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Last Notes

2026-09-01 22:00:41 CEST

## [“Chernigov-Gethsemane” Icon of the Mother of God - 01 September](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/09/01/102458-chernigov-gethsemane-icon-of-the-mother-of-god)
![“Chernigov-Gethsemane” Icon of the Mother of God](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/september/0901chernigovicon.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
Most Pure Sovereign Lady Theotokos, the hope of all Christians,
since we have no other hope but you,
Most Pure Sovereign Lady Theotokos and Mother of Christ my God;
therefore have mercy and deliver me from all my afflictions,
and entreat your merciful Son and God,
that He may have mercy on my unfortunate soul and deliver me from eternal torment,
and vouchsafe me His Heavenly Kingdom.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-30 22:00:41 CEST

## [Saint Christopher of Palestine - 30 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/30/102426-saint-christopher-of-palestine)
🎶troparion🎶
By a flood of tears you made the desert fertile,
and your longing for God brought forth fruits in abundance.
By the radiance of miracles you illumined the whole universe!
O our holy father Christopher, pray to Christ our God to save our souls!
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-26 12:00:41 CEST

## [Martyrs Adrian and Natalia and 23 companions, of Nicomedia - 26 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/26/102398-martyrs-adrian-and-natalia-and-23-companions-of-nicomedia)
![Martyrs Adrian and Natalia and 23 companions, of Nicomedia](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/august/0826martyrs-adrian-natalia.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
(Podoben: “Your confession of the Divine Faith...”)You regarded the Faith as an imperishable treasure, O most blessed one,
abandoning the ungodliness of your fathers, and walking in the footsteps of the Master,
you were enriched with divine gifts, O glorious Adrian.
Pray to Christ God for the salvation of our souls.
🎶kontakion🎶
(Podoben: “You appeared today...”)O Martyr of Christ, Adrian,
you kept in your heart the divine words of your godly-minded wife Natalia,
and endured torments; together with your spouse, you have received a crown.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-25 22:00:41 CEST

## [Apostle Titus of the Seventy and Bishop of Crete - 25 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/25/102393-apostle-titus-of-the-seventy-and-bishop-of-crete)
![Apostle Titus of the Seventy and Bishop of Crete](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/august/0825titos-crete.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
Holy Apostles Bartholomew and Titus,
entreat the merciful God,
to grant our souls forgiveness of transgressions.
🎶kontakion🎶
Titus, worthy of all praise and preacher of Christ’s mysteries,
you were Paul’s companion, and with him taught us the doctrine of God.
Therefore we cry out to you:
Never cease to intercede for the sake of us all!
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-25 12:00:41 CEST

## [Return of the Relics of the Apostle Bartholomew from Anastasiopolis to Lipari - 25 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/25/102392-return-of-the-relics-of-the-apostle-bartholomew-from-anastasiopo)
![Return of the Relics of the Apostle Bartholomew from Anastasiopolis to Lipari](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/august/0825bartholomew10.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
Holy Apostles Bartholomew and Titus,
entreat the merciful God,
to grant our souls forgiveness of transgressions.
🎶kontakion🎶
You appeared as a great sun to the world with miracles and rays of teaching.
You guide to the light all who venerate you,
O Apostle of the Lord, Bartholomew.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-24 22:00:41 CEST

## [Repose of the New-Hieromartyr Cosmas of Aitolia, Equal of the Apostles - 24 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/24/102390-repose-of-the-new-hieromartyr-cosmas-of-aitolia-equal-of-the-apo)
![Repose of the New-Hieromartyr Cosmas of Aitolia, Equal of the Apostles](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/august/0824cosmosaitolian.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
(Podoben: “The Divine Faith...”)By teaching the Divine Faith,
you richly adorned the Church
and became a zealous emulator of the Apostles;
for being lifted up on the wings of divine love,
you spread the message of the Gospel far and wide.
O glorious Cosmas,
entreat Christ God that He may grant us great mercy.
🎶kontakion🎶
(Podoben: “You appeared today...”)As a newly-shining luminary of the Church,
you enlighten all things with the teachings of Christ's Gospel, O Cosmas, equal of the Apostles;
therefore your memory is worthy to be honored.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-24 15:00:43 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Monday, 24 August 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/24)
## [Epistle reading for the 13th Monday after Pentecost (2 Corinthians 8:7-15)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/24/1)
> But as you abound in everything – in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us – see that you abound in this grace also. I speak not by commandment, but I am testing the sincerity of your love by the diligence of others. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich. And in this I give advice: It is to your advantage not only to be doing what you began and were desiring to do a year ago; but now you also must complete the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to desire it, so there also may be a completion out of what you have. For if there is first a willing mind, it is accepted according to what one has, and not according to what he does not have. For I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened; but by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may supply their lack, that their abundance also may supply your lack – that there may be equality. As it is written, “He who gathered much had nothing left over, and he who gathered little had no lack.”
## [Gospel reading for the 13th Monday after Pentecost (Mark 3:6-12)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/24/2)
> Then the Pharisees went out and immediately plotted with the Herodians against Him, how they might destroy Him. But Jesus withdrew with His disciples to the sea. And a great multitude from Galilee followed Him, and from Judea and Jerusalem and Idumea and beyond the Jordan; and those from Tyre and Sidon, a great multitude, when they heard how many things He was doing, came to Him. So He told His disciples that a small boat should be kept ready for Him because of the multitude, lest they should crush Him. For He healed many, so that as many as had afflictions pressed about Him to touch Him. And the unclean spirits, whenever they saw Him, fell down before Him and cried out, saying, “You are the Son of God.” But He sternly warned them that they should not make Him known.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-08-24 12:00:41 CEST

## [Hieromartyr Eutyches, disciple of Saint John the Theologian - 24 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/24/102383-hieromartyr-eutyches-disciple-of-saint-john-the-theologian)
![Hieromartyr Eutyches, disciple of Saint John the Theologian](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/august/0824.eutychius.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
By sharing in the ways of the Apostles,
you became a successor to their throne.
Through the practice of virtue,
you found the way to divine contemplation, O inspired one of God;
by teaching the word of truth without error,
you defended the Faith, even to the shedding of your blood.
Hieromartyr Eutyches, entreat Christ God to save our souls.
🎶kontakion🎶
A successor of the Apostles and an excellent example to bishops,
Eutyches, you were glorified as a martyr.
You shone forth like the sun enlightening all,
dispelling the dark night of godlessness.
Therefore, we honor you as truly a godly celebrant of the Mysteries of Christ.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-23 22:00:41 CEST

## [Saints Eutychius and Florentius of Nursia - 23 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/23/102380-saints-eutychius-and-florentius-of-nursia)
![Saints Eutychius and Florentius of Nursia](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/august/0823.eutychius&florentius.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
By a flood of tears you made the desert fertile,
and your longing for God brought forth fruits in abundance.
By the radiance of miracles you illumined the whole universe!
O our holy fathers Eutychius and Florentius, pray to Christ our God to save our souls!
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-23 15:00:43 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Sunday, 23 August 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/23)
## [Matins Gospel reading (Matthew 28:16-20)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/23/1)
> Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted. And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen.”
## [Epistle reading for Theotokos (Philippians 2:5-11)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/23/2)
> Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
## [Gospel reading for Theotokos (Luke 10:38-42; 11:27-28)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/23/3)
> Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word. But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.” And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” And it happened, as He spoke these things, that a certain woman from the crowd raised her voice and said to Him, “Blessed is the womb that bore You, and the breasts which nursed You!” But He said, “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”
## [Epistle reading for the 12th Sunday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 15:1-11)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/23/4)
> Moreover, brethren, I declare to you the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received and in which you stand, by which also you are saved, if you hold fast that word which I preached to you – unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures, and that He was seen by Cephas, then by the twelve. After that He was seen by over five hundred brethren at once, of whom the greater part remain to the present, but some have fallen asleep. After that He was seen by James, then by all the apostles. Then last of all He was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time. For I am the least of the apostles, who am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. Therefore, whether it was I or they, so we preach and so you believed.
## [Gospel reading for the 12th Sunday after Pentecost (Matthew 19:16-26)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/23/5)
> Now behold, one came and said to Him, “Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?” So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.” He said to Him, “Which ones?” Jesus said, “’You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ ’Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ “ The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept from my youth. What do I still lack?” Jesus said to him, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. When His disciples heard it, they were greatly astonished, saying, “Who then can be saved?” But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-08-23 12:00:42 CEST

## [Leavetaking of the Dormition of the Mother of God - 23 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/23/102377-leavetaking-of-the-dormition-of-the-mother-of-god)
![Leavetaking of the Dormition of the Mother of God](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/greatfeasts/0815dormition.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
In giving birth you preserved your virginity,
in falling asleep you did not forsake the world, O Theotokos.
You were translated to life, O Mother of Life,
and by your prayers, you deliver our souls from death.
🎶kontakion🎶
Neither the tomb, nor death could hold the Theotokos,
who is constant in prayer and our firm hope in her intercessions.
For being the Mother of Life,
she was translated to life by the One who dwelt in her virginal womb.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-22 22:00:42 CEST

## [Venerable Isaac I of Optina - 22 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/22/148996-venerable-isaac-i-of-optina)
🎶troparion🎶
By a flood of tears you made the desert fertile,
and your longing for God brought forth fruits in abundance.
By the radiance of miracles you illumined the whole universe!
O our holy father Isaac, pray to Christ our God to save our souls!
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-22 15:00:42 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Saturday, 22 August 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/22)
## [Epistle reading for the 12th Saturday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 1:26-29)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/22/1)
> For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence.
## [Gospel reading for the 12th Saturday after Pentecost (Matthew 20:29-34)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/22/2)
> Now as they went out of Jericho, a great multitude followed Him. And behold, two blind men sitting by the road, when they heard that Jesus was passing by, cried out, saying, “Have mercy on us, O Lord, Son of David!” Then the multitude warned them that they should be quiet; but they cried out all the more, saying, “Have mercy on us, O Lord, Son of David!” So Jesus stood still and called them, and said, “What do you want Me to do for you?” They said to Him, “Lord, that our eyes may be opened.” So Jesus had compassion and touched their eyes. And immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed Him.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-08-22 12:00:42 CEST

## [Afterfeast of the Dormition of the Mother of God - 22 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/22/102363-afterfeast-of-the-dormition-of-the-mother-of-god)
![Afterfeast of the Dormition of the Mother of God](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/greatfeasts/0815dormition.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
In giving birth you preserved your virginity,
in falling asleep you did not forsake the world, O Theotokos.
You were translated to life, O Mother of Life,
and by your prayers, you deliver our souls from death.
🎶kontakion🎶
Neither the tomb, nor death could hold the Theotokos,
who is constant in prayer and our firm hope in her intercessions.
For being the Mother of Life,
she was translated to life by the One who dwelt in her virginal womb.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-21 22:00:42 CEST

## [Saint Sarmean, Catholicos of Kartli, Georgia - 21 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/21/103881-saint-sarmean-catholicos-of-kartli-georgia)
![Saint Sarmean, Catholicos of Kartli, Georgia](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/august/0821sarmean -catholicos.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
In truth you were revealed to your flock as a rule of faith,
an image of humility and a teacher of abstinence;
your humility exalted you; your poverty enriched you.
Hierarch Father Sarmean,
entreat Christ our God that our souls may be saved.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-21 15:00:42 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Friday, 21 August 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/21)
## [Epistle reading for the 12th Friday after Pentecost (2 Corinthians 7:10-16)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/21/1)
> For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death. For observe this very thing, that you sorrowed in a godly manner: What diligence it produced in you, what clearing of yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what vehement desire, what zeal, what vindication! In all things you proved yourselves to be clear in this matter. Therefore, although I wrote to you, I did not do it for the sake of him who had done the wrong, nor for the sake of him who suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear to you. Therefore we have been comforted in your comfort. And we rejoiced exceedingly more for the joy of Titus, because his spirit has been refreshed by you all. For if in anything I have boasted to him about you, I am not ashamed. But as we spoke all things to you in truth, even so our boasting to Titus was found true. And his affections are greater for you as he remembers the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling you received him. Therefore I rejoice that I have confidence in you in everything.
## [Gospel reading for the 12th Friday after Pentecost (Mark 2:18-22)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/21/2)
> The disciples of John and of the Pharisees were fasting. Then they came and said to Him, “Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but Your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “Can the friends of the bridegroom fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them they cannot fast. But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast in those days. No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment; or else the new piece pulls away from the old, and the tear is made worse. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; or else the new wine bursts the wineskins, the wine is spilled, and the wineskins are ruined. But new wine must be put into new wineskins.”
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-08-21 12:00:42 CEST

## [Afterfeast of the Dormition of the Mother of God - 21 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/21/102354-afterfeast-of-the-dormition-of-the-mother-of-god)
![Afterfeast of the Dormition of the Mother of God](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/greatfeasts/0815dormition.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
In giving birth you preserved your virginity,
in falling asleep you did not forsake the world, O Theotokos.
You were translated to life, O Mother of Life,
and by your prayers, you deliver our souls from death.
🎶kontakion🎶
Neither the tomb, nor death could hold the Theotokos,
who is constant in prayer and our firm hope in her intercessions.
For being the Mother of Life,
she was translated to life by the One who dwelt in her virginal womb.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-20 22:00:42 CEST

