evlavios received the good news that the venerable fathers were in Mesopotamia, on their way to Georgia, and they hurried to greet them with the proper honors. King Parsman and Catholicos Evlavios met the holy fathers as they were approaching Mtskheta. holy fathers venerated the myrrh-streaming wood of the Living Pillar and the Robe of Christ at Svetitskhoveli Cathedral. From there Saint John and his disciples traveled throughout Georgia, visiting its many holy sites. the blessing of Catholicos Evlavios, Saint John and his disciples settled on Zedazeni Mountain, where a pagan temple to the idol Zadeni had previously stood. The monks lived in wretched cells, eating only plants and praying ceaselessly.

Syria, 526-597, Saint, Simeon Stylites the Younger
Syrian Saint, 526-597, Simeon Stylites the Younger; Syria - 526 Antioch earthquake; Venerable Simeon Stylites the Younger of Wonderful Mountain, Commemorated on May 24; Venerable Zosimus of Phoenicia, Syria, Commemorated on June 8;

Syria, 527-592, Simeon Stylites, Simeon the Younger, translated Abibus a letter of courage
Syria, 527-592, Simeon Stylites, Simeon the Younger; Hieromartyr Abibus, Bishop of Nekresi in Georgia, Commemorated on November 29; Venerable Simeon Stylites the Younger of Wonderful Mountain, Commemorated on May 24;

Syria, 540-562, Chosroes I war with Byzantine Empire after Antioch Earthquake
Persia, 540-562, Chosroes I war with Byzantine Empire after Antioch Earthquake; Translation of the relics of the Hieromartyr Ignatius, the Godbearer and Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on January 29;

Syria, 540's, Jesse, Bishop oTsilkani, Georgia, Syrian Father, wonderworker, preacher, commanded river follow me, Time oDeath
Georgia, 540's, Jesse, Bishop oTsilkani, Georgia (Narekvavi River 1), o13 Syrian Fathers, wonderworker, preacher, commanded river follow me, Time oDeath; Tsilkani, Georgia (Town near T. Cathedral, Narekvavi River 1); St Jesse, Bishop of Tsilkan in Georgia; Jesse of Tsilkani arrived in Georgia in the 6th century with the other Syrian fathers and companions of Saint John of Zedazeni. the recommendation of Saint John of Zedazeni, Catholicos Evlavios of Kartli consecrated Saint Jesse as bishop of Tsilkani. holy father traveled throughout his diocese preaching the Holy Gospel. from city to city, from valley to mountain and back, the kind shepherd worked wonders, healed the infirm, cleansed lepers, cast out demons and raised those who were confined to their beds. with the blessing of his teacher Saint John of Zedazeni, Saint Jesse performed a miracle to strengthen the people in their Faith. descended to the bank of the Ksani River, followed by Saint John and a multitude of people. made the sign of the Cross over the river, touched his staff to the water and commanded: “In the name of our Lord and God Jesus Christ, I command you, river: follow me!” the river reversed its current and began to flow backwards, following in Saint Jesse’s footsteps right up to Tsilkani Church. living near Mtskheta and Tsilkani who witnessed this miracle glorified the Lord Jesus Christ for bestowing upon one of His children the gift of wonderworking. the Lord made known to the saint the day of his repose, he gathered his disciples and church servitors, bade them farewell, blessed them, partook of the Holy Mysteries of Christ, and reposed in peace. last words were “Lord, into Thy hands I commit my spirit!” Jesse of Tsilkani is buried in the Tsilkani Church of the Most Holy Theotokos.

Syria, 565-577, John Scholasticus, Patriarch oConstantinople, from Antioch, Syria, Law & Hymn writer
Syria, 565-577, John Scholasticus, Patriarch of Constantinople, from Antioch, Syria (Orontes River 7), studied law, ordained priest, bishop, patriarch oC, writer, Church Rules, Church related Civil Laws, Church Admin Law Cannon, Cherubic Hymn, Of Thy Mystical Supper Antioch (Orontes River 7); Saint John “Scholasticus”, Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on February 21; John Scholasticus, Patriarch of Constantinople, was born in Sirimion near Antioch, and studied law. was ordained a priest because of his great holiness and piety. he was elevated to the patriarchal throne, where he spent the years 565 to 577. still a presbyter, he compiled a collection of Church Rules in Fifty Chapters, later during his time as patriarch he made a Codex of civil laws relating to the Church. these collections was compiled the Nomocanon (i.e. “Law-canon”), used in church administration. John also composed the “Cherubic Hymn”, and “Of Thy Mystical Supper.”

Syria, 579-608, St Eulogius of Alexandria, Egypt, anti - Monophysitism Novatian Nestorian Eutyches, voice of truth
Egypt, 579-608, St Eulogius the Archbishop of Alexandria, Goshen, Egypt, enlightened, first at Antioch, 579 at A, Orthodox two natures theology, anti Monophysitism, friend of Pope Gregory the Great, anti Novatian, vindicated hypostatic union, anti Nestorian and Eutyches, voice of truth; of Alexandria was Greek Patriarch of that see from about 580 to 608. He is regarded as a saint, with a feast day of September 13. was first igumen of the monastery of the Mother of God in Antioch.[1] He was a successful combatant of various phases of Monophysitism.[2] He was a warm friend of Pope Gregory the Great, who corresponded with him, and received from that pope many flattering expressions of esteem and admiration.[3][4] refuted the Novatians, some communities of which ancient sect still existed in his diocese, and vindicated the hypostatic union of the two natures in Christ, against both Nestorius and Eutyches. Cardinal Baronius says that Gregory wished Eulogius to survive him, recognizing in him the voice of truth.[2] has been said that he restored for a brief period to the Church of Alexandria life and youthful vigour.[3] the above works and a commentary against various sects of Monophysites (Severans, Theodosians, Cainites and Acephali) he left eleven discourses in defence of Pope Leo I and the Council of Chalcedon, also a work against the Agnoetae, submitted by him before publication to Pope Gregory I, who after some observations authorized it unchanged. With exception of one sermon and a few fragments, all the writings of Eulogius have perished.[3] Alexandria; St Eulogius the Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated February 13 ; Eulogius, Patriarch of Alexandria, was one of the enlightened hierarchs of the sixth century. At first he was igumen of the monastery of the Mother of God in Antioch, and then in 579 he was chosen as Patriarch of Alexandria, where he served for twenty-seven years. his life, the saint struggled vigorously against heresies. He was also a friend of Saint Gregory Dialogus (March 12), and some of their correspondence has been preserved. Eulogius died in 607 or 608. Saint Photius quotes from his writings, which reveal an Orthodox theology of the two natures of our Lord Jesus Christ. Only one of his sermons, for Palm Sunday, has survived in complete form.

Syria, 600, 7th C Folder, Arabs seize Edessa, martyrdom aDamascus

Syria, 601-662, Maximus tConfessor, most effective against Monothelite heresy, divine light candels over grave
Bithynia, 601-662, Maximus tConfessor, excellent ed, Heraclius first secretary but he Monothelite, resigned, went west because M rapid spread in East, fConstantinople tChrysopolis, Bithynia, simple monk Igumen, 638 edict Exposition oFaith, everyone must accept One will in two natures, Max successfully defended Orthodoxy tPeople, invisible attraction tHim, refuge in West, where Monothelitism rejected, Africa visit, 4th EC had condemned Monophysite's only one nature (divine), MThelite only one divine will &Energy, another path tMPhysite heresy, Armenia, Syria, Egypt heretics in East, fanned by Nationalism, unity threat, MTheites controlled Eastern Patriarchal thrones, Sergius iConstantinople, Athanasius iAntioch, Cyrus iAlexandria, Max tCrete tPreach, clashed w Nestorian & Severus Bishop, tAlexandria 6yrs, till 641 new Monothelite Emperor and Patriarch, intensified assaults tOrthodox, tCarthage preach 5yrs, Constantinople Patriarch Pyrrhus excaped there, debated Max, became Orthodox, wrote book, traveled Rome wMax, Pope Theodore received them, 647 Max returned Carthage, there Council condemned MTheletism as heracy, 648 new edict rrom Constans & Partiarch Paul, Pattern otFaith, forbid will debates, Max asked new Pope convene Latern Council, 649 150 Western & 37 Eastern reps, L council condemned Mthelitsm & Typos (faith pattern), false teachings anathematized, So Constans II arested Max and new Pope Mrtin, 654 Prison, 656 sent tTrace, later back to C Prison, Max & disciples tounge cut out Right hand cut off, exiled tSkemarum, Scythia, time of death revealed 662, 3 miracle candels burned over grave, many healings there; Chrysopolis; Chrysopolis Monastery Chrysopolis in Macedonia? Venerable Maximus the Confessor, Commemorated on January 21 Maximus the Confessor was born in Constantinople around 580 raised in a pious Christian family. received an excellent education, studying philosophy, grammar, and rhetoric. was well-read in the authors of antiquity he also mastered philosophy and theology. Saint Maximus entered into government service, he became first secretary (asekretis) and chief counselor to the emperor Heraclius (611-641), was impressed by his knowledge and virtuous life. Maximus soon realized that the emperor and many others had been corrupted by the Monothelite heresy, was spreading rapidly through the East. resigned from his duties at court, went to the Chrysopolis monastery (at Skutari on the opposite shore of the Bosphorus), he received monastic tonsure. of his humility and wisdom, he soon won the love of the brethren and was chosen igumen of the monastery after a few years. in this position, he remained a simple monk. 638, the emperor Heraclius and Patriarch Sergius tried to minimize the importance of differences in belief, they issued an edict, the “Ekthesis” (“Ekthesis tes pisteos” or “Exposition of Faith),” decreed that everyone must accept the teaching of one will in the two natures of the Savior. defending Orthodoxy against the “Ekthesis,” Saint Maximus spoke to people in various occupations and positions, and these conversations were successful. only the clergy and the bishops, but also the people and the secular officials felt some sort of invisible attraction to him, as we read in his Life. Saint Maximus saw what turmoil this heresy caused in Constantinople and in the East, decided to leave his monastery and seek refuge in the West, Monothelitism had been completely rejected. the way, he visited the bishops of Africa, strengthening them in Orthodoxy, encouraging them not to be deceived by the cunning arguments of the heretics. Fourth Ecumenical Council had condemned the Monophysite heresy, which falsely taught that in the Lord Jesus Christ there was only one nature (the divine). by this erroneous opinion, Monothelite heretics said that in Christ there was only one divine will (“thelema”) only one divine energy (“energia”). of Monothelitism sought to return by another path to the repudiated Monophysite heresy. found numerous adherents in Armenia, Syria, Egypt. heresy, fanned also by nationalistic animosities, became a serious threat to Church unity in the East. struggle of Orthodoxy with heresy was particularly difficult in the year 630, three of the patriarchal thrones in the Orthodox East were occupied by Monothelites: by Sergius, by Athanasius, Alexandria by Cyrus. Maximus traveled from Alexandria to Crete, where he began his preaching activity. clashed there with a bishop, who adhered to the heretical opinions of Severus and Nestorius. saint spent six years in Alexandria and the surrounding area. Sergius died at the end of 638, the emperor Heraclius also died in 641. imperial throne was eventually occupied by his grandson Constans II (642-668), an open adherent of the Monothelite heresy. assaults of the heretics against Orthodoxy intensified. Maximus went to Carthage and he preached there for about five years. the Monothelite Pyrrhus, the successor of Patriarch Sergius, arrived there after fleeing from Constantinople because of court intrigues, and Saint Maximus spent many hours in debate. a result, Pyrrhus publicly acknowledged his error, and was permitted to retain the title of “Patriarch.” He even wrote a book confessing the Orthodox Faith. Maximus and Pyrrhus traveled to Rome to visit Pope Theodore, received Pyrrhus as the Patriarch of Constantinople. the year 647 Saint Maximus returned to Africa. at a council of bishops Monotheletism was condemned as a heresy. 648, a new edict was issued, commissioned by Constans and compiled by Patriarch Paul of Constantinople: “Typos” (“Typos tes pisteos” or “Pattern of the Faith”), forbade any further disputes about one will or two wills in the Lord Jesus Christ. Maximus then asked Saint Martin the Confessor (April 14), the successor of Pope Theodore, to examine the question of Monothelitism at a Church Council. Lateran Council was convened in October of 649. hundred and fifty Western bishops and thirty-seven representatives from the Orthodox East were present, among them Saint Maximus the Confessor. Council condemned Monothelitism, and the Typos. false teachings of Patriarchs Sergius, Paul and Pyrrhus of Constantinople, were also anathematized. Constans II received the decisions of the Council, he gave orders to arrest both Pope Martin and Saint Maximus. emperor’s order was fulfilled only in the year 654. Maximus was accused of treason and locked up in prison. 656 he was sent to Thrace, and was later brought back to a Constantinople prison. saint and two of his disciples were subjected to the cruelest torments. Each one’s tongue was cut out, and his right hand was cut off. they were exiled to Skemarum in Scythia, enduring many sufferings and difficulties on the journey. three years, the Lord revaled to Saint Maximus the time of his death (August 13, 662). candles appeared over the grave of Saint Maximus and burned miraculously. was a sign that Saint Maximus was a beacon of Orthodoxy during his lifetime, and continues to shine forth as an example of virtue for all. Many healings occurred at his tomb. the Greek Prologue, August 13 commemorates the Transfer of the Relics of Saint Maximus to Constantinople, but it could also be the date of the saint’s death. may be that his memory is celebrated on January 21 because August 13 is the Leavetaking of the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord. Saint Maximus has left to the Church a great theological legacy. His exegetical works contain explanations of difficult passages of Holy Scripture, and include a Commentary on the Lord’s Prayer and on Psalm 59, various “scholia” or “marginalia” (commentaries written in the margin of manuscripts), on treatises of the Hieromartyr Dionysius the Areopagite (October 3) and Saint Gregory the Theologian (January 25). Among the exegetical works of Saint Maximus are his explanation of divine services, entitled “Mystagogia” (“Introduction Concerning the Mystery”). The dogmatic works of Saint Maximus include the Exposition of his dispute with Pyrrhus, and several tracts and letters to various people. In them are contained explanations of the Orthodox teaching on the Divine Essence and the Persons of the Holy Trinity, on the Incarnation of the Word of God, and on “theosis” (“deification”) of human nature. “Nothing in theosis is the product of human nature,” Saint Maximus writes in a letter to his friend Thalassius, “for nature cannot comprehend God. It is only the mercy of God that has the capacity to endow theosis unto the existing... In theosis man (the image of God) becomes likened to God, he rejoices in all the plenitude that does not belong to him by nature, because the grace of the Spirit triumphs within him, and because God acts in him” (Letter 22). Saint Maximus also wrote anthropological works (i.e. concerning man). He deliberates on the nature of the soul and its conscious existence after death. Among his moral compositions, especially important is his “Chapters on Love.” Saint Maximus the Confessor also wrote three hymns in the finest traditions of church hymnography, following the example of Saint Gregory the Theologian. The theology of Saint Maximus the Confessor, based on the spiritual experience of the knowledge of the great Desert Fathers, and utilizing the skilled art of dialectics worked out by pre-Christian philosophy, was continued and developed in the works of Saint Simeon the New Theologian (March 12), and Saint Gregory Palamas (November 14).

