Saints

St. John the Baptist is highly venerated in the Byzantine Rite, second only to the Theotokos. He is revered for his role as God's messenger and for his austere asceticism. His relics were recovered multiple times and were the subject of many miracles. The Byzantine Rite has several commemorative days dedicated to St. John, including his nativity, beheading, and conception. The liturgical veneration of St. John was established by famous Byzantine hymnographers, including St. Sophronius of Jerusalem. All the Fathers believed that to praise St. John was to praise Jesus, as he bore witness to Our Savior. Click here to learn more! 

St. John the Baptist is the patron saint of our Eparchy.

Cyril and Methodius were Byzantine Greek brothers born in the 9th century who became missionaries among the Slavic people.

They are credited with greatly influencing the cultural development of the Slavic people, particularly through devising the Cyrillic alphabet, the first alphabet used to transcribe the Old Church Slavonic language.

Their pupils continued their missionary work after their deaths, and SS. Cyril and Methodius are now known in the Byzantine Church as "Equals to the Apostles." 

Additionally St. John Paul II declared them, along with St. Benedict, the co-patrons of Europe. Their feast day is May 11.

Born in 1911, and ordained in 1936 after studying in Rome, Blessed Theodore Romzha was consecrated bishop of the Mukachevo Eparchy on September 24, 1944. A month later, the Soviet Army occupied the Mukachevo Eparchy, and within a year incorporated it into Soviet Ukraine.

The Soviets ordered the young Bishop Romzha to renounce his allegiance to the Holy See, to submit to the Patriarch of Moscow, and to encourage his flock to do the same. He replied "I would rather die than betray my Church!"

On October 31, 1947, at the young age of 36, Bishop Romzha was poisoned by a mysterious nurse in the Mukachevo hospital while recovering from a Soviet-staged highway accident. He was beatified by Pope St. John Paul II on June 27, 2001. Click here to learn more!

Son of a married priest, Paul Peter Gojdich was born in 1888; ordained as a celibate priest in 1911; and entered St. Nicholas Monastery as a Basilian monk in 1922. Despite his initial reluctance, Fr. Peter accepted an appointment as Apostolic Administrator for the Presov Eparchy in 1926 and was ordained bishop in 1927. 

In 1950, Bishop Gojdich was imprisoned by the Soviet Army for his loyalty to the Catholic Church, although they claimed he was being tried for "treason and espionage." He was condemned to life imprisonment. He was often tortured, while his communist captors tried unsuccessfully to persuade him to renounce his allegiance to Rome and submit to the Patriarch of Moscow. He died in prison in 1960, and was beatified by Pope St. John Paul II in 2001.

Born in 1904 in Eastern Slovaki and ordained in 1929, after World War II Fr. Hopko was entrusted with the eparchial religious press for the Mukachevo Eparchy. He published an annual religious almanac and numerous spiritual booklets, four of which he himself authored.

Fr. Hopko was consecrated auxilary bishop in 1947, imprisoned by the Communist authorities in 1950, and pressured to renounce Rome and submit to the Patriarch of Moscow. When he refused, he was sentenced to 15 years in prison.

He was released from prison for health reasons in 1966, but kept under strict house arrest at a home for the aged in Osijek, Czech Republic. He died in 1976 and was beatified by Pope St. John Paul II in 2003.

These saints helped express the understanding of the mystery of the Holy Trinity that we hold even to this day.

Basil the Great

Gregory the Theologian

St. Gregory the Theologian, also called Gregory of Nazianzus or Doctor of the Church, was born at Arianzus, in Asia Minor, c. 325; died at the same place, 389. He was son of  Bishop of Nazianzus and of Nonna, a daughter of Christian parents. He followed in the footsteps of his father and became a priest and later bishop. He preached his first sermon on Easter Sunday, and afterward wrote the remarkable apologetic oration, which is really a treatise on the priestly office, the foundation of Chrysostom's "De Sacerdotio", of Gregory the Great's "Cura Pastoris", and of countless subsequent writings on the same subject. He is most known for shaping Trinitarian thought in both the East and the West. His study and writings on the Trinity still hold a valuable place on those who write about the nature of the Trinity today.  His feast day is January 25.