## [Martyr Lucius - 20 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/20/148977-martyr-lucius)
🎶troparion🎶
Your holy martyr Lucius, O Lord,
through his sufferings has received an incorruptible crown from You, our God.
For having Your strength, he laid low his adversaries,
and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.
Through his intercessions, save our souls!
🎶kontakion🎶
(Podoben: “You sought the heights...”)You appeared as a bright star announcing Christ with your radiance,
which is repulsive to this world, O Martyr Lucius;
extinguishing the allure of false gods,
you enlighten the faithful,
always interceding for us all.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-20 15:00:42 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Thursday, 20 August 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/20)
## [Epistle reading for the 12th Thursday after Pentecost (2 Corinthians 7:1-10)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/20/1)
> Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. Open your hearts to us. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have cheated no one. I do not say this to condemn; for I have said before that you are in our hearts, to die together and to live together. Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my boasting on your behalf. I am filled with comfort. I am exceedingly joyful in all our tribulation. For indeed, when we came to Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were troubled on every side. Outside were conflicts, inside were fears. Nevertheless God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus, and not only by his coming, but also by the consolation with which he was comforted in you, when he told us of your earnest desire, your mourning, your zeal for me, so that I rejoiced even more. For even if I made you sorry with my letter, I do not regret it; though I did regret it. For I perceive that the same epistle made you sorry, though only for a while. Now I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that your sorrow led to repentance. For you were made sorry in a godly manner, that you might suffer loss from us in nothing. For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.
## [Gospel reading for the 12th Thursday after Pentecost (Mark 1:29-35)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/20/2)
> Now as soon as they had come out of the synagogue, they entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. But Simon’s wife’s mother lay sick with a fever, and they told Him about her at once. So He came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and immediately the fever left her. And she served them. At evening, when the sun had set, they brought to Him all who were sick and those who were demon-possessed. And the whole city was gathered together at the door. Then He healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons; and He did not allow the demons to speak, because they knew Him. Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a solitary place; and there He prayed.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-08-20 12:00:42 CEST

## [Afterfeast of the Dormition of the Mother of God - 20 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/20/102348-afterfeast-of-the-dormition-of-the-mother-of-god)
![Afterfeast of the Dormition of the Mother of God](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/greatfeasts/0815dormition.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
In giving birth you preserved your virginity,
in falling asleep you did not forsake the world, O Theotokos.
You were translated to life, O Mother of Life,
and by your prayers, you deliver our souls from death.
🎶kontakion🎶
Neither the tomb, nor death could hold the Theotokos,
who is constant in prayer and our firm hope in her intercessions.
For being the Mother of Life,
she was translated to life by the One who dwelt in her virginal womb.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-19 22:00:42 CEST

## [Martyr Andrew Stratelates, and 2,593 soldiers with him, in Cilicia - 19 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/19/102340-martyr-andrew-stratelates-and-2593-soldiers-with-him-in-cilicia)
![Martyr Andrew Stratelates, and 2,593 soldiers with him, in Cilicia](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/august/0819andrewstratilates.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
You renounced the glory of earthly rank
and inherited the kingdom of heaven;
you adorned your incorruptible crown as with beautiful stones.
You led an army of martyrs to Christ,
and with the angels in the never-fading light
you found Christ the never-setting sun.
Together with those who suffered with you,
holy general Andrew,
ever pray to Him that He may save our souls.
🎶kontakion🎶
Standing before the Lord in prayer like a star near the sun,
you were filled with ineffable joy beholding your desire: the treasure of the kingdom.
You sing without ceasing to the immortal King
together with the angels throughout the ages.
With them, general Andrew, unceasingly pray for us all.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-19 15:00:42 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Wednesday, 19 August 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/19)
## [Epistle reading for the 12th Wednesday after Pentecost (2 Corinthians 6:11-16)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/19/1)
> O Corinthians! We have spoken openly to you, our heart is wide open. You are not restricted by us, but you are restricted by your own affections. Now in return for the same (I speak as to children), you also be open. Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they shall be My people.”
## [Gospel reading for the 12th Wednesday after Pentecost (Mark 1:23-28)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/19/2)
> Now there was a man in their synagogue with an unclean spirit. And he cried out, saying, “Let us alone! What have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth? Did You come to destroy us? I know who You are – the Holy One of God!” But Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be quiet, and come out of him!” And when the unclean spirit had convulsed him and cried out with a loud voice, he came out of him. Then they were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves, saying, “What is this? What new doctrine is this? For with authority He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him.” And immediately His fame spread throughout all the region around Galilee.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-08-19 12:00:42 CEST

## [Afterfeast of the Dormition of the Mother of God - 19 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/19/102339-afterfeast-of-the-dormition-of-the-mother-of-god)
![Afterfeast of the Dormition of the Mother of God](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/greatfeasts/0815dormition-0044.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
In giving birth you preserved your virginity,
in falling asleep you did not forsake the world, O Theotokos.
You were translated to life, O Mother of Life,
and by your prayers, you deliver our souls from death.
🎶kontakion🎶
Neither the tomb, nor death could hold the Theotokos,
who is constant in prayer and our firm hope in her intercessions.
For being the Mother of Life,
she was translated to life by the One who dwelt in her virginal womb.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-18 22:00:42 CEST

## [“Directress” Icon of the Mother of God - 18 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/18/108983-directress-icon-of-the-mother-of-god)
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-18 15:00:42 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Tuesday, 18 August 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/18)
## [Epistle reading for the 12th Tuesday after Pentecost (2 Corinthians 5:15-21)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/18/1)
> and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again. Therefore, from now on, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we have known Christ according to the flesh, yet now we know Him thus no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation. Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God. For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.
## [Gospel reading for the 12th Tuesday after Pentecost (Mark 1:16-22)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/18/2)
> And as He walked by the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. Then Jesus said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men.” They immediately left their nets and followed Him. When He had gone a little farther from there, He saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the boat mending their nets. And immediately He called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants, and went after Him. Then they went into Capernaum, and immediately on the Sabbath He entered the synagogue and taught. And they were astonished at His teaching, for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-08-18 12:00:42 CEST

## [Afterfeast of the Dormition of the Mother of God - 18 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/18/102323-afterfeast-of-the-dormition-of-the-mother-of-god)
![Afterfeast of the Dormition of the Mother of God](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/greatfeasts/0815dormition25.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
In giving birth you preserved your virginity,
in falling asleep you did not forsake the world, O Theotokos.
You were translated to life, O Mother of Life,
and by your prayers, you deliver our souls from death.
🎶kontakion🎶
Neither the tomb, nor death could hold the Theotokos,
who is constant in prayer and our firm hope in her intercessions.
For being the Mother of Life,
she was translated to life by the One who dwelt in her virginal womb.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-17 22:00:42 CEST

## [Venerable Theodoritus, Enlightener of the Lapps, Solovki - 17 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/17/102321-venerable-theodoritus-enlightener-of-the-lapps-solovki)
🎶troparion🎶
By a flood of tears you made the desert fertile,
and your longing for God brought forth fruits in abundance.
By the radiance of miracles you illumined the whole universe!
O our holy father Theodoritus, pray to Christ our God to save our souls!
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-17 15:00:42 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Monday, 17 August 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/17)
## [Epistle reading for the 12th Monday after Pentecost (2 Corinthians 5:10-15)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/17/1)
> For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. Knowing, therefore, the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences. For we do not commend ourselves again to you, but give you opportunity to boast on our behalf, that you may have an answer for those who boast in appearance and not in heart. For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; or if we are of sound mind, it is for you. For the love of Christ compels us, because we judge thus: that if One died for all, then all died; and He died for all, that those who live should live no longer for themselves, but for Him who died for them and rose again.
## [Gospel reading for the 12th Monday after Pentecost (Mark 1:9-15)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/17/2)
> It came to pass in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And immediately, coming up from the water, He saw the heavens parting and the Spirit descending upon Him like a dove. Then a voice came from heaven, “You are My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” Immediately the Spirit drove Him into the wilderness. And He was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan, and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered to Him. Now after John was put in prison, Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.”
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-08-17 12:00:42 CEST

## [Afterfeast of the Dormition of the Mother of God - 17 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/17/102308-afterfeast-of-the-dormition-of-the-mother-of-god)
![Afterfeast of the Dormition of the Mother of God](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/greatfeasts/0815dormition.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
In giving birth you preserved your virginity,
in falling asleep you did not forsake the world, O Theotokos.
You were translated to life, O Mother of Life,
and by your prayers, you deliver our souls from death.
🎶kontakion🎶
Neither the tomb, nor death could hold the Theotokos,
who is constant in prayer and our firm hope in her intercessions.
For being the Mother of Life,
she was translated to life by the One who dwelt in her virginal womb.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-16 22:00:42 CEST

## [Martyr Christopher of Guria, Georgia - 16 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/16/103879-martyr-christopher-of-guria-georgia)
![Martyr Christopher of Guria, Georgia](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/august/0816christopher-guria.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
Your holy martyr Christopher, O Lord,
through his sufferings has received an incorruptible crown from You, our God.
For having Your strength, he laid low his adversaries,
and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.
Through his intercessions, save our souls!
🎶kontakion🎶
(Podoben: “You sought the heights...”)You appeared as a bright star announcing Christ with your radiance,
which is repulsive to this world, O Martyr Christopher;
extinguishing the allure of false gods,
you enlighten the faithful,
always interceding for us all.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-16 15:00:43 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Sunday, 16 August 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/16)
## [Matins Gospel reading (John 21:15-25)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/16/1)
> So when they had eaten breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me more than these?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Feed My lambs.” He said to him again a second time, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Tend My sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me?” Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, “Do you love Me?” And he said to Him, “Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.” Jesus said to him, “Feed My sheep. Most assuredly, I say to you, when you were younger, you girded yourself and walked where you wished; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish.” This He spoke, signifying by what death he would glorify God. And when He had spoken this, He said to him, “Follow Me.” Then Peter, turning around, saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following, who also had leaned on His breast at the supper, and said, “Lord, who is the one who betrays You?” Peter, seeing him, said to Jesus, “But Lord, what about this man?” Jesus said to him, “If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you? You follow Me.” Then this saying went out among the brethren that this disciple would not die. Yet Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but, “If I will that he remain till I come, what is that to you?” This is the disciple who testifies of these things, and wrote these things; and we know that his testimony is true. And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Amen.
## [Epistle reading for the Translation of the Image “Not-made-by-hands” of our Lord Jesus Christ from Edessa to Constantinople (944). (Colossians 1:12-18)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/16/2)
> giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins. He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence.
## [Gospel reading for the Translation of the Image “Not-made-by-hands” of our Lord Jesus Christ from Edessa to Constantinople (944). (Luke 9:51-56; 10:22-24)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/16/3)
> Now it came to pass, when the time had come for Him to be received up, that He steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem, and sent messengers before His face. And as they went, they entered a village of the Samaritans, to prepare for Him. But they did not receive Him, because His face was set for the journey to Jerusalem. And when His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, just as Elijah did?” But He turned and rebuked them, and said, “You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them.” And they went to another village. All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him.” Then He turned to His disciples and said privately, “Blessed are the eyes which see the things you see; for I tell you that many prophets and kings have desired to see what you see, and have not seen it, and to hear what you hear, and have not heard it.”
## [Epistle reading for the 11th Sunday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 9:2-12)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/16/4)
> If I am not an apostle to others, yet doubtless I am to you. For you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord. My defense to those who examine me is this: Do we have no right to eat and drink? Do we have no right to take along a believing wife, as do also the other apostles, the brothers of the Lord, and Cephas? Or is it only Barnabas and I who have no right to refrain from working? Who ever goes to war at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard and does not eat of its fruit? Or who tends a flock and does not drink of the milk of the flock? Do I say these things as a mere man? Or does not the law say the same also? For it is written in the law of Moses, “You shall not muzzle an ox while it treads out the grain.” Is it oxen God is concerned about? Or does He say it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written, that he who plows should plow in hope, and he who threshes in hope should be partaker of his hope. If we have sown spiritual things for you, is it a great thing if we reap your material things? If others are partakers of this right over you, are we not even more? Nevertheless we have not used this right, but endure all things lest we hinder the gospel of Christ.
## [Gospel reading for the 11th Sunday after Pentecost (Matthew 18:23-35)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/16/5)
> Therefore the kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. And when he had begun to settle accounts, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. But as he was not able to pay, his master commanded that he be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and that payment be made. The servant therefore fell down before him, saying, ‘Master, have patience with me, and I will pay you all.’ Then the master of that servant was moved with compassion, released him, and forgave him the debt. But that servant went out and found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii; and he laid hands on him and took him by the throat, saying, ‘Pay me what you owe!’ So his fellow servant fell down at his feet and begged him, saying, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you all.’ And he would not, but went and threw him into prison till he should pay the debt. So when his fellow servants saw what had been done, they were very grieved, and came and told their master all that had been done. Then his master, after he had called him, said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you begged me. Should you not also have had compassion on your fellow servant, just as I had pity on you?’ And his master was angry, and delivered him to the torturers until he should pay all that was due to him. So My heavenly Father also will do to you if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother his trespasses.”
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-08-16 12:00:42 CEST

## [Afterfeast of the Dormition of the Mother of God - 16 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/16/102303-afterfeast-of-the-dormition-of-the-mother-of-god)
![Afterfeast of the Dormition of the Mother of God](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/greatfeasts/0815dormition11.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
In giving birth you preserved your virginity,
in falling asleep you did not forsake the world, O Theotokos.
You were translated to life, O Mother of Life,
and by your prayers, you deliver our souls from death.
🎶kontakion🎶
Neither the tomb, nor death could hold the Theotokos,
who is constant in prayer and our firm hope in her intercessions.
For being the Mother of Life,
she was translated to life by the One who dwelt in her virginal womb.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-15 22:00:42 CEST