Syria, 630, Arab forces seize Edessa
Syria, 630, Arab forces seize Edessa; Translation of the Image œNot-Made-By-HandsÂ of our Lord Jesus Christ from Edessa to Constantinople, the Third œFeast of the Savior in AugustÂ, Commemorated on August 16;

Syria, 630, Caesarius, Adrian, Dacius, Savva, Sabinian, Agrippa, & Thomas suffered martyrdom at Damascus
Syria, 630, Caesarius, Adrian, Dacius, Savva, Sabinian, Agrippa, & Thomas suffered martyrdom at Damascus in the seventh century; Damascus (Barada River foothills); Martyr Caesarius at Damascus, Commemorated on November 1 ; Caesarius, Adrian, Dacius, Savva, Sabinian, Agrippa, and Thomas suffered martyrdom at Damascus in the seventh century.

Syria, 661-750, History Folder, Umayaad Caliphate, Sunni

Syria, 661-680, Muawiyah I, Caliph , in Damascus
Arab Caliph, 661-680, Muawiyah I ; St Phanourius, Commemorated on August 27; Icon of the Mother of God of Damascus, Commemorated on December 4;

Syria, 685-705, Abdul Malek, Damascus, Arab Umayyad Caliph
Syria, Arab Umayyad Caliph, 685-705, khalif Abdul Malek, Damascus, Greater Syria; Martyr Peter of Capetolis, Commemorated on October 4; JOHN OF DAMASCUS, HYMN-WRITER, DEFENDER OF ICONS (4 DEC 750); Martyr John of Damascus, Commemorated on December 4;

Syria, 695-749, John of Damascus, Saint, Iconodule, Three Hands Icon
Syria, 695-749, Saint, John of Damascus; Martyr John of Damascus, Commemorated on December 4; Icon of the Mother of God “Of the Three Handsâ€, Commemorated on June 28; Icon of the Mother of God, “Of the Three Handsâ€: In the eighth century during the time of the Iconoclasts, Saint John of Damascus (December 4) was zealous in his veneration of holy icons. Because of this, he was slandered by the emperor and iconoclast Leo III the Isaurian (717-740), who informed the Damascus caliph that Saint John was committing treasonous acts against him. The caliph gave orders to cut off the hand of the monk and take it to the marketplace. Towards evening Saint John, having asked the caliph for the cut-off hand, put it to its joint and fell to the ground before the icon of the Mother of God. The monk begged Our Lady to heal the hand, which had written in defense of Orthodoxy. After long prayer he fell asleep and saw in a dream that the All-Pure Mother of God had turned to him promising him quick healing. this the Mother of God bid him toil without fail with this hand. Having awakened from sleep, Saint John saw that his hand was unharmed. In thankfulness for this healing Saint John placed on the icon a hand fashioned of silver, from which the icon received its name “Of Three Hands.â€ (Some iconographers, in their ignorance, have mistakenly depicted the Most Holy Theotokos with three arms and three hands.) According to Tradition, Saint John wrote a hymn of thanksgiving to the Mother of God: “All of creation rejoices in You, O Full of Grace,â€ which appears in place of the hymn “It is Truly Meetâ€ in the Liturgy of Saint Basil the Great. John Damascene accepted monasticism at the monastery of Saint Savva the Sanctified and there bestowed his wonderworking icon. The Lavra presented the icon “Of Three Handsâ€ in blessing to Saint Savva, Archbishop of Serbia (+ 1237, January 12). During the time of an invasion of Serbia by the Turks, some Christians who wanted to protect the icon, entrusted it to the safekeeping of the Mother of God Herself. They placed it upon a donkey, which without a driver proceeded to Athos and stopped in front of the Hilandar monastery. The monks put the icon in the monastery’s cathedral church (katholikon). During a time of discord over the choice of igumen, the Mother of God deigned to head the monastery Herself, and from that time Her holy icon has occupied the igumen’s place in the temple. At the Hilandar monastery there is chosen only a vicar, and from the holy icon the monks take a blessing for every obedience. Greek usage, this Icon is commemorated on June 28; but on July 12 in Slavic usage. Icon of the Mother of God œof the Three HandsÂ on Mt Athos, Commemorated on July 12;

Syria, 701-781, JOHN OF DAMASCUS, HYMN-WRITER, ICON DEFENDER, Flesly form God blessed Matter fHis service
Syria, 701-781, JOHN OF DAMASCUS, HYMN-WRITER, ICON DEFENDER, Last otFathers, son oChristian official court oMoslem Khalif, succeeded father's office, Iconoclast Iconodule dispute, Iconoclast Byzantne Emperor Leo III, John's Iconodule writings, protected by being under Moslem Khalif, not Byzantine, even though Moslems were Iconoclasts, 2 oHis Hymns sung in English, many more sung Eastern Church, major writing tFount oKnowledge incl tOrthodox Faith, both Greek &Latin churches Iconodule, Iconoclasts &2nd Commandment about images, Iconodules things changed, God flesly form blessed matter fit for manifesting divine splendor, reclaimed everything fHis service, incl eucharist bread wine, plus painting, sculpture, music, spoken word, daily tasks, pleasures, 16th century Protestants denounce images, sermon about mental images that mind can grasp, vs not thinking at all, like tapioca pudding story, description Eastern Orthodox iconostasis & incense on people, every person image oGod; Syria, 695-749, Saint, John of Damascus; JOHN OF DAMASCUS, HYMN-WRITER, DEFENDER OF ICONS (4 DEC 750); is generally accounted "the last of the Fathers". was the son of a Christian official at the court of the moslem khalif Abdul Malek, and succeeded to his father's office. In his time there was a dispute among Christians between the Iconoclasts (image-breakers) and the Iconodules (image-venerators or image-respectors). Emperor, Leo III, was a vigorous upholder of the Iconoclast position. wrote in favor of the Iconodules with great effectiveness. he was able to do this chiefly because he had the protection of the moslem khalif because the moslems have a strong prohibition against the religious use of pictures or images). John is also known as a hymn-writer. of his hymns are sung in English at Easter ("Come ye faithful, raise the strain" and "The Day of Resurrection! Earth, tell it out abroad!"). Many more are sung in the Eastern Church. His major writing is The Fount of Knowledge, of which the third part, The Orthodox Faith, is a summary of Christian doctrine as expounded by the Greek Fathers. dispute about icons was not a dispute between East and West as such. Both the Greek and the Latin churches accepted the final decision. The Iconoclasts maintained that the use of religious images was a violation of the Second Commandment ("Thou shalt not make a graven image... thou shalt not bow down to them"). The Iconodules replied that the coming of Christ had radically changed the situation, and that the commandment must now be understood in a new way, just as the commandment to "Remember the Sabbath Day" must be understood in a new way since the Resurrection of Jesus on the first day of the week. Before the Incarnation, it had indeed been improper to portray the invisible God in visible form; God, by taking fleshly form in the person of Jesus Christ, had blessed the whole realm of matter and made it a fit instrument for manifesting the Divine Splendor. had reclaimed everything in heaven and earth for His service, had made water and oil, bread and wine, means of conveying His grace to men. had made painting and sculpture and music and the spoken word, and indeed all our daily tasks and pleasures, the common round of everyday life, a means whereby man might glorify God and be made aware of Him. I always use "man" in the gender-inclusive sense unless the context plainly indicates otherwise.) the use of images and pictures in a religious context is open to abuse, and in the sixteenth century abuses had become so prevalent that some (not all) of the early Protestants reacted by denouncing the use of images altogether. Many years ago, I heard a sermon in my home parish (All Saints' Church, East Lansing, Michigan) on the Commandment, "Thou shalt not make a graven image, nor the likeness of anything in the heavens above, nor in the earth beneath, nor in the waters under the earth -- thou shalt not bow down to them, nor worship them." (Exodus 20:4-5 and Deuteronomy 5:8-9) preacher (Gordon Jones) pointed out that, even if we refrain completely from the use of statues and paintings in representing God, we will certainly use mental or verbal images, will think of God in terms of concepts that the human mind can grasp, since the alternative is not to think of Him at all. I digress to note that, if we reject the images offered in Holy Scripture of God as Father, Shepherd, King, Judge, on the grounds that they are not literally accurate, we will end up substituting other images -- an endless, silent sea, a dome of white radiance, an infinitely attenuated ether permeating all space, an electromagnetic force field, or whatever, which is no more literally true than the image it replaces, and which leaves out the truths that the Scriptural images convey. of the best books I know on this subject is Edwyn Bevan's Symbolism and Belief, Beacon Press, originally a Gifford Lectures series.[note - now out of print]) C S Lewis repeats what a woman of his acquaintance told him: that as a child she was taught to think of God as an infinite "perfect substance," with the result that for years she envisioned Him as a kind of enormous tapioca pudding. To make matters worse, she disliked tapioca. Back to the sermon.) sin of idolatry consists of giving to the image the devotion that properly belongs to God. No educated man today is in danger of confusing God with a painting or statue, but we may give to a particular concept of God the unconditional allegiance that properly belongs to God Himself. does not, of course, mean that one concept of God is as good as another, or that it may not be our duty to reject something said about God as simply false. concepts, of God matter, because it matters how we think about God. The danger is one of intellectual pride, of forgetting that the Good News is, not that we know God, but that He knows us (1 Corinthians 8:3), not that we love Him, but that He loves us (1 John 4:10). (Incidentally, it was customary in my parish in those days for the preacher to preach a short "Children's Sermon," after which the children were dismissed for Sunday School, and the regular sermon and the rest of the service followed. What I have described above was the Children's Sermon. I remained for the regular sermon, but found it a bit over my head -- a salutary correction to my intellectual snobbery.) the East Orthodox tradition, three-dimensional representations are seldom used. The standard icon is a painting, highly stylized, and thought of as a window through which the worshipper is looking into Heaven. the background of the picture is almost always gold leaf.) an Eastern church, an iconostasis (icon screen) flanks the altar on each side, with images of angels and saints (including Old Testament persons) as a sign that the whole church in Heaven and earth is one body in Christ, and unites in one voice of praise and thanksgiving in the Holy Liturgy. At one point in the service, the minister takes a censer and goes to each icon in turn, bows and swings the censer at the icon. He then does the same thing to the congregation -- ideally, if time permits, to each worshipper separately, as a sign that every Christian is an icon, made in the image and likeness of God, an organ in the body of Christ, a window through whom the splendor of Heaven shines forth. by James Kiefer

