Events

H.G. Dr. Mor Koorilos Geevarghese, Metropolitan of Niranam diocese & Patriarchal Vicar of Qatar & Bahrain, was consecrated on July 3rd 2006 by Catholicos H.B. Baselios Thomas I.

http://syriacchristianity.info/bio/MalankaraPrelates/bio_KurillosGeevarghese.htm

H.G. Mor Aphrem Mathews, Metropolitan of Perumbavur Region of Angamali Diocese was consecrated on July 3rd 2006 by Catholicos H.B. Baselios Thomas I.

http://syriacchristianity.info/bio/MalankaraPrelates/bio_ApremMathews.htm

H.G. Mor Eusebius Kuriakose Metropolitan of Delhi diocese & Patriarchal Vicar of Kuwait, was consecrated on July 3rd 2006 by Catholicos H.B. Baselios Thomas I.

http://syriacchristianity.info/bio/MalankaraPrelates/bio_EusebiusKurikose.htm

H.G. Mor Theodosius Mathews, Metropolitan of Kollam diocese was consecrated metropolitan on July 3rd 2006 by Catholicos H.B. Baselios Thomas I.

http://syriacchristianity.info/bio/MalankaraPrelates/bio_TheodosiusMathews.htm

July 3rd is the commemoration of the translation of the Holy Relics of St. Thomas the Holy Apostle from Mylapore India to Edessa (Urhoy) in Mesopotamia, according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Touma was one of the 12 Apostles of our Lord. His twin brother is St. Aday bishop of Edessa & one of the 72 Disciples mentioned in Luke 10:1.Thus he is also known as Didymus (Greek-twin).Thomas was a faithful servant of his Master, always willing to give his life for the Lord (John 11:16). He is sometimes referred to as 'Doubting Thomas' because of the exchange between him & his fellow Apostles as written in the gospel of St. John 20:24-25. However, this doubt isn't a lapse in his character as a disciple or his genuine belief in God. It should be seen in the light of one whose faith is further strengthened by the manifested glory of God's miraculous power. Doubt is the first step to belief. It is his confession of faith in front of the newly appeared Christ, that will be etched in Christendom for eternity. Christ knew the heart of Thomas & tells him to feel His wounds. There is not an unbelieving word in our tongues, nor thought in our minds, but it is known to the Lord Jesus; & he was pleased to accommodate himself even to Thomas, rather than leave him in his unbelief. Thomas proclaims 'My Lord and my God' (John 20:28).This proclamation is the sum total of the salvific act of Jesus Christ on earth. This confession of faith is repeated in the Holy Qurbono when the second coming of Christ is commemorated.

Following the Ascension, Thomas isn't spoken of in the rest of the New Testament. However, the writings of the early Church fathers including St. Ephrem, St. Gregory Nazianzus, St. John Chrysostom & St. Jacob of Serugh all state that St. Thomas evangelized India. The 'Acts of St. Thomas' is a Syriac text by an unknown author which chronicles the journey & life of Thomas. The prayers written by the Syriac Church fathers also indicate St. Thomas went to India. In addition, the oral tradition passed down for generations amongst the Christians of Kerala (Malankara Nasrani or Syrian Christians) such as Margamkali (Dance of the way) & Ramban Pattu (Song of the Monk) also speak of the arrival & work of St. Thomas to convert the locals in India. Archeological excavations in the 19th century have shed more light on what's written in the 'Acts of St. Thomas,' confirming many of its details. More recent digs in the port village of Muziris from 2007 & beyond have found key pieces of evidence corroborating the existing oral traditions.

St. Thomas is said to have been ordered to build a palace for King Gondaphorus. However, Thomas used the money for charity work which enraged the king who sent Thomas to prison for later execution. The King's brother died & he visited the King in a vision telling him that St. Thomas had a place in heaven prepared. The King released Thomas & converted, an incident that is alluded to in the evening prayer (Bovuso) of the first Sunday after Easter (hadto/New Sunday). St. Thomas attended the wedding of the king's daughter, but was attacked by one of the pagans, however the attacker's hand was bitten off by a menacing dog. St. Thomas then healed the man in front of the crowd. The miracle done at the wedding feast is referred to in the morning prayer of the First Sunday after Easter.

St. Thomas came to Kerala in AD52 at Kodungalur. He initially preached to the existing Jewish community, followed by evangelization of the gentiles. He performed many miracles. Local tradition states he established 7 churches & ordained elders from 4 families of the upper echelons of their society. The Syriac Christians of Malabar from the state of Kerala, the Southwest coast of India, call themselves 'St. Thomas Christians' on account of this.

After evangelizing in Kerala, he left to Tamil Nadu. In 72AD he was pierced with a lance by the pagan soldiers. He succumbed to his injuries, dying three days later. Thus Mor Touma attained the crown of martyrdom. His remains were entombed in Mylapore. The Holy Relics were later transferred to Edessa (Urhoy) in Mesopotamia on July 3rd AD394 and interred on August 22nd. The relocation of the relic of St. Thomas to Urhoy is described in the Hoothomo of this feast. His relics would later be transferred to St. Thomas Cathedral in Mosul, Iraq. This ancient Church in Iraq was built over the house of one of the Magi (Wiseman). St. Thomas the Holy Apostle himself stayed in this home while in Mosul before leaving to India. It was later made into a church in the 6th century. In 1964 during renovation work, the thrice blessed late Patriarch HH Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka (who was then Mor Severios, Archbishop of Mosul) rediscovered the priceless relics in the Altar of St. Thomas Church. A portion of these relics were gifted to the Malankara Christians in 1964 & again in 1982. On June 17th 2014, due to the onslaught of the ISIS insurgency, the relics were shifted for safekeeping to the Beth Qadishe of Dayro d-Mor Mattai Nineveh Iraq.

The Feast of St. Thomas is celebrated on 3 occasions in the Syriac Orthodox Church calendar. He is commemorated on New Sunday (Sunday after Easter), July 3rd (translation Holy Relics to Edessa) & December 21 (his martyrdom; along with December 18, the day he was stuck by the lance: these 2 are celebrated in Malankara). The thrice blessed late Patriarch HH Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas of blessed memory in an encyclical dated October 20, 1987, added the name of "Apostle Thomas, the preacher of the Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ in India" to the fourth diptych (Tubden) in the Malankara Church. St. Thomas is the Patron Saint of India.

