Events

The commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Philoxenus of Mabbug +523 according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Also known as Mor Akhsnoyo, Xenaya was born in Tahal, Persia. He studied in Edessa followed by Tel'ada Antioch, later joining the Qartmin Monastery (aka Dayro d-Mor Gabriel) & entering priesthood. St. Philoxenus was consecrated bishop of Mabbug (Hierapolis) by HH Patriarch Peter II (Peter the Fuller). This was during a time of great turbulence in Christianity, hardly 30 years had passed since the infamous Council of Chalcedon. Philoxenus was a vehement champion of the Orthodox Miaphysite theology.

In AD512 St. Severius the Great Patriarch of Antioch replaced the Chalcedonian Flavius II. Mor Philoxenus became his trusted spokesperson. He was a renowned scholar, among the most learned theologians. He wrote several letters on ascetic life, the perfect Christian life, the Holy Trinity & the incarnation, in addition to three texts of Holy Qurbono, & prayers for different hours. Mor Philoxenus also commissioned Cor-Episcopo Polycarp to produce what is known as the 'Philoxenian Bible' in Syriac which was used in the Miaphysite churches till about the 7th century when it was superceded by the Syriac Peshito (which already existed in the complete form since the 5th century).

Regarding the incarnation, Mor Philoxenus wrote espousing the Miaphysite theology: “The very personality of God the word descended from heaven & became man in the womb of the Virgin, personally without conversion. Thus, He became a man who could be seen, felt, handled, & yet as God He continued to possess the spiritual, invisible, & impalpable character essential to Deity. Neither the deity nor the humanity was absorbed one by the other, nor converted one into the other. Nor again by a combination of the two natures was a third evolved as by chemical transformation”

Sadly, following the death of the faithful Orthodox Emperor Anastasius, Justin I became ruler. He adhered to the Chalcedonian faith, & began a great wave of persecution on the Orthodox Miaphysites. Justin I exiled both St. Severius & St. Philoxenus. While in exile Mor Akhsnoyo was murdered by suffocation of smoke. Thus on December 10th 523AD, he attained the crown of martyrdom. Mor Philoxenus of Mabbug is commemorated every Sunday in the Thubden d-Qadishe (5th Thubden/Dypthic) of the Syriac Orthodox Church Holy Qurbono.

Biography courtesy of, 'Martyrs, Saints and Prelates of the Syriac Orthodox Church'

Oh Mor Akhsnoyo! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

Priesthood according to Mor Philoxenus of Mabbug by Abouna Fr. Roger Akhrass: https://tinyurl.com/bp6rspw6

Lust in the Belly: https://tinyurl.com/yw5ej3xj 
Lecture Series - The Discourses of Mor Philoxenos of Mabbug (courtesy Urho the Way): https://bit.ly/3nihKHv

On MASOCNA calendar

"Mar Qardagh of the genso/gensā (nation) of Sennacherib, who was crowned on a Friday."

Qardāgh was born to a noble family in the Sassanid Empire during the 4th century and descended from the "great race and lineage of the kingdom of the Assyrians". When Qardāgh was 25 years old, Shapur II visited his parents’ estate and was impressed with Qardāgh's handsome appearance and athleticism. Qardāgh was appointed as a governor for a large region in northern Persia, there he met Abdisho (ܥܒܕܝܫܘܥ) and converted to Christianity.

Upon returning home Qardāgh was rejected by his family and under pressure from the religious elite, Shapur sentenced him to be stoned. Qardāgh fled with a small army to the mountains where he was able to repel the Persians for months. One night Saint Stephen appeared to him and told him that it was better to give his life for his faith than to continue fighting. He surrendered to the king and it was his own father who threw the first stone.

He was buried in Arbil, Adiabene where a church holding his relics was later constructed.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mar_Qardagh

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April 1st is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St Mary of Egypt (+422) according to the liturgical calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

St Mary of Egypt is one of the most famous female Christian saints and is also a role model for repentance in the Lord.

Biography of the saint courtesy of "Martyrs, Saints & Prelates of the Syriac Orthodox Church"

St. Mary was an Egyptian, who left home at the age of twelve & went to live in Alexandria, where she lived the life of a prostitute for seventeen years.

There lived in Palestine a holy monk & priest named Zosimus. He was serving God for 53 years & was directed to leave the monastery for one near Jordan, where he might learn how to advance further on the path of holiness. One day Zosimus after travelling a twenty-day’s distance from monastery sat down at noon to say Psalms & to rest. Suddenly he noticed a person running away who seemed to be a hermit. Zosimus ran after him to receive his blessing but the person exclaimed: “Father Zosimus, I am a woman; throw your mantle to cover me that you may come near me.”

She confessed that she lived the life of a prostitute for seventeen years, not for money, but to gratify her lust. At the age of about twenty-eight,she joined (out of curiosity) a group of pilgrims going to Jerusalem to celebrate the feast of the Holy Cross. While travelling with the pilgrims, she continued with her evil ways.Upon their arrival in Jerusalem she tried to enter the church but an invisible force held her back. After two or three
ineffectual attempts, she withdrew to a corner of the outer court. Suddenly a full realization of her sinfulness swept over her. She raised her eyes to the icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God, with tears. Thereafter, she was able to enter the church to venerate the cross. Then, she returned to the icon of St. Mary to give thanks. There she heard a voice which said, “Go over to Jordan & you shall find rest.”

She crossed River Jordan into the wilderness & remained there for 47 years. She had seen no human being & had lived on edible plants and on dates. She was notable to read & God himself had taught her the mysteries of faith. Mary requested Zosimus not to divulge what she had said. Zosimus promised to meet her again in Jordan on the Maundy Thursday of the following year to give her Holy Communion. The next year on the Maundy Thursday, Mary received communion from Zosimus.But when Zosimus went to meet her the year after that, Mary was found dead. Zosimus buried the body of St. Mary.

May the prayers of St. Mary of Egypt be with all those who are struggling with sin and carnal desires. May her intercession lead us close to God so that we may live in repentance amen.

The Syriac Life of St. Mary of Egypt: https://bit.ly/LifeMaryEgypt 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahalalel

In Judaeo-Christian mythology Mahalalel is an ancestor of Noah

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On MASOCNA calendar

On MASOCNA calendar

April 2nd is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Joachim according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Yuyakim is the father of St. Mary the mother of God. He is a descendant of King David. He was very pious & god fearing. Apocryphal texts & Church tradition tells us that Mort Hannah (who's name means blessed in Hebrew) was barren & even to her old age could not have a child. They prayed & fasted continuously for a child, making a vow that their child will be offered unto God. An angel appeared before Hannah & said, “God has seen your tears. The fruit of your womb will be called ‘the blessed’ throughout the world.”Joachim also received a similar command. God blessed them with a child, whom they named Mariam.

As St. Mary was born to her parents in their old age, at the age of 3 she was offered to the temple as fulfillment of their vow. This event was once a Feast in the Syriac Orthodox Church Liturgical Calendar being celebrated every year on November 21st. After offering Mariam to the temple Joachim died & he was entombed in Jerusalem. Soon Hannah also died & was entombed along with her husband. The prayer from the book of daily offices (Sh'himo) on Friday morning reads, ”Mary became an orphan, for her parents passed away. She was left for the priests to take care of her. They took her to Jerusalem according to the command of Moses to be brought up there."

St. Queen Helena built a Church over their tomb, which was later taken over & made into a madrassa (Islamic school) in the 9th century.

Biography adapted from, 'Martyrs, Saints and Prelates of the Syriac Orthodox Church'

Oh Mor Yuyakim! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

Vat. LXIX

"according to (the reckoning of) the Greeks, – at Thessalonike, the martyrs Chionē and Agape"

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Martyrs. Possibly siblings.

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

April 3rd is the commemoration of the dukhrono of the great Prophet Elijah +895BC according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Eliyo Nbiyo of great fame was from Thisbe or Thesbe, a town of Galaad (Gilead), beyond the Jordan. He was of priestly lineage, a man of a solitary & ascetical character, clothed in a mantle of sheep skin, & girded about his loins with a leathern belt. His name is interpreted as "Yah is my God." His zeal for the glory of God was compared to fire, & his speech for teaching & rebuke was likened unto a burning lamp. From this too he received the name Zealot. Therefore, set aflame with such zeal, he sternly reproved the impiety and lawlessness.