Syria, 701-781, John oDamascus, zealous Icon defender, wrote t Fount of Knowledge incl tOrthodox Faith, a hymnographer
Syria, 701-781, John oDamascus, born 680, Christian father treasurer fCaliph, foster brother saint Cosmas, both good education fSlave Cosmas oCalabria, both mastered secular spiritual sciences, John took father's post, became city perfect, Iconoclasm quickly spreads iConstantinople, Iconoclast Byzantine Emperor Leo III Isaurian, John's 3Iconodule treatises, enraged Leo, but J not Byzantine subject, Leo slandered J tKaliph, letter tLeo fJ offering help in conquering Damascas, Kaliph immediately ordered J removed hand cut off led through D in chains, same evening hand returned tJ, pressed to wrist he prayed MOG heal him so he could defend Orthodoxy and write again, heard voice iSleep commanding him toil w restored hand, awake saw hand restored thin red line around wrist sign oMiracle, silver model hand put on Icon in thanksgiving, of t3Hands Icon, Caliph heard of tMiracle & wanted restore J but J went to Sabbas wComas, only very Experienced Elder would guide him, do nothing to own will, offer God all labors & prayers, & shed tears to wash sins, once sent to Damascus to sell baskets inflated price, dressed in rags, not recognized except for his steward, sold baskets, monk died and J asked to compose consolation, refused but finally submitted, wrote What earthly delight & All human vanity & others, but for disobedience Elder banished him from Elder's cell, Elder refuses forgiveness fJ &All tMonks, then a monk asks fPenance sentence, wash chamber pots &Latrines wBare hands, after while Elder commanded bMOG allow J write again, Jerusalem Patriarch ordained J & mace him preacher at his Cathedral, but J returned to Sabbas, writing spiritual books&hymns, 754 Council Constantinople he denounced Iconoclasts, died 780 more than 100yrOld; Syria, 695-749, Saint, John of Damascus; Martyr John of Damascus, Commemorated on December 4; John of Damascus was born about the year 680 at Damascus, Syria into a Christian family. father, Sergius Mansur, was a treasurer at the court of the Caliph. had also a foster brother, the orphaned child Cosmas (October 14), whom Sergius had taken into his own home. the children were growing up, Sergius saw that they received a good education. the Damascus slave market he ransomed the learned monk Cosmas of Calabria from captivity and entrusted to him the teaching of his children. boys displayed uncommon ability and readily mastered their courses of the secular and spiritual sciences. the death of his father, John occupied ministerial posts at court and became the city prefect. Constantinople at that time, the heresy of Iconoclasm had arisen and quickly spread, by the emperor Leo III the Isaurian (717-741). up in defense of the Orthodox veneration of icons [Iconodoulia], Saint John wrote three treatises entitled, “Against Those who Revile the Holy Icons.” wise and God-inspired writings of Saint John enraged the emperor. since the author was not a Byzantine subject, the emperor was unable to lock him up in prison, or to execute him. emperor then resorted to slander. A forged letter to the emperor was produced, supposedly from John, in which the Damascus official was supposed to have offered his help to Leo in conquering the Syrian capital. letter and another hypocritically flattering note were sent to the Saracen Caliph by Leo the Isaurian. Caliph immediately ordered that Saint John be removed from his post, that his right hand be cut off, and that he be led through the city in chains. same evening, they returned the severed hand to Saint John. The saint pressed it to his wrist and prayed to the Most Holy Theotokos to heal him so that he could defend the Orthodox Faith and write once again in praise of the Most Pure Virgin and Her Son. a time, he fell asleep before the icon of the Mother of God. He heard Her voice telling him that he had been healed, and commanding him to toil unceasingly with his restored hand. awakening, he found that his hand had been attached to his arm once more. Only a small red mark around his wrist remained as a sign of the miracle. in thanksgiving for being healed, Saint John had a silver model of his hand attached to the icon, which became known as “Of the Three Hands.” unlearned painters have given the Mother of God three hands instead of depicting the silver model of Saint John’s hand. Icon “Of the Three Hands” is commemorated on June 28 and July 12. he learned of the miracle, which demonstrated John’s innocence, the Caliph asked his forgiveness wanted to restore him to his former office, but the saint refused. gave away his riches to the poor, and went to Jerusalem with his stepbrother and fellow-student, Cosmas. he entered the monastery of Saint Savva the Sanctified as a simple novice. was not easy for him to find a spiritual guide, because all the monks were daunted by his great learning and by his former rank. one very experienced Elder, who had the skill to foster the spirit of obedience and humility in a student, would consent to do this. Elder forbade John to do anything at all according to his own will. also instructed him to offer to God all his labors and supplications as a perfect sacrifice, to shed tears which would wash away the sins of his former life. he sent the novice to Damascus to sell baskets made at the monastery, and commanded him to sell them at a certain inflated price, far above their actual value. undertook the long journey under the searing sun, dressed in rags. No one in the city recognized the former official of Damascus, for his appearance had been changed by prolonged fasting and ascetic labors. Saint John was recognized by his former house steward, who bought all the baskets at the asking price, showing compassion on him for his apparent poverty. of the monks happened to die, and his brother begged Saint John to compose something consoling for the burial service. John refused for a long time, but out of pity he yielded to the petition of the grief-stricken monk, and wrote his renowned funeral troparia (“What earthly delight,” “All human vanity,” and others). this disobedience the Elder banished him from his cell. fell at his feet and asked to be forgiven, but the Elder remained unyielding. the monks began to plead for him to allow John to return, but he refused. one of the monks asked the Elder to impose a penance on John, and to forgive him if he fulfilled it. Elder said, “If John wishes to be forgiven, let him wash out all the chamber pots in the lavra, and clean the monastery latrines with his bare hands.” rejoiced and eagerly ran to accomplish his shameful task. a certain while, the Elder was commanded in a vision by the All-Pure and Most Holy Theotokos to allow Saint John to write again. the Patriarch of Jerusalem heard of Saint John, he ordained him priest and made him a preacher at his cathedral. Saint John soon returned to the Lavra of Saint Savva, where he spent the rest of his life writing spiritual books and church hymns. left the monastery only to denounce the iconoclasts at the Constantinople Council of 754. subjected him to imprisonment and torture, but he endured everything, and through the mercy of God he remained alive. He died in about the year 780, more than 100 years old. John of Damascus was a theologian and a zealous defender of Orthodoxy. His most important book is the Fount of Knowledge. The third section of this work, “On the Orthodox Faith,” is a summary of Orthodox doctrine and a refutation of heresy. Since he was known as a hymnographer, we pray to Saint John for help in the study of church singing.

Syria, 705-715, Al-Walid I, Arab Umayyad Caliph
Syria, Arab Umayyad Caliph, 705-715, Al-Walid I; Martyr Peter of Capetolis, Commemorated on October 4;

Syria, 717-720, Umar II, Arab Umayyad Caliph
Syria, Arab Umayyad Caliph, 717-720, Umar II ; Martyr Peter of Capetolis, Commemorated on October 4;

Syria, 717-740, Icon of Three Hands, John of Damascus' hand, Syria, MOG heals hand, to Sabbas, to Serbia, donkey igumen story
Syria, 717-740, Icon of Three Hands, John of Damascus' hand, Syria (Barada River foothills, Kings Highway 17, Way of the Sea 17), J slandered by Leo III, caliph cut off J's hand, MOG puts it back on, hand had written Orthodoxy defense, MOG commanded toil w o fail before healing, John to Sabbas w icon, icon to Serbia, MOG leads icon donkey to Hilandar, MOG icon becomes igumen of H; Damascus (Barada River foothills); Icon of the Mother of God of œthe Three Hands, Commemorated on June 28; Icon of the Mother of God, “Of the Three Hands”: the eighth century during the time of the Iconoclasts, Saint John of Damascus (December 4) was zealous in his veneration of holy icons. of this, he was slandered by the emperor and iconoclast Leo III the Isaurian (717-740), informed the Damascus caliph that Saint John was committing treasonous acts against him. caliph gave orders to cut off the hand of the monk and take it to the marketplace. evening Saint John, having asked the caliph for the cut-off hand, put it to its joint and fell to the ground before the icon of the Mother of God. monk begged Our Lady to heal the hand, which had written in defense of Orthodoxy. long prayer he fell asleep and saw in a dream that the All-Pure Mother of God had turned to him promising him quick healing. this the Mother of God bid him toil without fail with this hand. awakened from sleep, Saint John saw that his hand was unharmed. thankfulness for this healing Saint John placed on the icon a hand fashioned of silver, from which the icon received its name “Of Three Hands.” iconographers, in their ignorance, have mistakenly depicted the Most Holy Theotokos with three arms and three hands.) to Tradition, Saint John wrote a hymn of thanksgiving to the Mother of God: “All of creation rejoices in You, O Full of Grace,” which appears in place of the hymn “It is Truly Meet” in the Liturgy of Saint Basil the Great. John Damascene accepted monasticism at the monastery of Saint Savva the Sanctified and there bestowed his wonderworking icon. Lavra presented the icon “Of Three Hands” in blessing to Saint Savva, Archbishop of Serbia (+ 1237, January 12). the time of an invasion of Serbia by the Turks, some Christians who wanted to protect the icon, entrusted it to the safekeeping of the Mother of God Herself. placed it upon a donkey, which without a driver proceeded to Athos and stopped in front of the Hilandar monastery. monks put the icon in the monastery’s cathedral church (katholikon). a time of discord over the choice of igumen, the Mother of God deigned to head the monastery Herself, and from that time Her holy icon has occupied the igumen’s place in the temple. the Hilandar monastery there is chosen only a vicar, and from the holy icon the monks take a blessing for every obedience. Greek usage, this Icon is commemorated on June 28; but on July 12 in Slavic usage.

Syria, 720-724, Yazid II, Arab Umayyad Caliph
Syria, Arab Umayyad Caliph, 720-724, Yazid II; Martyr Peter of Capetolis, Commemorated on October 4;

Syria, 724-743, Hisham ibn Abd al-Malik, Arab Umayyad Caliph
Syria, Arab Umayyad Caliph, 724-743, Hisham ibn Abd al-Malik; Martyr Peter of Capetolis, Commemorated on October 4;

Syria, 735-736, Marwan bin Muhammad, Arab invasion of Georgia
Syria, Marwan bin Muhammad (Marwan II) Arab invasion of Georgia 735-736; Martyr David the Prince of Georgia, Commemorated on October 2 ; Martyr Abo the Perfumer, of Tibilisi, Georgia, Commemorated on January 8; Martyr Ashot Curapalati, King of of Artanuji, Commemorated on January 29 ;

Syria, 740 & 1237, Damascus Icon aka 3Hands, iconodule John oD slandered bIconoclast, MOG heals hand, Silver hand oHer Icon
Syria, 740 & 1237, Damascus Icon or 3Hands Icon, Syria, John oDamascus venerated icons, slandered by iconoclast Leo III Isaurian, Caliph cut off his hand, tMarketplace, asked for hand put it on joint prayed tMOG at her icon, hand had written Orthodoxy defense, saw MOG in dream promised quick healing, before this MOG bid him toil without fail with this hand, woke wHealed hand, in thankfulness put silver hand on Icon, 3hands Icon, wrote thanksgiving hymn All Creation Rejoices in You O Full oGrace, in Basil' Liturgy place It is Truly Meet, John oD monk at Sabbas, there gave icon, 1237 icon tSerbia aSava's Monastery, icon put on donkey during Turk invasion, donkey tSerbian Monastery Hilandar oAthos, MOG made Icon Hilandar Igumen by MOG; Damascus (Barada River foothills); Icon of the Mother of God of Damascus, Commemorated on December 4 ; Damascene Icon of the Mother of God, by ancient tradition, was painted by Saint John of Damascus gratitude to the Theotokos for the miraculous healing of his right hand, off through the perfidy of Emperor Leo the Isaurian. icon is also known as “Of the Three Hands” Icon of the Mother of God (June 28, and July 12). the ninth century in the time of the Iconoclasts, Saint John of Damascus (December 4) was zealous in his veneration of holy icons. of this, he was slandered by the emperor and iconoclast Leo III the Isaurian (717-740), informed the Damascus caliph that Saint John was committing treasonous acts against him. caliph gave orders to cut off the hand of the monk take it to the marketplace. evening Saint John, having asked the caliph for the cut-off hand, put it to its joint and fell to the ground before the icon of the Mother of God. monk begged Our Lady to heal the hand, had written in defense of Orthodoxy. long prayer he fell asleep saw in a dream that the All-Pure Mother of God had turned to him promising him quick healing. this the Mother of God bid him toil without fail with this hand. awakened from sleep, Saint John saw that his hand was unharmed. thankfulness for this healing Saint John placed on the icon a hand fashioned of silver, which the icon received its name “Of Three Hands.” iconographers, in their ignorance, have mistakenly depicted the Most Holy Theotokos with three arms and three hands.) to Tradition, Saint John wrote a hymn of thanksgiving to the Mother of God: “All of creation rejoices in You, O Full of Grace,” appears in place of the hymn “It is Truly Meet” in the Liturgy of Saint Basil the Great. John Damascene received monasticism at the monastery of Saint Savva the Sanctified there bestowed his wonderworking icon. Lavra presented the icon “Of Three Hands” in blessing to Saint Savva, Archbishop of Serbia (+ 1237, January 12). an invasion of Serbia by the Turks, some Christians who wanted to protect the icon, entrusted it to the safekeeping of the Mother of God Herself. placed it upon a donkey, which without a driver proceeded to Athos and stopped in front of the Hilandar monastery. monks put the icon in the monastery’s cathedral church (katholikon). a time of discord over the choice of igumen, Mother of God deigned to head the monastery Herself, from that time Her holy icon has occupied the igumen’s place in the temple. the Hilandar monastery there is chosen only a vicar, and from the holy icon the monks take a blessing for every obedience.