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

Oh Mor Touma Sleeho! May your intercession on your blessed feast be with us all. May your prayers protect the Christians of Mesopotamia and India. Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

The Holy Bible readings from the Church Lectionary:

Evening:
St. John 20:19-25

Morning:
St. Luke 12:48-59

Before Holy Qurbono:
Exodus 12:43-51
Job 23:1-7
Isaiah 52:1-15

Holy Qurbono:
1 Peter 2:15-17
1 Corinthians 6:9-11
St. John 20:19-31

Tone of the Day: 8

Huthomo for commemoration of the translation of the Holy Relics of St Thomas: https://youtu.be/GZcxL7lEuSE

St. Thomas and The Syrian Christians of Kerala: https://urhotheway.com/lectures-on-st-thomas-and-the-syrian-christians-of-kerala/

Lecture Series - Malankara Church and Throne of St. Thomas (courtesy Hymonutho): https://bit.ly/30TN7AV

An intriguing CNN documentary about St. Thomas: https://goo.gl/WsDTqL

https://urhotheway.com/2020/07/05/st-thomas-the-apostle/


St. Severus the Great of Antioch Cathedral Homily # 28

Fixed Feast

A contemporary and associate of St. Jacob of Serugh.

http://www.syriacstudies.com/AFSS/Syriac_Scholars_and_Writers/Entries/2008/3/20_39-_Habib_of_Edessa.html

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Vat. LXIX

Disciple of St. Ephrem the Syrian and teacher of St. Isaac of Antioch.

History of Syriac Literature and Sciences (1e): "Zenobius was a deacon at the church of Edessa. He is known as "The Jazri" either in relation to the Upper Jazira, i.e., the country of the Banu Rabi'a, or because at the beginning of his career he was a soldier; but not in relation to the Jazirat ibn Umar, which was not inhabited at that time. Zenobius wrote down the biography of his master and also wrote letters and treatises in refutation of Marcion and Famphilius. Bar Kipha cited him twice in his Book of the Six Days."

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July 5th is the commemoration of the 72 Disciples (Ezhupathirandu Ariyippukkar) according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

The Seventy-Two Disciples are those whom the Lord chose in addition to the Twelve Apostles & sent forth to assist in the work of preaching. In Luke 10:1 we read,  "And after these things, Jesus separated from among his disciples seventy other persons, and sent them, two and two, before his face, to every place and city whither he was to go." Over time, the Apostles added 2 others to their number, who were sent out with the originally-called, to preach the Gospel for the Church. In the Acts of the Apostles & in the various Epistles we read about many of them.

The 72 Disciples are symbolically represented in the design of the Censer (firmo/doopakutti). The chain of the Censer has 72 links, representing the 72 Evangelists appointed by Christ.

Some of these 72 include:

1. St. James(Mor Yakub), he was the first Archbishop of Jerusalem, a martyr whom we remember in the 5th Thubden. He is the son of St.Joseph & the step-brother of our Lord. He is also the author of the Epistle of St. James in the Holy Bible.

2. St. Mark(Mor Marqos), the author of the Gospel and a disciple of St. Peter. He was the first Bishop of Jerusalem. It is at his home where Christ instituted the first Holy Qurbono with His Apostles.

3. St. Luke(Mor Lukose), the author of the Gospel and a disciple of St. Paul. He was also a physician. He wrote the first icon of St. Mary.

4. St. Stephen(Mor Stephanos), the chief among the deacons and the first martyr whom we commemorate in the 4th Thubden.

Oh Holy 72 Disciples (Ezhupathirandu Ariyippukkar)! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

The Holy Bible readings from the Church Lectionary:

Evening:
St. John 15:12-21; 16:1-3

Morning:
St. Mark 10:28-31

Before Holy Qurbono:
Genesis 19:15-23
Job 1:12-22
Isaiah 38:1-8

Holy Qurbono:
Acts 27:9-26
Hebrews 10:33-11:7
St. Matthew 10:34-42

Tone of the Day: 8

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St. Severus the Great of Antioch Cathedral Homily # 51

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In hagiography: Thomas of Ḥarran was a bishop of Ḥarran and a disciple of Simon of the Olives.

The 70 Martyrs of Scythopolis

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Mother of St. Simon the Stylite

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8th Century

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https://www.copticchurch.net/synaxarium/10_4.html?lang=en#2

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Martyrs

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

July 7th 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.

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Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

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Martyr

Mentioned in Cathedral Homily 72 of Patriarch St. Severus of Antioch "On the deposition of the sacred bodies of the holy martyrs Procope and Phocas in the church called that of Michael"

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The Holy Youths Ananias (“God is gracious”), Azarias (“whom God helps”), and Misael (“Who is what God is?”) were companions of the Holy Prophet Daniel. They were chosen to serve in the king’s palace with Daniel (Daniel 1:6) and were all from the tribe of Judah. They gave Ananias the Chaldean name Shadrach (“royal”), Azarias the Chaldean name Abednego (“servant of Nego”), and Misael the Chaldean name Meshach (“guest”). They were thrown into a fiery furnace when they refused to worship the golden idol set up by King Nebuchadnezzar, but the angel of the Lord preserved them (Daniel 3:25).

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

Disciple of Mor Aday

Among the Seventy Two (72) Disciples

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

St. Ephrem the Syrian (Mor Aphrem Suryoyo) according to the liturgical calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Poet, teacher, orator & defender of the faith Mor Aphrem was born in A.D. 306 in Nisibis, modern day Turkey (North-west of Mosul, Iraq). He was ordained deacon in c. A.D. 338 and served the Bishop of Nisibis, Mor Yac'ub, who participated in the Synod of Nicaea (AD 325). He lived as a solitary & never entered into Priesthood remaining a deacon till death.

Ephrem wrote exclusively in Syriac, the Edessene dialect of Aramaic, but his works were translated into Armenian & Greek, & via the latter into Latin and Slavonic. Much of Ephrem's exegetical, dogmatic & ascetic works are in verse form. Tradition tells us that Ephrem heard the heretical ideas put into song first & in order to counteract them made up his own hymns. He wrote several polemical works refuting the heresies of Marcion, Bardaisan, Mani, the Arians & the Anomoeans. He wrote widely regarded Biblical commentaries on Genesis and the Diatesseron. His writings extensively employ typology & symbolism.

St. Ephrem the Syrian, left us in Syriac hundreds of hymns & poems on the faith that inflamed & inspired the whole Church. His memory is revered by all, Syriac Orthodox, and Nestorians/Chaldean. They call him the "sun of the Syrians," ( Shemsho d’Suryoye) & the "harp of the Holy Spirit" (Kenoro d’Ruho) His liturgical poetry had a great influence on Greek hymnography as well. The Catholic Church has declared him 'Doctor of the Holy Church'

St. Ephrem departed to his heavenly abode on 9th of June, A.D. 373. His major feast is commemorated each year in the Syriac Orthodox Church on the first Saturday of the Great Lent.