Gregory of Nyssa

St. George, a native of Cappadocia, was raised in a devout Christian family. He became known for his miracles, including defeating a serpent that had been terrorizing a nearby city. St. George went on to become a talented officer and the pagan emperor Diocletian took notice of his impressive military exploits. However, he is not known as Victory Bearer, for his military achievements alone, but rather for successfully enduring martyrdom.

When Emperor Diocletian intensified his persecution of Christians, St. George bravely confessed his faith and endured torture. Despite numerous attempts to break him, St. George remained unharmed and steadfast in his faith and even converted the emperor's wife, St. Alexandra, and many of his tormentors. He was eventually executed, but his legacy lived on and just a decade later, Saint Constantine  issued the Edict of Milan, granting religious freedom to Christians. St. George's feast day is April 23.

Saint Theodosius of the Caves was a Russian monk who is considered the Father of monasticism in Russia. He was born near Kiev and felt a strong attraction to the ascetic life from a young age. At 24, he left his parents' home to become a monk and was later ordained as a hieromonk and chosen as igumen. He worked tirelessly at the monastery, often taking on the work of others, and lived a life of extreme asceticism. He was known for his spiritual discourses and concern for the destitute. Saint Theodosius peacefully passed away in 1074 and was later glorified as a saint. His Life was written by Saint Nestor the Chronicler and he is commemorated May 3 and August 14.


 

The Apostle's Fast is a significant period for Byzantine Catholics and Christians worldwide. It is a time of reflection and preparation leading up to the feast of Saints Peter and Paul (June 29), who are recognized as two of the most prominent figures in our faith. During this fast, we are encouraged to reflect on the teachings and work of these two apostles, who were instrumental in spreading the gospel to different parts of the world. St. Peter, known as the "rock" on which the church was built, was a fisherman who became one of Jesus' closest disciples. He preached the gospel with great zeal and conviction, and his work laid the foundation for the establishment of the Christian church. St. Paul, on the other hand, was a former persecutor of Christians who later became one of the most influential figures in the early church. He traveled extensively, spreading the gospel to different regions and establishing churches. Both Sts. Peter and Paul showed great love for their people and ultimately gave their lives for Christ. Their work and teachings continue to inspire believers worldwide, and the Apostle's Fast serves as a reminder of their contributions to the Christian faith. As we observe this period of fasting, let us reflect on their teachings and strive to follow in their footsteps.

Also see "Apostles-Peter".


 

St. Athanasius of Mount Athos, also known as Athanasius the Athonite, is a highly revered monk and spiritual figure in the Byzantine Catholic tradition. He was born in Trebizond, modern-day Turkey, in the 10th century. After leading life of study and teaching, he felt a deep calling to dedicate his life to God, leading him to embark on a journey of asceticism and contemplation.

St. Athanasius eventually found his spiritual home on Mount Athos, a sacred mountain in Greece renowned for its monastic communities. He became a monk and devoted himself to a life of prayer, fasting, and self-discipline. Through the benevolence of the Emperor Nicephorus, St. Athanasius established a monastery on Mount Athos which is called the Lavra.

Throughout his life, St. Athanasius authored several spiritual writings, including letters, treatises, and homilies, which offered guidance and insight into the spiritual life. His teachings emphasized the importance of inner transformation, humility, and the pursuit of union with God.

St. Athanasius of Mount Athos is venerated as a saint and a spiritual luminary in the Byzantine Church, with his legacy continuing to inspire countless believers to this day.

His feast day is July 5.

St. Anthony of the Caves, also known as St. Anthony of Kiev, was a renowned monk and hermit who lived in the 11th century in the Kyivan Rus' Empire. He was one of the first monks to settle in the caves surrounding the Kyivo-Pechers’ka Lavra, also known as the Kiev Monastery of the Caves, a revered site overlooking the Dnieper River. 