Syria, 744-750, Marwan II bin Muhammad (Marwan the Deaf), Arab Umayyad Caliph
Syria, Arab Umayyad Caliph, 744-750, Marwan II bin Muhammad (Marwan the Deaf) ; Arab general Marwan the Deaf; Martyr David the Prince of Georgia, Commemorated on October 2; Martyr Peter of Capetolis, Commemorated on October 4; St Sarmean, the Catholicos of Kartli, Georgia, Commemorated on August 21; Martyr Abo the Perfumer, of Tibilisi, Georgia, Commemorated on January 8; Martyr Ashot Curapalati, King of of Artanuji, Commemorated on January 29 ;

Syria, 750-1145, History Folder, Abbasid Caliphate, Sunni, Persian bureaucrats

Syria, 750-1517, Abbasid Caliphate, first based in Baghdad, Sunni, Revolution, Persian bureaucrats, Seljuk Turks in 1055
Arab Caliphates, 750-1517, Abbasid, based in Baghdad, Shia ; The Abbasid Caliphate was the third caliphate to succeed the Islamic prophet Muhammad. It was founded by a dynasty descended from Muhammad's uncle, Abbas ibn Abdul-Muttalib (566-“653 CE), from whom the dynasty takes its name.[2] They ruled as caliphs for most of the caliphate from their capital in Baghdad in modern-day Iraq, after having overthrown the Umayyad Caliphate in the Abbasid Revolution of 750 CE (132 AH). Abbasid Caliphate first centered its government in Kufa, modern-day Iraq, but in 762 the caliph Al-Mansur founded the city of Baghdad, near the ancient Sasanian capital city of Ctesiphon. Abbasid period was marked by reliance on Persian bureaucrats (notably the Barmakid family) for governing the territories as well as an increasing inclusion of non-Arab Muslims in the ummah (national community). customs were broadly adopted by the ruling elite, and they began patronage of artists and scholars.[3] became a center of science, culture, philosophy and invention in what became known as the Golden Age of Islam. this initial cooperation, the Abbasids of the late 8th century had alienated both non-Arab mawali (clients)[4] and Iranian bureaucrats.[5] were forced to cede authority over al-Andalus (Spain) to the Umayyads in 756, Morocco to the Idrisids in 788, Ifriqiya and Southern Italy to the Aghlabids in 800, Khorasan and Transoxiana to the Samanids and Persia to the Saffarids in the 870s, and Egypt to the Isma'ili-Shia caliphate of the Fatimids in 969. political power of the caliphs was limited with the rise of the Iranian Buyids and the Seljuq Turks, who captured Baghdad in 945 and 1055, respectively. Abbasid leadership over the vast Islamic empire was gradually reduced to a ceremonial religious function in much of the Caliphate, the dynasty retained control over its Mesopotamian domain. Abbasids' period of cultural fruition and its (reduced) territorial control ended in 1258 with the sack of Baghdad by the Mongols under Hulagu Khan and the execution of Al-Musta'sim. Abbasid line of rulers, and Muslim culture in general, re-centred themselves in the Mamluk capital of Cairo in 1261. lacking in political power (with the brief exception of Caliph Al-Musta'in of Cairo), the dynasty continued to claim religious authority until after the Ottoman conquest of Egypt in 1517.[6] Apostle and Evangelist Mark, Commemorated on April 25;

Syria, 813-833, Michael tBlack-Robed, oSabbas, Queen Seida, King al-Mamun, no adultry, poison fails, Relics Plllar oFire
Jerusalem, 813-833, Michael tBlack-Robed, oSabbas, Lavra of St Sav, Sabbas watercourse from Theodosius', Judea, near Jerusalem, From Edessa, distributed inheritance, tJerusalem under Moslem Rule, tSabbas, kin Theodore, reed baskets, tJMarketplace, Queen Seida wants him, King al-Mamun, M rejects adultery, accused insulting Queen&enemy oIslam, debate wKing, Mohammad neither apostle of Jesus nor prophet, he a deceiver&antichrist forerunner, send me to my monastery, be baptized&reign forever, or send me to Christ tMartyrdom, sign oCross, deadly poison failed tHarm, decapitated, Theodore notified bLord, fight over relics, King decided go to Sabbas, Pillar oFire wRelics to Lavra, buried wMartyrs, many miracles, 12th century Daniel tTraveler sees relics; Edessa, Syria; Martyr Michael the Black-Robed of Saint Savva Monastery, Commemorated on July 29; Venerable Michael lived in the ninth century, and was from the city of Edessa in Mesopotamia, the son of Christian parents. After their death he distributed his inheritance to the poor, then went to Jerusalem to venerate the Holy Places. The Holy Land at that time was under Moslem rule. remained in Palestine and settled in the Lavra of Saint Savva, he became the disciple of his relative, Saint Theodore of Edessa (July 9), who spent his time both in the monastery and living as an anchorite in the Judean desert. Theodore accepted him and tonsured him right away. The two made baskets of reeds together in order to support themselves. Saint Michael would take the baskets to the marketplace in Jerusalem in order to sell them. day while at the marketplace, the eunuch of the Muslim Queen Seida, seeing that the baskets were both fine and well-made, took him along to the Queen, who was visiting the city with her husband King al-Ma’mun (813-833). handsome monk aroused the desire of the Queen, who tried to lead him into the sin of adultery, but he did not accept her suggestions. enraged Seida told her husband to have the monk beaten with rods because he had insulted her, and accused him of being an enemy of Islam. was a debate about which faith is the true one, Christianity or Islam, and the king said, “Do as I tell you, and confess that Mohammed is a prophet and an apostle of Christ, then I will adopt you as my son.” Michael said, “Mohammad is neither an apostle nor a prophet, but a deceiver and the forerunner of the antichrist. send me back to my Elder at the monastery, or be baptized into our Christian faith and reign forever in the heavens, or send me to Christ through martyrdom.” king gave the Saint a cup with deadly poison to drink. Michael made the Sign of the Cross over the cup, and he drank it, but he remained unharmed, according to the promise of the Lord (Mark16:18). this the king ordered that he be decapitated. monks of the Lavra of Saint Savva wanted to take the Saint’s relics to their Lavra, but the Christians of Jerusalem would not permit this. They said that since he was martyred in Jerusalem, his relics ought to remain monks of the Lavra disagreed with them, saying that he was nurtured in the Lavra and so he should be buried there. There was such a heated argument that the king decided that the relics would go to the Lavra. the same day that Saint Michael was put to death, the Lord revealed this to Saint Theodore. informing the brethren, he sent some monks to bring the relics to the Lavra. the relics were carried to the Lavra, there was a pillar of fire from Heaven accompanying the relics, and it remained until they reached the Lavra. Theodore and the monks came out to meet the procession with lit candles, and singing hymns. holy relics were buried with the other holy Fathers who had endured martyrdom. miracles took place before the relics of Saint Michael, as a sign that he had found favor with God. the beginning of the twelfth century the relics of Saint Michael were seen by Daniel, the Igoumen of the Kiev Caves Monastery, while on pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Michael is commemorated twice during the year: on May 23 (his repose) and July 29 (the transfer of his relics).

Syria, 836-848, Theodore, Bishop oEdessa, tSabbas, 36yrs solitude, dove miracle, 12yr bishop, converts Bagdad calif
Armenia, 836-848, Theodore, Bishop oEdessa, Armenia (Intersection and Euphrates River 3), tSabbas a12, 36yrs solitude, bishop 12yrs, Consecration dove miracle, clairvoyant Stylite Theodosis his elder, tBagdad, converts calif Mavi, after healing him wDirt from Lord's grave, Mavi killed, fortells T's death, through 2 dreams tT and T tStylite, writings, read by 16-17th Century Rus; Edessa, Syria; St Theodore the Bishop of Edessa, Commemorated on July 9 ; Theodore, Bishop of Edessa, was born in the Syrian city of Edessa. his life the holy saint was a bright witness of the great deeds of God, glorified in His Saints. twelve years of age, after he lost his parents and gave away his inheritance to the poor, he went to Jerusalem, he was tonsured at the Lavra of the Saint Savva the Sanctified. twelve years of fervent monastic obedience and then another twenty-four years of full seclusion and great abstinence, the Lord called the valiant ascetic to be a bishop, so that he might enlighten the world. the death of the Bishop of Edessa, no worthier successor was found than Theodore, and with the mutual consent of the Patriarchs of Antioch and Jerusalem, and of the clergy and laity, this fine man was chosen bishop. was not easy for Saint Theodore to forsake his solitude, but he submitted himself to the will of God and undertook his pastoral guidance of the Edessa Church. occurred during the reign of the Byzantine emperor Michael and his mother Theodora (842-855). the time of Saint Theodore’s episcopal consecration, there occurred a great miracle. The people beheld a dove, white as snow, flying about beneath the cupola of the church, which then alit upon the head of the newly-made bishop. Theodore devoted all his abilities to the governance of his flock. He was a model for the faithful in word, in life, in love. By the good example of his holy ascetic life, he guided the flock entrusted to him by God, onto the path of salvation. Theodore exerted much effort in the struggle with heretics, and with a firm hand he guarded the Church from temptations and false teachings. his consolation and support for Saint Theodore, the clairvoyant Elder Theodosius the Stylite also served the spiritual community while laboring in asceticism not far from the city, near the monastery of the holy Great Martyr George. the blessing of the Elder, Saint Theodore journeyed to Baghdad to the caliph Mavi to complain about unjust measures against the Orthodox. come to Mavi, the saint found him seriously ill. Calling on the help of the Lord, the holy bishop threw a bit of earth from the Sepulchre of the Lord into a vessel of water and gave it to the caliph to drink, and the sick one was healed. grateful Mavi, favorably disposed towards the saint, happily heard his teachings. Finally, together with three close associates, he accepted holy Baptism with the name John. afterwards for his open confession of faith in Christ before the Moslems, the caliph John was killed with his three associates. appeared in a dream simultaneously to Saint Theodore and to Theodosius the Stylite, he said that he had been granted to suffer for Christ, and was numbered among the ranks of the Martyrs. He promised that soon he would meet them in the Kingdom of Heaven. was an indication to the saint of God that his own end was approaching. 848, again in solitude at the Lavra of Saint Savva the Sanctified, he peacefully departed to the Lord. Theodore has left Christians his edifying writings. Life of Saint Theodore of Edessa was popular reading in Rus during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, and was preserved in many manuscripts. Saint Theodore of Edessa, Mesopotamia, Commemorated on July 19; Saint’s father was named Symeon, and his mother’s name was Maria. He received a good education and was distinguished for his philosophical knowledge, as well as for rhetoric. the age of ten he was left as an orphan and gave half of his parents’ wealth to his sister, and kept the other half himself. Sharing this with the poor, he departed for Jerusalem. There he venerated the holy places and, when he was nineteen years old, he became a monk in the Lavra of Saint Savva. Theodore remained there for twenty-four years, leading an ascetic and virtuous life, and became a renowned ascetic. of his great virtues, the Patriarch of Jerusalem made him Bishop of Edessa in 836. was an excellent Archpastor, with his vast theological knowledge, his many virtues, and above all, his great love, which he bestowed abundantly upon his flock. that time Edessa was plagued with many heresies: Arian, Nestorian, Eutychian, etc. holy hierarch instructed his flock in the Orthodox Faith in order to combat these errors. Theodore also went to see the Persian king in Babylon, asking him to protect the Orthodox Christians of Edessa from the malevolence of the heretics. King was very sick, but the Saint healed him and spoke to him about Christ. many days the King was baptized with the name John. returning to Edessa, Saint Theodore was informed in a vision that King John and his three bodyguards, who had been baptized with him, proclaimed their faith openly and received the unfading crown of martyrdom. the approach of death, Saint Theodore retired to the Lavra of Saint Savva. calling the clergy and laity of Edessa together and blessing them, he surrendered his holy soul to the Heavenly Father in the year 848. Basil of Emessa wrote the Saint’s life in Greek, which is preserved at the Ivḗron Monastery on Mount Athos.

Syria, 1145-1149, History Folder, Second Crusade, County of Edessa

Second Crusade (County of Edessa, 1145-1149)
Second Crusade; EARLY ABBOTS of CLUNY, 30 April 909 ;

Syria, 1831, Muhammad Ali's Conquest of Greater Syria

Syria, 1831, Muhammad Ali's conquest of Greater Syria
Syria, Muhammad Ali's conquest of Greater Syria (1831); ANTHONY ASHLEY-COOPER, 7th EARL OF SHAFTESBURY], PROPHETIC WITNESS, 1885;

Syria, 9999, Unknown Date Folder

Syria, 9999, Martyr Marcellus oSyria, Greater Syria (The Fertile Crescent), thrown into fire, shone bright, Martyrdom
Syria, 9999, Martyr Marcellus oSyria, Greater Syria (The Fertile Crescent, a country without a nation), thrown into fire, shone bright, Martyrdom; Greater Syria (The Fertile Crescent); Martyrs Marcellus and Anthony of Syria, Commemorated on March 1; Marcellus and Saint Anthony were thrown into a fire, where they shone forth brighter than gold in a crucible, receiving crowns of martyrdom from Christ our God.