Syriac Prayers for the Feast of Mor Aphrem: https://tinyurl.com/yuexnbkp 

Full biography: https://goo.gl/UdL5oF

Video biography in Syriac/Aramaic: https://youtu.be/ha-alKjPeqA

Testament of Mor Aphrem, Syriac Hymn "Eno Afrem Moyethno" https://youtu.be/aeqURwDo3K0

Hymn in English: https://youtu.be/jA8RTTaKyxg

Syriac hymns of Mor Aphrem from the Beth Gazo: https://youtu.be/5ZUFCvMdaog

Bovooso of Mor Aphrem in Malayalam: https://youtu.be/VnRrylT4qSE

Ephrem's Madroshe & the Syriac Orthodox Beth Gazo by HE Mor Gregorios Yohanna Ibrahim & malfono George Kiraz: https://tinyurl.com/3x5rbxkr 

യുൽഫോനോ ദ് അപ്രേം പഠന പരമ്പര (courtesy Hymonutho): https://bit.ly/3nl1aqD

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The Forty-five Martyrs of Nicopolis in Armenia suffered during the reign of Emperor Licinius (311-324), who was then co-regent with Saint Constantine the Great (May 21). Licinius, the ruler of the Eastern Empire, fiercely persecuted Christians and issued an edict to put to death any Christian who would not return to paganism.

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Delegate, entombed in Mulanthuruthy Church

Also known as John of Rome, was the son of Eutropius and Theodora, believing parents. His parents constructed a shrine for their son.

Vat. LXIX

In hagiography: Athanasius was a monk of Ṭur ʿAbdin, 7th century

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In hagiography: The widow Sophia and her daughter Euphemia quarter a Goth serving in the Roman army in Edessa. The Goth forces Sophia to give Euphemia to him in marriage, but he then enslaves her. The intercession of Sts. Habib, Gurias & Samona saves Euphemia and returns her to Edessa

Life of St. Sophia and her daughter St. Euphemia the martyr: https://bit.ly/VitaEuphemiaSophia

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Probably this is St. Matthew the Recluse of Qartmin (visited St. John Chrysostom in exile), mentioned in the Life of Mor Samuel of Qartmin

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Mother of St. Euphemia

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

Life of St. Sophia and her daughter St. Euphemia the martyr: https://bit.ly/VitaEuphemiaSophia

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

July 12 is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. John of Mardin according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Yuhannon, born Joseph was a monk of the Edessan mountains. In 1125AD, he was elevated to bishop of Mardin & its Environs (Dara, Khabura, Kafrtut, & Talbsam). He was instrumental in renovating Dayro d-Mor Hananyo (St. Ananias Monastery/Kurkmo Dayro/Deyrulzafran/Saffron Monastery). In addition, he renovated & constructed 24 other monasteries & churches.

He convened a council presided by Maphrian Mor Ignatius II, where he set 40 canons for the conduct of the monks, & another 41 more canons for monks in his diocese specifically. He composed a 36 page treatise on the mystery of the Holy Chrism along with other liturgical subjects.

Mor Yuhannon was known for his architectural proficiency, the renovated monasteries & churches standing as testament. In 1165 he left for the Heavenly Abode. Patriarch Mor Mikhayel the Great composed a poem eulogizing him along with instituting a date in St. John's honor.

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

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

Martyred with St. Hilary

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

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Egyptian, possibly https://www.copticchurch.net/synaxarium/11_22.html?lang=en#1

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

Founder of Coenobitic Monasticism

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H.G. Mor Chrisostomos Markose, Metropolitan of the Evangelical Association of the East was consecrated on July 14th 2006 by late H.H. Mor Ignatius Zakka I.

http://syriacchristianity.info/bio/MalankaraPrelates/bio_ChrisMarkose.htm

Among the Seventy Two (72) Disciples

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

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Martyr

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July 15th is the Commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Kuriakose & his mother St. Julietta according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Quryaqos was born in the city of Iconium (Konya, Turkey). His mother Mort Yuliti descended from a noble family, & she was a very pious Christian known for helping the poor when not in fervent prayer. She raised her son on her own, as her husband an army officer died early in Kuriakose's life.

It was during that time, the Roman Emperor Diocletian instigated the worst period of persecution that Christendom had known. To protect her son & escape from the oncoming danger, Yuliti fled to Selucia along with their two maids. Unfortunately, there too Christians were persecuted so they finally escaped to Tarsus the birth place of St. Paul. The Roman tetrarch (governor) Alexandros, shared the same zeal in persecuting Christians as that of the emperor, & had all Christians arrested & brought before him.

Yuliti with her child was arrested & presented before Alexandros. Despite repeated warnings, Yuliti would not stop proclaiming that she is a Christian in front of an enraged Alexandros. She was thrown to the ground while soldiers grabbed Kuriakose. Alexandros tempted Yuliti, telling her that if she renounced Christ he'd let her son go free. She defiantly disagreed, saying even a child like her son would never renounce Christ. The solders then brutally beat her.

Alexandros asked Kuriakose, “Would you agree to worship the idols?” Young Kuriakose replied: “Your idols are made of stone & wood; my real God is Jesus Christ.” When Yulithi heard this, she was filled with courage & shouted, “I am a Christian; I worship the real God Jesus Christ who made heaven & earth." Then Kuriakose also shouted “I am a Christian; I am a Christian.”

In a fit of rage, Alexandros slammed Kuriakose to the ground on the concrete steps, & the boy died immediately. Thus at the tender age of 3, Mor Quryaqos attained the crown of martyrdom. Yuliti prayed, “Thank you my Lord because you considered Kuriakose worthy of receiving this glorious crown. I ask you now my Savior to take me also." Alexandros, angered by Yuliti's indignation & steadfast faith, had her beheaded. Till her last breath she proclaimed 'I am a Christian' as she too attained the crown of martyrdom.

A few decades later, the Christian Roman Emperor St. King Constantine the Great came to power, & built a Church at the site of their martyrdom. Their relics are venerated with great devotion.