## [“Enlightener of Minds” Icon of the Mother of God - 15 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/15/205406-enlightener-of-minds-icon-of-the-mother-of-god)
![“Enlightener of Minds” Icon of the Mother of God](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/august/0815icon-enlightenerofminds04.jpg)
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-15 15:00:44 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Saturday, 15 August 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/15)
## [Vespers reading for the 11th Saturday after Pentecost (Genesis 28:10-17)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/15/1)
> Now Jacob went out from Beersheba and went toward Haran. So he came to a certain place and stayed there all night, because the sun had set. And he took one of the stones of that place and put it at his head, and he lay down in that place to sleep. Then he dreamed, and behold, a ladder was set up on the earth, and its top reached to heaven; and there the angels of God were ascending and descending on it. And behold, the Lord stood above it and said: “I am the Lord God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac; the land on which you lie I will give to you and your descendants. “Also your descendants shall be as the dust of the earth; you shall spread abroad to the west and the east, to the north and the south; and in you and in your seed all the families of the earth shall be blessed. “Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have spoken to you.” Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it.” And he was afraid and said, “How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven!”
## [Vespers reading for the 11th Saturday after Pentecost (Ezekiel 43:27-44:4)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/15/2)
> ‘When these days are over it shall be, on the eighth day and thereafter, that the priests shall offer your burnt offerings and your peace offerings on the altar; and I will accept you,’ says the Lord God.” Then He brought me back to the outer gate of the sanctuary which faces toward the east, but it was shut. And the Lord said to me, “This gate shall be shut; it shall not be opened, and no man shall enter by it, because the Lord God of Israel has entered by it; therefore it shall be shut. “As for the prince, because he is the prince, he may sit in it to eat bread before the Lord; he shall enter by way of the vestibule of the gateway, and go out the same way.” Also He brought me by way of the north gate to the front of the temple; so I looked, and behold, the glory of the Lord filled the house of the Lord; and I fell on my face.
## [Vespers reading for the 11th Saturday after Pentecost (Proverbs 9:1-11)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/15/3)
> Wisdom has built her house, she has hewn out her seven pillars; she has slaughtered her meat, she has mixed her wine, she has also furnished her table. She has sent out her maidens, she cries out from the highest places of the city, “Whoever is simple, let him turn in here!” as for him who lacks understanding, she says to him, “Come, eat of my bread and drink of the wine I have mixed. Forsake foolishness and live, and go in the way of understanding. He who corrects a scoffer gets shame for himself, and he who rebukes a wicked man only harms himself. Do not correct a scoffer, lest he hate you; give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. For by me your days will be multiplied, and years of life will be added to you.”
## [Epistle reading for the 11th Saturday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 1:3-9)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/15/5)
> Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given to you by Christ Jesus, that you were enriched in everything by Him in all utterance and all knowledge, even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you, so that you come short in no gift, eagerly waiting for the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will also confirm you to the end, that you may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
## [Gospel reading for the 11th Saturday after Pentecost (Matthew 19:3-12)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/15/6)
> The Pharisees also came to Him, testing Him, and saying to Him, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife for just any reason?” And He answered and said to them, “Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’? So then, they are no longer two but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate. They said to Him, “Why then did Moses command to give a certificate of divorce, and to put her away?” He said to them, “Moses, because of the hardness of your hearts, permitted you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not so. And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is divorced commits adultery. His disciples said to Him, “If such is the case of the man with his wife, it is better not to marry.” But He said to them, “All cannot accept this saying, but only those to whom it has been given: For there are eunuchs who were born thus from their mother’s womb, and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven’s sake. He who is able to accept it, let him accept it.
## [Epistle reading for the Dormition (“Falling Asleep”) of our Most Holy Lady, Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary (Philippians 2:5-11)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/15/7)
> Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
## [Gospel reading for the Dormition (“Falling Asleep”) of our Most Holy Lady, Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary (Luke 10:38-42; 11:27-28)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/15/8)
> Now it happened as they went that He entered a certain village; and a certain woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word. But Martha was distracted with much serving, and she approached Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Therefore tell her to help me.” And Jesus answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” And it happened, as He spoke these things, that a certain woman from the crowd raised her voice and said to Him, “Blessed is the womb that bore You, and the breasts which nursed You!” But He said, “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-08-15 12:00:42 CEST

## [The Dormition of our Most Holy Lady the Mother of God and Ever-Virgin Mary - 15 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/15/102302-the-dormition-of-our-most-holy-lady-the-mother-of-god-and-ever-v)
![The Dormition of our Most Holy Lady the Mother of God and Ever-Virgin Mary](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/greatfeasts/0815dormition0001.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
In giving birth, you preserved your virginity,
and in falling asleep you did not forsake the world, O
Theotokos.
You passed into life as the Mother of Life,
and by your prayers, you deliver our souls from death.
🎶kontakion🎶
Neither the tomb, nor death had power over the Theotokos,
who is unsleeping1in her intercessions and an unchanging hope in her protection.
For as the Mother of Life,
she was translated into life by Him who dwelt in her ever-virginal womb.1Unsleeping (ἀκοίμητος in Greek), which is a poetic contrast to the name of the Feast (Κοίμησις), the Dormition, or Falling Asleep.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-14 22:00:42 CEST

## [Venerable Arcadius of Novotorsk - 14 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/14/102298-venerable-arcadius-of-novotorsk)
![Venerable Arcadius of Novotorsk](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/august/0814arcadiusofnovytorzhok.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
Guided by your spiritual mentor, the Venerable Father Ephraim, an excellent zealot of obedience,
O Father Arcadius, you fled from worldly vanity and were a superb monk;
working diligently, you have received a crown of heavenly glory from Christ God.
And now, together with the Venerable Father Ephraim,
pray for us before the Throne of the Most High,
that we may be delivered from all troubles and sorrows,
and for the salvation of our souls.
🎶kontakion🎶
By directing your mind to the depths of the knowledge of God,
you ascended to the heavenly abodes,
and your life was equal to that of an angel, O Father Arcadius.
You were obedient to your spiritual guide and teacher, the Venerable Ephraim, in all things.
And now, standing with him before the Throne of the Master Christ,
pray unceasingly for all of us.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-14 15:00:42 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Friday, 14 August 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/14)
## [Epistle reading for the 11th Friday after Pentecost (2 Corinthians 4:13-18)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/14/1)
> And since we have the same spirit of faith, according to what is written, “I believed and therefore I spoke,” we also believe and therefore speak, knowing that He who raised up the Lord Jesus will also raise us up with Jesus, and will present us with you. For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God. Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
## [Gospel reading for the 11th Friday after Pentecost (Matthew 24:27-33, 42-51)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/14/2)
> For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For wherever the carcass is, there the eagles will be gathered together. Immediately after the tribulation of those days the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near – at the doors! Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect. Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his master made ruler over his household, to give them food in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing. Assuredly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all his goods. But if that evil servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delaying his coming,’ and begins to beat his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunkards, the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him and at an hour that he is not aware of, and will cut him in two and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
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2026-08-14 12:00:42 CEST

## [Forefeast of the Dormition of the Mother of God - 14 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/14/102295-forefeast-of-the-dormition-of-the-mother-of-god)
![Forefeast of the Dormition of the Mother of God](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/greatfeasts/0815dormition.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
Dance with joy, O peoples!
Clap your hands with gladness!
Gather today with fervor and jubilation;
sing with exultation.
The Mother of God is about to rise in glory,
ascending from earth to heaven.
We ceaselessly praise her in song as truly Theotokos.
🎶kontakion🎶
Today the universe dances with joy at your glorious memorial,
and cries out to you, O Mother of God:
“Rejoice, O Virgin, pride of Christians!”
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-13 22:00:42 CEST

## [Icon of the Mother of God of Minsk - 13 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/13/108995-icon-of-the-mother-of-god-of-minsk)
![Icon of the Mother of God of Minsk](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/august/0813icon-minsk-mpoy0020.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
From Constantinople and Kiev, you appeared on the waters of the Svisloch, Most Holy Virgin,
and you showed your mercy to the God-saved city of Minsk.
Enlighten us sinners with your radiance, manifest your power as always;
save us by your intercession, and deliver us from the intrigues of our enemies,
for we have you as an unassailable wall, and our only hope.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-13 15:00:44 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Thursday, 13 August 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/13)
## [Vespers reading for the 11th Thursday after Pentecost (Composite 2 - Proverbs 10, 3, 8)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/13/1)
> The memory of the righteous is with praise and the blessing of the Lord is upon his head. Blessed is the man who has found wisdom and the mortal who has understanding. For it is better to purchase her than treasuries of gold and silver. She is more precious than precious stones and all that is precious is unworthy of her. For length of days and years of life are in her right hand; and in her left hand are riches and glory. Out of her mouth proceeds righteousness and she bears law and mercy upon her tongue. Hear me, O child, for I will speak noble things. Blessed is the man who keeps my ways, for my ways are the ways of life, and in them is prepared favor from the Lord. Therefore, I pray thee, and utter my voice to the sons of men: For I, wisdom, have dwelt with counsel and knowledge and I have called upon understanding. Counsel and safety are mine, understanding and strength are mine. I love those who love me and those seeking me shall find grace. Understand craftiness, O you who are simple, and imbibe knowledge, you who are untaught. Hear me again, for I will speak noble things: I will open my mouth and from my lips shall come what is right. For my throat shall meditate truth; false lips are an abomination before me. All the words of my mouth are righteous; there is nothing in them that is twisted or perverse. They are all straight to him who understands and right to those who find knowledge. I shall instruct you in truth, so that your hope will be in the Lord and you shall be filled with the Spirit.
## [Vespers reading for the 11th Thursday after Pentecost (Proverbs 10:31-11:12)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/13/2)
> The mouth of the righteous brings forth wisdom, but the perverse tongue will be cut out. The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable, but the mouth of the wicked what is perverse. Dishonest scales are an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is His delight. When pride comes, then comes shame; but with the humble is wisdom. The integrity of the upright will guide them, but the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them. Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death. The righteousness of the blameless will direct his way aright, but the wicked will fall by his own wickedness. The righteousness of the upright will deliver them, but the unfaithful will be caught by their lust. When a wicked man dies, his expectation will perish, and the hope of the unjust perishes. The righteous is delivered from trouble, and it comes to the wicked instead. The hypocrite with his mouth destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous will be delivered. When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices; and when the wicked perish, there is jubilation. By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted, but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked. He who is devoid of wisdom despises his neighbor, but a man of understanding holds his peace.
## [Vespers reading for the 11th Thursday after Pentecost (Wisdom of Solomon 4:7-15)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/13/3)
> But the righteous man, though he die early, will be at rest. For old age is not honored for length of time, nor measured by number of years; but understanding is gray hair for men, and a blameless life is ripe old age. There was one who pleased God and was loved by him, He was caught up lest evil change his understanding or guile deceive his soul. For the fascination of wickedness obscures what is good, and roving desire perverts the innocent mind. Being perfected in a short time, he fulfilled long years; for his soul was pleasing to the Lord, therefore he took him quickly from the midst of wickedness. Yet the peoples saw and did not understand, nor take such a thing to heart, that God’s grace and mercy are with his elect, and he watches over his holy ones.
## [Epistle reading for Saint Tikhon, Bishop of Vorónezh, Wonderworker of Zadónsk and All Russia (Hebrews 7:26-8:2)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/13/5)
> For such a High Priest was fitting for us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and has become higher than the heavens; who does not need daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifices, first for his own sins and then for the people’s, for this He did once for all when He offered up Himself. For the law appoints as high priests men who have weakness, but the word of the oath, which came after the law, appoints the Son who has been perfected forever. Now this is the main point of the things we are saying: We have such a High Priest, who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens, a Minister of the sanctuary and of the true tabernacle which the Lord erected, and not man.
## [Gospel reading for Saint Tikhon, Bishop of Vorónezh, Wonderworker of Zadónsk and All Russia (Matthew 5:14-19)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/13/6)
> You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled. Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
## [Epistle reading for the 11th Thursday after Pentecost (2 Corinthians 4:1-6)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/13/7)
> Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not lose heart. But we have renounced the hidden things of shame, not walking in craftiness nor handling the word of God deceitfully, but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God. But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them. For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus’ sake. For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
## [Gospel reading for the 11th Thursday after Pentecost (Matthew 24:13-28)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/08/13/8)
> But he who endures to the end shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come. Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place (whoever reads, let him understand), then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains. Let him who is on the housetop not go down to take anything out of his house. And let him who is in the field not go back to get his clothes. But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! And pray that your flight may not be in winter or on the Sabbath. For then there will be great tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the world until this time, no, nor ever shall be. And unless those days were shortened, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake those days will be shortened. Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or ‘There!’ do not believe it. For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. See, I have told you beforehand. Therefore if they say to you, ‘Look, He is in the desert!’ do not go out; or ‘Look, He is in the inner rooms!’ do not believe it. For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For wherever the carcass is, there the eagles will be gathered together.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-08-13 12:00:42 CEST

## [Leavetaking of the Transfiguration of our Lord - 13 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/13/102284-leavetaking-of-the-transfiguration-of-our-lord)
![Leavetaking of the Transfiguration of our Lord](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/greatfeasts/0806.transfiguration.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
You were Transfigured on the Mount, O Christ God,
revealing Your glory to Your disciples as far as they could bear it.
Let Your everlasting Light shine upon us sinners!
Through the prayers of the Theotokos, O Giver of Light, glory to You!
🎶kontakion🎶
On the Mountain You were Transfigured, O Christ God,
and Your disciples beheld Your glory as far as they could see it;
so that when they would behold You crucified,
they would understand that Your suffering was voluntary,
and would proclaim to the world,
that You are truly the Radiance of the Father!
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-08-12 22:00:42 CEST

## [Martyrs Pamphilus and Capiton - 12 August](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/08/12/108996-martyrs-pamphilus-and-capiton)
🎶troparion🎶
Your holy martyrs Pamphilus and Capiton, O Lord,
through their sufferings have received incorruptible crowns from You, our God.
For having Your strength, they laid low their adversaries,
and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.
Through their intercessions, save our souls!
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-29 15:00:51 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Wednesday, 29 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/29)
## [Epistle reading for the 9th Wednesday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 13:4-14:5)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/29/1)
> Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love. Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy. For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries. But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men. He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied; for he who prophesies is greater than he who speaks with tongues, unless indeed he interprets, that the church may receive edification.
## [Gospel reading for the 9th Wednesday after Pentecost (Matthew 20:1-16)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/29/2)
> For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. Now when he had agreed with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. And he went out about the third hour and saw others standing idle in the marketplace, and said to them, ‘You also go into the vineyard, and whatever is right I will give you.’ So they went. Again he went out about the sixth and the ninth hour, and did likewise. And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing idle, and said to them, ‘Why have you been standing here idle all day?’ They said to him, ‘Because no one hired us.’ He said to them, ‘You also go into the vineyard, and whatever is right you will receive.’ So when evening had come, the owner of the vineyard said to his steward, ‘Call the laborers and give them their wages, beginning with the last to the first.’ And when those came who were hired about the eleventh hour, they each received a denarius. But when the first came, they supposed that they would receive more; and they likewise received each a denarius. And when they had received it, they complained against the landowner, saying, ‘These last men have worked only one hour, and you made them equal to us who have borne the burden and the heat of the day.’ But he answered one of them and said, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius? Take what is yours and go your way. I wish to give to this last man the same as to you. Is it not lawful for me to do what I wish with my own things? Or is your eye evil because I am good?’ So the last will be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few chosen.’”
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2026-07-29 12:00:51 CEST