Syria, Orontes River Folder, Northern SYR, Antioch, Homs, Apamea

Orontes River

Orontes River Source (Great Springs of Labweh)

Seleucia ad Belum, Syria (at the headwaters of the Orantes River)
Seleucia ad Belum, Syria (at the headwaters of the Orantes River); Venerable Anthusa the Nun, Commemorated on August 22;

Kadesh, Syria (Orantes River 1, Lake of Homs)
Kadesh, Syria (Orantes River 1, Lake of Homs) ; Kadesh of the Levant, 1 Maccabees Ch 11; Battle of Kadesh, 1274BC, Egypt and the Hittites, Largest Chariot Battle ever fought; Righteous Judith, Commemorated on December 11;

Orontes River 1 (Lake of Homs, Kadesh)

Ash Sha'irat Airbase

Orontes River 2 (Homs, Emessa)

Emessa, Syria (Homs, Orontes River 2)
Emesa, Syria (Homs); Venerable Simeon of Emessa the Fool-For-Christ, Commemorated on July 21; dispassion (apathia); Venerable Romanus the Melodist, "œSweet-Singer"Â, Commemorated on October 1 ; Martyr Galacteon and his wife at Emesa, Commemorated on November 5; St Paul the Confessor the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated on November 6 ; Venerable Matrona, Abbess of Constantinople, Commemorated on November 9; Venerable Nilus the Faster of Sinai, Commemorated November 12 ; Martyr Silvanus Bishop of Emesa, Commemorated January 29 ; Martyr Julian of Emesa, Commemorated on February 6 ; First and second finding of the Honorable Head of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist of the Lord, John, Commemorated February 24 ; Repose of St Raphael the Bishop of Brooklyn, Commemorated on February 27;

Homs, Syria (Lake of Homs, Emessa, Orontes River 2)
Homs; Martyr Galacteon and his wife at Emesa, Commemorated on November 5 ; Repose of St Raphael the Bishop of Brooklyn, Commemorated on February 27; Greatmartyr, Victory-bearer and Wonderworker George, Commemorated on April 23;

Orontes River 3 (Arethusa)

Arethusa (see and city) near Apameia, Syria
Arethusa (see and city) near Apameia, Syria; Hieromartyr Mark the Bishop of Arethusa, who suffered under Julian the Apostate, Commemorated on March 29 ;

Orontes River 4 (Hamath)

Hamath, Syria (Orontes River 4)
Hamath, Syria;

Orontes River 5 (Apamea, Seleukia)

Apamea, Syria (Orontes River 5)
Apamea, Syria; Martyr Acacius of Apamea, Commemorated July 28 ; Greatmartyr Procopius of Caesarea, in Palestine, "Procopius in Apamea on the way to Alexandria" ; Hieromartyr Marcellus the Bishop of Apamea, Commemorated August 14 ; Martyr Aristion the Bishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on September 3 ; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated September 27 ; Martyr Anthony of Apamea, Commemorated on November 9 ; Venerable Marcellus the Abbot of the Monastery of the "Unsleeping Ones", Commemorated December 29 ; Martyr Tryphon of Campsada Near Apamea in Syria, Commemorated on February 1 ; Martyr Maurice at Apamea in Syria, Commemorated February 22 ; Martyr Quadratus and the rest of Nicomedia, Commemorated on March 10 ; Hieromartyr Mark the Bishop of Arethusa, who suffered under Julian the Apostate, Commemorated on March 29; Icon of the Mother of God of Vilnius, Commemorated on April 14; Apostle Aristarchus of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15; St Pausicacus the Bishop of Synnada, Commemorated on May 13; Greatmartyr Procopius of Caesarea, in Palestine, Commemorated on July 8;

Seleukia (Orantes River 5)
Seleukia; Venerable Simeon Stylites the Younger of Wonderful Mountain, Commemorated on May 24;

Targala in Byzantine Syria, near its Capital, Apamea
Targala in Byzantine Syria, near its Capital Apamea; Venerable Thalassius Hermit of Syria, Commemorated on February 22; Venerable Limnaeus Hermit of Syria, Commemorated on February 22

Byzantine Syria (Theodosius)
Byzantine Syria (Theodosius) ; Venerable Thalassius Hermit of Syria, Commemorated on February 22; Venerable Limnaeus Hermit of Syria, Commemorated on February 22

Khan Sheikhun, Sarin Gas
Khan Sheikhun, Serin Gas

67.5 Miles

Orontes River 6 (Lake of Antioch)

Syria, Orontes River 6, Afrin River Folder

Afrin River

Afrin River Source (Kartal Mountains)

Afrin River 1 (Cyrrhus, Syria)

Cyrrhus, Syria (Afrin River 1)
Cyrrhus; Martyr Dometius of Persia, Commemorated on August 7; St Marcian of Cyrrhus, Commemorated on November 2 ; Venerable Akepsimas the Hermit of Cyrrhus in Syria, Commemorated on November 3 ; St Peter of Galatia, Commemorated on November 25 ; Venerable James the Solitary of Syria, Commemorated November 26 ; Venerable Marcian of Cyrrhus in Syria, Commemorated January 18 ; Venerable Mausimas the Syrian, Commemorated January 23 ; St Mares the Singer in Syria, Commemorated January 25 ; Venerable Peter the Hermit of Galatia Near Antioch, in Syria, Commemorated on February 1 ; Venerable Maron the Hermit of Syria, Commemorated February 14 ; St Asclepius of Syria, Commemorated on February 27; Venerable Marana of Syria, Commemorated on February 28 ; Virginmartyr Domnina of Syria, Commemorated on March 1 ;

Afrin River 2 (Queig (Aleppo) River Mouth)

Syria, Orontes River 6, Afrin River 2, Queig (Aleppo) River folder

Queig (Aleppo) River

Queig (Aleppo) River Source (Southwestern Aintab plateau)

Queig (Aleppo) River 1 (Chalcis)

Chalcis, Syria (Queig (Aleppo) River 1)
Chalcis, Syria; St Malchus of Chalcis in Syria, Commemorated on March 26; St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15;

Queiq (Aleppo) River 2 (Beroea, Aleppo, Syria's largest city)

Aleppo, Syria or Armenia (Beroea), (Queig (Aleppo) River 2)
Aleppo; Martyr Andrew Stratelates in Cilicia, Commemorated on August 19; Venerable Theophanes of Dochiariou of Mt Athos, Commemorated on August 19; St Simeon Stylites, the Elder, Commemorated September 1 ; Venerable Martha the Mother of St Simeon Stylites, Commemorated on September 1 ; St Macarius the Stylite of Martkobsk, Georgia, Commemorated on January 19 ; St Eustathius the Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on February 21;

Lavra of St Simeon, Aleppo, Syria or Armenia
Aleppo; Martyr Andrew Stratelates in Cilicia, Commemorated on August 19; Venerable Theophanes of Dochiariou of Mt Athos, Commemorated on August 19; St Simeon Stylites, the Elder, Commemorated September 1 ; Venerable Martha the Mother of St Simeon Stylites, Commemorated on September 1 ; St Macarius the Stylite of Martkobsk, Georgia, Commemorated on January 19 ; St Eustathius the Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on February 21;

Veria (or Berea) in Syria (Queig (Aleppo) River 2)
Beroea in Syria, modern day Aleppo; Martyr Andrew Stratelates in Cilicia, Commemorated on August 19; St Eustathius the Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated February 21 ; Venerable Marana of Syria, Commemorated on February 28 ;

skete monastery of St John the Forerunner, Veria, Berea, Syria

Queig (Aleppo) River 3

Queig (Aleppo) River 4

Queig (Aleppo) River 5

Queig (Aleppo) River Mouth (Afrin River 2)

Afrin River 3

Afrin River 4

Telanissa (Taladah), Syria (Afrin River 4, Site of Simeon the Elder's Pillar)
Telanissa (Taladah), Syria (Afrin River 4, Site of Simeon the Elder's Pillar); St. Simeon Stylites, the Elder, Commemorated on September 1;

Afrin River 5

Afrin River Mouth (Lake Antioch, Orontes River 6)

Orontes River 7 (Antioch)

Antioch, Syria (Orontes River 7)
Antioch (Orontes River 7); St George the God-Bearer, Commemorated July 3 ; Venerable Martha the Mother of the Venerable Simeon Stylites the Younger, Commemorated July 4 ; Hieromartyr Pancratius the Bishop of Taormina in Sicily, Commemorated on July 9 ; MACRINA THE YOUNGER, MONASTIC AND TEACHER (19 JUL 379) ; Venerable Dius the Abbot of Antioch, Commemorated on July 19; Virginmartyr Seraphima (Serapia) of Antioch; Hieromartyr Apollinaris the Bishop of Ravenna, Commemorated on July 23; St Hilarion of Tvali, Commemorated on July 24; Appearance of the Smolensk œDirectress Â Icon of the Mother of God brought from Constantinople, Commemorated on July 28 ; Holy Apostles of the Seventy and Deacons: Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, and Parmenas, Commemorated on July 28; Virginmartyr Seraphima (Serapia) of Antioch, Commemorated on July 29; Apostle Silas of the Seventy, Commemorated July 30 ; 7 Holy Maccabee Martyrs, Commemorated on August 1; Venerable Cosmas the Eunuch and Hermit of Palestine, Commemorated on August 3; Martyr Eusignius of Antioch, Commemorated on August 5; Apostle Matthias of the Seventy, Commemorated on August 9; Martyr Eusignius of Antioch, Commemorated on August 5 ; Translation of the relics of St Maximus the Confessor, Commemorated on August 13; Venerable Gerasimus the New Ascetic of Cephalonia, Commemorated on August 16 ; St Gabriel I the Patriarch, Commemorated on August 30; St Simeon Stylites, the Elder, Commemorated September 1 ; Hieromartyr Babylas, Bishop of Antioch, and those with him, Commemorated on September 4; Martyr Juventinus the Soldier at Antioch, Commemorated on September 5 ; Martyr Juventinus the Soldier at Antioch, Commemorated on September 5 ; Apostle Evodius (Euodias) of the Seventy, Commemorated September 7 ; JOHN CHRYSOSTOM, BISHOP OF ANTIOCH AND OF CONSTANTINOPLE, PREACHER, THEOLOGIAN, LITURGIST (13 Sept. 407) ; Martyr Trophimus of Synnada, Commemorated on September 19 ; Protomartyr and Equal of the Apostles Thekla, Commemorated on September 24; Hieromartyr Cyprian of Nicomedia, Commemorated on October 2 ; Virginmartyr Pelagia of Antioch, Commemorated October 8 ; Venerable Andronicus of Egypt with his Wife, Commemorated on October 9 ; Martyr Juventinus at Antioch, Commemorated on October 9 ; St Publia the Confessor and Deaconess of Antioch, Commemorated on October 9 ; Martyr Theotecnus of Antioch, Commemorated October 10 ; Martyr Lucian the Presbyter of Antioch, Commemorated on October 15 ; Apostle and Evangelist Luke, Commemorated on October 18; LUKE THE EVANGELIST, (18 OCTOBER) ; IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH, BISHOP AND MARTYR (17 OCT 107) ; Greatmartyr Artemius at Antioch, Commemorated on October 20 ; JAMES OF JERUSALEM, BISHOP AND MARTYR (23 OCT NT); St John Chrysostom the Archbishop of Constantinople ; St Marcian of Cyrrhus, Commemorated on November 2 ; St John the Merciful, Patriarch of Alexandria, Commemorated on November 12 ; St John Chrysostom the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated on November 13 ; Martyr Roman the Deacon of Caesarea, Commemorated November 18 ; Martyr Romanus the Deacon, of Caesarea, Commemorated on November 18 ; The youth Barulus, Commemorated on November 18; Martyr Barlaam of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated November 19 ; Martyr Theodore of Antioch, Commemorated on November 23 ; St Peter of Galatia, Commemorated on November 25 ; St Romanus, Commemorated on November 27 ; Hieromartyr Abibus, Bishop of Nekressi in Georgia, Commemorated on November 29 ; ANDREW THE APOSTLE, (30 NOV NT) ; Hierarch Peter, First Catholicos of Georgia, Commemorated on November 30 ; St Vakhtang Gorgasali, King of Georgia, Commemorated on November 30 ; Hieromartyr Ignatius the God-Bearer the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on December 20 ; St Philogonius the Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated December 20 ; The Nativity of our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ, Commemorated on December 25 ; Venerable Marcellus the Abbot of the Monastery of the "Unsleeping Ones", Commemorated December 29 ; St Basil the Great the Archbishop of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, Commemorated January 1 ; St Sylvester the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on January 2 ; Apostle Mark the Evangelist of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle and Evangelist Luke of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Euodius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Apostle Silas of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; Synaxis of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner and Baptist John, Commemorated January 7 ; St Gregory the Bishop of Nyssa, Commemorated January 10; St Theodosius of Antioch, Commemorated Janaury 11; St Ephraim the Lesser, Commemorated January 18 ; Venerable Euthymius the Great, Commemorated on January 20; St Gregory the Theologian the Archbishop of Constantinople, Commemorated on January 25 ; SILAS, MISSIONARY COMPANION OF PAUL, Commemorated January 26 ; Venerable Palladius the Hermit, of Antioch; Translation of the relics of the Hieromartyr Ignatius, the Godbearer and Bishop of Antioch ; St Aphraates of Persia; Venerable Zeno the Hermit of Antioch the Disciple of St Basil the Great, Commemorated January 30 ; Venerable Peter the Hermit of Galatia Near Antioch, in Syria; The Meeting of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the Temple; Martyr Nicephorus of Antioch, in Syria; St Meletius the Archbishop of Antioch; Venerable Romanós of Cilicia, Commemorated on February 9; St Eulogius the Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated February 13 ; Venerable Maron the Hermit of Syria; St Flavian, Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on February 16; St Eugene the Presbyter and Confessor at Antioch, Commemorated February 19 ; St Eustathius the Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated February 21 ; Saint John “Scholasticus”, Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on February 21; Venerable Alexander the founder of the Monastery, of the "Unsleeping Ones". Commemoratedd December 29; St Sylvester the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on January 2; Venerable Palladius the Hermit, of Antioch, Commemorated on January 28 ; Translation of the relics of the Hieromartyr Ignatius, the Godbearer and Bishop of Antioch, Commemorated on January 29 ; St Aphraates of Persia, Commemorated on January 29 ; Venerable Peter the Hermit of Galatia Near Antioch, in Syria, Commemorated on February 1 ; The Meeting of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the Temple, Commemorated on February 2 ; St Arsenius of Iqalto in Georgia, Commemorated on February 6; Martyr Nicephorus of Antioch, in Syria, Commemorated on February 9 ; St Meletius the Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on February 12 ; St Eulogius the Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated February 13 ; St Flavian, Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on February 16 ; St Maruthas the Bishop of Martyropolis in Mesopotamia, Commemorated on February 16; St Eustathius the Archbishop of Antioch, Commemorated on February 21; Hieromartyr Polycarp the Bishop of Smyrna, Commemorated on February 23; Venerable Alexander the founder of the Monastery, of the ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂœUnsleeping OnesÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂÂÂÂ, Commemorated on February 23; Repose of St Raphael the Bishop of Brooklyn, Commemorated on February 27; Hieromartyr Theodoritus of Antioch, Commemorated on March 8; St Sophronius the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Commemorated on March 11; Martyr Julian of Anazarbus, Commemorated on March 16; St Cyril the Bishop of Catania, Commemorated on March 21 ; St Malchus of Chalcis in Syria, Commemorated on March 26 ; St Celestine the Pope of Rome, Commemorated on April 8; St Ephraim the Great of Atsquri, Commemorated on April 15; GEORGE, SOLDIER and MARTYR, 23 APRIL 303, Commemorated April 23; Venerable Thomas the Fool of Syria, Commemorated on April 24; Apostle and Evangelist Mark, Commemorated on April 25; MARK THE EVANGELIST, (25 APR NT) ; GEORGE, SOLDIER and MARTYR, 23 APRIL 303; Hieromartyr Erasmus the Bishop of Formia in Campania, Commemorated on May 4; St John Zedazneli of Zaden, in Georgia with his 12 Disciples, Commemorated on May 7; GREGORY OF NAZIANZUS, BISHOP AND THEOLOGIAN (9 MAY 389); Repose of the Venerable Shio the Anchorite of Georgia, Commemorated on May 9; Martyr Christopher of Lycia, Commemorated on May 9 ; Repose of the Venerable Shio the Anchorite of Georgia, Commemorated on May 9; Martyr Hesychius of Antioch, Commemorated on May 10; Hieromartyr Hermogenes the Patriarch of Moscow and All Russia, Commemorated on May 12; Commemoration of the Holy Fathers of the Second Ecumenical Council, Commemorated on May 22 Venerable Simeon Stylites the Younger of Wonderful Mountain, Commemorated on May 24; JOAN OF ARC, VISIONARY, 30 May 1431; St Ephraim the Patriarch of Antioch, Commemorated on June 8; EPHREM OF EDESSA, DEACON AND HYMN-WRITER (10 JUNE 373); Venerable Theophanes of Antioch, Commemorated on June 10; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated on June 11; St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15; Martyr Julian of Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on June 21 ; Hieromartyr Eusebius the Bishop of Samosata, Commemorated on June 22; Martyr Eustochius of Ancyra, Commemorated on June 23; Venerable George of Mt. Athos, Georgian, Commemorated on June 27; IRENAEUS, BISHOP OF LYONS, THEOLOGIAN (28 JUN 202) ; St Alexander the Founder of the Monastery of the ÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂœUnsleeping OnesÃƒÂƒÃ‚Â¢ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚Â€ÃƒÂ‚Ã‚ÂÂÂÂ, Commemorated on July 3 ; St George the God-Bearer, Commemorated on July 3; Venerable Martha the Mother of the Venerable Simeon Stylites the Younger, Commemorated on July 4 ;