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

Oh Mor Quryaqos & Mort Yuliti! May your intercession strengthen the faith of true believers during these times of great persecution. Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

Tone for the Feast of Saints: 8

Syriac Prayers for dukhrono Mor Quryaqos u Yuliti Emeh: https://tinyurl.com/bdevx73h 

Hoothomo by HG Mor Osthatheos Issac: https://youtu.be/jpTWdAExu78

Biography in Malayalam courtesy Fr. Greger R. Kollanoor: https://tinyurl.com/27j8b4ts 

Malayalam sermon & biography by Shamosho Yuhannon: https://youtu.be/uH9VK7ifAF0

https://urhotheway.com/2020/07/13/sts-yulithi-and-kuriakose/

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Fixed Feast

"according to (the reckoning of) the Greeks, – the commemoration of Jacob, bishop of Nisibis"

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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Martyrs, near the Tigris river

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July 31st is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Anthimus according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church. He was the last Orthodox Patriarch of Constantinople.

The Orthodox Churches refused to accept the Council of Chalcedon held in 451AD, only accepting the 3 Holy Ecumenical Synods & espousing the Miaphysite Christological formula of St. Cyril. Mor Anthimus was originally the Archbishop of Trebizond. He regularly corresponded with Mor Severus of Antioch & Mor Theodosius of Alexandria. With the help of St. Empress Theodora, Anthimus became the Patriarch of Constantinople following the death of Epiphanius. Emperor Justinian had resolved to enforce the Chalcedonian decrees universally, & the metropolitans, clergy & faithful who refused to accept the decrees were punished with imprisonment, deprivation, exile or death. Roman Pope Agapetus arrived in Constantinople & with the support of the Emperor he exiled Anthimus, & recognised the Chalcedonian Mennas as the Patriarch. Anthimus was forced into exile, being taken into the protection of Empress Theodora.

With the support of the Ghassanid King al-Harith Ibn Jabalah al-Ghassani (The Ghassanids were an ethnic Arab Syriac Orthodox kingdom), St. Theodora managed to get Mor Yac'ub Burd'ono ordained as "universal bishop" by Patriarch Theodosius I of Alexandria, Patriarch Anthimus of Constantinople & another imprisoned metropolitan, to spread the Orthodox faith & ordain clergy. Thus the True Orthodox faith was able to survive even under Byzantine imperial persecution.

Patriarch Anthimus reposed while in exile & an Orthodox Patriarchate of Constantinople never succeeded him. However, his legacy lives on in the Oriental Orthodox Church. He is honored in the 5th Dypthic (Thubden d-Qadishe) every Sunday in the Syriac Orthodox Holy Qurbono.

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

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

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July 15th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Athanasius of Alexandria (St. Athanasius the Great) according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Athanasius was born in AD295 to wealthy Christian parents. He studied Theology & Greek mythology. He lived some years with St. Antony in the deserts spending time in prayers & meditation. He has also written the biography of the saint.

He was ordained a deacon in AD 319 by Patriarch Alexander & he served him as his secretary. At the time Arius, an old priest in Alexandria, taught that Jesus was not fully divine but he was only similar to God & was created at the beginning of creation. In AD325 the Ecumenical Council held in Nicaea put Arius on trial & denounced him. The council confirmed the error of his teaching. The primary opponent was deacon Athanasius who worked as the secretary of Patriarch Alexander in this Council.

Upon the demise of Patriarch Alexander in AD328, Athanasius who was only 33 at that time ascended the throne. There were many allegations against him & he was banished five times. There were even attempts on his life. The Arius faction severed the arm of a dead man to be presented as a proof that it was the right arm of Episcopo Arsanios who was murdered by Athanasius. Their allegations were proved baseless when Arsanius himself was presented before them.

A Synod at Tyre excommunicated him. Two years later he returned to the diocese. Again in AD339, a synod with the connivance of Eusebius, bishop of Nicomedia, banished him. He was given sanctuary by Mor Yulios of Rome. The Serdica synod in AD343 re-established him in his ecclesiastical rights & declared him the lawful Patriarch of Alexandria.

His episcopate lasted for forty five years till AD 373. Of these he had spent seventeen years in hiding, in deserts & in foreign countries. In spite of all the trials he succeeded in transferring true faith to the next generation.

Mor Athanasius is commemorated every Sunday in the Thubden d-Qadishe (5th Thubden/Dypthic) of the Syriac Orthodox Church Holy Qurbono.

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

Oh Mor Athanasius! Plead for the Holy Church, that her children and hierarchy remain steadfast in the true faith always! Amen.

https://urhotheway.com/2020/08/18/st-athanasius/

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July 16th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Andrew the Holy Apostle +60 according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Andrayos Sleeho, the brother of St. Peter, was a native of the town of Bethsaida in Galilee, & a fisherman by profession. Being first a disciple of St. John the Baptist, he later joined Jesus Christ, bringing to Him his elder brother Simon, with whom he became a member of the Holy Apostles.

Tradition states that he travelled in Jordan, Arabia, Phoenicia (modern Lebanon) Osreon (South eastern Turkey) & preached the Gospel among people who spoke Armenian language. Besides that he travelled across Cappodocia, Bithynia, Galatia around the Black sea & went to Acacia. It is even believed that he carried the Gospel as far as Russia & Poland, & that he preached at Byzantium.

He is said to have been martyred by crucifixion as he precipitated the anger of the Roman provincial Governor. When he reached Patras/Patrae in Achaia/Acaia, he heard the Governor’s wife Maxilla (Maximilla) was on her deathbed. As he arrived at their palace he found Aegeates, the Governor with a drawn sword ready to kill himself after the imminent death of his wife. As St. Andrew prayed she recovered & accepted Jesus Christ as her saviour. Her brother-in-law also accepted the Christian belief. The Governor was furious as his brother & wife converted to Christianity & consequently Andrew was imprisoned.

It is recorded that a debate ensued as St. Andrew spread the true faith & spoke against the worship of idols & during the trial he was condemned to be crucified. In prison he influenced other prisoners & many repented. The Governor on hearing about this, issued orders to crucify him.

When Andrew saw the cross made of olive wood in the shape of ‘X‘ (St. Andrew's Cross) he hugged it with great happiness. He prayed, “May Jesus who saved me through the Cross accept me now by the same cross.” He was not nailed but bound to the cross tightly & the cross was made to stand erect. He suffered hunger, thirst & intense pain for two days in the same posture. Even in the midst of his agony he was preaching the word of God. Half an hour before his ordeal came to an end his face lit up, then his soul departed for its heavenly abode. Thus Mor Andrayos attained the crown of martyrdom. He was entombed in Patras at the order of Maxilla. The relics of the saint was later taken to Constantinople in 357, & deposited in the church of the Holy Apostles, built by Constantine the Great.