A great, solemn, and important part of the Holy Qurbono (Divine Liturgy) is the Epiclesis i.e. the 'Invocation of the Holy Spirit' before the consecration of the blessed hosts. During the time of Epiclesis, we hear the celebrant cry aloud three times:

"Answer me O Lord"/"Anin Moriyo"
followed by:
"O Good One, have compassion and mercy upon me"/"ḥus ṭo-bo weth-ra-ḥa-ma‛-lay"

This is so that the Holy Spirit be pleased to transform the offering to the very Holy Body and Blood of the Lord! Herein we are called to remember the way Prophet Elijah cried out while making the sacrifice to God against the baal worshipers (1 Kings 18: 36-39)

Prophet Elijah was suddenly snatched away by a fiery chariot in the year 895 BC, and he ascended as though into heaven, God most certainly translated him alive, as He did Enoch (Gen. 5:24; IV Kings 2: 11). We again read about Elijah in the Gospels as he appears to Jesus during the Transfiguration (St. Matthew 17:3; St. Mark 9:4; St. Luke 9:30)

Oh Mor Eliyo Nbiyo! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

Invocation of the Holy Spirit (Epiclesis) by HG Mor Osthatheos Issac: https://youtu.be/nWRTmNEgSNw

Huthomo: https://youtu.be/RLGjAveW7A0

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"in the city of Tomis, Chrēstos and Pappos"

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Abba Zosimus the ascetic who met St. Mary of Egypt and administered Holy Eucharist for her.

Vat. LXIX

Martyrs

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

The Holy Martyrs Elpidephorus, Dius, Bithonius, and Galycus suffered for their faith in Jesus Christ. They cut off the head of Saint Elpidephorus with a sword, Saint Dius was executed by stoning, Saint Bithonius was drowned in the sea, and Saint Galycus was condemned to be eaten by wild beasts.

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"the martyrs Theodoulos and Agathopous"

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April 5th is the commemoration of the martyrdom of Rev. Fr. Yousif Adel Aboudy +2008

Fr. Yousif attained the crown of martyrdom on Saturday April 5th 2008 for remaining steadfast in the true Christian faith & continuing to perform his priestly duty.

Fr. Yousif was gunned down & killed in a drive-by shooting in what was considered one of Baghdad’s safest neighbourhoods, Karrada. This barbaric attack took place outside of his house near the St. Peter and Paul Syriac Orthodox church where he presides. He was shot down with a silencer, & collapsed in front of his home.

+Memory Eternal+

"Valukalalum theeyalum - Pedakal njangal sahichalum. A-ssuasam parudeesaya - Lennallo sahader chollunnu"

"Though we suffer fire and sword
Tortures that we en-dure
Repose in the pa-ra-dise
Thus the Ho-ly marty-rs sing"

On MASOCNA calendar

Known as "Moses of Mesopotamia", Mor Ya`qub was the bishop of Nisibin from 308/9 A.D. till his death in AD 338. Mor Ya`qub has always been a prominent figure in the Syriac-speaking Church tradition. He acquired a reputation for great learning, ability and holiness. Little is known about his life; however, we know that he took a leading role in opposing the Arian heresy at the Council of Nicaea (325). He is honored as a malphono (i.e., theological doctor) by both the Syriac and Armenian Churches. Mor Ya`qub of Nisibin undertook the construction of a church building in Nisibin between 313 and 320. His relics were saved from the a Persian invasion and were send to Constantinople for safety around the year 970.

http://www.soc-wus.org/ourchurch/St.%20James%20of%20nisibis.htm

"at Alexandria, Klaudianos and Didymos"

Probably St. Claudianus at Nicomedia and St. Didymus the presbyter at Alexandria.

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Sedro of Good Friday: On Friday, the sixth of the month of Nisan, You did create Adam the first man to be the king of these things on earth. You placed him in Paradise that he might rejoice with glory and to have affinity with the angels. On Friday morning, You made him heir in Eden and gave him authority over all things on earth. But at the third hour, foolishly he approached the desirable fruit and ate (it) hastily and become naked.

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Vat. LXIX

"and at Nicomedia, Kyriakos"

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"in the city of Sirmium, the bishop Irenaeus"

April 6th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Irenaeus of Sirmium +304 according to the liturgical calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Irenaeus was a bishop of Sirmium (the capital of Pannonia, an ancient province of Roman Empire, Northern Siberia, now Serbia) who was a martyr at Sirmium under the governor Probus in the Diocletian persecution. When called on by Probus to sacrifice to pagan gods he answered: “Whoever sacrifices to the gods will be cast into hell. My duty is to undergo torture rather than deny my God & sacrifice to demons.” Later, he was tortured & imprisoned.

In the final trial he again refused to sacrifice to gods & said: “If anyone renounces me before men, him will I renounce before my father who is in Heaven.” The final words of Irenaeus were: “Lord Jesus Christ, You consented to suffer for the salvation of the world, let Your heaven open that Your angels may take up the soul of Your servant Irenaeus, who suffers all this for Your name & for the people of the church of Sirmium. I ask & implore your mercy to receive me & strengthen them in your faith” Then he was sentenced to be beheaded & thrown in the river Siva.

Biography Courtesy: "Martyrs, Saints, and Prelates of the Syriac Orthodox Church"

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April 6th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Cosmas and St. Damian +306 according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Qozma & Mor Dumyana were twin brothers. They were born in Arabia & they studied the sciences in Syria & became eminent in their skills in medicine. They treated patients without taking any fee, instead asking those who were healed to believe in Christ Jesus.

They were imprisoned by the order of Lysias, governor of Cilicia. The brothers were persecuted for their faith in Christ. It is recorded that while they were hanging on crosses, the mob stoned them, but the stones flew backwards & hit the tormentors; similarly, the arrows of archers who were brought up to shoot at them turned in the air & scattered the bowmen. After various torments, they were beheaded for the faith. Thus Mor Cosmas & Mor Damian attained the crown of martyrdom. Three others, Anthimus, Leontius & Euprepius are also said to have been martyred with them.

Many miracles of healing were ascribed to them after their death. St. Cosmas & St. Damian are the patron saints of doctors.

Biography courtesy of, 'Martyrs, Saints and Prelates of the Syriac Orthodox Church'

Oh Mor Qozma & Mor Dumyana! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

The Holy 120 Martyrs suffered under the Persian emperor Sapor. They were taken into captivity during the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Constantios (337-361). They were consigned to the flames after firmly confessing their faith (c.344-347). Saint Shandulios (November 3) concealed their relics from desecration by the pagans. Among the holy martyrs were ten virgins, who had dedicated themselves to the service of God.

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April 7th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Aphrahat the Ascetic +346 according to the liturgical calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Aphrahat, was born into a pagan family but he accepted Christianity & later became a monk. Mor Aphrahat who was otherwise known as ‘the Sage of Persia’ later shifted to Edessa, famous for its strong Christian heritage. He spoke publicly against the heresies of Arius. He replied in similes to those who engaged him in arguments.

All historians comment on the twenty three Expositions (Demonstrations) and speeches of Aphrahat. They deal with faith, prayers of repentance, fasting, the divinity of Christ & the resurrection. He gives a lot of importance to monastic life & celibacy. The above mentioned homilies refer to all the sacraments. In all his teachings he stressed the fact that Jesus was the son of God and Peter was the chief priest designated to lead the sheep of the Church established by Jesus.

Biography courtesy of 'Martyrs, Saints and Prelates of the Syriac Orthodox Church'

Oh Mor Aphrahat, pray for us all especially persecuted Christians in Mesopotamia amen.

Coptic Synaxarium Baramouda 11

Vat. LXIX

"at Alexandria, the presbyter Peleusios"

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The Martyrs Adrian and Natalia were married in their youth for one year prior to their martyrdom, and lived in Nicomedia during the time of the emperor Maximian (305-311).

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April 8th is the anniversary of the demise of Mor Dionysius I (Mar Thoma VI) +1808.​

Mor Dionysius I was the Malankara Metropolitan until his demise, he was known as Dionysius the Great. He gave the Syriac Bible to Dr. Claudius Buchanan, which is now kept at Cambridge University, England.