## [Martyr Callinicus of Gangra in Asia Minor - 29 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/29/102123-martyr-callinicus-of-gangra-in-asia-minor)
![Martyr Callinicus of Gangra in Asia Minor](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0729kallinikos.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
Your holy martyr Callinicus, O Lord,
through his suffering has received an incorruptible crown from You, our God.
For having Your strength, he laid low his adversaries,
and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.
Through his intercessions save our souls.
🎶kontakion🎶
(Podoben: “Seeking the highest...”)You worthily inherited joy on high, Callinicus,
for aflame with love for Christ you bravely endured the fire.
As you stand before Him,
never cease to intercede for us all.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-28 22:00:51 CEST

## [Seraphim-Diveyevo Tenderness Icon of the Mother of God - 28 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/28/102122-seraphim-diveyevo-tenderness-icon-of-the-mother-of-god)
![Seraphim-Diveyevo Tenderness Icon of the Mother of God](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0728tendernessicon.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
Let all those who are burdened with sins turn to the Theotokos with heartfelt contrition,
kissing her wonderworking Tenderness Icon and crying out with tears:
“O Sovereign Lady, accept the prayer of your unworthy servants
and grant to us who ask, your great mercy.”
🎶kontakion🎶
Like the barren fig tree1I, the accursed one, do not bear the fruit of humility at all,
and I fear being cut down, but beholding your wonderworking Tenderness Icon,
O Sovereign Lady, I sigh from my heart and cry out:
“Have mercy on me, who am hard-hearted, O Merciful one.
Bless me and grant me spiritual and heartfelt humility.”1Luke 13:6-9.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-28 15:00:52 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Tuesday, 28 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/28)
## [Epistle reading for the 9th Tuesday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 12:12-26)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/28/1)
> For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body – whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free – and have all been made to drink into one Spirit. For in fact the body is not one member but many. If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I am not of the body,” is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I am not of the body,” is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where would be the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where would be the smelling? But now God has set the members, each one of them, in the body just as He pleased. And if they were all one member, where would the body be? But now indeed there are many members, yet one body. And the eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you”; nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” No, much rather, those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary. And those members of the body which we think to be less honorable, on these we bestow greater honor; and our unpresentable parts have greater modesty, but our presentable parts have no need. But God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it, that there should be no schism in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another. And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.
## [Gospel reading for the 9th Tuesday after Pentecost (Matthew 18:18-22, 19:1-2, 13-15)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/28/2)
> Assuredly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again I say to you that if two of you agree on earth concerning anything that they ask, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.” Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven. Now it came to pass, when Jesus had finished these sayings, that He departed from Galilee and came to the region of Judea beyond the Jordan. And great multitudes followed Him, and He healed them there. Then little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” And He laid His hands on them and departed from there.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-07-27 15:00:52 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Monday, 27 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/27)
## [Epistle reading for the Holy Greatmartyr and Healer Panteleimon (2 Timothy 2:1-10)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/27/1)
> You therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier. And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. The hardworking farmer must be first to partake of the crops. Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things. Remember that Jesus Christ, of the seed of David, was raised from the dead according to my gospel, for which I suffer trouble as an evildoer, even to the point of chains; but the word of God is not chained. Therefore I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
## [Gospel reading for the Holy Greatmartyr and Healer Panteleimon (John 15:17-16:2)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/27/2)
> These things I command you, that you love one another. If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also. But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know Him who sent Me. If I had not come and spoken to them, they would have no sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin. He who hates Me hates My Father also. If I had not done among them the works which no one else did, they would have no sin; but now they have seen and also hated both Me and My Father. But this happened that the word might be fulfilled which is written in their law, ‘They hated Me without a cause.’ But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me. And you also will bear witness, because you have been with Me from the beginning. These things I have spoken to you, that you should not be made to stumble. They will put you out of the synagogues; yes, the time is coming that whoever kills you will think that he offers God service.
## [Epistle reading for the 9th Monday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 11:31-12:6)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/27/3)
> For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world. Therefore, my brethren, when you come together to eat, wait for one another. But if anyone is hungry, let him eat at home, lest you come together for judgment. And the rest I will set in order when I come. Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant: You know that you were Gentiles, carried away to these dumb idols, however you were led. Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God calls Jesus accursed, and no one can say that Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit. There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all.
## [Gospel reading for the 9th Monday after Pentecost (Matthew 18:1-11)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/27/4)
> At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Then Jesus called a little child to Him, set him in the midst of them, and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever receives one little child like this in My name receives Me. But whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe to the world because of offenses! For offenses must come, but woe to that man by whom the offense comes! If your hand or foot causes you to sin, cut it off and cast it from you. It is better for you to enter into life lame or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet, to be cast into the everlasting fire. And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and cast it from you. It is better for you to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes, to be cast into hell fire. Take heed that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that in heaven their angels always see the face of My Father who is in heaven. For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-07-27 12:00:51 CEST

## [Greatmartyr and Healer Panteleimon - 27 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/27/102099-greatmartyr-and-healer-panteleimon)
![Greatmartyr and Healer Panteleimon](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0727panteleimon05.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
O holy prizewinner and Healer Panteleimon,
intercede with the merciful God,
that He grant unto our souls the forgiveness of our offenses.
🎶kontakion🎶
Since you are an emulator of the Merciful One and have received from Him the grace of healing,
O Passion-bearer and Martyr of Christ God;
by your prayers, heal our spiritual infirmities,
always
driving away the temptations of the Enemy
from those who cry unceasingly: “Save us, O Lord.”
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-26 15:00:53 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Sunday, 26 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/26)
## [Vespers reading for the 8th Sunday after Pentecost (Wisdom of Solomon 5:15-6:3)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/26/1)
> But the righteous live for ever, and their reward is with the Lord; the Most High takes care of them. Therefore they will receive a glorious crown and a beautiful diadem from the hand of the Lord, because with his right hand he will cover them, and with his arm he will shield them. The Lord will take his zeal as his whole armor, and will arm all creation to repel his enemies; he will put on righteousness as a breastplate, and wear impartial justice as a helmet; he will take holiness as a invincible shield, and sharpen stern wrath for a sword, and creation will join with him to fight against the madmen. Shafts of lightning will fly with true aim, and will leap to the target as from a well-drawn bow of clouds, and hailstones full of wrath will be hurled as from a catapult; the water of the sea will rage against them, and rivers will relentlessly overwhelm them; a mighty wind will rise against them, and like a tempest it will winnow them away. Lawlessness will lay waste the whole earth, and evil-doing will overturn the thrones of rulers. Listen therefore, O kings, and understand; learn, O judges of the ends of the earth. Give ear, you that rule over multitudes, and boast of many nations. For your dominion was given you from the Lord, and your sovereignty from the Most High, who will search out your works and inquire into your plans.
## [Vespers reading for the 8th Sunday after Pentecost (1 John 4:1-6)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/26/2)
> Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world. You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. They are of the world. Therefore they speak as of the world, and the world hears them. We are of God. He who knows God hears us; he who is not of God does not hear us. By this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.
## [Vespers reading for the 8th Sunday after Pentecost (1 John 4:20-5:5)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/26/3)
> If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also. Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and everyone who loves Him who begot also loves him who is begotten of Him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and keep His commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome. For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world – our faith. Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?
## [Matins Gospel reading (John 20:11-18)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/26/4)
> But Mary stood outside by the tomb weeping, and as she wept she stooped down and looked into the tomb. And she saw two angels in white sitting, one at the head and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain. Then they said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him.” Now when she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, and did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” She, supposing Him to be the gardener, said to Him, “Sir, if You have carried Him away, tell me where You have laid Him, and I will take Him away.” Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to Him, “Rabboni!” (which is to say, Teacher). Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to Me, for I have not yet ascended to My Father; but go to My brethren and say to them, ‘I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and to My God and your God.’” Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that He had spoken these things to her.
## [Epistle reading for the Repose of Saint Jacob (Netsvetov), Enlightener of the Peoples of Alaska (Philippians 3:7-14)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/26/5)
> But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ, and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith; that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, if, by any means, I may attain to the resurrection from the dead. Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
## [Gospel reading for the Repose of Saint Jacob (Netsvetov), Enlightener of the Peoples of Alaska (Mark 10:29-31, 42-45)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/26/6)
> So Jesus answered and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My sake and the gospel’s, who shall not receive a hundredfold now in this time – houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions – and in the age to come, eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” But Jesus called them to Himself and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant. And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”
## [Epistle reading for the 8th Sunday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 1:10-18)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/26/7)
> Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. For it has been declared to me concerning you, my brethren, by those of Chloe’s household, that there are contentions among you. Now I say this, that each of you says, “I am of Paul,” or “I am of Apollos,” or “I am of Cephas,” or “I am of Christ.” Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul? I thank God that I baptized none of you except Crispus and Gaius, lest anyone should say that I had baptized in my own name. Yes, I also baptized the household of Stephanas. Besides, I do not know whether I baptized any other. For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of no effect. For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
## [Gospel reading for the 8th Sunday after Pentecost (Matthew 14:14-22)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/26/8)
> And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick. When it was evening, His disciples came to Him, saying, “This is a deserted place, and the hour is already late. Send the multitudes away, that they may go into the villages and buy themselves food.” But Jesus said to them, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.” And they said to Him, “We have here only five loaves and two fish.” He said, “Bring them here to Me.” Then He commanded the multitudes to sit down on the grass. And He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, He blessed and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples; and the disciples gave to the multitudes. So they all ate and were filled, and they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments that remained. Now those who had eaten were about five thousand men, besides women and children. Immediately Jesus made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, while He sent the multitudes away.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-07-26 12:00:51 CEST

## [Repose of Saint Jacob Netsvetov, Enlightener of the Peoples of Alaska - 26 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/26/102091-repose-of-saint-jacob-netsvetov-enlightener-of-the-peoples-of-al)
![Repose of Saint Jacob Netsvetov, Enlightener of the Peoples of Alaska](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0726jacobofalaska.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
Righteous Father Jacob,
adornment of Atka and the Yukon delta,
offspring of Russian America,
flower of brotherly unity,
healer of sickness,
and terror of demons,
you offered yourself as a living sacrifice
to bring light to a searching people.
Pray to Christ God that our souls may be saved!
🎶kontakion🎶
Holy Father Jacob,
teacher of the knowledge of God,
you revealed your love for your people,
taking up your cross and following Christ,
enduring hardships like the apostle Paul.
Pray on our behalf to Christ our God
to grant us great mercy!
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-25 15:00:52 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Saturday, 25 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/25)
## [Epistle reading for the Dormition of the Righteous Anna, mother of the Most-holy Theotokos (Galatians 4:22-31)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/25/1)
> For it is written that Abraham had two sons: the one by a bondwoman, the other by a freewoman. But he who was of the bondwoman was born according to the flesh, and he of the freewoman through promise, which things are symbolic. For these are the two covenants: the one from Mount Sinai which gives birth to bondage, which is Hagar – for this Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia, and corresponds to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children – but the Jerusalem above is free, which is the mother of us all. For it is written: “Rejoice, O barren, You who do not bear! Break forth and shout, You who are not in labor! For the desolate has many more children Than she who has a husband.” Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are children of promise. But, as he who was born according to the flesh then persecuted him who was born according to the Spirit, even so it is now. Nevertheless what does the Scripture say? “Cast out the bondwoman and her son, for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the freewoman.” So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman but of the free.
## [Gospel reading for the Dormition of the Righteous Anna, mother of the Most-holy Theotokos (Luke 8:16-21)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/25/2)
> No one, when he has lit a lamp, covers it with a vessel or puts it under a bed, but sets it on a lampstand, that those who enter may see the light. For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light. Therefore take heed how you hear. For whoever has, to him more will be given; and whoever does not have, even what he seems to have will be taken from him.” Then His mother and brothers came to Him, and could not approach Him because of the crowd. And it was told Him by some, who said, “Your mother and Your brothers are standing outside, desiring to see You.” But He answered and said to them, “My mother and My brothers are these who hear the word of God and do it.”
## [Epistle reading for the 8th Saturday after Pentecost (Romans 13:1-10)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/25/3)
> Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil. Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience’ sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for they are God’s ministers attending continually to this very thing. Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor. Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law. For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not bear false witness,” “You shall not covet,” and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.
## [Gospel reading for the 8th Saturday after Pentecost (Matthew 12:30-37)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/25/4)
> He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad. Therefore I say to you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven men. Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven him, either in this age or in the age to come. Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or else make the tree bad and its fruit bad; for a tree is known by its fruit. Brood of vipers! How can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things. But I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-07-25 12:00:51 CEST

## [Dormition of the Righteous Anna, the Mother of the Most Holy Theotokos - 25 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/25/102086-dormition-of-the-righteous-anna-the-mother-of-the-most-holy-theo)
![Dormition of the Righteous Anna, the Mother of the Most Holy Theotokos](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0725dormitionanna-02.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
Divinely-wise Anna, you carried in your womb the pure Mother of God, who gave life to our Life.
Therefore, you are now carried joyfully to the inheritance of heaven,
to the abode of those who rejoice in glory,
where you seek forgiveness of sins for those who faithfully honor you, ever blessed one.
🎶kontakion🎶
We celebrate the memory of the progenitors of Christ,
and with faith we ask their help,
that deliverance from every affliction be granted to those who cry out:
“Be with us, O God, who in Your good pleasure glorified them.”
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-24 22:00:51 CEST