Cyrrhus (a small town near Antioch), Syria (Orontes River 7)
Antioch (Orontes River 7); Saint Macedonius the Hermit of Syria, Commemorated on January 24;

Antigonia, Syria, Antioch (Orantes River 7), Island of Antigonia (may be Cyprus?)
Antigonia, Syria, Antioch (Orantes River 7); Saint Methodius, Patriarch of Constantinople, Commemorated on June 14;

Cathedral Church in Antioch, Syria (Domus Aurea (Antioch))
Cathedral Church in Antioch, Syria (Domus Aurea (Antioch)) Antioch (Orontes River 7); Hieromartyr Theodoritus of Antioch, Commemorated on March 8; Theodoritus was a presbyter and keeper of sacred vessels at the cathedral church in Antioch. This church was built and richly adorned by the emperor Saint Constantine the Great (May 21) and his son Constantius, and the people called it the Golden church. Having occupied the throne after the death of the emperor Constantius (337-361), Julian the Apostate (361-363) decided to restore paganism throughout the Roman Empire. emperor appointed his uncle, also named Julian, as prefect of Antioch. He ordered him to close the Christian churches, and to send the valuables within them to the imperial treasury. Wanting to please the emperor, the prefect, also an apostate from Christianity, set about his impious task with zeal. at Antioch with the dignitary Felix, he gave orders to lock up the priest Theodoritus under guard, and he began his plundering, defiling the altar and the holy altar table. One of those present, Euzoios, tried to admonish him for his impiety, and for this he was killed. Julian accused Theodoritus of hiding the church valuables, but the venerable keeper of vessels denied the accusation and openly denounced Julian for his apostasy. beastly tortures, the holy martyr maintained his faith in Christ the Savior, and predicted a speedy death for Julian and the emperor for their sacrilege. soldiers torturing the faithful presbyter were struck by his firmness and endurance, and by the power of the Word of God. They were converted to Christ, for which they were drowned in the sea. holy confessor was beheaded. The mockery and sacrilege of the pagans did not go unpunished, and the predictions of Saint Theodoritus were soon fulfilled. The prefect Julian died in agony from a grievous illness, and the emperor Julian perished in a campaign against the Persians.

Tvali Monastery, Syria (somewhere not far from Antioch)
Tvali Monastery St Hilarion of Tvali, Commemorated on July 24; Hilarion of Tvali (Tulashvili) served as abbot of Khakhuli Monastery in southwestern Georgia at the beginning of the 11th century. his work The Life of George of the Holy Mountain, George the Lesser writes that Venerable Hilarion was outstanding in virtue and celebrated for his sermons and ascetic labors. Hilarion raised the young George of the Holy Mountain to be a brilliant writer, translator, theologian and patriot. From him George also received a blessing to enter the monastic life. to the chronicle Life of Kartli, Saint Hilarion was a famous translator and writer and an eminent theologian. Saint Hilarion moved from Khakhuli to Tvali Monastery, not far from Antioch, where he remained for the rest of his life. According to the 19th-century historian-iconographer Michael Sabinin, Saint Hilarion reposed in the year 1041. St Alexander the Founder of the Monastery of the œUnsleeping OnesÂ, Commemorated on July 3;

Orontes River Mouth (Antioch, Latakia Bay)

Black Mountains or Wonderful Mountain West, near Antioch
Black Mountains or Wonderful Mountain, East or West, near Antioch; Venerable Palladius the Hermit, of Antioch, Commemorated on January 28; St Arsenius of Iqalto in Georgia, Commemorated February 6 ; Venerable Simeon Stylites the Younger of Wonderful Mountain, Commemorated on May 24; Venerable George of Mt. Athos, Georgian, Commemorated on June 27; St George the God-Bearer, Commemorated on July 3;

Syria, 350-400, Palladius tHermit, oBlack Mountains or Wonderful Mountain West, near Antioch
Black Mountains or Wonderful Mountain, East or West, near Antioch; Venerable Palladius the Hermit, of Antioch, Commemorated on January 28;

Wonderful Mountain or Black Mountains East, near Antioch
Black Mountains or Wonderful Mountain, East or West, near Antioch; Venerable Palladius the Hermit, of Antioch, Commemorated on January 28; St Arsenius of Iqalto in Georgia, Commemorated February 6 ; Venerable Simeon Stylites the Younger of Wonderful Mountain, Commemorated on May 24; Venerable George of Mt. Athos, Georgian, Commemorated on June 27; St George the God-Bearer, Commemorated on July 3;

Desert of Chalcis, southeast of Antioch
Desert of Chalcis, southeast of Antioch St Jerome (Hieronymus) of Stridonium, Commemorated on June 15; Jerome of Stridon was born into a Christian family in the city of Stridon located on the border between Dalmatia and Pannonia. full name is Eusebius Hieronymos Sophronius. His parents sent him to Rome, where he studied the secular sciences. At the beginning of his life in the capital, the youth was captivated by worldly vanities and fell into temptation. At the end of his time in Rome, Jerome resolved to change his life and to live in goodness and purity. the youth was about 20 years old, he accepted holy Baptism. After this he visited in Gaul (France). Then Saint Jerome decided to dedicate himself totally to God, and to become a monk. about the year 372 Saint Jerome returned to his native city, but his parents had already departed this life. On him fell the responsibility of raising his younger sisters and his brother Paulinian. These cares forced him to put aside his plans to enter a monastery, at least for a time. made arrangements for the care of his siblings, he journeyed to the East with several of his friends. 374, he decided to dwell in the desert of Chalcis southeast of Antioch. There he remained for about 5 years, combining work on the Holy Scriptures with austere ascetic deeds. Besides this, Saint Jerome mastered the Hebrew and Chaldean languages. this period he began his correspondence with numerous persons upon a variety of questions. About 120 letters, considered as authentically written by Saint Jerome, have been preserved. the beginning of the 360s there arose a controversy between the proponents of bishops Meletius, Paulinos and Vitalis. The controversy also reached the monastery where Saint Jerome toiled. In consequence, the disputes caused him to leave the monastery and go to Antioch. Here Bishop Paulinos ordained him to the priesthood. Saint Jerome visited Constantinople and conversed with the holy hierarchs Gregory the Theologian and Gregory of Nyssa the year 381 he set off for Rome. At Rome he continued his studies. The holy Pope Damasus I (366-384), who also devoted much of his time to the study of Holy Scripture, made Jerome his secretary. because the saint denounced the morals of the contemporary Christian society, a whole party of those bearing malice towards the saint came forward to spread slanders about him. a three year stay at Rome, Saint Jerome felt compelled to abandon this city for good. Together with his brother Paulinian and friends, Saint Jerome visited the Holy Land, and also the monks of the Nitria wilderness monastery. the year 386 he settled into a cave at Bethlehem near the cave where Christ was born, and there he began a life of austere asceticism. was the period of blossoming of his creative activity. Attending to the studies of his time, Saint Jerome left to the Church a rich written legacy: collections of dogmatic-polemic works, moral-ascetic works, commentaries on Scripture, and historical works. the most important of his works was a new translation the books of the Old and New Testaments into the Latin language. This Latin translation is called the “Vulgate,” and it passed into general use throughout the Western Church. Jerome lived through the fall of his beloved city Rome, which was sacked by the Goths in the year 410. In the year 411 a new ordeal beset the saint, Bethlehem was invaded by wild Bedouin Arabs. Only through the mercy of God was the community of the aged ascetic saved from complete destruction. He finished his life at the cave in Bethlehem. Saint Jerome is believed to have reposed in 420. relics were transferred from Bethlehem to Rome in 642, but their present location is unknown. His hand is enshrined in a church near Rome’s Piazza Farnese.