St. Anthony is venerated for his ascetic lifestyle and spiritual teachings and is widely considered the father of Slavic monasticism which has played an absolutely central role in the spirituality of the East for a millennium. Known for his rigorous fasting, prayer, and self-denial, St. Anthony became a symbol of devotion and piety. He dedicated his life to God, living in solitude within the caves, meditating, and engaging in constant prayer. Despite not actively preaching and his seclusion, St. Anthony was known for his wisdom and compassion, often providing advice and solace to those who sought him out.

The central church in the cave complex, dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos, was destroyed during World War II but later rebuilt. Today, the monastery complex serves as a place of prayer and a prominent museum. While many saints are buried there, St. Anthony's remains were never found. He died A.D. 1078 having spent 26 years in the cave, attaining the advanced age of 90 years.

Vladimir the Great, also known as Basil at his baptism in 988 AD, was a significant figure in the history of "Rus." He was bestowed with the title "Equal to the Apostles" and served as the Grand Duke of "Rus." His reign coincided with that of the Greek Emperor Basil II, and under his rule, the realm of "Rus" experienced enlightenment.

Vladimir lived a life marked by piety and repentance, leaving a lasting impact on the people of "Rus." He dedicated his resources to the construction of a church in Kiev, which was funded by his tithes, as a tribute to the Blessed Mother of God. This church became his final resting place upon his death in 1015 AD.

Vladimir's conversion to Christianity and his efforts to spread the faith among his people played a pivotal role in the Christianization of "Rus." His baptism marked a turning point in the history of the region, as it embraced the teachings and values of the Christian faith.

Elijah was, according to the Books of Kings in the Hebrew Bible, a prophet and a miracle worker who lived in the northern kingdom of Israel during the reign of King Ahab (9th century BC). In 1 Kings 18, Elijah defended the worship of Yahweh against the worship of the Canaanite god Baal. He challenged the prophets of Baal to a showdown on Mount Carmel, where he called upon Yahweh to send fire from heaven to consume his offering. Yahweh answered his prayer, and the prophets of Baal were defeated. Elijah's ministry was marked by various miracles and acts of divine intervention. He was known for multiplying a widow's oil and reviving her dead son. He also confronted Ahab and his wife Jezebel for their wickedness and prophesied a severe drought as punishment for their idolatry.

Elijah's life took a dramatic turn when he was taken up to heaven in a whirlwind, leaving his disciple Elisha to continue his prophetic ministry. According to Jewish tradition, Elijah was expected to return before the arrival of the Messiah.   Jesus confirms the return of Elijah as fulfilled by St. John the Baptist (Mt 11:14). Elijah's story serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the importance of staying true to one's beliefs, even in the face of opposition. His legacy as a prophet and miracle worker continues to inspire and captivate people to this day.

Boris and Gleb were two brothers who lived in 11th-century Russia. They were the sons of Prince Vladimir the Great, who had converted to Christianity and brought Christianity to Russia. Boris and Gleb were devout Christians and lived virtuous lives, dedicated to their faith.

However, their older brother, Svyatopolk, was consumed by jealousy and ambition. He wanted to be the ruler of the land and saw Boris and Gleb as obstacles. Svyatopolk devised a plan to eliminate his brothers and secure his position as the sole ruler.

One day, Svyatopolk sent a group of assassins to kill Boris and Gleb. The brothers, aware of the danger, did not resist and accepted their fate. They chose to die as martyrs for their faith rather than engage in violence.

Boris and Gleb were brutally murdered and their deaths were seen as a testament to their unwavering faith and devotion to God. Today, they are revered as saints and martyrs, their memory celebrated on July 24th. Boris and Gleb's martyrdom serves as a reminder of the importance of faith and the willingness to sacrifice for the one true faith.

Saint Pantaleon, also known as San Pantalon in Greek and Panteleimon in Russian, holds a significant place in both Western and Eastern Christianity. He is revered as one of the late-medieval Fourteen Holy Helpers in Western Christianity and as one of the Holy Unmercenary Healers in Eastern Christianity. Pantaleon's martyrdom took place in Nicomedia, a city located in Bithynia, during the brutal Diocletianic Persecution of 305 AD.