## [Saint Hilarion of Tvali - 24 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/24/103868-saint-hilarion-of-tvali)
![Saint Hilarion of Tvali](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0721-hilarion-tualeli.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
By a flood of tears you made the desert fertile,
and your longing for God brought forth fruits in abundance.
By the radiance of miracles you illumined the whole universe!
O our holy father Hilarion, pray to Christ our God to save our souls!
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-23 15:00:52 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Thursday, 23 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/23)
## [Epistle reading for the 8th Thursday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 10:28-11:7)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/23/1)
> But if anyone says to you, “This was offered to idols,” do not eat it for the sake of the one who told you, and for conscience’ sake; for “the earth is the LORD’s, and all its fullness.” Conscience, I say, not your own, but that of the other. For why is my liberty judged by another man’s conscience? But if I partake with thanks, why am I evil spoken of for the food over which I give thanks? Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Give no offense, either to the Jews or to the Greeks or to the church of God, just as I also please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved. Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ. (2) Now I praise you, brethren, that you remember me in all things and keep the traditions just as I delivered them to you. But I want you to know that the head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God. Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonors his head. But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, for that is one and the same as if her head were shaved. For if a woman is not covered, let her also be shorn. But if it is shameful for a woman to be shorn or shaved, let her be covered. For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God; but woman is the glory of man.
## [Gospel reading for the 8th Thursday after Pentecost (Matthew 16:24-28)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/23/2)
> Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works. Assuredly, I say to you, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the Son of Man coming in His kingdom.”
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-07-22 15:00:51 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Wednesday, 22 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/22)
## [Epistle reading for the 8th Wednesday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 10:12-22)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/22/1)
> Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall. No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry. I speak as to wise men; judge for yourselves what I say. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? For we, though many, are one bread and one body; for we all partake of that one bread. Observe Israel after the flesh: Are not those who eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar? What am I saying then? That an idol is anything, or what is offered to idols is anything? Rather, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice they sacrifice to demons and not to God, and I do not want you to have fellowship with demons. You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons; you cannot partake of the Lord’s table and of the table of demons. Or do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? Are we stronger than He?
## [Gospel reading for the 8th Wednesday after Pentecost (Matthew 16:20-24)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/22/2)
> Then He commanded His disciples that they should tell no one that He was Jesus the Christ. From that time Jesus began to show to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem, and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day. Then Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, saying, “Far be it from You, Lord; this shall not happen to You!” But He turned and said to Peter, “Get behind Me, Satan! You are an offense to Me, for you are not mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.” Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-07-22 12:00:51 CEST

## [Myrrhbearer and Equal of the Apostles Mary Magdalene - 22 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/22/102070-myrrhbearer-and-equal-of-the-apostles-mary-magdalene)
![Myrrhbearer and Equal of the Apostles Mary Magdalene](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0722marymagdalene.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
(Podoben: “Your tomb, O Savior...”)You followed Christ Who was born of a virgin for our sake, O revered Mary Magdalene,
keeping His commandments and laws.
Today, as we celebrate your most holy memory, we rejoice in faith,
and by your prayers, we receive the forgiveness of our sins.
🎶kontakion🎶
(Podoben: “Today the Virgin...”)Standing gloriously at the Cross of the Savior with many other women,
and showing compassion for the Mother of the Lord,
you shed tears and offered praise crying out:
“What is this strange wonder? He Who holds all creation was pleased to suffer.
Glory to Your power.”
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-21 15:00:51 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Tuesday, 21 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/21)
## [Epistle reading for the 8th Tuesday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 10:5-12)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/21/1)
> But with most of them God was not well pleased, for their bodies were scattered in the wilderness. Now these things became our examples, to the intent that we should not lust after evil things as they also lusted. And do not become idolaters as were some of them. As it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” Nor let us commit sexual immorality, as some of them did, and in one day twenty-three thousand fell; nor let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed by serpents; nor complain, as some of them also complained, and were destroyed by the destroyer. Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come. Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.
## [Gospel reading for the 8th Tuesday after Pentecost (Matthew 16:6-12)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/21/2)
> Then Jesus said to them, “Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the Sadducees.” And they reasoned among themselves, saying, “It is because we have taken no bread.” But Jesus, being aware of it, said to them, “O you of little faith, why do you reason among yourselves because you have brought no bread? Do you not yet understand, or remember the five loaves of the five thousand and how many baskets you took up? Nor the seven loaves of the four thousand and how many large baskets you took up? How is it you do not understand that I did not speak to you concerning bread? – but to beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” Then they understood that He did not tell them to beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and Sadducees.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-07-21 12:00:51 CEST

## [Prophet Ezekiel - 21 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/21/102064-prophet-ezekiel)
![Prophet Ezekiel](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0721prophetezekiel.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
We celebrate the memory
of Your prophet Ezekiel, O Lord;
through him we entreat You,
save our souls.
🎶kontakion🎶
(Podoben: “Today You have shown forth...”)Enlightened by the Spirit, your pure heart became the dwelling place of most splendid prophecy;
for you saw things far off as if they were near.
Therefore, we honor you, blessed and glorious Prophet Ezekiel.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-20 22:00:51 CEST

## [Priestmartyr Alexei (Medvedkov) - 20 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/20/108894-priestmartyr-alexei-medvedkov)
![Priestmartyr Alexei (Medvedkov)](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0720alexis-dugine.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
By sharing in the ways of the Apostles,
you became a successor to their throne.
Through the practice of virtue,
you found the way to divine contemplation, O inspired one of God;
by teaching the word of truth without error,
you defended the Faith, even to the shedding of your blood.
Hieromartyr Alexei, entreat Christ God to save our souls.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-20 12:00:51 CEST

## [Holy, Glorious Prophet Elijah - 20 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/20/102060-holy-glorious-prophet-elijah)
![Holy, Glorious Prophet Elijah](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0720elijahprophet.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
An angel in the flesh and the cornerstone of the prophets,
the second forerunner of the coming of Christ,
glorious Elijah sent grace from on high to Elisha,
to dispel diseases and to cleanse lepers.
Therefore, he pours forth healings on those who honor him.
🎶kontakion🎶
Prophet Elijah of great renown,
seer of the mighty mighty works of God,
by your command you held back the rain!
Pray for us to the only Lover of mankind!
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-19 22:00:51 CEST

## [Right-believing Prince Roman of Ryazan - 19 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/19/102056-right-believing-prince-roman-of-ryazan)
![Right-believing Prince Roman of Ryazan](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0719roman-riazan0012.jpg)
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-19 15:00:55 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Sunday, 19 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/19)
## [Vespers reading for the 7th Sunday after Pentecost (Wisdom of Solomon 3:1-9)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/19/1)
> But the souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment will ever touch them. In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died, and their departure was thought to be affliction, and their going from us to be their destruction; but they are at peace. For though in the sight of men they were punished, their hope is full of immortality. Having been disciplined a little, they will receive great good, because God tested them and found them worthy of himself; like gold in the furnace he tried them, and like a sacrificial burnt offering he accepted them. In the time of their visitation they will shine forth, and will run like sparks through the stubble. They will govern nations and rule over peoples, and the Lord will reign over them for ever. Those who trust in him will understand truth, and the faithful will abide with him in love, because grace and mercy are upon his elect, and he watches over his holy ones.
## [Vespers reading for the 7th Sunday after Pentecost (Wisdom of Solomon 5:15-6:3)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/19/2)
> But the righteous live for ever, and their reward is with the Lord; the Most High takes care of them. Therefore they will receive a glorious crown and a beautiful diadem from the hand of the Lord, because with his right hand he will cover them, and with his arm he will shield them. The Lord will take his zeal as his whole armor, and will arm all creation to repel his enemies; he will put on righteousness as a breastplate, and wear impartial justice as a helmet; he will take holiness as a invincible shield, and sharpen stern wrath for a sword, and creation will join with him to fight against the madmen. Shafts of lightning will fly with true aim, and will leap to the target as from a well-drawn bow of clouds, and hailstones full of wrath will be hurled as from a catapult; the water of the sea will rage against them, and rivers will relentlessly overwhelm them; a mighty wind will rise against them, and like a tempest it will winnow them away. Lawlessness will lay waste the whole earth, and evil-doing will overturn the thrones of rulers. Listen therefore, O kings, and understand; learn, O judges of the ends of the earth. Give ear, you that rule over multitudes, and boast of many nations. For your dominion was given you from the Lord, and your sovereignty from the Most High, who will search out your works and inquire into your plans.
## [Vespers reading for the 7th Sunday after Pentecost (Wisdom of Solomon 4:7-15)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/19/3)
> But the righteous man, though he die early, will be at rest. For old age is not honored for length of time, nor measured by number of years; but understanding is gray hair for men, and a blameless life is ripe old age. There was one who pleased God and was loved by him, He was caught up lest evil change his understanding or guile deceive his soul. For the fascination of wickedness obscures what is good, and roving desire perverts the innocent mind. Being perfected in a short time, he fulfilled long years; for his soul was pleasing to the Lord, therefore he took him quickly from the midst of wickedness. Yet the peoples saw and did not understand, nor take such a thing to heart, that God’s grace and mercy are with his elect, and he watches over his holy ones.
## [Vespers reading for the 4th reading, Fathers (Genesis 14:14-20)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/19/4)
> Now when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his three hundred and eighteen trained servants who were born in his own house, and went in pursuit as far as Dan. He divided his forces against them by night, and he and his servants attacked them and pursued them as far as Hobah, which is north of Damascus. So he brought back all the goods, and also brought back his brother Lot and his goods, as well as the women and the people. And the king of Sodom went out to meet him at the Valley of Shaveh (that is, the King’s Valley), after his return from the defeat of Chedorlaomer and the kings who were with him. Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine; he was the priest of God Most High. And he blessed him and said: “Blessed be Abram of God Most High, Possessor of heaven and earth; And blessed be God Most High, Who has delivered your enemies into your hand.” And he gave him a tithe of all.
## [Vespers reading for the 5th reading, Fathers (Deuteronomy 1:8-11, 15-17)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/19/5)
> See, I have set the land before you; go in and possess the land which the Lord swore to your fathers – to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob – to give to them and their descendants after them.’ And I spoke to you at that time, saying: ‘I alone am not able to bear you. The Lord your God has multiplied you, and here you are today, as the stars of heaven in multitude. May the Lord God of your fathers make you a thousand times more numerous than you are, and bless you as He has promised you! So I took the heads of your tribes, wise and knowledgeable men, and made them heads over you, leaders of thousands, leaders of hundreds, leaders of fifties, leaders of tens, and officers for your tribes. Then I commanded your judges at that time, saying, ‘Hear the cases between your brethren, and judge righteously between a man and his brother or the stranger who is with him. You shall not show partiality in judgment; you shall hear the small as well as the great; you shall not be afraid in any man’s presence, for the judgment is God’s. The case that is too hard for you, bring to me, and I will hear it.’
## [Vespers reading for the 6th reading, Fathers (Deuteronomy 10:14-21)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/19/6)
> Indeed heaven and the highest heavens belong to the Lord your God, also the earth with all that is in it. The Lord delighted only in your fathers, to love them; and He chose their descendants after them, you above all peoples, as it is this day. Therefore circumcise the foreskin of your heart, and be stiff-necked no longer. For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality nor takes a bribe. He administers justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the stranger, giving him food and clothing. Therefore love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt. You shall fear the Lord your God; you shall serve Him, and to Him you shall hold fast, and take oaths in His name. He is your praise, and He is your God, who has done for you these great and awesome things which your eyes have seen.
## [Matins Gospel reading (John 20:1-10)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/19/7)
> Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene went to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. Then she ran and came to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken away the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid Him.” Peter therefore went out, and the other disciple, and were going to the tomb. So they both ran together, and the other disciple outran Peter and came to the tomb first. And he, stooping down and looking in, saw the linen cloths lying there; yet he did not go in. Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb; and he saw the linen cloths lying there, and the handkerchief that had been around His head, not lying with the linen cloths, but folded together in a place by itself. Then the other disciple, who came to the tomb first, went in also; and he saw and believed. For as yet they did not know the Scripture, that He must rise again from the dead. Then the disciples went away again to their own homes.
## [Epistle reading for the Uncovering of the Relics of Venerable Seraphim of Sarov (Galatians 5:22-6:2)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/19/8)
> But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.
## [Gospel reading for the Uncovering of the Relics of Venerable Seraphim of Sarov (Luke 6:17-23)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/19/9)
> And He came down with them and stood on a level place with a crowd of His disciples and a great multitude of people from all Judea and Jerusalem, and from the seacoast of Tyre and Sidon, who came to hear Him and be healed of their diseases, as well as those who were tormented with unclean spirits. And they were healed. And the whole multitude sought to touch Him, for power went out from Him and healed them all. Then He lifted up His eyes toward His disciples, and said: “Blessed are you poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you who hunger now, for you shall be filled. Blessed are you who weep now, for you shall laugh. Blessed are you when men hate you, and when they exclude you, and revile you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of Man’s sake. Rejoice in that day and leap for joy! For indeed your reward is great in heaven, for in like manner their fathers did to the prophets.
## [Epistle reading for the Fathers of the 1st Six Ecumenical Councils. (Hebrews 13:7-16)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/19/10)
> Remember those who rule over you, who have spoken the word of God to you, whose faith follow, considering the outcome of their conduct. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Do not be carried about with various and strange doctrines. For it is good that the heart be established by grace, not with foods which have not profited those who have been occupied with them. We have an altar from which those who serve the tabernacle have no right to eat. For the bodies of those animals, whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest for sin, are burned outside the camp. Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people with His own blood, suffered outside the gate. Therefore let us go forth to Him, outside the camp, bearing His reproach. For here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come. Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
## [Gospel reading for the Fathers of the 1st Six Ecumenical Councils. (John 17:1-13)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/19/11)
> Jesus spoke these words, lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said: “Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You, as You have given Him authority over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as You have given Him. And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent. I have glorified You on the earth. I have finished the work which You have given Me to do. And now, O Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was. I have manifested Your name to the men whom You have given Me out of the world. They were Yours, You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word. Now they have known that all things which You have given Me are from You. For I have given to them the words which You have given Me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came forth from You; and they have believed that You sent Me. I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours. And all Mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine, and I am glorified in them. Now I am no longer in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to You. Holy Father, keep through Your name those whom You have given Me, that they may be one as We are. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Your name. Those whom You gave Me I have kept; and none of them is lost except the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. But now I come to You, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves.
## [Epistle reading for the 7th Sunday after Pentecost (Romans 15:1-7)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/19/12)
> We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification. For even Christ did not please Himself; but as it is written, “The reproaches of those who reproached You fell on Me.” For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope. Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus, that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore receive one another, just as Christ also received us, to the glory of God.
## [Gospel reading for the 7th Sunday after Pentecost (Matthew 9:27-35)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/19/13)
> When Jesus departed from there, two blind men followed Him, crying out and saying, “Son of David, have mercy on us!” And when He had come into the house, the blind men came to Him. And Jesus said to them, “Do you believe that I am able to do this?” They said to Him, “Yes, Lord.” Then He touched their eyes, saying, “According to your faith let it be to you.” And their eyes were opened. And Jesus sternly warned them, saying, “See that no one knows it.” But when they had departed, they spread the news about Him in all that country. As they went out, behold, they brought to Him a man, mute and demon-possessed. And when the demon was cast out, the mute spoke. And the multitudes marveled, saying, “It was never seen like this in Israel!” But the Pharisees said, “He casts out demons by the ruler of the demons.” Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-07-19 12:00:51 CEST