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

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

Vat. LXIX

July 16th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Nicholas of Myra +341 according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Nicholovos or better known by the Syriacs as Mor Zokhe, was the bishop of Myra. He was born at Patara in Lycia (in modern Turkey), a province of Asia Minor. It is recorded that as soon as he was born he stood up & glorified God. When he grew up he adopted the ascetic way of life, & went on a pilgrimage to Palestine to visit the holy places. He eventually became the bishop of Myra which was an Episcopal See under the jurisdiction of Holy See of Antioch. During the rule of emperor Diocletian, Nicholas faced great persecution, torture & imprisonment. He was finally freed by Constantine. Tradition states he was among the 318 holy fathers at the Council of Nicaea in 325AD.

St. Nicholas is the true personality behind the story of Santa Claus or Papa Noel, who leaves presents for children on Christmas Eve. In bestowing charity, Saint Nicholas always strove to do this secretly & conceal his good deeds. The most famous story tells of a poor man with 3 daughters. In those days a young woman's father had to offer prospective husbands something of value—a dowry. The larger the dowry, the better the chance that a young woman would find a good husband. Without a dowry, a woman was unlikely to marry. This poor man's daughters, without dowries, were therefore destined to be sold into slavery. Mysteriously, on three different occasions, a bag of gold appeared in their home, providing the needed dowry. On finding out it was Nicholas who provided them money, the man bowed down at his feet & paid him great homage & thanked him because he saved his daughters from poverty & from a life of sin. The saint refused to accept any thanks & asked them to thank the Lord who put this thought in his heart. The bags of gold, tossed through an open window, are said to have landed in stockings or shoes left before the fire to dry. This led to the custom of children hanging stockings or putting out shoes, eagerly awaiting gifts from Saint Nicholas. Over the centuries, his legend evolved into the custom of gift-giving on the saint’s feast. In the English-speaking countries, St. Nicholas became, by a twist of the tongue, Santa Claus—further expanding the example of generosity portrayed by this holy man.

The name of the great saint of God, the hierarch & wonder-worker Nicholas, a speedy helper & suppliant for all hastening to him, is famed in all the ends of the earth, in many lands & among many peoples. The great veneration with which this saint has been honored for many ages & the number of altars & churches which have been everywhere dedicated in his memory are testimonials to his saintliness. He is especially venerated in the Syriac Orthodox Church. We can even read in the Coptic Synaxarium (calendar of saints) that: "On this day, [Baramouda 15] the church commemorates the consecration of the first altar that was built by the Jacobite Christians (Syriac Orthodox), who were residing in the land of Egypt for St. Nicholas, bishop of Myra." Many Syriac Orthodox Churches have his relics, including churches in Malankara (India). After 40 years of episcopal service in service of God, St. Nicholas entered into eternal rest & was entombed in his own cathedral in Myra. On his feast day, Syriac children are greeted by St. Nicholas & they receive gifts from him as they sing hymns.

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

Homily on St. Nicholas by St. Jacob of Sarug: https://bit.ly/NicholasZokheSerugh 

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

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Centurion who pierced the side of Christ.

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https://www.copticchurch.net/synaxarium/11_24.html?lang=en#2

Vat. LXIX

July 18th is the commemoration of the Feast of St. Stephen, chief among the deacons & first of the Martyrs (Hido d'Mor Estefanous ris'ho damshamshone u qadmoyo dsohde) according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Estefanous was a Jew who probably lived in one of the Hellenic provinces of the Roman Empire & was among the minority Jewish community who spoke Greek instead of Hebrew.  He would later come to live in Jerusalem & became a Christian. At the time, the Christians were divided into the Hebrew speaking & the Greek speaking minority(Hellenists). The Hellenists felt neglected & marginalized within the Christian community. The Holy Apostles asked the faithful to choose seven men of good repute, full of Holy Spirit & wisdom; to be appointed for the business which the apostles themselves were too busy for. The apostles ordained them the first Deacons of the Church (Acts 6:6) who would strengthen the faith of the community & spread the word of God to the multitude. Among the 7, Stephen was the head. He is described as, "a man full of faith & the Holy Ghost" (Acts 6:5).

Deacon Stephen was an eloquent speaker & performed wondrous miracles (Acts 6:8). This provoked hostility of the elders of some synagogues in Jerusalem. They were not able to resist the wisdom of Stephen. They secretly introduced men to accuse him of blasphemy. Stephen was seized & taken to the Sanhedrin (the Jewish Council). At the council, false witnesses were set up against him. Undismayed, he replied tactfully. As the members of the council listened to Stephen, they became furious. But full of Holy Spirit, he looked up to heaven & saw the glory of God & Jesus on the right hand (Acts 7:54-56). The council & the angered crowd took him outside the city & stoned him. The murderers laid their clothes on the ground to be guarded by Saul, who would later become St. Paul. As Stephen died, he cried, “Lord, do not charge them with this sin” & he prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit” (Acts 7:58-60). Thus Mor Estefanous attained the crown of martyrdom. He is commemorated every Sunday in the 4th Thubden/Dypthic of the Holy Qurbono, “the illustrious St. Stephen, chief of the Deacons, & first of the Martyrs.”

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

Oh Mor Estefanous! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. May your intercession be with all the deacons of our Holy Church. Amen.

In the tradition of the Syriac Orthodox Church in the Middle East and their Suryoye diaspora, St. Stephen’s day on January 8th is a special day where a full-deacon (Shamosho Evengeloyo) is also allowed to read the Evengalion Qadisho (The Holy Gospel) during the Holy Qurbono or Prayers. Nowadays, lower ranks of the deaconate such as Aphudykano and Quroyo are also given the chance, with the discretion of the celebrant (because not all parishes have a full-deacon and according to old canons only 7 full deacons allowed per diocese). This tradition is currently not practiced in Malankara.

The Holy Bible readings from the Church Lectionary:

Evening:
St. Mark 12:1-12

Morning:
St. John 8:34-59

Before Holy Qurbono:
Deuteronomy 34:7-12
Isaiah 37:8-20
Bar Sirach 50:1-12, Chapter 30, 51:4
II Chronicles 24:20-25

Holy Qurbono:
Acts 7:54-8:2
I Corinthians 1:10-17, 16:15-24
St. Matthew 23:34-39

Tone of the day: 8

Hymn from Sh'himo of Wednesday Evening: https://youtu.be/Ue9kWhdDjXM

Syriac Prayers: https://tinyurl.com/2e5jd3dw 

Huthomo: https://youtu.be/3ifVtMsGNwk

http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/sermons/Sermon-of-the-week_Martyrdom-St-Stephen.htm

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"at Synnada, Makedonios, and Lampīras, and Antigonos, and Iovinos, and Viktorinos, and Tatianos"

Possibly Sts. Macedonius, Tatian, and Theodulus, in Phrygia and others?