​On 29th of May 1770, Mor Thoma VI was re-consecrated by the patriarchal delegates, Mor Gregorios Yuhannon & Mor Ivanios Yuhannon, with the title Dionysius & was invested with the cross & the crozier sent from Antioch for his predecessor. Thenceforth, the government of the Malankara Church was vested in Mor Dionysius I & Mor Ivanios Yuhannon (Patriarchal Delegate) conjointly, & Mor Gregorios Yuhannon retired to the church at Mattancheri built by Mor Baselios Shakralla Maphriyano.​

Mor Dionysius I departed to the heavenly abode on April 8th 1808. His mortal remains were interred in Puthencavu Syrian Church.

Biography courtesy of Syriac Christianity website

Oh Mor Dionysius I! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

http://www.syriacchristianity.info/bio/MorDionysiusI.htm

According to Acts 11:27-28, he was one of a group of prophets who travelled from Jerusalem to Antioch. Also, according to Acts 21:10-12, 'a certain prophet' named Agabus met Paul the Apostle.

Among the Seventy Two (72) Disciples

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"at Antioch, Maximos and Timotheos"

Possibly St. Maxima (female)

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The forty thousand two hundred and three martyrs

Vat. LXIX

April 9th is the anniversary of the demise of HG Mor Yulios Kuriakose +2011. Mor Yulios was the Metropolitan of the Simhasana-Patriarchal churches & institutions in India.

Kuirakose, the youngest son of Varkey, Kochupurackal, Veliyanad and Elyamma was born on 6 July 1933. Kuriakose belonged to St. Stephen’s Knanaya Church, Veliyanad. He joined Manjinikkara dayaro as a student at the age of twenty-two. The delegate of the Holy see of Antioch, Mor Yulios Elias Qoro ordained him a Deacon in February 1955. His theological studies were completed under the tutelage of Very Rev. Raban Yac'ub (late Mor Julius Yac'ub Madappatt) & Rev. Mousa Salama Ramban.

He assisted Mor Yulios Elias in various capacities after his ordination as a deacon & a Qashisho. After his ordination in 1958, he served as a vicar in Thumpamon and Perumpilly churches & in a church of St. Antony’s association, Mangalore.

Rev. Fr. Kuriakose was appointed as the first Secretary to the Patriarch Mor Ignatius Zakka Iwas from 1984 to 2004. During this period, he visited many foreign lands along with the Patriarch. He was consecrated a raban by the Patriarch at St. George Cathedral, Damascus on 22 December 1990. His consecration as a Metropolitan under the name Mor Yulios was done at St. Peter’s & St. Paul’s Cathedral, Ma'arat Saidnaya, Damascus on 27 September 1998.

His skill in the use of Syriac language enabled him to translate many Syriac books to Malayalam. He learnt the practice of Syrian rites of worship directly from Mor Yulios Elias & it inspired many to follow the Syriac tradition without blemish.

Mor Yulios Kuriakose led a life of rest during the final stages of his life in Gethsemane dayaro, Piramadam. He arrived at Manjanikkara dayaro on 8 April 2011 & participated in the Holy Qurbono & noon prayers on Saturday, 9 April. As he was resting in the afternoon, he suffered a heart attack & departed for the heavenly abode by 4 p.m. His mortal remains were entombed on the western side of the tomb of his mentor & teacher, Mor Yulios Elias at Manjanikkara Dayro cathedral on 11 April 2011.

Biography Courtesy, "Martyrs, Saints, and Prelates of the Syriac Orthodox Church"

Oh Mor Yulios Kuriakose! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

http://www.syriacchristianity.info/bio/MalankaraPrelates/bio_JulKuriakose.htm

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

"at Sirmium, Demetrios"

St. Demetrios the deacon of Sirmium

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In hagiography: Barhadbeshabba of Qartmin was a monk and disciple of Samuel of Qartmin.

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Martyrs Sts. Africanus, Maximus, Terence, Pompeius, Theodore and those with them, beheaded at Carthage

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

Known as "Moses of Mesopotamia", Mor Ya`qub was the bishop of Nisibin from 308/9 A.D. till his death in AD 338. Mor Ya`qub has always been a prominent figure in the Syriac-speaking Church tradition. He acquired a reputation for great learning, ability and holiness. Little is known about his life; however, we know that he took a leading role in opposing the Arian heresy at the Council of Nicaea (325). He is honored as a malphono (i.e., theological doctor) by both the Syriac and Armenian Churches. Mor Ya`qub of Nisibin undertook the construction of a church building in Nisibin between 313 and 320. His relics were saved from the a Persian invasion and were send to Constantinople for safety around the year 970.

http://www.soc-wus.org/ourchurch/St.%20James%20of%20nisibis.htm

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"at Alexandria, Apollōnios"

Probably St. Apollonius the presbyter.

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Vat. LXIX

"at Salona, the bishop Domnion"

St. Domnius, bishop and martyr of Salona (Dalmatia)

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Probably Silvanus the monk

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silvanus_(monk)

https://st-takla.org/Full-Free-Coptic-Books/Coptic-Synaxarium-or-Synaxarion_English/08-Bermodah/Coptic-Calendar_01-Baramouda.html#1.

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H.E. Mor Clemis Eugene Kaplan, Patriarchal Vicar of the Syriac Orthodox Archdiocese of the Western United States was consecrated on April 12th 1991 by the thrice blessed late Patriarch HH Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas of blessed memory.

http://www.soc-wus.org/westernarchdiocese/hearch.htm

Disciple of St. John

“And to the angel of the Church of Pergamum write: the words of him who has the sharp two-edged sword. I know where you live, where the throne of Satan is, and you cleave unto My Name, and have not renounced My faith, even in those days when Antipas was My faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwells” (Rev 2:12-13).

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Also known as St. Crescus

Translation of life by Dr. Sebastian Brock: http://bit.ly/crescus

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https://urhotheway.com/2020/07/07/st-julius-of-rome/

April 13th is the anniversary of the demise Mar Thoma II +1686.

Mar Thoma II was the second native-born Metropolitan of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Church after the Koonan Kurishu Sathyam of 1653. He was consecrated in 1670 by his predecessor Mar Thoma I & by St. Gregorios Abdul Jaleel the honorary Patriarch of Jerusalem, & the Patriarchal representative of the Holy Apostolic See of Antioch to Malankara.

It was Mar Thoma II who requested the Patriarch of Antioch and all the East Mor Ignatius Abdul Messih I to help strengthen the faith of the Syriac Orthodox faithful in India during a period of great turbulence. Upon receiving this request, St. Baselios Yeldho Maphriyano was sent to Malankara.

Not much is known about the life of Mar Thoma II. After serving the Holy Church for 16 years, Mar Thoma II departed for the heavenly abode on April 13th 1686. His mortal remains were interred in St. Mary's Valiyapally Niranam.

Biography courtesy of Syriac Christianity website. Illustration of Mar Thoma only for artistic purposes.

Oh Mar Thoma II! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

http://www.syriacchristianity.info/bio/MorThomaII.htm

"in the city of Pergamos, from the ancient martyrs, the bishop Kyrillos, and Agathonike, and Paulos"

May be more correctly Sts. Karpos, Papylos and Agathonike, of Pergamon?

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In hagiography: Guhishtazad was a eunuch martyr at Karka d-Ledan in Persia. He was an old man who worked under Shapur II. He was head of the eunuchs and became a Christian, but he lapsed into Zoroastrianism. But the example of Simeon bar Ṣabbaʿe (Shimun bar sabbae) inspired Guhishtazad to become Christian again, and he died a martyr.

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April 13th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Romanus of Antioch & St. Barulas +303 according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Romanus a native of Palestine, was a deacon of the Church of Caesarea. He lived during the reign of fierce Christian persecutors Diocletian & Galerius. When the persecution became unbearable, Romanus was forced to flee to Antioch. There, he continued his preaching & became an example for the Christian faithful there.