## [Fathers of the First Six Councils - 19 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/19/50-fathers-of-the-first-six-councils)
![Fathers of the First Six Councils](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0716fathers-4thecumenical-council.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
You are most glorious, O Christ our God,
You have established the Fathers as lights upon the earth,
and through them, You have guided all of us to the true Faith!
O greatly compassionate one, glory to You.
🎶kontakion🎶
(Podoben: “As the first fruits...”)The preaching of the Apostles and the dogmas of the Fathers have confirmed one faith for the Church;
and She, clad in the garment of truth woven from heavenly theology,
teaches aright and glorifies the great mystery of piety.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-18 22:00:51 CEST

## [Martyr Hyacinthus of Amastridea - 18 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/18/102048-martyr-hyacinthus-of-amastridea)
🎶troparion🎶
Your holy martyr Hyacinthus, O Lord,
through his sufferings has received an incorruptible crown from You, our God.
For having Your strength, he laid low his adversaries,
and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.
Through his intercessions, save our souls!
🎶kontakion🎶
(Podoben: “You sought the heights...”)You appeared as a bright star announcing Christ with your radiance,
which is repulsive to this world, O Martyr Hyacinthus;
extinguishing the allure of false gods,
you enlighten the faithful,
always interceding for us all.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-18 15:00:51 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Saturday, 18 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/18)
## [Epistle reading for the 7th Saturday after Pentecost (Romans 12:1-3)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/18/1)
> I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith.
## [Gospel reading for the 7th Saturday after Pentecost (Matthew 10:37-11:1)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/18/2)
> He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it. He who receives you receives Me, and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me. He who receives a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward. And he who receives a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward. And whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, assuredly, I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward.” Now it came to pass, when Jesus finished commanding His twelve disciples, that He departed from there to teach and to preach in their cities.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-07-18 12:00:51 CEST

## [Martyr Emilian of Silistria in Bulgaria - 18 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/18/102047-martyr-emilian-of-silistria-in-bulgaria)
![Martyr Emilian of Silistria in Bulgaria](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0718valentina-pambo-emilian.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
Holy martyr Emilian,
you defended the Church against the idolatry of the pagans.
Because of your faith in Christ,
you were martyred by fire and through a glorious death received your crown.
Pray to Christ God that He may grant us great mercy.
🎶kontakion🎶
You did not fear the fire, your fellow-servant,
for you were enflamed with divine zeal.
You willingly entered the flames, unconsumed by the fury,
offering yourself in sacrifice to the Lord.
Glorious martyr Emilian, entreat Christ God to grant us His great mercy.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-17 22:00:51 CEST

## [Translation of the relics of Venerable Lazarus of Mount Galesius near Ephesus - 17 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/17/102044-translation-of-the-relics-of-venerable-lazarus-of-mount-galesius)
🎶troparion🎶
By a flood of tears you made the desert fertile,
and your longing for God brought forth fruits in abundance.
By the radiance of miracles you illumined the whole universe!
O our holy father Lazarus, pray to Christ our God to save our souls!
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-17 15:00:52 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Friday, 17 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/17)
## [Epistle reading for the 7th Friday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 7:35-8:7)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/17/1)
> And this I say for your own profit, not that I may put a leash on you, but for what is proper, and that you may serve the Lord without distraction. But if any man thinks he is behaving improperly toward his virgin, if she is past the flower of youth, and thus it must be, let him do what he wishes. He does not sin; let them marry. Nevertheless he who stands steadfast in his heart, having no necessity, but has power over his own will, and has so determined in his heart that he will keep his virgin, does well. So then he who gives her in marriage does well, but he who does not give her in marriage does better. A wife is bound by law as long as her husband lives; but if her husband dies, she is at liberty to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord. But she is happier if she remains as she is, according to my judgment – and I think I also have the Spirit of God. Now concerning things offered to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love edifies. And if anyone thinks that he knows anything, he knows nothing yet as he ought to know. But if anyone loves God, this one is known by Him. Therefore concerning the eating of things offered to idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is no other God but one. For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth (as there are many gods and many lords), yet for us there is one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we for Him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom are all things, and through whom we live. However, there is not in everyone that knowledge; for some, with consciousness of the idol, until now eat it as a thing offered to an idol; and their conscience, being weak, is defiled.
## [Gospel reading for the 7th Friday after Pentecost (Matthew 15:29-31)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/17/2)
> Jesus departed from there, skirted the Sea of Galilee, and went up on the mountain and sat down there. Then great multitudes came to Him, having with them the lame, blind, mute, maimed, and many others; and they laid them down at Jesus’ feet, and He healed them. So the multitude marveled when they saw the mute speaking, the maimed made whole, the lame walking, and the blind seeing; and they glorified the God of Israel.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-07-17 12:00:51 CEST

## [Great Martyr Marina (Margaret) of Antioch - 17 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/17/102042-great-martyr-marina-margaret-of-antioch)
![Great Martyr Marina (Margaret) of Antioch](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0717marina03.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
(Podoben: “Let us worship the Word...”)O glorious Marina, once betrothed to the Word,
you renounced all worldly concerns and struggled as a beautiful virgin.
You soundly trounced the invisible Enemy who appeared to you, O Champion,
and now you are a wellspring of healing grace for the world.
🎶kontakion🎶
(Podoben: “Today the Virgin...”)Adorned with the perfection of chastity, O virgin Marina,
you were crowned with an imperishable crown,
and reddened with the blood of martyrdom,
you were illumined by miracles of healing, O Martyr,
and devoutly you received the honors of your victorious martyrdom.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-16 22:00:51 CEST

## [New Martyr John of Trnovo - 16 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/16/108017-new-martyr-john-of-trnovo)
🎶troparion🎶
Your holy martyr John, O Lord,
through his sufferings has received an incorruptible crown from You, our God.
For having Your strength, he laid low his adversaries,
and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.
Through his intercessions, save our souls!
🎶kontakion🎶
(Podoben: “You sought the heights...”)You appeared as a bright star announcing Christ with your radiance,
which is repulsive to this world, O Martyr John;
extinguishing the allure of false gods,
you enlighten the faithful,
always interceding for us all.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-16 15:00:52 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Thursday, 16 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/16)
## [Epistle reading for the 7th Thursday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 7:24-35)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/16/1)
> Brethren, let each one remain with God in that state in which he was called. Now concerning virgins: I have no commandment from the Lord; yet I give judgment as one whom the Lord in His mercy has made trustworthy. I suppose therefore that this is good because of the present distress – that it is good for a man to remain as he is: Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be loosed. Are you loosed from a wife? Do not seek a wife. But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have trouble in the flesh, but I would spare you. But this I say, brethren, the time is short, so that from now on even those who have wives should be as though they had none, those who weep as though they did not weep, those who rejoice as though they did not rejoice, those who buy as though they did not possess, and those who use this world as not misusing it. For the form of this world is passing away. But I want you to be without care. He who is unmarried cares for the things of the Lord – how he may please the Lord. But he who is married cares about the things of the world – how he may please his wife. There is a difference between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman cares about the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit. But she who is married cares about the things of the world – how she may please her husband. And this I say for your own profit, not that I may put a leash on you, but for what is proper, and that you may serve the Lord without distraction.
## [Gospel reading for the 7th Thursday after Pentecost (Matthew 15:12-21)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/16/2)
> Then His disciples came and said to Him, “Do You know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this saying?” But He answered and said, “Every plant which My heavenly Father has not planted will be uprooted. Let them alone. They are blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind leads the blind, both will fall into a ditch.” Then Peter answered and said to Him, “Explain this parable to us.” So Jesus said, “Are you also still without understanding? Do you not yet understand that whatever enters the mouth goes into the stomach and is eliminated? But those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. These are the things which defile a man, but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile a man.” Then Jesus went out from there and departed to the region of Tyre and Sidon.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-07-16 12:00:51 CEST

## [Hieromartyr Athenogenes, Bishop of Heracleopolis, and his ten disciples - 16 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/16/102033-hieromartyr-athenogenes-bishop-of-heracleopolis-and-his-ten-disc)
![Hieromartyr Athenogenes, Bishop of Heracleopolis, and his ten disciples](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0716athenogenes-antiochus-theophrastus.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
Most blessed and wise Bishop and Martyr Athenogenes,
you grew as a palm tree in the Monastic life;
towering as a cedar in your struggles,
through your teachings you brought a number of martyrs to Christ.
We honor them together with you.
🎶kontakion🎶
Following the Master’s teachings,
as a shepherd you laid down your life for the flock of Christ.
Therefore, we praise you and your ten disciples, who under your guidance and in the fear of God suffered with you.
With His life-creating right hand
the Lord has granted you a crown.
Pray to Him for us all, Hieromartyr Athenogenes.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-15 22:00:51 CEST

## [Martyr Aboudimos of the Isle of Tenedos - 15 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/15/102032-martyr-aboudimos-of-the-isle-of-tenedos)
🎶troparion🎶
Your holy martyr Aboudimos, O Lord,
through his sufferings has received an incorruptible crown from You, our God.
For having Your strength, he laid low his adversaries,
and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.
Through his intercessions, save our souls!
🎶kontakion🎶
(Podoben: “You sought the heights...”)You appeared as a bright star announcing Christ with your radiance,
which is repulsive to this world, O Martyr Aboudimos;
extinguishing the allure of false gods,
you enlighten the faithful,
always interceding for us all.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-15 12:00:51 CEST

## [Holy Great Prince Vladimir (Basil in Baptism), Equal of the Apostles, and Enlightener of Rus' - 15 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/15/102031-holy-great-prince-vladimir-basil-in-baptism-equal-of-the-apostle)
![Holy Great Prince Vladimir (Basil in Baptism), Equal of the Apostles, and Enlightener of Rus'](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0715vladimir1.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
Holy Prince Vladimir,
you were like a merchant in search of fine pearls.
By sending servants to Constantinople for the Orthodox Faith, you found Christ, the priceless pearl.
He appointed you to be another Paul,
washing away in baptism your physical and spiritual blindness.
We celebrate your memory,
asking you to pray for all Orthodox Christians and for us, your spiritual children.
🎶kontakion🎶
Most glorious Vladimir, in your old age you imitated the great apostle Paul:
He abandoned childish things, while you forsook the idolatry of your youth.
Together with him you reached the fullness of divine wisdom:
You were adorned with the purity of holy baptism.
Now as you stand before Christ our Savior, pray that all Orthodox Christians may be saved.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-14 15:00:51 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Tuesday, 14 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/14)
## [Epistle reading for the 7th Tuesday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 6:20-7:12)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/14/1)
> For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s. Now concerning the things of which you wrote to me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. Nevertheless, because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband. Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control. But I say this as a concession, not as a commandment. For I wish that all men were even as I myself. But each one has his own gift from God, one in this manner and another in that. But I say to the unmarried and to the widows: It is good for them if they remain even as I am; but if they cannot exercise self-control, let them marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion. Now to the married I command, yet not I but the Lord: A wife is not to depart from her husband. But even if she does depart, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. And a husband is not to divorce his wife. But to the rest I, not the Lord, say: If any brother has a wife who does not believe, and she is willing to live with him, let him not divorce her.
## [Gospel reading for the 7th Tuesday after Pentecost (Matthew 14:1-13)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/14/2)
> At that time Herod the tetrarch heard the report about Jesus and said to his servants, “This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead, and therefore these powers are at work in him.” For Herod had laid hold of John and bound him, and put him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife. Because John had said to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” And although he wanted to put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet. But when Herod’s birthday was celebrated, the daughter of Herodias danced before them and pleased Herod. Therefore he promised with an oath to give her whatever she might ask. So she, having been prompted by her mother, said, “Give me John the Baptist’s head here on a platter.” And the king was sorry; nevertheless, because of the oaths and because of those who sat with him, he commanded it to be given to her. So he sent and had John beheaded in prison. And his head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, and she brought it to her mother. Then his disciples came and took away the body and buried it, and went and told Jesus. When Jesus heard it, He departed from there by boat to a deserted place by Himself. But when the multitudes heard it, they followed Him on foot from the cities.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-07-14 12:00:51 CEST

## [Apostle Aquila of the Seventy - 14 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/14/101950-apostle-aquila-of-the-seventy)
![Apostle Aquila of the Seventy](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0714.aquila.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
As a disciple and companion of Paul
you received in your soul the grace of preaching.
You shone in the night of error and struggled for the Lord’s glory.
Sacred minister of the Savior, Aquila, we all acclaim you.
🎶kontakion🎶
The Church has acquired you, O Aquila,
who shine like a great sun.
With the splendor of your teaching
she enlightens those who honor you with faith,
glorious Apostle of the Lord.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-13 15:00:51 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Monday, 13 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/13)
## [Epistle reading for the 7th Monday after Pentecost (1 Corinthians 5:9-6:11)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/13/1)
> I wrote to you in my epistle not to keep company with sexually immoral people. Yet I certainly did not mean with the sexually immoral people of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world. But now I have written to you not to keep company with anyone named a brother, who is sexually immoral, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner – not even to eat with such a person. For what have I to do with judging those also who are outside? Do you not judge those who are inside? But those who are outside God judges. Therefore “put away from yourselves the evil person.” Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unrighteous, and not before the saints? Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if the world will be judged by you, are you unworthy to judge the smallest matters? Do you not know that we shall judge angels? How much more, things that pertain to this life? If then you have judgments concerning things pertaining to this life, do you appoint those who are least esteemed by the church to judge? I say this to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you, not even one, who will be able to judge between his brethren? But brother goes to law against brother, and that before unbelievers! Now therefore, it is already an utter failure for you that you go to law against one another. Why do you not rather accept wrong? Why do you not rather let yourselves be cheated? No, you yourselves do wrong and cheat, and you do these things to your brethren! Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God.
## [Gospel reading for the 7th Monday after Pentecost (Matthew 13:54-58)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/13/2)
> When He had come to His own country, He taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished and said, “Where did this Man get this wisdom and these mighty works? Is this not the carpenter’s son? Is not His mother called Mary? And His brothers James, Joses, Simon, and Judas? And His sisters, are they not all with us? Where then did this Man get all these things?” So they were offended at Him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own country and in his own house.” Now He did not do many mighty works there because of their unbelief.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-07-13 12:00:51 CEST