Daphne (a suburb of Antioch)
Daphne (a suburb of Antioch) Martyr Theodore of Antioch, Commemorated on November 23 ; St Alexander the Founder of the Monastery of the "œUnsleeping Ones", Commemorated on July 3;

Gulf of Isska, Syria, near the city of Ossos
Gulf of Isska, near the city of Ossos; Saint Theodosius of Antioch, Commemorated on January 11;

Rossos, Syria, Gulf of Isska, on this coastal road, near the city of Ossos
Gulf of Isska, near the city of Ossos; Martyrs Kyriaina and Juliana in Cilicia, Commemorated on November 1; Saint Theodosius of Antioch, Commemorated on January 11;

Seleucia by the sea (Orantes River Mouth)
Seleucia by the sea (Orantes River Mouth); Seleucia by the sea, 1 Maccabees Ch 11; Acts 12:24-13:5, Paul and Barnabas Commissioned, Apostles Preach in Cyprus;

Syria, Lebanon Border and Laodicea, Syria Folder, Western SYR

Mount Lebanon (Mount Libanus)
Mount Lebanon; Greatmartyr, Victory-bearer and Wonderworker George, Commemorated on April 23; Hieromartyr Erasmus the Bishop of Formia in Campania, Commemorated on May 4;

Mount Lebanon Range
Mount Lebanon Range;

Anti-Lebanon mountains
Anti-Lebanon mountains including Mt Hermon;

Eleutherus River (Syrian Border with Lebanon)
Eleutherus River, 1 Maccabees Ch 11, Ch 12;

Aradus (Arwad)
Aradus, 1 Maccabees Ch 15;

Laodicia, Syria
Laodicea in Syria; Apostle Lucius of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 10; Apostle Lucius of the Seventy, Commemorated September 10; Saint Luke (or Loukias) Luke, or Loukias (not the Evangelist), lived during the first century. Some lists of these Saints identify him as the Evangelist Luke, who was also one of the 70 Apostles, but Greek sources say he was someone other than the Evangelist Luke (άλλος του Ευαγγελιστή Λουκά). However, Saint Demetrios of Rostov, and Slavic Tradition say that he was the Evangelist Luke (See his Life on October 18). Saint was consecrated as the Bishop of Laodikeia in Syria, and completed the course of his life spreading the Gospel and caring for his flock, as a faithful servant of Jesus Christ. Apostle Lucius of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; ----------- Repose of St Raphael the Bishop of Brooklyn, Commemorated on February 27; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13;

Latakia, Syria (built on old Laodicia)
Latakia or Laodicia; Apostle Lucius of the Seventy, Commemorated on September 10; Repose of St Raphael the Bishop of Brooklyn, Commemorated on February 27; Hieromartyr Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria, Commemorated on April 13;

Eleutherus River Source (Mt Lebanon)

Biblos, Lebanon, Greater Syria, Levant
Biblos; Apostle Mark of the Seventy, Commemorated September 27 ; Apostle Mark of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; Martyr Aquilina of Byblos in Syria, Commemorated on June 13 ;

Eleutherus River 1 (Homs Gap)
Homs Gap, the Gateway to Syria;

Eleutherus River Mouth (Tripoli, Mediterranean Sea)

Syria, Damascus Folder, Southern SYR

Syria, Damascus History Folder

Syria, Damascus, 9 BC - AD 40, Aretas IV Philopatris, King of Damascus, whose daugter was divorced from Herod Antipas, war with Herod
Syria, 9 BC - AD 40, Aretas IV Philopatris, King of Damascus, whose daugter was divorced from Herod Antipas, war with Herod; IV Philopatris [1] was the King of the Nabataeans from roughly 9 BC to AD 40. daughter Phasaelis was married to, and divorced from, Herod Antipas. Herod then married his stepbrother's wife, Herodias. It was opposition to this marriage that led to the beheading of John the Baptist. After he received news of the divorce, Aretas invaded the territory of Herod Antipas and defeated his army. Damascus (Barada River foothills); The Beheading of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist John, Commemorated on August 29 ; THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST, (24 JUNE NT), Commemorated June 24;

Syria, Damascus, Way of the Sea Folder (Egypt to Syria)

Way of the Sea (Egypt to Syria)

Way of the Sea 1 (El-Qantarah)

Way of the Sea 2 (Pelusium)

Way of the Sea 3 (Arish, Egypt)

Way of the Sea 4 (Rafah, Gaza Strip, Palestine)

Way of the Sea 5 (Gaza, Gaza Strip, Palestine)

Way of the Sea (Askalon, Gaza Strip, Palestine)

Way of the Sea 6 (Ashdod, Gaza Strip, Palestine)

Way of the Sea 7 (Joppa, Israel)

Way of the Sea 8 (Caesarea, Dor, Israel)

Way of the Sea 9 (Megiddo, Israel)

Way of the Sea 10 (Jezreel Valley)

Way of the Sea 11 (Tiberias, Israel)

Way of the Sea 12 (Migdal, Israel)

Way of the Sea 13 (Capernaum, Israel)

Way of the Sea 14 (Hazor, Israel)

Way of the Sea 15 (Jacob's Ford, Israel)

Way of the Sea 17 (Damascas, Syria)

Damascus, Syria (Barada River foothills, Way of the Sea 17, Kings Highway 17)
Damascus (Barada River foothills); St Joseph of Damascus and his companions, Commemorated July 10 ; Icon of the Mother of God œof the Three HandsÂ on Mt Athos, Commemorated on July 12 ; Venerable Gerasimus the New Ascetic of Cephalonia, Commemorated on August 16 ; The Beheading of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist John, Commemorated on August 29 ; Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 1 ; Martyr Tarachus at Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on October 12 ; St Cosmas the Hymnographer the Bishop of Maiuma, Commemorated on October 12 ; Martyr Nicholas Dvali, Commemorated October 19 ; Martyr Caesarius at Damascus, Commemorated on November 1 ; Martyr Victor at Damascus, Commemorated on November 11 ; Martyr Stephanida of Spain, Commemorated November 11 ; JOHN OF DAMASCUS, HYMN-WRITER, DEFENDER OF ICONS (4 DEC 750) ; Martyr John of Damascus, Commemorated December 4; Icon of the Mother of God of Damascus, Commemorated on December 4 ; The Nativity of our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ, Commemorated on December 25 ; Venerable Melania the Younger of Rome, Commemorated on December 31 ; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; THE CONVERSION OF THE APOSTLE PAUL, (JANUARY 25) ; St Prochorus of Georgia, Commemorated February 12 ; Repose of St Raphael the Bishop of Brooklyn, Commemorated on February 27; Venerable John-Barsanuphius the Bishop of Damascus, Commemorated on February 28; St Sophronius the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Commemorated on March 11; Translation of the relics of the Greatmartyr Theodore Stratelates, Commemorated on June 8; PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES AND MARTYRS (29 JUN 64); The Meeting of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the Temple, Commemorated on February 2 ; Martyr Luke of Jerusalem, the Georgian, Commemorated on February 12 ; Repose of St Raphael the Bishop of Brooklyn, Commemorated on February 27; Venerable John-Barsanuphius the Bishop of Damascus, Commemorated on February 28 ; St Sophronius the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Commemorated on March 11; Martyr Justin the Philosopher and those with him at Rome, Commemorated on June 1; Translation of the relics of the Greatmartyr Theodore Stratelates, Commemorated on June 8; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated on June 11 ; Prophet Elisha, Commemorated on June 14; THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST, (24 JUNE NT); Icon of the Mother of God of œthe Three HandsÂ, Commemorated on June 28; The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leaders of the Apostles, Peter and Paul, Commemorated on June 29; The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leader of the Apostles, Paul, Commemorated on June 29 ; PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES AND MARTYRS (29 JUN 64); The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leaders of the Apostles, Peter and Paul, Commemorated on June 29 ; St Andrew the Archbishop of Crete, Commemorated on July 4;

Way of the Sea 16 (Golan Heights, Israel)

Barada (Abana) River

Barada (Abana) River Source (Lake Barada, 8k from Zabadani)

Barada River (Abana) (Damascus)

Oasis of Ghouta (7 branches of the Brada River)
Oasis of Ghouta;

Barada River Sink (Damascus)

Pharpar River

Pharpar River Source (Mt Hermon)

Mount Hermon, Damascus, Syria
Mount Hermon;

Pharpar River Sink (Damascus)

Syria, Kings Highway Folder, Greater Syria, Left half of the Fertile Crescent

Kings Highway (Nile River, Egypt to Euphrates River, Syria)

Kings Highway 1 (Heliopolis, Egypt)

Kings Highway 2 (Clysma, Egypt)

Kings Highway 3 (Mitla Pass, Egypt)

Kings Highway 4 (Nekhel Fortress, Egypt)

Kings Highway 5 (Eilat and Aquaba, Israel)

Kings Highway 6 (Arabah of the Jordan Rift)

Kings Highway 7 (Petra, Jordan)

Kings Highway 8 (Maan, Jordan)

Kings Highway 9 (Shaubak, Bozrah, Jordan)

Kings Highway 10 (Sela, Edom, Jordan)

Kings Highway 11 (Kerak, Moab, Jordan)

Kings Highway 12 (Madaba, Jordan)

Kings Highway 13 (Moab, Jordan, Bethany Baptismal Site)
Baptismal Site Bethany (Beyond the Jordan); (Arabic: meaning "baptism" or "immersion") is the traditional site of the Baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist and venerated as such since at least the Byzantine period.[1] place has also been referred to as Bethany (Beyond the Jordan) and Bethabara. The name is currently used primarily for the eastern side of the site, officially known as Baptism Site "Bethany Beyond the Jordan", an archaeological World Heritage site in Jordan, on the east bank of the Jordan River. western side of the ancient site is currently known as Qasr el-Yahud. This article deals primarily with the eastern section, located in Jordan. includes two principal archaeological areas: the remnants of a monastery on a mound known as Jabal Mar-Elias (Elijah's Hill) and an area close to the river with remains of churches, baptism ponds and pilgrim and hermit dwellings.[3] The two areas are connected by a stream called Wadi Kharrar.[4][5] strategic location between Jerusalem and the King's Highway is already evident from the Book of Joshua report about the Israelites crossing the Jordan there. Mar-Elias is traditionally identified as the site of the ascension of the prophet Elijah to heaven.[6] complete area was abandoned after the 1967 Six-Day War, when both banks of the Jordan became part of the frontline. The area was heavily mined then.[7] the signing of the Israel–Jordan peace treaty in 1994, de-mining of area soon took place after an initiative of Jordanian royalty, namely Prince Ghazi.[8] site has then seen several archaeological digs, four papal visits and state visits, and attracts tourists and pilgrimage activity.[9] In 2015, the site was designated as a World Heritage site by UNESCO, excluding the western side of the river. Approximately 81,000 people visited the site in 2016, mostly European, American, and Arab tourists.[10] Thousands flock to the site on January 6 to mark Epiphany.[9]

Kings Highway 14 (Rabbah Ammon/Philadelphia, Jordan)

Kings Highway 15 (Gerasa, Jordan)

Kings Highway 16 (Bosra, Syria)

Bosra in Syria (Kings Highway 16)
Bosra in Syria; Martyr Peter of Capetolis. Commemorated October 4 Apostle Timon the Deacon of the Seventy, Commerated December 30 ;

Kings Highway 17 (Damascus, Syria)

Damascus, Syria (Barada River foothills, Kings Highway 17, Way of the Sea 17)
Damascus (Barada River foothills); St Joseph of Damascus and his companions, Commemorated July 10 ; Icon of the Mother of God œof the Three HandsÂ on Mt Athos, Commemorated on July 12 ; Venerable Gerasimus the New Ascetic of Cephalonia, Commemorated on August 16 ; The Beheading of the Holy Glorious Prophet, Forerunner, and Baptist John, Commemorated on August 29 ; Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, Commemorated on October 1 ; Martyr Tarachus at Tarsus, in Cilicia, Commemorated on October 12 ; St Cosmas the Hymnographer the Bishop of Maiuma, Commemorated on October 12 ; Martyr Nicholas Dvali, Commemorated October 19 ; Martyr Caesarius at Damascus, Commemorated on November 1 ; Martyr Victor at Damascus, Commemorated on November 11 ; Martyr Stephanida of Spain, Commemorated November 11 ; JOHN OF DAMASCUS, HYMN-WRITER, DEFENDER OF ICONS (4 DEC 750) ; Martyr John of Damascus, Commemorated December 4; Icon of the Mother of God of Damascus, Commemorated on December 4 ; The Nativity of our Lord God and Savior Jesus Christ, Commemorated on December 25 ; Venerable Melania the Younger of Rome, Commemorated on December 31 ; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; Apostle Ananias of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4; THE CONVERSION OF THE APOSTLE PAUL, (JANUARY 25) ; St Prochorus of Georgia, Commemorated February 12 ; Repose of St Raphael the Bishop of Brooklyn, Commemorated on February 27; Venerable John-Barsanuphius the Bishop of Damascus, Commemorated on February 28; St Sophronius the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Commemorated on March 11; Translation of the relics of the Greatmartyr Theodore Stratelates, Commemorated on June 8; PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES AND MARTYRS (29 JUN 64); The Meeting of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in the Temple, Commemorated on February 2 ; Martyr Luke of Jerusalem, the Georgian, Commemorated on February 12 ; Repose of St Raphael the Bishop of Brooklyn, Commemorated on February 27; Venerable John-Barsanuphius the Bishop of Damascus, Commemorated on February 28 ; St Sophronius the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Commemorated on March 11; Martyr Justin the Philosopher and those with him at Rome, Commemorated on June 1; Translation of the relics of the Greatmartyr Theodore Stratelates, Commemorated on June 8; Apostle Barnabas of the Seventy, Commemorated on June 11 ; Prophet Elisha, Commemorated on June 14; THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST, (24 JUNE NT); Icon of the Mother of God of œthe Three HandsÂ, Commemorated on June 28; The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leaders of the Apostles, Peter and Paul, Commemorated on June 29; The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leader of the Apostles, Paul, Commemorated on June 29 ; PETER AND PAUL, APOSTLES AND MARTYRS (29 JUN 64); The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leaders of the Apostles, Peter and Paul, Commemorated on June 29 ; St Andrew the Archbishop of Crete, Commemorated on July 4;

Antiochian Monastery of the Mother of God, Saidnaya, Damascas, Syria, 547
Antiochian Monastery of the Mother of God, Saidnaya, Syria, 547; Saint Eulogius, Archbishop of Alexandria, Commemorated on February 13;

Kings Highway 18 (Tadmor, Syria)

Kings Highway 19 (Resafa, Syria, (Euphrates River 5))

Syria, Edessa and Melitene area Folder, Top Left of the Fertile Crescent

Great Road from Ephesus thru Colossae to the Euphrates at Melitine

Syria, Edessa and Melitene, Euphrates River Folder, Great Road

Euphrates River Route

Euphrates River - Western Euphrates

Euphrates River

Euphrates River Source (Murat River)

Euphrates River Source

Euphrates River 1

Euphrates River 2 (Melitene)