The governor of Antioch, Asclypiades had plans to destroy the church buildings by razing them to the ground. Romanus encouraged his brethren to stand firm & protect the sanctuary; for if they succeeded they'd rejoice on earth, & if they were martyred they'd rejoice in heaven. It was time for the pagan festival of Terminalia, & countless pagans gathered in Antioch. Romanus boldly denounced idol worship, proclaiming to all that only Jesus Christ was the one God. The governor had him arrested & brutally tortured, but he remained steadfast. In the crowd was a child named Barulas, Romanus looked at the child & then told the governor that the child is wiser than him as he worships the true God, not idols of stone. The child was brought before Asclypiades, who tortured the child for refusing to denounce Christ. The child asked his mother for something to drink, but she replied do not drink now, for the living water of blessedness would soon be his. The governor then had the child beheaded. Thus St. Barulas attained the crown of martyrdom.

Romanus was condemned to be burnt alive, but a sudden rain extinguished the fires. Angered by his unceasing proclamations, the governor had the tongue of Romanus cut & thrown away. Miraculously, though his tongue was cut off, Romanus continued to loudly exclaim his love for the Lord, astonishing the gathered crowd. The furious governor ordered his soldiers to strangle the saint. Thus Mor Romanus attained the crown of martyrdom.

Biography courtesy of, 'Martyrs, Saints and Prelates of the Syriac Orthodox Church'

Oh Mor Romanus & Mor Barulas! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

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Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

April 14th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Simeon Barsabae and the martyrs of Persia according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mar Shimun Bar Sabbae was assistant to bishop Papa bar Aggai. He was one of the attendees at the Holy Ecumenical Synod of Nicea in 325AD. St. Simeon later become bishop of Seleucia-Ctesiphon (the see of the East, precursor to the Maphrian-Catholicos, under the Patriarch of Antioch). He was arrested when he refused to comply with a royal order to raise a double tax from the Christian community during the great persecution by King Sharpur II of the Persian Sassanid Empire.

After being arrested in Seleucia, Mor Shimun was transported to Karka d-Ledan, in Beth Huzaye. He had several meetings with the king who tried to convince St. Simeon to reject Christ and worship the pagan deities. But Mor Shimun refused to give up his faith in the Lord God. By order of king Sharpur II, Mor Shimun was beheaded on Good Friday along with 100 bishops and priests & countless faithful. Thus Mor Shimun Bar Sabbae attained the crown of martyrdom. The memory of St. Simeon Barsabae is honoured throughout the Christian world.

Oh Mor Shimun Bar Sabbae! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

Biography courtesy of, Fr. Al-Khoury Yousif Albanna and GEDSH

The Martyrdom of Blessed Simeon bar Sabbae: https://bit.ly/SimeonBarSabbaeMartyrdom

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shemon_Bar_Sabbae

https://gedsh.bethmardutho.org/Shemon-bar-Sabbae

Among the Seventy Two (72) Disciples

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Among the Seventy Two (72) Disciples

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

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H.E. Mor Polycarpus Eugene Aydin, Patriarchal Vicar in Holland was consecrated on April 15th 2007 by late HH Mor Ignatius Zakka I

http://syriacchristianity.info/bio/SyriacOrthodox/bio_PolycarpusEugene.htm

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

Saint Boctor Ebn Romanus

Vat. LXIX

Martyrs

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"at Korinthos in Achaia, Leōnidas and eight other martyrs"

Sts. Leonidas, Chariessa, Nice, Galina, Kalista, Nunechia, Basilissa, Theodora, and Irene,

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April 16th is the anniversary of the dukhrono of HE Mor Athanasius Yeshu Samuel.

H.E. was the first Archbishop of the united Syriac Orthodox Archdiocese of North America.

Mor Athanasius was born on Christmas Day & therefore given the name Yeshu. His early life is filled with hardship & suffering as was common for the Syriac Orthodox Christians in Turkey who were being persecuted. However, his story in particular is a testament to the grace of God & our Lord's endless blessing in the midst of adversity.

HE was the secretary to St. HH Mor Ignatius Elias III Patriarch of blessed memory, & accompanied HH during his journey to India. Mor Athanasius remained in India following the passing of St.Ignatius, & was later ordained priest by Apostolic delegate to India Mor Yulios Elias. He returned to Jerusalem soon afterwards.

In 1947 while Bishop of Jerusalem & Jordan, HE acquired the most ancient Biblical manuscript known, the 'Dead Sea Scrolls' from a Bedouin tribe. The manuscript predates existing known manuscripts of the Hebrew texts by 1000 years. The discovery led to finding further artifacts in the Qumran caves.

HE then left for USA & helped establish countless churches in the States & Canada. He translated numerous Syriac texts to English to help the faithful (something he continued till his passing). On November 15th 1957 HH Mor Ignatius Aphrem I enthroned Mor Athanasius as the first Archbishop of the newly created Syriac Orthodox Archdiocese of North America. The Archdiocese included the parishes of the Suryoye & Malankara faithful.

HE lived a very simple & pious life. In 1993 HH Patriarch Zakka I honored Mor Athanasius with the title, ro`yo shariro (True Shepherd) and awarded him the Grand Cross of St. Ignatius Nurono.

Mor Athanasius left for the heavenly abode on April 16th 1995. His mortal remains are interred in a mausoleum below the sanctuary of the Holy Virgin Mary Cathedral in Glane, Netherlands.

Today the Church in North America has 4 dioceses which are the remnants of HE's original Archdiocese:

Malankara Archdiocese of the Syrian Orthodox Church in North America
Archdiocese of the Syriac Orthodox Church for the Eastern United States
Syriac Orthodox Archdiocese of the Western United States
Syriac Orthodox Diocese of Canada
Knanaya Archdiocese of USA

For full biography visit: https://goo.gl/nc0IVD

An article about Mor Athanasius written in German by malfono Gabriel Rabo: https://goo.gl/T1Ij01

H.E. Mor Yostinos Paulos Safar, Patriarchal Vicar of Zahle & Bekaa in Mount Lebanon was consecrated on April 17th 2005 by late HH Mor Ignatius Zakka I

http://syriacchristianity.info/bio/SyriacOrthodox/bio_YostinosPaulos.htm

H.E. Mor Nicholovos Matti Abd Alahad, Patriarchal Vicar of Spain was consecrated on April 17th 2005 by late HH Mor Ignatius Zakka I.

http://syriacchristianity.info/bio/SyriacOrthodox/bio_NicholovosMatti.htm

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The Hieromartyr Zenobius, Bishop of Aegea, and his sister Zenobia suffered a martyr’s death in the year 285 in Cilicia

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

Abraham was a famous monk and miracle-worker of the monastery of the High Mountain north of Mount Izla, and he was the teacher of Bar Ṣauma (Mor Barsawmo) He founded a monastery near Midyat where the stylite Abel was.

Life of St. Abraham of the High Mountain: https://bit.ly/LifeAbrahamHighMountain 

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April 18th is the anniversary of the demise of HE Mor Chrysostomos Mousa Matanos Salama +1996.

Mor Chrysostomos was the Syriac Orthodox Missionary-Archbishop of Brazil and South America. As a zealous missionary, he had a significant role in opening up the Syriac Church to the non-syrian natives of Brazil who joined the Church.

Prior to being Archbishop, Mor Chrysostomos was a Raban in Dayro d-Mor Ignatius Manjinikkara. Here, he learnt Malayalam & even wrote the book 'Jeeva Jalam' a commentary for the Gospels of each Sunday in the Church calendar. Raban Mousa was also the teacher of many eminent personalities including:
-Mor Yulios Kuriakose +2011
-Mor Polycarpus Geevarghese +2011

Mor Chrysostomos Mousa Matanos Salama departed for the heavenly abode on April 18th 1996. May his prayers be with us.

Full biography: https://igrejasirianortodoxa.com/igreja-no-brasil/mor-crisostomos-salama/

April 18th is the anniversary of the demise of Mor Ivanios Yuhannon +1794.

Mor Ivanios Yuhannon accompanied St. Baselios Shakralla Maphriyano to India as a Qashisho. He would be consecrated bishop by the saint in 1752 at Kandanad church.

He was instrumental in reintroducing the West-Syriac Liturgy to the Malankara Church which had been freed from the clutches of Roman Catholic supremacy only a century prior. Mor Ivanios along with Mor Gregorios Yuhannon reconsecrated Mar Thoma VI as Mor Dionysius I. Together with Mor Dionysius I, Mor Ivanios Yuhannon would govern the Malankara Church.

Mor Ivanios Yuhannon departed for the heavenly abode on April 18th 1794. His mortal remains were interred in Chengannur Old Syrian Church.