## [Synaxis of the Archangel Gabriel - 13 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/13/102017-synaxis-of-the-archangel-gabriel)
![Synaxis of the Archangel Gabriel](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/march/0326bgabriel.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
Gabriel, commander of the heavenly hosts,
we who are unworthy beseech you,
by your prayers encompass us beneath the wings of your immaterial glory,
and faithfully preserve us who fall down and cry to you:
“Deliver us from all harm, for you are the commander of the powers on high!”
🎶kontakion🎶
You look upon God’s glory in heaven,
and bring grace from on high to earth,
wise Gabriel, leader of angels,
minister of God’s glory, and divine defender of the world!
Save and preserve those who cry to you:
“Be our defense, so that no one can be against us!”
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-12 15:00:52 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Sunday, 12 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/12)
## [Matins Gospel reading (Luke 24:36-53)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/12/1)
> Now as they said these things, Jesus Himself stood in the midst of them, and said to them, “Peace to you.” But they were terrified and frightened, and supposed they had seen a spirit. And He said to them, “Why are you troubled? And why do doubts arise in your hearts? Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.” When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His feet. But while they still did not believe for joy, and marveled, He said to them, “Have you any food here?” So they gave Him a piece of a broiled fish and some honeycomb. And He took it and ate in their presence. Then He said to them, “These are the words which I spoke to you while I was still with you, that all things must be fulfilled which were written in the Law of Moses and the Prophets and the Psalms concerning Me.” And He opened their understanding, that they might comprehend the Scriptures. Then He said to them, “Thus it is written, and thus it was necessary for the Christ to suffer and to rise from the dead the third day, and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And you are witnesses of these things. Behold, I send the Promise of My Father upon you; but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until you are endued with power from on high.” And He led them out as far as Bethany, and He lifted up His hands and blessed them. Now it came to pass, while He blessed them, that He was parted from them and carried up into heaven. And they worshiped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple praising and blessing God. Amen.
## [Epistle reading for the 6th Sunday after Pentecost (Romans 12:6-14)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/12/2)
> Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, let us prophesy in proportion to our faith; or ministry, let us use it in our ministering; he who teaches, in teaching; he who exhorts, in exhortation; he who gives, with liberality; he who leads, with diligence; he who shows mercy, with cheerfulness. Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.
## [Gospel reading for the 6th Sunday after Pentecost (Matthew 9:1-8)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/12/3)
> So He got into a boat, crossed over, and came to His own city. Then behold, they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you.” And at once some of the scribes said within themselves, “This Man blasphemes!” But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Arise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins” – then He said to the paralytic, “Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.” And he arose and departed to his house. Now when the multitudes saw it, they marveled and glorified God, who had given such power to men.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-07-12 12:00:51 CEST

## [Martyrs Proclus and Hilary of Ancyra - 12 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/12/102008-martyrs-proclus-and-hilary-of-ancyra)
![Martyrs Proclus and Hilary of Ancyra](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0712proclus-hilary.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
Your holy martyrs Proclus and Hilary, O Lord,
through their sufferings have received incorruptible crowns from You, our God.
For having Your strength, they laid low their adversaries,
and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.
Through their intercessions, save our souls!
🎶kontakion🎶
(Podoben: “As You were voluntarily raised...”)Like the morning star,
your glorious sufferings enlighten us with holy miracles.
We celebrate your memory, Proclus and Hilary;
pray to Christ God for us
that He will save our souls.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-11 15:00:52 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Saturday, 11 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/11)
## [Epistle reading for the 6th Saturday after Pentecost (Romans 9:1-5)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/11/1)
> I tell the truth in Christ, I am not lying, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Spirit, that I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my countrymen according to the flesh, who are Israelites, to whom pertain the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the service of God, and the promises; of whom are the fathers and from whom, according to the flesh, Christ came, who is over all, the eternally blessed God. Amen.
## [Gospel reading for the 6th Saturday after Pentecost (Matthew 9:18-26)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/11/2)
> While He spoke these things to them, behold, a ruler came and worshiped Him, saying, “My daughter has just died, but come and lay Your hand on her and she will live.” So Jesus arose and followed him, and so did His disciples. And suddenly, a woman who had a flow of blood for twelve years came from behind and touched the hem of His garment. For she said to herself, “If only I may touch His garment, I shall be made well.” But Jesus turned around, and when He saw her He said, “Be of good cheer, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And the woman was made well from that hour. When Jesus came into the ruler’s house, and saw the flute players and the noisy crowd wailing, He said to them, “Make room, for the girl is not dead, but sleeping.” And they ridiculed Him. But when the crowd was put outside, He went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. And the report of this went out into all that land.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-07-11 12:00:51 CEST

## [Greatmartyr Euphemia the All-praised - 11 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/11/102002-greatmartyr-euphemia-the-all-praised)
![Greatmartyr Euphemia the All-praised](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0711euphemia.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
You brought joy to the Orthodox
and shame to the defenders of heresy,
for you confirmed what the Fathers of the Fourth Council had correctly taught.
Glorious martyr Euphemia, fair virgin of Christ,
entreat Christ God to grant us His great mercy.
🎶kontakion🎶
For the sake of Christ your Bridegroom
you underwent struggles in both martyrdom and faith.
Now intercede with the Mother of God
that heresies and the insolent enemies of the Orthodox be placed underfoot.
You received and guarded that which was defined by the six hundred and thirty God-bearing Fathers,
all-praised Euphemia.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-09 22:00:51 CEST

## [Icon of the Mother of God of Koloch - 09 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/09/101980-icon-of-the-mother-of-god-of-koloch)
![Icon of the Mother of God of Koloch](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0709kolochskayaicon.jpg)
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-09 12:00:51 CEST

## [Hieromartyr Pancratius, Bishop of Taormina in Sicily - 09 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/09/101970-hieromartyr-pancratius-bishop-of-taormina-in-sicily)
![Hieromartyr Pancratius, Bishop of Taormina in Sicily](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0709pancratius.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
As a flaming arrow You were sent from on high
to the throne of Taormina to wound godless impiety
and to illumine the hearts of the faithful,
confirming them in the faith through the word of God.
And having completed your course You did suffer unto bloodshed.
O Hieromartyr Pancratius, pray for all who praise your memory.
🎶kontakion🎶
You were a brilliant star in Taormina, O blessed Pancratius,
and You became a hieromartyr for Christ.
Standing before Him now, pray for those who honor you.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-03 22:00:22 CEST

## [Saint Alexander, founder of the Monastery of the “Unsleeping Ones” - 03 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/03/101889-saint-alexander-founder-of-the-monastery-of-the-unsleeping-ones)
![Saint Alexander, founder of the Monastery of the “Unsleeping Ones”](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0703alexander-unsleeping.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
By a flood of tears you made the desert fertile,
and your longing for God brought forth fruits in abundance.
By the radiance of miracles you illumined the whole universe!
O our holy father Alexander, pray to Christ our God to save our souls!
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-03 15:00:23 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Friday, 03 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/03)
## [Epistle reading for the 5th Friday after Pentecost (Romans 16:1-16)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/03/1)
> I commend to you Phoebe our sister, who is a servant of the church in Cenchrea, that you may receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of the saints, and assist her in whatever business she has need of you; for indeed she has been a helper of many and of myself also. Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their own necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Greet my beloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia to Christ. Greet Mary, who labored much for us. Greet Andronicus and Junia, my countrymen and my fellow prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me. Greet Amplias, my beloved in the Lord. Greet Urbanus, our fellow worker in Christ, and Stachys, my beloved. Greet Apelles, approved in Christ. Greet those who are of the household of Aristobulus. Greet Herodion, my countryman. Greet those who are of the household of Narcissus who are in the Lord. Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, who have labored in the Lord. Greet the beloved Persis, who labored much in the Lord. Greet Rufus, chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine. Greet Asyncritus, Phlegon, Hermas, Patrobas, Hermes, and the brethren who are with them. Greet Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all the saints who are with them. Greet one another with a holy kiss. The churches of Christ greet you.
## [Gospel reading for the 5th Friday after Pentecost (Matthew 13:4-9)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/03/2)
> And as he sowed, some seed fell by the wayside; and the birds came and devoured them. Some fell on stony places, where they did not have much earth; and they immediately sprang up because they had no depth of earth. But when the sun was up they were scorched, and because they had no root they withered away. And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprang up and choked them. But others fell on good ground and yielded a crop: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-07-03 12:00:23 CEST

## [Martyr Hyacinth of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, and those with him - 03 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/03/101872-martyr-hyacinth-of-caesarea-in-cappadocia-and-those-with-him)
![Martyr Hyacinth of Caesarea, in Cappadocia, and those with him](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0703hyacinth.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
Like a fragrant hyacinth of the Church of Christ, O all-blessed Hyacinth,
you radiate grace to the ends of the world.
By the brilliance of your confession of faith,
you were illustrious in contest in emulation of God the Word
and you ever illumine those who acclaim you.
🎶kontakion🎶
Come, you faithful,
plait a crown of unfading hyacinths today for the Martyr Hyacinth,
and let us cry to Him:
“Rejoice, glory of martyrs.”
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-02 22:00:23 CEST

## [Icon of the Mother of God of Pozhai - 02 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/02/101870-icon-of-the-mother-of-god-of-pozhai)
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-02 15:00:23 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Thursday, 02 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/02)
## [Epistle reading for the 5th Thursday after Pentecost (Romans 15:17-29)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/02/1)
> Therefore I have reason to glory in Christ Jesus in the things which pertain to God. For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ has not accomplished through me, in word and deed, to make the Gentiles obedient – in mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God, so that from Jerusalem and round about to Illyricum I have fully preached the gospel of Christ. And so I have made it my aim to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build on another man’s foundation, but as it is written: “To whom He was not announced, they shall see; and those who have not heard shall understand.” For this reason I also have been much hindered from coming to you. But now no longer having a place in these parts, and having a great desire these many years to come to you, whenever I journey to Spain, I shall come to you. For I hope to see you on my journey, and to be helped on my way there by you, if first I may enjoy your company for a while. But now I am going to Jerusalem to minister to the saints. For it pleased those from Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor among the saints who are in Jerusalem. It pleased them indeed, and they are their debtors. For if the Gentiles have been partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister to them in material things. Therefore, when I have performed this and have sealed to them this fruit, I shall go by way of you to Spain. But I know that when I come to you, I shall come in the fullness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ.
## [Gospel reading for the 5th Thursday after Pentecost (Matthew 12:46-13:3)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/02/2)
> While He was still talking to the multitudes, behold, His mother and brothers stood outside, seeking to speak with Him. Then one said to Him, “Look, Your mother and Your brothers are standing outside, seeking to speak with You.” But He answered and said to the one who told Him, “Who is My mother and who are My brothers?” And He stretched out His hand toward His disciples and said, “Here are My mother and My brothers! For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother.” On the same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the sea. And great multitudes were gathered together to Him, so that He got into a boat and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore. Then He spoke many things to them in parables, saying: “Behold, a sower went out to sow.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-07-02 12:00:23 CEST

## [Saint John [Maximovitch], Archbishop of Shanghai and San Francisco - 02 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/02/206392-saint-john-maximovitch-archbishop-of-shanghai-and-san-francisco)
![Saint John [Maximovitch], Archbishop of Shanghai and San Francisco](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/july/0702john-sanfrancisco.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
Your care for your flock in its sojourn prefigured your prayers,
which you always offer up for the whole world.
Thus we believe, having come to know your love, O holy hierarch and wonderworker John.
Wholly sanctified by God through the ministry of the all-pure Mysteries,
and ever strengthened by them yourself,
you hastened to the suffering, O healer, easing their afflictions.
Hasten now to help us, who honor you with all our heart.
🎶kontakion🎶
Your heart went out to all who entreat you with love, O hierarch John,
and who remember the struggle of your life, and thy painless and easy repose,
O faithful servant of the all-pure Directress.** Directress refers to the Mother of God as Hodēgḗtria (She who shows the way).
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-01 22:00:25 CEST

## [Martyr Potitus at Naples - 01 July](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/07/01/101861-martyr-potitus-at-naples)
🎶troparion🎶
Your holy martyr Potitus, O Lord,
through his sufferings has received an incorruptible crown from You, our God.
For having Your strength, he laid low his adversaries,
and shattered the powerless boldness of demons.
Through his intercessions, save our souls!
🎶kontakion🎶
(Podoben: “You sought the heights...”)You appeared as a bright star announcing Christ with your radiance,
which is repulsive to this world, O Martyr Potitus;
extinguishing the allure of false gods,
you enlighten the faithful,
always interceding for us all.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-07-01 15:00:24 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Wednesday, 01 July 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/01)
## [Epistle reading for the 5th Wednesday after Pentecost (Romans 15:7-16)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/01/1)
> Therefore receive one another, just as Christ also received us, to the glory of God. Now I say that Jesus Christ has become a servant to the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made to the fathers, and that the Gentiles might glorify God for His mercy, as it is written: “For this reason I will confess to You among the Gentiles, and sing to Your name.” And again he says: “Rejoice, O Gentiles, with His people!” And again: “Praise the LORD, all you Gentiles! Laud Him, all you peoples!” And again, Isaiah says: “There shall be a root of Jesse; and He who shall rise to reign over the Gentiles, in Him the Gentiles shall hope.” Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Now I myself am confident concerning you, my brethren, that you also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another. Nevertheless, brethren, I have written more boldly to you on some points, as reminding you, because of the grace given to me by God, that I might be a minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering of the Gentiles might be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.
## [Gospel reading for the 5th Wednesday after Pentecost (Matthew 12:38-45)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/07/01/2)
> Then some of the scribes and Pharisees answered, saying, “Teacher, we want to see a sign from You.” But He answered and said to them, “An evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign will be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. The men of Nineveh will rise up in the judgment with this generation and condemn it, because they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and indeed a greater than Jonah is here. The queen of the South will rise up in the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and indeed a greater than Solomon is here. When an unclean spirit goes out of a man, he goes through dry places, seeking rest, and finds none. Then he says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ And when he comes, he finds it empty, swept, and put in order. Then he goes and takes with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first. So shall it also be with this wicked generation.”
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Bible #Scripture #Orthodox #Orthostr #Biblestr