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Older sister of St. Basil of Caesarea and St. Gregory of Nyssa

https://st-takla.org/Full-Free-Coptic-Books/Coptic-Synaxarium-or-Synaxarion_English/11-Abeeb/Coptic-Calendar_25-Epep.html#4.

Vat. LXIX

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July 20th 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

July 20th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Anthimus according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church. He was the last Orthodox Patriarch of Constantinople.

The Orthodox Churches refused to accept the Council of Chalcedon held in 451AD, only accepting the 3 Holy Ecumenical Synods & espousing the Miaphysite Christological formula of St. Cyril. Mor Anthimus was originally the Archbishop of Trebizond. He regularly corresponded with Mor Severus of Antioch & Mor Theodosius of Alexandria. With the help of St. Empress Theodora, Anthimus became the Patriarch of Constantinople following the death of Epiphanius. Emperor Justinian had resolved to enforce the Chalcedonian decrees universally, & the metropolitans, clergy & faithful who refused to accept the decrees were punished with imprisonment, deprivation, exile or death. Roman Pope Agapetus arrived in Constantinople & with the support of the Emperor he exiled Anthimus, & recognised the Chalcedonian Mennas as the Patriarch. Anthimus was forced into exile, being taken into the protection of Empress Theodora.

With the support of the Ghassanid King al-Harith Ibn Jabalah al-Ghassani (The Ghassanids were an ethnic Arab Syriac Orthodox kingdom), St. Theodora managed to get Mor Yac'ub Burd'ono ordained as "universal bishop" by Patriarch Theodosius I of Alexandria, Patriarch Anthimus of Constantinople & another imprisoned metropolitan, to spread the Orthodox faith & ordain clergy. Thus the True Orthodox faith was able to survive even under Byzantine imperial persecution.

Patriarch Anthimus reposed while in exile & an Orthodox Patriarchate of Constantinople never succeeded him. However, his legacy lives on in the Oriental Orthodox Church. He is honored in the 5th Dypthic (Thubden d-Qadishe) every Sunday in the Syriac Orthodox Holy Qurbono.

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

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

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July 20th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Hadbshabo +355 according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Bar Hadbshabo means "son of Sunday" He was a deacon from Arabela(modern day Arbil/Erbil Iraq) He lived during the reign of the Persian Sassanid emperor Sharpur II. During this time, Sharpur II was carrying out one of the fiercest waves of persecution on the Christians of his empire.

Sapor Tamsapor the governor of Adiabene, ordered deacon Hadbshabo be arrested & tortured. While they were torturing him, the tyrant said to the deacon, "Worship fire & water, eat the blood of animals, & at once your torments will cease & you are free." However the Saint too happy to suffer for his God, smiled & insulted the tyrant, "Who are you, he cried to him, to force me to abjure the religion of my childhood? I swear by the God whom I love with all my soul & by his Christ, in whom I have placed my hope, neither you nor this king whose power you boast, nor torments, nothing can separate me of the charity of my Jesus, whom I have loved above all things from my tender childhood to my old age"

Tamsapor ordered Hadbshabo be beheaded. There was a apostate Christian named Aggai, who initially confessed his Christian faith & was imprisoned. However, he renounced his faith after Tamsapor agreed to free him if he executed Hadbshabo. The deacon was taken to the hills of Hazza village & tied to a post. Aggai struck the deacon 7 times but couldn't behead him, throwing away the sword in fear. But the gathered crowd chanted for him to continue. Aggai then took the sword & plunged it into the bowels of the deacon, killing him at once. Thus Mor Hadbshabo attained the crown of martyrdom. Aggai suddenly fell ill, his hand swelled up enormously, & he died days later from horrible disease as punishment. Tamsapor ordered the body of Mor Hadbshabo be guarded, but at night two clerics secretly took the body & entombed it.

The siege of Aynwardo (Einwardo/Gulgoze) village of Turkey is a piece of history which will not soon be forgotten. In 1915 the Ottoman Turkish nationalists & Kurdish allies began the great Genocide on the Christians known in Syriac as Sayfo (Year of the Sword). While most of the villages were unprepared for the onslaught of persecution, the inhabitants of Aynwardo village foresaw the coming violence. They further fortified their Church of Mor Hadbshabo and their hilltop village to defend themselves from any attack. After sending word to nearby areas, villagers from surrounding regions escaped & fled to the safety of Aynwardo. Every individual was given a job, even the clergy had to participate in battle.

The persecutors came & began their offensive. After 3 failed assaults, what was meant to be an easy task for the Kurdish warriors & Ottoman forces led to a 3 month long battle. The villagers of Aynwardo sparingly using what little they had to make sure their village & all who sought refuge there stayed safe. The attackers were fed up & wanted an end to the battle, which they were losing despite having a far greater number of soldiers & better weapons. After multiple failed negotiation attempts, finally sheik Fathullah brokered a peace deal, with him as the guarantor. The sheik was from the Mohallemi tribe (Syriac Christians who converted in the 1300s because of a dispute with their bishop) who did not take a side in the genocide, & so could be trusted. While around 500,000 Syriacs died during the Syriac Genocide, the 6000-7000 who took refuge in Aynwardo at the fortified church of Mor Hadbshabo were spared. Thus Mor Hadbshabo has a special place in the hearts of the Syriac People, & they attribute the miracle of their safety to his intercession.

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

Acts of Mor Barhadbesabba: https://bit.ly/Hadbshabo  

To read the story of Aynwardo: https://goo.gl/rbFCV5 additionally one can read 'From the Holy Mountain' by William Dalrymple.

Martyrs

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

Mor Severus Sebokht, Bishop of Qinneshrin was a skillful and famous Doctor, a mathematician, a philosopher, nay the first scholar of the church who explored the obscurities of astronomical and natural sciences.