Biography courtesy of, 'Martyrs, Saints and Prelates of the Syriac Orthodox Church'

Oh Mor Ivanios Yuhannon! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

"at Salona, Septimios and Hermogenēs"

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April 19th is the anniversary of the demise of Mar Thoma III +1688.

Mar Thoma III was the third native-born Metropolitan of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Church after the Koonan Kurishu Sathyam of 1653. He was from Pakalomattom family & was consecrated by Mor Ivanios Hidayathulla the delegate of the Holy Apostolic See of Antioch to Malankara.

Mar Thoma III would govern the Malankara Church for only 2 years. At a young age he departed for the heavenly abode on April 19th 1688. His mortal remains were interred in St. Thomas Church Kadampanad.

Biography courtesy of Syriac Christianity website. Illustration of Mar Thoma only for artistic purposes.

Oh Mar Thoma III! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

http://www.syriacchristianity.info/bio/MorThomaIII.htm

"the martyr Roufos"

at Melitine in Armenia

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Martyr

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

"at Antioch, Prosdokās, and Beronikē, and Rōmanos"

Possibly this is St. Domnina her two daughters  Sts. Berenice, and Prosdoce  who suffered martyrdom by drowning themselves. They may have been in Edessa, Mesopotamia.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Domnina,_Berenice,_and_Prosdoce

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Probably this is Mor Jacob the Seer (went to Ephesus to condemn Nestorius), mentioned in the Life of Mor Samuel of Qartmin

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Bishops of Edessa

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April 21st the Syriac Orthodox Church commemorates the martyrdom of Deacon Fatuh +2013. The Church also earnestly pleads for the release of HE Mor Gregorios Yohanna Ibrahim & HE Metropolitan Paul (Boulus) Yazigi who were abducted 5 years ago.

On April 21st 2013 HE Mor Gregorios Archbishop of Aleppo, & HE Metropolitan Paul Yazigi (brother of HB John X, Patriarch of the Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch) were abducted by terrorists on their way back from Antakya, Turkey to their respective dioceses in Aleppo, Syria. The two bishops were trying to negotiate the release of two abducted priests who were kidnapped earlier. Deacon Fatuh, the driver of Mor Gregorios, was murdered on the spot. Thus he attained the crown of martyrdom. Unfortunately, the whereabouts of both prelates is still unknown.

Barekmor Sayidna! While years have passed since that wretched day, we are just as devastated. We beg mercy to our Lord & ask for your return back to us safe & sound. Our heart aches as we think of your suffering.

Likewise, we commemorate the martyrdom of Syriac Orthodox Deacon, Fatuh who was murdered at the hands of terrorist. May he sit amongst the company of the holy martyrs of the Church.

We the children of the Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch & the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch lift our hands up in unceasing prayer, and beg so our bishops may bless us with their fatherly presence once again.

Saint Mor Awgen is the traditional founder of Syriac monasticism. He originated from Qluzma in Egypt, and started off as a pearl diver who gave pearls to the poor and needy. In mid-life he decided to become a monk at the monastery of St. Pachomius, and from there he and his brotherhood, the holy 70 ancestors, set off to Bethnahrin (Mesopotamia), settling in the region of Mount Izlo. The remains of the monastery dedicated to his name still stands on the slopes of Mount Izlo, overlooking the Mesopotamian plain. His name testifies his success and his glory because it is translated as “the good man” (Bar Hebreus, vol. 1, 1872-1877, p. 85ff).

As Mor Augin was a great and respectable monk, his word and achievement was known even in Byzantium (Constantinople) and by the Emperor Constantine. He said: “These three warriors are known in our kingdom: Antonius in Egypt, Illarion at the coast and Mor Augin who moved out of Egypt and come and settled down in your region and enlightened it. We plead and beg of him that he prays for us in front of Our Lord, so that we and our kingdom will be protected and safe.” (Tale of Saint Mor Augin).

He’s called “Second Christ” in the Syriac tradition owning to the miraculous deeds he did. This certainly does not mean an equality between the both of them, rather it expresses the particularly tight succession of Mor Augin.

Mor Augin and his companions filled and decorated the whole east with monasteries and churches, from Egypt to the border of Persia.

In 363, Saint Mor Augin passed away at a great age and advanced to the kingdom of heaven. “His body was buried in the cave underneath his monastery’s southern altar. His holy relics are kept till today in the monastery. May his prayers be with us” (P. Behnam, 1908, p- 18f).

Mor Augin Monastery https://morauginmonastery.wordpress.com/

Life of St. Augin: http://bit.ly/Awgen

"at Alexandria, the presbyter Aristos"

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April 21st is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Malke +315 according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Malke was born to Yuhannon & Rafka in Qulezmo (Egypt), a wealthy family who had only a daughter & waited years for a son. From a young age, Malke was taught the true faith & he grew in wisdom. A very religious child, at the age of 11 he desired to be a monk much to the dismay of his parents who wanted him to get married in the future. Malke left his grieving family & traveled to Tur Izlo (Mount Izlo) where he stayed at the Monastery of his maternal uncle Mor Augin. He became the disciple of Mor Augin & was later ordained priest by Mor Yac'ub of Nisbis. He went to Jerusalem, then Egypt, then returned to the Dayro d-Mor Augin. Malke later left to live in solitude, he reached the village of Arkah. There a child had fallen in to a pit leaving the townsfolk in despair. He prayed at the site, suddenly the child came out of the pit unharmed, but with him was a demon. However, seeing the power of Mor Malke, the demon fled.

St. Malke built a monastery on the location where God exiled the devil. Then he heard a voice from the heaven saying, “Malke, servant of God, force out Astrasis & his demons. Put down the sign of the Cross & it will protect you from evil.” The Holy One went down to the place where the devil abode & cast them out as the Lord commanded. The demons left complaining bitterly. St. Malke measured the place for an altar & carved a sign of the Cross on the stone. The villagers of Arkah came in great numbers to help build the Monastery.

The devil had a crafty nature. He went to Constantinople & took possession of Asanasis the daughter of King Constantine. The King was greatly sorrowful. He sent for St. Malke to come & heal his daughter because she said he was the only one who could heal her. The girl was brought before the saint & fell convulsing on the ground. She turned black & writhed in agony biting her arms. St. Malke lifted his hands in prayer & asked for God for help. He told her to rise. When she stood up it was as if she had been sleeping a long time. The devil poured out of her in the form of a black smoke. St. Malke told him to go to the dung pile & sit on it. St. Malke then remained in the court of the King & healed many people. The King offered him half the Kingdom if he would stay. But St. Malke refused & instead asked for a well & the stone collar that fit over the top of it. The king watched in stunned disbelief as St. Malke called out from hiding the devil, Astrasis, & commanded him to put on the stone collar around his neck & the well on top of his head like a hat. They went off together with the saint pushing the devil in front of him like a donkey. When they arrived at the monastery the saint told the devil to put down the well & he drove him away like a filthy dog.The community then finished the building of the monastery. Many monks came & lived there.

St. Malke was full of love & mercy for all human beings. For the remainder of his life he fought against evil. When death approached he gave a final benediction, “My beloved, always be merciful, dedicate yourselves to fasting & prayer. Let truth, love, & peace be your merits for all of your lives. Fight against evil with good." St. Malke left for the Heavenly abode at the age of 93. He was entombed in the Beth Qadishe of Dayro d-Mor Malke, Tur Izlo Turkey.

Oh Mor Malke! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

Syriac prayers in honour of Mor Malke: https://tinyurl.com/2pzn76ey

http://www.soc-wus.org/ourchurch/St.%20Malke.htm

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_Sleepers

Information about the legend including English translation made by the thrice blessed late Patriarch HH Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas of blessed memory: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kKUvd_U-1ma7ixGMN8sfVYCm-brfs7bn/view?usp=drivesdk

Mentioned by the thrice blessed late Patriarch HH Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas of blessed memory in his article on Islam.