2026-06-30 22:00:22 CEST

## [Holy Queen Dinar - 30 June](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/06/30/205474-holy-queen-dinar)
![Holy Queen Dinar](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/june/0630dinar-queen0001.jpg)
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2026-06-30 15:00:26 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Tuesday, 30 June 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/30)
## [Vespers reading for the 5th Tuesday after Pentecost (Isaiah 43:9-14)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/30/1)
> Let all the nations be gathered together, and let the people be assembled. Who among them can declare this, and show us former things? Let them bring out their witnesses, that they may be justified; or let them hear and say, “It is truth.” “You are My witnesses,” says the Lord, “And My servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe Me, and understand that I am He. Before Me there was no God formed, nor shall there be after Me. I, even I, am the Lord, and besides Me there is no savior. I have declared and saved, I have proclaimed, and there was no foreign god among you; therefore you are My witnesses,” says the Lord, “that I am God. Indeed before the day was, I am He; and there is no one who can deliver out of My hand; I work, and who will reverse it?” Thus says the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: “For your sake I will send to Babylon, and bring them all down as fugitives – the Chaldeans, who rejoice in their ships.
## [Vespers reading for the 5th Tuesday after Pentecost (Wisdom of Solomon 3:1-9)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/30/2)
> But the souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment will ever touch them. In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died, and their departure was thought to be affliction, and their going from us to be their destruction; but they are at peace. For though in the sight of men they were punished, their hope is full of immortality. Having been disciplined a little, they will receive great good, because God tested them and found them worthy of himself; like gold in the furnace he tried them, and like a sacrificial burnt offering he accepted them. In the time of their visitation they will shine forth, and will run like sparks through the stubble. They will govern nations and rule over peoples, and the Lord will reign over them for ever. Those who trust in him will understand truth, and the faithful will abide with him in love, because grace and mercy are upon his elect, and he watches over his holy ones.
## [Vespers reading for the 5th Tuesday after Pentecost (Wisdom of Solomon 5:15-6:3)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/30/3)
> But the righteous live for ever, and their reward is with the Lord; the Most High takes care of them. Therefore they will receive a glorious crown and a beautiful diadem from the hand of the Lord, because with his right hand he will cover them, and with his arm he will shield them. The Lord will take his zeal as his whole armor, and will arm all creation to repel his enemies; he will put on righteousness as a breastplate, and wear impartial justice as a helmet; he will take holiness as a invincible shield, and sharpen stern wrath for a sword, and creation will join with him to fight against the madmen. Shafts of lightning will fly with true aim, and will leap to the target as from a well-drawn bow of clouds, and hailstones full of wrath will be hurled as from a catapult; the water of the sea will rage against them, and rivers will relentlessly overwhelm them; a mighty wind will rise against them, and like a tempest it will winnow them away. Lawlessness will lay waste the whole earth, and evil-doing will overturn the thrones of rulers. Listen therefore, O kings, and understand; learn, O judges of the ends of the earth. Give ear, you that rule over multitudes, and boast of many nations. For your dominion was given you from the Lord, and your sovereignty from the Most High, who will search out your works and inquire into your plans.
## [Epistle reading for the Synaxis of the Holy, Glorious and All-praised Twelve Apostles: Peter, Andrew, James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James, the son of Alphaeus, Jude, the brother of James, Simon the Zealot, and Matthias (1 Corinthians 4:9-16)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/30/4)
> For I think that God has displayed us, the apostles, last, as men condemned to death; for we have been made a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men. We are fools for Christ’s sake, but you are wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are distinguished, but we are dishonored! To the present hour we both hunger and thirst, and we are poorly clothed, and beaten, and homeless. And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the offscouring of all things until now. I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. Therefore I urge you, imitate me.
## [Gospel reading for the Synaxis of the Holy, Glorious and All-praised Twelve Apostles: Peter, Andrew, James and John, the sons of Zebedee, Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas, Matthew, James, the son of Alphaeus, Jude, the brother of James, Simon the Zealot, and Matthias (Mark 3:13-19)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/30/5)
> And He went up on the mountain and called to Him those He Himself wanted. And they came to Him. Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach, and to have power to heal sicknesses and to cast out demons: Simon, to whom He gave the name Peter; James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James, to whom He gave the name Boanerges, that is, “Sons of Thunder”; Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Cananite; and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed Him. And they went into a house.
## [Epistle reading for the 5th Tuesday after Pentecost (Romans 14:9-18)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/30/6)
> For to this end Christ died and rose and lived again, that He might be Lord of both the dead and the living. But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you show contempt for your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written: “As I live, says the LORD, every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall confess to God.” So then each of us shall give account of himself to God. Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way. I know and am convinced by the Lord Jesus that there is nothing unclean of itself; but to him who considers anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean. Yet if your brother is grieved because of your food, you are no longer walking in love. Do not destroy with your food the one for whom Christ died. Therefore do not let your good be spoken of as evil; for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. For he who serves Christ in these things is acceptable to God and approved by men.
## [Gospel reading for the 5th Tuesday after Pentecost (Matthew 12:14-16, 22-30)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/30/7)
> Then the Pharisees went out and plotted against Him, how they might destroy Him. But when Jesus knew it, He withdrew from there. And great multitudes followed Him, and He healed them all. Yet He warned them not to make Him known, Then one was brought to Him who was demon-possessed, blind and mute; and He healed him, so that the blind and mute man both spoke and saw. And all the multitudes were amazed and said, “Could this be the Son of David?” Now when the Pharisees heard it they said, “This fellow does not cast out demons except by Beelzebub, the ruler of the demons.” But Jesus knew their thoughts, and said to them: “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand. If Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then will his kingdom stand? And if I cast out demons by Beelzebub, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they shall be your judges. But if I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, surely the kingdom of God has come upon you. Or how can one enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man? And then he will plunder his house. He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad.
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2026-06-30 12:00:23 CEST

## [Synaxis of the Holy, Glorious and All-Praised Twelve Apostles - 30 June](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/06/30/101711-synaxis-of-the-holy-glorious-and-all-praised-twelve-apostles)
![Synaxis of the Holy, Glorious and All-Praised Twelve Apostles](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/june/0630.12apostles2.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
First-enthroned of the apostles,
teachers of the universe:
Entreat the Master of all
to grant peace to the world,
and to our souls great mercy!** Note: The troparion for June 30 is the same as June 29.
🎶kontakion🎶
(Podoben: “Seeking the highest...”)Today Christ the Rock glorifies with highest honor
Peter, the rock of faith and leader of the apostles,
together with Paul and the company of the twelve,
whose memory we celebrate with eagerness of faith,
giving glory to the One Who gave glory to them.
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2026-06-29 22:00:23 CEST

## [The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leader of the Apostles, Peter - 29 June](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/06/29/101841-the-holy-glorious-and-all-praised-leader-of-the-apostles-peter)
![The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leader of the Apostles, Peter](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/june/0629peter05.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
O foremost of the Apostles and teachers of the inhabited earth,
intercede with the Master of all
to grant peace to the world and great mercy to our souls.
🎶kontakion🎶
(The original melody)You received the steadfast and divinely-inspired Heralds, O Lord, the Foremost Apostles,
for the enjoyment of Your blessings and repose.
For You recognized their labors and death as greater than any burnt offering,
for You alone know what is in the hearts of men.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-06-29 15:00:26 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Monday, 29 June 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/29)
## [Vespers reading for the 5th Monday after Pentecost (1 Peter 1:3-9)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/29/1)
> Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ, whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believing, you rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, receiving the end of your faith – the salvation of your souls.
## [Vespers reading for the 5th Monday after Pentecost (1 Peter 1:13-19)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/29/2)
> Therefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and rest your hope fully upon the grace that is to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts, as in your ignorance; but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, “Be holy, for I am holy.” And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear; knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.
## [Vespers reading for the 5th Monday after Pentecost (1 Peter 2:11-24)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/29/3)
> Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation. Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake, whether to the king as supreme, or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men – as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God. Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king. Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh. For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully. For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps: “Who committed no sin, nor was deceit found in His mouth”; who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously; who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness – by whose stripes you were healed.
## [Epistle reading for the Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leaders of the Apostles, Peter and Paul (2 Corinthians 11:21-12:9)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/29/5)
> To our shame I say that we were too weak for that! But in whatever anyone is bold – I speak foolishly – I am bold also. Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? So am I. Are they ministers of Christ? – I speak as a fool – I am more: in labors more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequently, in deaths often. From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep; in journeys often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils of my own countrymen, in perils of the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; in weariness and toil, in sleeplessness often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness – besides the other things, what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches. Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is made to stumble, and I do not burn with indignation? If I must boast, I will boast in the things which concern my infirmity. The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed forever, knows that I am not lying. In Damascus the governor, under Aretas the king, was guarding the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desiring to arrest me; but I was let down in a basket through a window in the wall, and escaped from his hands. It is doubtless not profitable for me to boast. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord: I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago – whether in the body I do not know, or whether out of the body I do not know, God knows – such a one was caught up to the third heaven. And I know such a man – whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows – how he was caught up into Paradise and heard inexpressible words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. Of such a one I will boast; yet of myself I will not boast, except in my infirmities. For though I might desire to boast, I will not be a fool; for I will speak the truth. But I refrain, lest anyone should think of me above what he sees me to be or hears from me. And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
## [Gospel reading for the Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leaders of the Apostles, Peter and Paul (Matthew 16:13-19)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/29/6)
> When Jesus came into the region of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, saying, “Who do men say that I, the Son of Man, am?” So they said, “Some say John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah, for flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but My Father who is in heaven. And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”
## [Epistle reading for the 5th Monday after Pentecost (Romans 12:4-5, 15-21)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/29/7)
> For as we have many members in one body, but all the members do not have the same function, so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion. Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. Therefore “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
## [Gospel reading for the 5th Monday after Pentecost (Matthew 12:9-13)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/29/8)
> Now when He had departed from there, He went into their synagogue. And behold, there was a man who had a withered hand. And they asked Him, saying, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?” – that they might accuse Him. Then He said to them, “What man is there among you who has one sheep, and if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not lay hold of it and lift it out? Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep? Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath.” Then He said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And he stretched it out, and it was restored as whole as the other.
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2026-06-29 12:00:23 CEST

## [The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leaders of the Apostles, Peter and Paul - 29 June](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/06/29/101840-the-holy-glorious-and-all-praised-leaders-of-the-apostles-peter)
![The Holy Glorious and All-Praised Leaders of the Apostles, Peter and Paul](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/june/0629peter-paul.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
O foremost of the Apostles and teachers of the inhabited earth,
intercede with the Master of all
to grant peace to the world and great mercy to our souls.
🎶kontakion🎶
(The original melody)You received the steadfast and divinely-inspired Heralds, O Lord, the Foremost Apostles,
for the enjoyment of Your blessings and repose.
For You recognized their labors and death as greater than any burnt offering,
for You alone know what is in the hearts of men.
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-06-28 22:00:22 CEST

## [Saint Paul, Physician of Corinth - 28 June](https://www.oca.org/saints/lives/2026/06/28/101838-saint-paul-physician-of-corinth)
![Saint Paul, Physician of Corinth](https://images.oca.org/icons/lg/june/0628paul-corinthian.jpg)
🎶troparion🎶
By a flood of tears you made the desert fertile,
and your longing for God brought forth fruits in abundance.
By the radiance of miracles you illumined the whole universe!
O our holy father Paul, pray to Christ our God to save our souls!
#Christian #OrthodoxChristian #Orthodox #Orthostr #Saint

2026-06-28 15:00:24 CEST

# [Scripture Readings for Sunday, 28 June 2026 (OCA)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/28)
## [Matins Gospel reading (Luke 24:1-12)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/28/1)
> Now on the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they, and certain other women with them, came to the tomb bringing the spices which they had prepared. But they found the stone rolled away from the tomb. Then they went in and did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. And it happened, as they were greatly perplexed about this, that behold, two men stood by them in shining garments. Then, as they were afraid and bowed their faces to the earth, they said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, saying, ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.’” And they remembered His words. Then they returned from the tomb and told all these things to the eleven and to all the rest. It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them, who told these things to the apostles. And their words seemed to them like idle tales, and they did not believe them. But Peter arose and ran to the tomb; and stooping down, he saw the linen cloths lying by themselves; and he departed, marveling to himself at what had happened.
## [Epistle reading for the 4th Sunday after Pentecost (Romans 6:18-23)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/28/2)
> And having been set free from sin, you became slaves of righteousness. I speak in human terms because of the weakness of your flesh. For just as you presented your members as slaves of uncleanness, and of lawlessness leading to more lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves of righteousness for holiness. For when you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness. What fruit did you have then in the things of which you are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death. But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
## [Gospel reading for the 4th Sunday after Pentecost (Matthew 8:5-13)](oca.org/readings/daily/2026/06/28/3)
> Now when Jesus had entered Capernaum, a centurion came to Him, pleading with Him, saying, “Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, dreadfully tormented.” And Jesus said to him, “I will come and heal him.” The centurion answered and said, “Lord, I am not worthy that You should come under my roof. But only speak a word, and my servant will be healed. For I also am a man under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to this one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” When Jesus heard it, He marveled, and said to those who followed, “Assuredly, I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel! And I say to you that many will come from east and west, and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven. But the sons of the kingdom will be cast out into outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Then Jesus said to the centurion, “Go your way; and as you have believed, so let it be done for you.” And his servant was healed that same hour.
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