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

St. Severus the Great of Antioch speaks about the "strangers" in his Cathedral Homily 76 (LXXVI) entitled, "When we celebrated, according to custom, remembrance and supplication for all the poor and strangers who were buried in the places called πανδέκτασ, that is to say, those who receive all, and are buried in it."

https://www.doaks.org/research/byzantine/fellows/doerfler-2013-2014

Hymn of St. Severus of Antioch on the Cemeteries (πανδέκτης) Which Are Called 'Pandektai' or 'Receiying All'; Which Among the Syrians Are Named 'Strangers' graves':

"The eyes of all men hope in thee" (Psalms 145:15) "So are our eyes toward thee, Lord our God" (Psalms 123:2)

"Lifting up the hidden eyes of our mind toward thee, Christ, Maker of all, Who dwellest in heaven, and think­ing upon Thy saving and life-giving Cross, which of Thine own will Thou in Thy grace took upon Thee to undergo in the flesh on behalf of the righteous and on behalf of sinners, on the present day we celebrate the memory of those who have fallen asleep, the poor and the strangers and those who have returned and gone with them to the earth from which they were taken, and we commemorate those whose memorial is with Thee, in the infallible hope of the resurrection from among the dead that is promised us; and we entreat Thy mercy with them to admit us also, when we shall end in peace the span of the life of time, to the portion and inheritance and the mansions of the just whom thou hast loved, through the intercession of all thy saints, according to the abundance of Thy great mercy."

St. Severus the Great of Antioch Cathedral Homily # 76

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𝐇𝐄 𝐌𝐨𝐫 𝐆𝐚𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐥 𝐃𝐚𝐡𝐡𝐨 was Archbishop and Patriarchal Vicar of Jerusalem, Jordan and the Holy Lands.

The late Mor Gabriel passed away on July 21st 2022 after a long struggle with illness at the age of 52.

Prophet Ezekiel was a priest, and Nebuchadnezzar exiled him with king Jehoiachin to Babylon. There in the land of the Chaldeans by the river Chebar, the spirit of the Lord was upon him, and he prophesied about wondrous things for twenty two years. He spoke concerning the birth of the Lord Christ by the Lady the Virgin St. Mary and how after she had borne Him, she would remain a virgin: "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" (Ezekiel 44:1-2). He prophesied concerning the baptism that sanctify the soul of the man and his body, soften his stony heart, and make him a son of God by the descent of the Holy Spirit upon him. He admonished the priests for their forsaken the teaching of the people, warning them that God will ask for their souls from them if they neglect teaching them. He prophesied concerning the common resurrection and the rising of the bodies with their souls, and about their rewards for whatever they deserve. He said many useful sayings which are of benefit to those who read them, and God manifested through him many signs and great wonders. When the children of Israel worshipped idols in Babylon, he rebuked them and their leaders rose up and killed him. They buried him in the tomb of Shem and Arphaxad.
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Saint Mary was from Magdala in Galilee on the Sea of Tiberias, and for this was named Magdalene. When the Lord Jesus cast out seven demons from her, from which she had been suffering, she became His faithful and inseparable disciple, following Him and ministering unto Him even to the time of His crucifixion and burial. Then, returning to Jerusalem together with the rest of the Myrrh-bearers, she prepared the fragrant spices for anointing the body of the Lord. And on the Lord's day they came very early to the tomb, even before the Angels appeared declaring the Resurrection of the Lord. When Mary Magdalene saw the stone taken away from the tomb, she ran and proclaimed it to Peter and John. And returning immediately to the tomb and weeping outside, she was deemed worthy to be the first of the Myrrh-bearers to behold the Lord arisen from the dead, and when she fell at His feet, she heard Him say, "Touch Me not."

After the Lord's Ascension, nothing certain is known concerning her. Some accounts say that she went to Rome and later returned to Jerusalem, and from there proceeded to Ephesus, where she ended her life, preaching Christ. Although it is sometimes said that Saint Mary Magdalene was the "sinful woman" of the Gospel, this is nowhere stated in the tradition of the Church, in the sacred hymnology, or in the Holy Gospels themselves, which say only that our Lord cast seven demons out of her, not that she was a fallen woman. "Madeleine" is a form of Magdalene.

https://urhotheway.com/2020/07/21/st-mary-magdalene/

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The Martyrdom of St Phokas of Sinope

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Martyr, with Trophimus, and thirteen martyrs with them, suffered during the persecution against Christians under the emperor Diocletian (284-305). Brought to trial, they bravely confessed themselves Christians and refused to offer sacrifice to idols. After fierce tortures, they broke the legs of the holy martyrs and threw them into a fire. Strengthened by the Lord, they came out of the fire completely unharmed, and they glorified Christ all the more. Unable to break the will of the holy confessors, the torturers beheaded them.
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Bishop

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July 24th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Mathew the Hermit according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Mattai Renuoyo was born in the early 4th century in the city of Amid or in a village close by. Little is known about his early life. Mor Mattai was a monk in that region when the anti-Christian persecution of Julian the apostate took place.

In 361, Mor Mattai & other monks were forced to flee to Nineveh where he found a hermitage on Alfaf Mountain in the Nineveh plains. It was during that time that he met prince St. Behnam, the son of Sencharib, during a hunting trip. Mattai taught him about Christianity & Behnam became a disciple of Mattai. Impressed by his teachings, Behnam went back to his mother & persuaded her to let him take his sister Sara, who had leprosy, to the saint. She was cured by the saint & after the miracle, both Sara and Behnam were baptized by the saint alongside Behnam's forty companions. Upon learning of his children's conversion, King Sencharib killed his children & their forty companions on a hill in Nimrud.

The king was then struck with a disease. Behnam appeared to his mother in a dream & told her to get Mor Mattai. She did & the saint cured the king. To show his gratitude, the king built a monastery in the mountain where Mor Mattai healed his daughter. This became known as Dayro d-Mor Mattai Nineveh.

Biography courtesy of Syriac Orthodox Resources

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

About Dayro d-Mor Mattai Nineveh: https://goo.gl/Tzgo4a

Biography in Arabic: https://goo.gl/ZTTVvm

https://urhotheway.com/2020/09/17/st-matthew-the-hermit/

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

He was a former servant of pagans

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July 24th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. James the Just +62AD according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Yac'ub was the first Archbishop of Jerusalem. He is the brother of Jesus by virtue of being born to a previous wife of Joseph. He was called 'James the Just' because he was a righteous man who was steadfast in prayer, frequently found alone in the church, praying on his knees so often that they became hard as camel.

He wrote the general Epistle in his name. Mor Yac'ub formulated the Divine Liturgy known as the Anaphora of St. James. This is the oldest form of worship in the history of Christianity. This form of worship is the 'Holy Qurbono' preserved & handed down through the centuries by the Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch.

Persecutors of James demanded a denial of his faith in Jesus Christ in public. He instead affirmed his faith that Christ, our Lord & Saviour, is the Son of God. They threw him down from the top of the church. Even though he survived the fall, he was subsequently beaten to death with a fuller’s club. Thus Mor Yac'ub attained the crown of martyrdom.