"For the Syrians the Legend of the Cave was an event with which God proves that He, the creator, can bring back to life the dead on the day of the resurrection. It was handed down in the Syriac language in excellent style, verse and prose. It belongs to the Syrian tradition and was studied thoroughly also by the great chroniclers like Zachariah the Rhetor (+536), John of Ephesus (+587), the Monk of Zuqnin (+775) and others. We also have a poem, containing 74 verses in 7-syllable meter, by Mor Jacob of Serugh (+521). The church remembers these Seven Sleepers on November 24 [should be October 24] every year. They have their own liturgical prayer in which the truth of their sleeping and awakening is documented and handed down." http://syriacchristianity.info/PZakka/ShortHisIslam.htm

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April 22nd is the anniversary of the demise of Mar Thoma I +1670.

Mar Thoma I was the first native-born Metropolitan of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Church after the Koonan Kurishu Sathyam of 1653. Previously known as Arkadiyokan (Archdeacon) Thoma, he along with Itty Thommen Kathanar (Knanaya priest & leader) led the Malankara faithful in the revolt against the Roman Catholic Church & Portuguese persecutors. This historic event is known as the Koonan Kurishu Sathyam (Oath at the Leaning Cross). It is the first recorded mass revolt against the Western colonialism & forced Roman Catholic supremacy in history! The Koonan Kurishu Sathyam cemented the reinvigorated faith of the Syriac Christians of Malankara & their unflinching loyalty to the Patriarch of Antioch and All the East. This monumentally historic event would pave way for the reestablishment of the Syriac Orthodox hierarchy in Malankara as had been present since the dawn of Christianity in India.

Mar Thoma I was given his full episcopal consecration by St. Gregorios Abdul Jaleel the honorary Patriarch of Jerusalem under the authority of the Patriarch of Antioch and all the East. Mor Gregorios came to Malankara on authority of the Patriarch of Antioch, who received letters from the Malankara Church. Those who accepted Mar Thoma I as the rightful Metropolitan under the authority of the Holy Apostolic See of Antioch are known as Malankara Jacobite Syrian Christians, while those who rejected him continued to be under the yoke of Roman Catholic supremacy (forming the Syro-Malabar Church).

Mar Thoma I along with Mor Gregorios would lead the Malankara Church, strengthening the faithful to remain loyal to the Patriarch of Antioch even in the midst of persecution & coercion by the Portuguese Roman Catholics. Mar Thoma I departed for the heavenly abode on April 22nd 1670. His mortal remains were interred at the southern side of the 'Hykala' of St. Mary's Soonoro Jacobite Syrian Cathedral Angamali.

Biography courtesy of Syriac Christianity website. Illustration of Mar Thoma only for artistic purposes.

Oh Mar Thoma I! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

http://www.syriacchristianity.info/PARAVUR/StGregorios.htm

On Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1722288264484849&id=165154486864909

Patriarch of Antioch

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Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

Bishop of Edessa

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April 23rd is the commemoration of the dhukrono of St. George the Martyr +303 (Mor Gewargis Sahdo) according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church. His feast is celebrated with great reverence by the faithful worldwide.

Wishing everyone a blessed Feast of St. George the Martyr (Mor Gewargis Sahdo) especially to all with the name or baptized with the name George (including Geevarghese, Gewargis, Varghese, Varkey etc)! Oh Mor Gewargis Sahdo, plead for us at God's throne of grace amen!

Biography: George (Gurgis/Jurjis) was born in Cappadocia, East Asia Minor in c. A. D. 283. His parents were of royal origin as described
by Meta Frastres (Moothedan, 2001). His Father is thought to be an army chief of Emperor Diocletian. George was also a high-ranking military officer in the army of Diocletian.There are several legendary and historical descriptions about St. George and it is difficult to distinguish between the two. However, most of the books refer to an incident which is described here.

One day George was riding a horse in the province of Lybiain North Africa. He came upon a city named Sylene. Near the city was a marsh, in which lived a dragon. The people had attempted to kill it but were poisoned by the creature’s fetid breath. To placate the dragon, they offered it two sheep a day, but when they began to exhaust their supply of sheep, they were forced to substitute a human each day instead, casting lot to choose the victim. At the time of George’s arrival, the lot had just fallen to the King’s daughter Andromeda (Sophia?). No one volunteered to take her place, so she was dressed in bridal finery and sent to meet the dragon. Riding upon this scene on a (green) horse George attacked the dragon and speared it with his lance. He then fastened the
princess’s girdle around its neck, and the girl led the dragon into the city. The people were frightened and started to run away, but
George told them not to be afraid – that if they would believe in Jesus Christ and be baptized, he would slay the dragon.The King and the people agreed. George killed the dragon, and it was carried away on four ox carts (White, 1991). George accepted no reward
for his service, but he asked the King to build churches, honour Priests, and to be compassionate towards the poor.

George was martyred duing the persecution of Diocletian at Nicomedia in the beginning of the 4th century.The persecution lasted for about seven years. During that period about seventy
Kings were associated with Diocletian and historians mention different Kings in their account of the persecution.The persecution
was as a result of George’s refusal to worship Appalon and Hoclis, the pagan Gods. George performed several miracles. Diocletian’s wife Alexandria and his daughter Valeria believed in Jesus Christ. This resulted in the beheading of Alexandria on April 8 at Diospolis in Palestine (now, Lod, Israel). St. George was beheaded at the same place on 23 April (Britannica, 2001; Encarta, 2001).The writings of two Syrian churches, which date back to A.D.494, suggest that George was martyred at Lydha (now, Lod, Israel).There were churches in the name of St. George during the time of Constantine, the Great, at Nicomedia, Ludia, and Thessalonica.

-Biography Courtesy of "Martyrs, Saints, and Prelates of the Syriac Orthodox Church"

Tone for feast of a Saint: 8

St. George in light of the Syriac tradition: https://goo.gl/VRXGWn

Acts of St. George: http://bit.ly/SyriacGeorge

Biography in Malayalam: https://goo.gl/SFsO83

Malayalam Hymns on YouTube: https://goo.gl/QwYx4a

Malayalam Hymns mp3: https://goo.gl/vTMmqz

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On April 24th we join the Armenian Orthodox Church & Armenian people in commemorating the genocide carried out in 1915.

Known by the Armenian as Aghet (roughly translated to catastrophe) & by the Syriacs (also known as Arameans, Assyrians, Chaldean) as Sayfo (abbreviation of 'shato d'sayfo' or 'year of the sword') the genocide was the systematic killing & persecution of Christian minorities within the Ottoman Empire.

In 1915, 1.5 million Armenians, 500-750,000 Syriacs & 500,000 Greeks were viciously tortured & brutally murdered by the Ottomans, Kurds & Turkish nationalists in an effort to wipe out the indigenous Christian communities who lived in the Middle East. Those who survived were expelled from their homes & lands, their properties were confiscated, their dignity was violated &, in many cases, they were forced to renounce their religion & faith as they watched their churches be plundered, destroyed or turned into stables for animals.

The Syriac Orthodox Church by order of the Holy Synod has designated June 15th to be the annual commemoration of the martyrs in our Liturgical Calendar. Sadly, though a century has passed & many nations have officially condemned the genocide, the Turkish state continues to deny any wrongdoing. Adolf Hitler, in an address known as the "Obersalzberg Speech" a week before invading Poland concluded his words with the following chilling statement, "Who, after all, speaks today of the annihilation of the Armenians?"

"– … Anthimos …, and five other [martyrs]"

The martyr Anthimus, Bishop of Nicomedia, and those with him suffered during the persecution against Christians under the emperors Diocletian (284-305) and Maximian (305-311). The persecution became particularly intense after a fire at the imperial court at Nicomedia. The pagans accused the Christians of setting the fire and reacted against them with terrible ferocity.

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He was a former servant of pagans

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Adorhormizd (later "Dadisho") was a high-born mobed who converted to Christianity after his daughter, Anahid, was healed through the work of Christian monk, Pethion. Both he and Anahid became Christian martyrs.