Notably, Pantaleon's name holds a special meaning as it translates to "all-compassionate," emphasizing his compassionate nature and the selfless acts he performed during his lifetime. His veneration and recognition as a saint in different branches of Christianity reflect the impact of his martyrdom and the healing miracles attributed to him. Despite facing persecution, Pantaleon's story serves as an inspiration for believers, highlighting the power of faith and selflessness even in the face of adversity.

Our venerable father Simeon, of the Wondrous Mountain in Syria, was a priest and anchorite in the 6th century. He lived in conversation with Christ and the angels atop a column for 37 years until his death in A.D. 459. He was granted power over the demons and the powers of nature. He is also known as St. Simeon Stylites the Younger.

His feast day is September 1.

Our venerable father Chariton, Confessor-Martyr, appears to have been burned to death A.D. 362. Chariton is primarily known for his steadfast faith and refusal to renounce Christianity, even in the face of severe persecution and torture. His story serves as an inspiration for believers today.

His feast day is September 28.

Saint Luke, known as Luke the Evangelist, was a prominent figure in early Christianity. He was chosen by God to spread his teachings and establish the Christian faith. Luke is best known for authoring the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles, which are two books in the New Testament of the Bible. Luke was not one of the original disciples of Jesus but became a follower and companion of the apostle Paul. He was highly educated, believed to be a physician, and his writings reflect a meticulous attention to detail and accuracy. In addition to his role as an evangelist, Luke was also a talented artist. He is often depicted as a painter, and his artistic skills are said to have been divinely inspired. Some traditions even attribute the creation of icons of the Virgin Mary to Luke. Luke's Gospel emphasizes the compassionate nature of Jesus, his concern for the marginalized, and his inclusive message of salvation for all. It includes unique stories like the parables of the Good Samaritan and the Prodigal Son. The Acts of the Apostles, also authored by Luke, provides an account of the early Christian community and the spread of Christianity after Jesus' ascension. It highlights the missionary journeys of the apostles, the miracles they performed, and the challenges they faced.

His feast day is October 18. 

St. Demetrius the Great Martyr was a Greek Christian martyr of the early 4th century A.D. who suffered in Thessalonica. He was a noble and pious son of a Roman proconsul and a teacher of the Faith of Christ. He was arrested and killed by the pagan emperor Maximian for his confession of Christianity. He was known as the Myrrh-gusher because of the fragrant myrrh that flowed from his relics. Many miracles have taken place at his shrine of Thessalonica.

His feast day is October 26.

St. James, Apostle, brother of the Lord, and the first Bishop of Jerusalem, played a crucial role in the early development of the Church. Not only was he a prominent figure in the Christian community, but he also composed the First Liturgy. At 96 years of age he suffered martyrdom at the hands of the Jews, who cast him down from the pinnacle of the Template A.D. 61.

St. James' life and martyrdom exemplify the sacrifices made by early Christian leaders, who faced persecution and even death for their beliefs. His contributions to liturgy and his unwavering commitment to his faith continue to inspire believers today.

His feast day is October 23.

The holy martyrs suffered for Christ A.D. 302 at Sebaste in Armenia, under the reign of Emperor Diocletian. Among them, St. Auxentios of Syria was imprisoned and tortured. Witnessing his steadfastness, St. Eustratios, a secret Christian, openly confessed his faith and endured beatings and torture. He was forced to march to Arabrak with nails studded sandals on his feet. In Arabrak, St. Mardarios also confessed his faith and was tortured and killed. St. Eugene had his tongue removed, hands and feet cut off, and was beheaded. St. Auxentios was beheaded as well. St. Orestes, a young soldier, faced trial for being a Christian and was sentenced to lie on a red-hot iron bed. With encouragement from St. Eustratios, he made the Sign of the Cross and surrendered his soul to God. Finally, St. Eustratios was sentenced to be burned alive and prayed aloud on his way to death.