Melitene, Syria (Intersection Road from Ephesus and Euphrates River 2)
Malatya; Finding of the Icon of the Mother of God at the Miasena Monastery, Commemorated September 1 ; Uncovering of the relics St Acacius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on September 15; Martyr Polyeuctus of Melitene, in Armenia, Commemorated on January 9 ; Martyr Kyriake of Nicomedia; Martyr Eudoxius; St Acacius the Confessor, Commemorated on March 31; St Acacius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on April 17; St Eutychius the Bishop of Melitene, Commemorated on May 28;

Euphrates River 3 (Samosata and Edessa)

Samosata, Syria (Euphrates River 3)
Samosata; Martyr Lucian the Presbyter of Antioch, Commemorated on October 15; St Gregory the Wonderworker of Neocaesarea, Commemorated on November 17 ; Venerable Daniel the Stylite of Constantinople, Commemorated on December 11 ; Martyr Romanus at Samosata, Commemorated January 29 ; St Rabulas of Samosata, Commemorated February 19 ; Hieromartyr Eusebius the Bishop of Samosata, Commemorated on June 22;

Edessa, Syria (Intersection and Euphrates River 3)
Edessa, Syria; St Theodore the Bishop of Edessa, Commemorated on July 9 ; Saint Theodore of Edessa, Mesopotamia, Commemorated on July 19; Venerable Simeon of Emessa the Fool-For-Christ, Commemorated on July 21; Apostle Matthias of the Seventy, Commemorated on August 9; Translation of the Image œNot-Made-By-HandsÂ of our Lord Jesus Christ from Edessa to Constantinople, the Third œFeast of the Savior in AugustÂ, Commemorated on August 16; Translation of the Image œNot-Made-By-HandsÂ of our Lord Jesus Christ from Edessa to Constantinople, the Third œFeast of the Savior in AugustÂ, Commemorated on August 16 ; BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX, ABBOT, THEOLOGIAN, AND POET (20 AUGUST 1153); Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated August 21 ; Martyr Bassa of Edessa, and her sons, Commemorated on August 21; St Barses the Confessor, Commemorated August 25 ; Finding of the Icon of the Mother of God at the Miasena Monastery, Commemorated on September 1 ; Martyr Juventinus the Soldier at Antioch, Commemorated on September 5 ; Martyr Sarbelus of Edessa, Commemorated September 5 ; Martyr Eudoxius, Commemorated September 6 ; Forefeast of the Nativity of the Mother of God. Commemorated September 7 ; Martyr Domnina with her daughters of Syria, Commemorated on October 4; Virginmartyr Pelagia of Antioch, Commemorated October 8 ; Apostle James the Son of Alphaeus, Commemorated on October 9; Martyr Lucian the Presbyter of Antioch, Commemorated on October 15 ; Martyr Sarbelus of Edessa, Commemorated October 15 ; Venerable Abramius the Recluse of Mesopotamia, Commemorated on October 29 ; Martyr and Confessor Gurias of Edessa, Commemorated on November 15 ; St Theodoulus the Eparch of Constantinople, Commemorated December 3 ; Martyr Gemellus of Paphlagonia, Commemorated December 10 ; St Theodore the Bishop of Edessa; Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated January 4 ; St Eustratius the Wonderworker, Commemorated on January 9 ; Venerable Ephraim the Syrian, Commemorated on January 28 ; St Aphraates of Persia, Commemorated on January 29 ; St Sarbelus of Edessa, January 29 ; Wonderworker and Unmercenary Cyrus, Commemorated on January 31 ; Martyr Bassa of Edessa, and her sons; Martyr Domnina with her daughters of Syria; Venerable Alexander the founder of the Monastery, of the "Unsleeping Ones", Commemorated February 23 ; St John Zedazneli of Zaden, in Georgia with his 12 Disciples, Commemorated on May 7; Venerable Alexis the Man of God, Commemorated on March 17; Venerable Hilarion the New the Abbot of Pelecete, Commemorated on March 28 ; Apostle Trophimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15 ; Greatmartyr Irene of Thessalonica, Commemorated on May 5; EARLY ABBOTS of CLUNY, 30 April 909 ; EPHREM OF EDESSA, DEACON AND HYMN-WRITER (10 JUNE 373); Apostle Jude the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on June 19; St Alexander the Founder of the Monastery of the œUnsleeping OnesÂ, Commemorated on July 3 ;

Edessa, Syria (abundant water)
Edessa in Syria which is also called upper Messopotamia. County of Edessa; St Theodore the Bishop of Edessa, Commemorated on July 9 ; Venerable Simeon of Emessa the Fool-For-Christ, Commemorated on July 21; Apostle Matthias of the Seventy, Commemorated on August 9 ; Translation of the Image œNot-Made-By-HandsÂ of our Lord Jesus Christ from Edessa to Constantinople, the Third œFeast of the Savior in AugustÂ, Commemorated on August 16; Translation of the Image œNot-Made-By-HandsÂ of our Lord Jesus Christ from Edessa to Constantinople, the Third œFeast of the Savior in AugustÂ, Commemorated on August 16 ; BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX, ABBOT, THEOLOGIAN, AND POET (20 AUGUST 1153); Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated August 21 ; Martyr Bassa of Edessa, and her sons, Commemorated on August 21; St Barses the Confessor, Commemorated August 25 ; Martyr Sarbelus of Edessa, Commemorated September 5 ; Forefeast of the Nativity of the Mother of God. Commemorated September 7 ; Martyr Domnina with her daughters of Syria, Commemorated on October 4; Virginmartyr Pelagia of Antioch, Commemorated October 8 ; Apostle James the Son of Alphaeus, Commemorated on October 9; Martyr Lucian the Presbyter of Antioch, Commemorated on October 15 ; Martyr Sarbelus of Edessa, Commemorated October 15 ; Venerable Abramius the Recluse of Mesopotamia, Commemorated on October 29 ; Martyr and Confessor Gurias of Edessa, Commemorated on November 15 ; St Theodoulus the Eparch of Constantinople, Commemorated December 3 ; Martyr Gemellus of Paphlagonia, Commemorated December 10 ; Apostle Thaddeus of the Seventy, Commemorated on January 4 ; St Eustratius the Wonderworker, Commemorated on January 9 ; Venerable Ephraim the Syrian, Commemorated on January 28 ; Abgar monastery; St Aphraates of Persia, Commemorated on January 29 ; St Sarbelus of Edessa, January 29 ; Wonderworker and Unmercenary Cyrus, Commemorated on January 31 ; Venerable Alexis the Man of God, Commemorated on March 17; Venerable Hilarion the New the Abbot of Pelecete, Commemorated on March 28; Apostle Trophimus of the Seventy, Commemorated on April 15 ; EARLY ABBOTS of CLUNY, 30 April 909 ; Greatmartyr Irene of Thessalonica, Commemorated on May 5; St John Zedazneli of Zaden, in Georgia with his 12 Disciples, Commemorated on May 7; Martyr Michael œthe Black-RobedÂ of St Sava Monastery, Commemorated on May 23; EPHREM OF EDESSA, DEACON AND HYMN-WRITER (10 JUNE 373); Apostle Jude the Brother of the Lord, Commemorated on June 19; St Alexander the Founder of the Monastery of the œUnsleeping OnesÂ, Commemorated on July 3 ; St Theodore the Bishop of Edessa, Commemorated on July 9;

Abgar monestary, Edessa, Syria
Abgar monastery; Venerable Ephraim the Syrian, Commemorated on January 28 ; Martyr Michael œthe Black-Robed of St Sava Monastery, Commemorated on May 23;

Hellenopolis, Syria (Edessa area)
Hellenopolis ; Venerable Patermuthius the Ascetic of Egypt, Commemorated on July 9;

Jacob's Ladder, Haran, Edessa, Syria
Jacob's Ladder, Haran ; Forefeast of the Nativity of the Mother of God, Commorated on September 7 ;

Carrhae, Syria (modern Harran, near Edessa)
Carrhae (modern Harran) ; St Barses the Confessor, Commemorated August 25; St Abraham the Bishop of Charres in Mesopotamia, Commemorated on February 14 ;

Constantina, Syria (Kurdish Turkey, NE of Edessa)
Constantina; Greatmartyr Irene of Thessalonica, Commemorated on May 5;

Zeugma, Syria (Euphrates River 3.5)
Zeugma, Syria; St Publius the Ascetic of Syria, Commemorated January 25 ;

Kobane, Syria (Euphrates River 3.7)
Kobane, Syria;

Euphrates River 4 (Hieropolis, Syria)

Syria, Edessa and Melitene, Euphrates River 4, Sajur River Folder

Sajur River 1

Sajur River 2

Sajur River 3

Sajur River Source (two streams at Gaziantep)

Sajur River Mouth (Hieropolis and Pethor, Euphrates River 4)

Pethor (Sajur River Mouth, Euphrates River 4)
Pethor (Sajur River Mouth, Euphrates River 4); Numbers 22:1-21. Balak Summons Balaam (from Pethor) to Curse Israel;

Hieropolis in Syria (Sajur River Mouth, Euphrates River 4)
Hieropolis in Syria (Euphrates River 4) 30 kilometers west of the Euphrates; Martyr Domnina with her daughters of Syria, Commemorated on October 4; Holy, All-Praised Apostle Philip, Commemorated November 14 ;

Euphrates River 5 (Kings Highway)

Callinicus, or Callinicum, Syria (Euphrates River 5)
Callinicus, or Callinicum; Greatmartyr Irene of Thessalonica, Commemorated on May 5 ;

Euphrates River 6 (Chebar River Mouth)

Euphrates River 7 (Bagdagi)
Euphrates River;

Euphrates River 8 (Faluja)

Euphrates River 9 (Babylon)

Euphrates River 10

Euphrates River 11 (Samara)

Euphrates River 12

Euphrates River 13 (Tigris River)

Euphrates River Mouth (Persian Gulf)

Syria, Eastern Syria, Gozan, Nisibis and River Chebar Folder, Top Right of the Fertile Crescent

Syria, Eastern Syria (River Chebar, Al-Hasakah)
Eastern Syria (River Chebar, Al-Hasakah); Martyr Dometius of Persia, Commemorated on August 7; Return of the Relics of the Apostle Bartholomew from Anastasiopolis to Lipari, Commemorated August 25 : By the power of God the chests did not sink into the depths of the sea, but miraculously floated upon the waves and reached Italy. The chest with the relics of the Apostle Bartholomew came to land at the island of Lipari, and the remaining chests continued their journey and came to land at various places in Italy. The chest with the relics of the Martyr Papian halted at Sicily, the Martyr Lucian at Messina, the Martyr Gregory at Calabria, and the Martyr Acacius at Askalon. ; Martyr Sergius in Syria, Commemorated on October 7 ;

River Chebar
River Chebar; Prophet Ezekiel, Commemorated on July 21 ;

River Chebar Source (Sikan Springs)
Sikan Springs;

Theodosiopolis, Syria (near Chebar River Source)
Theodosiopolis, Syria; New Martyr Isaac of Georgia, Commemorated September 16 ;

Gozan, Syria, Chebar River, Assyrian captivity, 740 BC
Gozan, Syria, Assyrian captivity, 740 BC 2 Kings 17:5-8,13-18, Israel Carried Captive to Assyria;

River Chebar 1

Nisibis, Syria (Tigris River 3, Chebar River 1)
Nisibis, Syria; Martyr Dometius of Persia, Commemorated on August 7; Return of the Relics of the Apostle Bartholomew from Anastasiopolis to Lipari, Commemorated August 25 : By the power of God the chests did not sink into the depths of the sea, but miraculously floated upon the waves and reached Italy. The chest with the relics of the Apostle Bartholomew came to land at the island of Lipari, and the remaining chests continued their journey and came to land at various places in Italy. The chest with the relics of the Martyr Papian halted at Sicily, the Martyr Lucian at Messina, the Martyr Gregory at Calabria, and the Martyr Acacius at Askalon. ; St James the Bishop of Nisibis, Commemorated January 13 ; Venerable Ephraim the Syrian, Commemorated on January 28 ; St Platonida (Platonis) of Nisibis, Syria, Commemorated on April 6; Martyr Bata the Persian, Commemorated on May 1; Apostle Bartholomew of the Twelve, Commemorated on June 11 ; Virginmartyr Febronia of Nisibis, Commemorated on June 25;

Martyropolis, Syria, Mesopotamia, and Armenia (Tigris River 2)
Martyropolis; St Maruthas the Bishop of Martyropolis in Mesopotamia, Commemorated on February 16;

Dura, Syria
Dura (Anastasiopolis or Dara, Messopotamia) ; Apostle Bartholomew of the Twelve, Commemorated on June 11 ;

River Chebar 2

River Chebar Mouth (Euphrates River 6)

Assyria (Assyria (Chebar) River Mouth, Syria)
Assyria; Prophet Hosea, Commemorated on October 17 ; Prophet Micah, Commemorated January 5;

Halah, Assyria (Chebar (Habor) River Mouth, Euphrates River 6)
Halah, Assyria; 2 Kings 17:5-8,13-18;

Syria, Roman Roads Folder, from Cilicia to Lebanon and Kings Hwy

Syria to Lebanon Pass, Orantes River Headwaters to Heliopolis, Barbara's Bathhouse

Syria, Roman Road, Cilicia to Gulf of Isska to Rossoa to Antioch to Orantes River to Lebanon Pass