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April 25th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Mark the Evangelist +68 according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Marqos sabrono was born in Cyrene (Pentapolis), Africa to a family of the Levite tribe, & given the name John. When their home was attacked by barbarians, the family moved to Jerusalem. Several important events took place in the home of St. Mark in Jerusalem, including: the Last Supper & institution of the first Holy Qurbono by our Lord Jesus Christ along with the washing of Apostles feet (John 13:12); the Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4); the election of Apostle Mathias (Acts 1:21-26); the Council of the Apostles in 51AD presided over by St. James the just, the brother of Jesus & the first Archbishop of Jerusalem; & St. Peter came to this house upon release from prison by an angel. A 6th century Syriac inscription discovered from the site of the house of Mary reads as follows: “This is the house of Mary, mother of John, called Mark. After the ascension of our Lord, Jesus Christ, into heaven, the holy apostles proclaimed this church in the name of Virgin Mary, Mother of God. Renewed after the destruction of Jerusalem by Titus in the year 73AD.” Along with the church, there is St. Mark's Monastery (Dayro d-Mor Marqos) which is the seat of the Syriac Orthodox Archbishop of Jerusalem, Holy Land & Jordan.

St. Mark was one amongst the 72 Evangelists of the Lord & mentioned a few other times in the Gospels. He was a relative of St. Barnabas & was very dear to St. Peter the chief of the Holy Apostles, who converted St. Mark. The Gospel of Mark was written by St. Mark, but recounts St. Peter's depiction of our Lord Jesus' mission.This is acknowledged by the Church father Irenaeus who writes, "Mark, Peter's disciple & interpreter, had also passed on to us in written materials as preached by Peter." Peter ordained Mark bishop of Alexandria in around 61AD.

According to Syriac tradition, while travelling in Alexandria, Mark met a cobbler by name Anianus. His finger was punctured by a needle & he was in pain. Mark made clay & anointed his finger. Anianus was healed immediately. Anianus took Mark to his home where he preached about Jesus Christ. Numerous people believed in Jesus & were baptized. In 64AD, Mark ordained three Priests & seven deacons. St. Anianus was appointed as the successor of Mark. St Mark also founded the first theological school in Alexandria to train people who would become leaders in the faith. Mark left for Rome where he spent time with St. Peter & St. Paul until their martyrdoms.

Mark soon returned to Alexandria. It so happened that Easter was on the same day as the festival of the pagan deity Serapis. The heathens were angered by the Christians celebrating the Feast of the Resurrection of the Lord Jesus. They seized Mark, tied him to a horse & made it run until he was brutally disfigured. They then imprisoned him, followed by another day of torture leading to his death. Thus Mor Marqos sabrono attained the crown of martyrdom. The heathens tried to burn his body, but a sudden storm extinguished the fire & the heathens ran away in fear. Finally, the body of St. Mark was entombed in a church dedicated to his honor in Alexandria. The successors of St. Mark are known as Pope of Alexandria & Patriarch of All Africa on the Holy Apostolic See of Saint Mark the Evangelist of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria.

Biography courtesy of, 'Martyrs, Saints and Prelates of the Syriac Orthodox Church', Melthodhaye & SUSCOPTS website.

Hymn of St. Severus of Antioch on St. Mark the Evangelist:

"He shall manage His words with judgment" (Psalms 112:5)
"The divine Mark, the true disciple of the great Peter the chief of the Apostles, having with readiness proclaimed or preached to creation day by day the salvation of Christ our God, and having with the great among prophets David the Psalmist made known His glory, taught the whole of Egypt, which had become drunk in pursuit of the error of demon-worship, not only to believe, but also to proclaim the theology with all accuracy. Wherefore, reckoning the commemoration of this man to be our crown, we beseech thee, Christ, through his intercession deliver the souls or us all, according to the abundance of Thy great mercy."

Oh Mor Marqos sabrono! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

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early Desert Father

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On MASOCNA calendar

April 27th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of martyrs St. Behnam, his sister St. Sarah and their 40 martyr companions (dukhrono sohde Mor Behnam u Mort Saro hotheh w arb'in sohde habrayhun) +388 according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

The Zoroastrian King of Persia Sennaharib ruled Adiabene. He had two children, Prince Behnam & Princess Sarah. Prince Behnam was a strong warrior who was always accompanied by 40 armed servants, however Sarah was sadly afflicted by a severe form of leprosy.

One day prince Behnam went hunting in the wilderness with some of his servants. He saw a large animal & chased it, separating himself from the group. Night came & he slept alone in the wilderness. He had a dream that someone was telling him to look for a man named Matthew, who lived in that mountainous area, this Mathew would pray for his sister & she would be cured.

The next morning he set out to find his party, & together they searched for Mor Mattai. They found him in a cave within the mountains. Behnam told monk Mathew about his sister & the previous night's vision. He asked Mor Mattai to join him & return to the palace. There, Behnam informed his mother who allowed St. Mathew to see Sarah. Mor Mattai prayed over her, & she was miraculously cured of her disease. St. Mathew taught them about the Lord Jesus Christ & the reward of the Heavenly Kingdom. Hearing of the Gospel, Behnam & Sarah were baptized by Mor Mattai & accepted Christianity. St. Mathew returned to his cave soon afterward.

The King was delighted to see his daughter healed. Upon asking how this happened, St. Sarah told the king about Mor Mattai, & that they had accepted Christ as Lord. Sennaharib was furious & told them to renounce their Christian faith or face punishment; but the siblings refused. They fled at night in secret along with the companions who also accepted Christ. Sadly, the King found out & he ordered his army to chase them. The siblings & their companions were slaughtered. The hill upon which the group was standing caved in. Thus Mor Behnam, his sister Mort Sara & their 40 companions attained the crown of martyrdom.

The king was soon afflicted by the possession of an evil spirit which tormented him agonizingly. Behnam appeared to his mother in a dream & told her to get Mor Mattai. The queen, believing Mor Mattai to be capable of healing the king called for him to visit the palace. St. Mathew prayed over the king who was then healed. The king repented of his evil ways & along with the queen accepted Christianity & was baptized. Soon their entire kingdom heard the Gospel & were baptized as well. King Sennaharib built 2 monasteries, Dayro d-Mor Mattai & Dayro d-Mor Behnam u Mort Sara (where he had his son & daughter entombed, it's also called the 'pit monastery'). Many works of miracles occur due to the intercession of St. Behnam & St. Sarah. Their relics are venerated with great reverence.

Biography courtesy of, 'Martyrs, Saints and Prelates of the Syriac Orthodox Church'

Oh Mor Behnam, Mort Sara & the 40 martyr companions! Plead for us all before God's throne of grace. Amen.


English translation of the Life of St. Behnam and St. Sarah: https://bit.ly/VitaBehnamSarah

Syriac Prayers: https://tinyurl.com/5n974ydw

Fixed Feast

April 27th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Gregorios Abdul Jaleel +1681 according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Abd al-Jaleel was born in Mosul Iraq to a wealthy family. After completing theological studies, he was ordained Qashisho followed by consecration as Metropolitan with the title Timotheos by HH Mor Ignatius Shem'vun I in 1654 for the diocese of Amid (Diyarbakir). Ten years later, he was appointed as the bishop of Jerusalem & given the ecclesiastical title Gregorios. In view of the historical importance of the city of Jerusalem in the Christendom, the Syriac Metropolitan of Jerusalem was often referred as the 5th Patriarch in the Syriac Orthodox Church. 'Mor Gregorios' was the honorable title entrusted to the Jerusalem Patriarch who was within the spiritual supremacy of the Holy Apostolic See of Antioch.

In 1653, the Malankara Church held the Koonan Kurishu Sathyam after the heinous murder of Syriac Orthodox prelate Mor Ahathulla at the hands of the Portuguese. The Malankara Church was finally free from the shackles of Roman Catholic oppression. The leaders of Malankara, Itty Thommen Kathanar & Arkadiyokan Thoma sent letters to the Patriarchate for help, but the colonial might of the Portuguese made it both extremely difficult to communicate with the mother Church & to govern the Church in India as the Catholics strengthened their propaganda. With the arrival of the Dutch, the power of the Portuguese was weakened. Finally, the Malankara Church could successfully send word to the Patriarchate. A letter in Syriac explaining the entire situation was sent with a Syriac merchant, deacon Stephen Aspar of Amid. Upon receipt of the letter, a Synod was held at the Patriarchate & HH Mor Ignatius Abdul Messih I deputed Mor Gregorios to Malankara after Mor Gregorios volunteered to face the trials ahead.

Mor Gregorios landed in the northern Kerala costal village of Ponnani. Due to the prevailing circumstances (the Portuguese got word that a Syriac prelate has managed to enter India) he had to remain disguised until he could reveal himself to the Malankara faithful. Mor Gregorios presented the Stathikon (statement of empowerment given in writing by the Supreme head of the Church the Patriarch of Antioch). An exact copy is kept at North Paravur Church while the original is kept in the library of the Thozhiyoor (Malabar Independent) Syrian Church of Kunnamkulam. On 1 July (Midhunam 17) 1665 Arkadiyokan Thoma was given full episcopal consecration with the title Mar Thoma I by Mor Gregorios. Those who accepted Mar Thoma I as the rightful Metropolitan under the authority of the Holy Apostolic See of Antioch are known as Malankara Jacobite Syrian Christians, while those who rejected him continued to be under the yoke of Roman Catholic supremacy (forming the Syro-Malabar Church).

Mar Thoma I along with Mor Gregorios would lead the Malankara Church, strengthening the faithful to remain loyal to the Patriarch of Antioch even in the midst of persecution & coercion by the Portuguese Roman Catholics. Mor Gregorios was determined to return the Church to a state of Holy Orthodoxy. He destroyed the idols erected, reinstated the use of leavened host, allowed married men to be priests, amongst other corrections to errors brought by the Catholics as instituted in the illegal Synod of Diamper. Mor Gregorios with Marthoma I would jointly consecrate the successor of the latter, Mar Thoma II. Mor Gregorios was born to a rich family, so brought his share of property & belongings to Malankara & donated it to the Church. Among the valuables still preserved at North Paravur St.Thomas Church include a golden Cross & a silver ‘Caso & Pilaso’ set (Chalice & Paten, this is still used in the Holy Qurbono celebrated during the Saint's yearly feast). In addition, he had a large collection of gold coins, with which he bought land at 'thorakkal' for the Church.

After serving the Malankara Church diligently & helping to rejuvenate Syriac Orthodoxy in India, Mor Gregorios spent his last days in St. Thomas Church North Paravur, knowing that his mission was successful. Foreseeing his demise, he took a bath, wore his vestments & entered the Church. He departed for the heavenly abode on April 27th 1681. Miraculously, the church bell rang on its own & a peculiar shining light spread around the confines of church. His mortal remains were interred in the 'Hykala' of St.Thomas Church at North Paravur as per his last wishes. The sacred tomb of the saintly father has subsequently became a Holy Place for Syriac Christians. Thousands of pilgrims visit the tomb every year seeking his intercession. The hand cross of Mor Gregorios contains the relics of 11 holy saints along with a portion of the Holy Cross of our Lord. The hand cross is exhibited each year on his feast for public veneration.

Subsequent to the request from the Holy Synod in Malankara, in April 2000 vis Patriarchal Apostolic Bull 71/2000, the thrice blessed late Patriarch HH Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas of blessed memory declared Mor Gregorios Abdul Jaleel as a saint, permitting the prayers at his tomb (Zadhiko). In February 2006 vis Patriarchal Apostolic Bull No. E50/06; the Patriarch of Antioch and all the East HH Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas of blessed memory permitted the recitation of the name of St. Gregorios Abdul Jaleel in the 5th Thubden (Thubden d-Qadishe) at all Malankara parishes across the world.

Biography courtesy of, 'Martyrs, Saints and Prelates of the Syriac Orthodox Church' and Syriac Christianity website

Oh Mor Gregorios Abdul Jaleel! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

To read the full biography of Mor Gregorios of Jerusalem and of the historical context of the Syriac Orthodox Christians of India at the time visit: http://www.syriacchristianity.info/PARAVUR/StGregorios.htm

Video narration of St. Gregorios' biography (courtesy Hymonutho): https://youtu.be/U_n4npfuphQ 

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Martyr and those with him

The legend of the martyrdom of Christopher and his companions, set in the time of the Emperor Decius, was translated into Syriac.

In some iconography, he is depicted as cynocephalus (dog-headed): https://orthodoxartsjournal.org/the-icon-of-st-christopher/

Acts of St. Christopher: https://bit.ly/LifeChristopher

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Monk and Missionary

Life of Mor John of Dailam: https://bit.ly/JohnDailam

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

Son of Joseph, brother of our Lord Jesus Christ

Among the Seventy Two (72) Disciples

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In hagiography: Daniel was the bishop of Edessa. He obtained relics of Severus of Samosata in order to chase demons away from the monks of the monastery of Qenneshre. He wrote a demonology.

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April 28th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Aday according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Aday was the first Bishop of Edessa (Urhoy/Urfa). He is the twin brother of St. Thomas the Apostle. In the Syriac tradition, St. Aday is one of the 72 Disciples our Lord appointed as written in the gospel of St. Luke 10:1. He was one of the primary evangelists in the region of Edessa. The story of his evangelization in Edessa is intertwined with that of great King Abgar V of Edessa.

King Abgar V of Edessa fell ill during the reign of Emperor Tiberius Caesar. According to church historian Eusebius & as written in the Syriac work 'Doctrine of Mor Adai', King Abgar sent a letter to our Lord Jesus Christ inviting him to live in Edessa away from the persecution of the Jewish pharisees. This historical fact is also confirmed in the Syriac Orthodox prayers for Midlent (phelgo d'sawmo/pathinombu). The royal secretary Hannan delivered this letter by hand to Christ himself. In His reply, Christ declines the invitation, instead saying when His earthly mission is complete & He has ascended to to heaven, He promises to send one of His disciples to Edessa, who will heal the king & evangelize the whole kingdom so that they may receive eternal life. Hannan returns to Edessa with the letter and a portrait of Christ (first icon of our Lord in history).

After the Ascension of our Lord, Mor Aday is sent to Edessa as earlier promised by Christ to King Abgar. Mor Aday healed King Abgar of his leprosy & baptized him. Thus, Abgar became the first king to embrace Christianity & the Kingdom of Osroene (with Edessa as its capital) became the very first Christian nation.

St. Aday played a key role in the evangelization of Mesopotamia, southern Armenia & eastern parts of Syria.

Oh Mor Aday! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. May your intercession protect the Syriac Christian faithful in Mesopotamia. Amen.

Among the Seventy Two (72) Disciples

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Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

Counted among the 72 Evangelists

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

Mar Pinḥas, martyr from Persia

Saint Bartholomew was one of the Twelve Apostles, and had Galilee as his homeland; this is all that is known of him for certain according to the history of the Gospels. Concerning his apostolic work, certain say that he preached in Arabia and Persia, and especially in India, bringing to them the Gospel written by Saint Matthew, which had been written originally in Hebrew, and which was found there one hundred years later by Pantaenus, formerly a stoic philosopher and later an illustrious teacher of the Christian school in Alexandria (see Eusebius, Eccl. Hist., 5: 10). Other accounts say that he went to Armenia. According to some, he ended his life by being crucified, or by being flayed alive, in Albanopolis (Urbanopolis) of Armenia. This also confirms an ancient tradition preserved by the Armenians.

Saint Barnabas, one of the Seventy, was from Cyprus, of the tribe of Levi, and a fellow disciple with Paul under Gamaliel. He was called Joses, but was renamed Barnabas, which means "son of consolation," perhaps to distinguish him from the Joses called Barsabas and surnamed Justus (Acts 1:23). Saint Barnabas had a field, which he sold and brought the money to the Apostles (Acts 4:36-37). Before the conversion of Saul to Paul, it was Barnabas who was the leader of the Seventy Apostles, the first in preaching and chief spokesman. After Saul's vision on the road to Damascus, it was Barnabas who joined him to the Apostles when the others, because of Saul's reputation as a persecutor of the Church, still feared him (Acts 9:26-27); again it was Saint Barnabas who conscripted Paul as a preacher, bringing him from Tarsus to Antioch after the stoning of Stephen, to assist in spreading the Gospel (Acts 11:25-26). Saint Barnabas preached the Gospel in many places, traveled together with Paul, and finally was stoned to death by the Jews in his native Cyprus

Evening:
St. Matthew 10: 16-33

Morning:
St. Luke 12: 1-12

Before Holy Qurbana:
Genesis 4: 3-12
Daniel 3: 14 -30

Holy Qurbana:
Acts 23 : 11 - 25
Romans 8: 31- 39
St. Mark 8:34-38, 13 : 9 - 13

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"at Nicomedia, the presbyter Eusebios, and the presbyter Charalampos, and two hundred and sixty-eight other martyrs."

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