St. John of Dara in his 'Commentary on the Eucharist' (quoting Sts. Basil, Epiphanius, & John Chrysostom) states that Christ himself entrusted the Qurobo to James on third day of the week of Pentecost; who then communicated St. John the Apostle who finally communicated St. Mary the mother of God. The Syriac Orthodox Church continues to use a part of the prior Qurobo in preparation of the next lahmo (Eucharist Bread) thereby maintaining the unbroken connection to the Holy Apostles for the last 2000 years.

Mor Yac'ub is commemorated every Sunday in the Thubden d-Qadishe (5th Thubden/Dypthic) of the Syriac Orthodox Church Holy Qurbono; describing him as, “Jacob, the first Archbishop of Jerusalem, the Apostle & martyr”.

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

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

RSoH

Abdul Messih was a Jewish shepherd boy (formally known as Aser) who lived near Sinjar in the Persian Empire. He converted to Christianity and pierced his ear to put on an earring, apparently the sign of slavery. He was martyred by his father.

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Constantine, bishop of Edessa was one of the most noted disciples of Jacob of Edessa with whom he was a monk at the Monastery of Eusebona. He held the office of bishop in several dioceses including, Emesa and, after the death of Jacob, Edessa. He also participated in the synod held at Manazgirt in 726.

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St. Anna the mother of St. Mary

Virgin martyr

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

July 26th is the anniversary of the Catholicos Enthronement of His Beatitude Mor Baselius Thomas I.

On Friday July 26, 2002 the thrice blessed late Patriarch of Antioch and all the East His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas of blessed memory consecrated then 73-year old HG Mor Dionysius Thomas as the Catholicos (Maphriyano) with the title 'Baselius Thomas I' at a solemn function held at St. Peter & St. Paul Cathedral in Mor Ephrem Monastery, Ma`arat Sayyidnaya, near Damascus. Thus, fulfilling the wishes of a multitude of faithful, the Malankara Church received a Catholicos after a gap of six years (late Catholicos of the East Mor Baselios Paulose II of blessed memory died in 1996).

In the Syriac Orthodox Church hierarchy, the Catholicos (Maphrian) is second in rank to the supreme spiritual head, the Patriarch of Antioch and all the East. As the head of the Syriac Church in India, the Catholicos presides over the Holy Episcopal Synod of the Malankara Church. He is also the Metropolitan Trustee of the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church.

Fourteen Syriac Orthodox Metropolitans from India, Syria, Sweden, Netherlands, Germany, Lebanon, Jerusalem, Turkey & Australia attended the enthronement ceremony as co-celebrants. Thirtyfive Rabans, many clergy, nuns & laity were also present on the occasion to participate in the historical ceremony. Representatives from the Governments of Syria & India attended the consecration ceremony as special guests. The consecration ceremony started with the celebration of Holy Qurbono by HH the Patriarch, followed by the enthronement, signing of 'Susthathikon' (Patriarchal decree of appointment) & 'Axios' (Rising & Declaration). The ceremonial events ended with the completion of the Holy Qurbono by the newly consecrated HB Catholicos Mor Baselius Thomas I. The Sunthroniso was held at Marthoma Cheriyapally Kothamangalam on 31st July 2002.

Barekmor Abun! Congratulations to our Bavathirumeni on this blessed day. May God almighty grant you many more years to shepherd the Malankara Jacobite Church. Remember us all in your prayers and Holy Qurbono.

http://www.syriacchristianity.info/StGG/Catholicos_ThomasI.htm

In hagiography: Andronicus was a married man from Alexandria. His wife was Athanasia, and when their children died, they lived apart as monastics. In the Syriac version of the story of Athanasia, she is found living in the desert as a eunuch by the monk Daniel of Scetis. Daniel and his disciple give her the sacraments before she dies, and when she dies, they discover that she was a woman.

Vat. LXIX

Martyrs Hermolaus, Hermippus and Hermocrates of Nicomedia, were among the small number of those remaining alive after 20,000 Christians were burned alive in a church at Nicomedia in the year 303, on the orders of the emperor Maximian (284-305).

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Patriarch of Antioch

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July 27th is the Commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Osio +377 according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Osio was born to God fearing Christian parents who were childless for many years. They prayed unceasingly to have a child, & God blessed them with Osio. An angel appeared to a monk named Mark, telling him to baptize the child with the name Osio (Syriac for doctor), for God will work many wonders through the child.

His parents wanted him to marry the governor's daughter, but Osio refused. He left to Jerusalem, desiring to give up worldly comforts, choosing to follow the divine path instead. Eventually, Osio was ordained as a priest. He then journeyed to Mount Sinai where he stayed for sometime, finally reaching the Kafra desert. It was here that he met Mor Dimet, becoming his disciple. Mor Osio stayed with Mor Dimet for 14 years until the latter's demise.

Osio was well known for his prayerful life, strict asceticism & most importantly his fasting. He evangelized many & carried out great charity work. Thousands of individuals followed Christ after hearing his preaching. Osio traveled to Homs, Antioch & Nicodemia, healing the sick & protecting the villagers from wild animals. After returning to Antioch from Nicodemia, Osio realized his end was near. He called his students to his deathbed & said, “Children, I am going. As long as you live on this earth, do not deviate from the path I have taught you. Be careful not to fall into faulty ways. Continue worshipping God. Always tread the path of virtue & purity. This world and everything in it are mere shadows.” Mor Osio left for the heavenly abode in AD377. His dukhrono is a major feast for the Syriac Orthodox faithful of Aleppo on October 15th.

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

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

RSoH

Life of Mor Osio in Garshuni: https://bit.ly/OsioGarshuni

July 27th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Simon the Stylite +459 according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Shem'un Destonoyo was born in the village of Sesan, a place on the border of Cicilia & Syria in 392AD. His father's name was John & his mother's name was Martha. Before his mother had conceived of him, St. John the Baptist appeared to her in a dream & told her of her conception & what her son would become. Simon was a shepherd at a young age. While in the fields with his flock, an angel of the Lord appeared in a vision. Later, he disposed of his properties & the assets of his aunt, which had been entrusted to him. He distributed part of the proceeds among the poor & needy. The remaining assets he took to the monastery of Eusebona at Tell ‘Ada, situated between Antioch & Alleppo. He joined the monastery with his brother Shemse when he was in the teens.

Later, he dug a pit of about 4 ft in the garden & stood in the pit for about two months. After the midnight prayer he used to stand with a big stone hung around his neck. He also stood on a roller to resist sleep in the night. His fellow hermits were jealous about these practices of Simon & raised some false accusations against him. Thus, he left the monastery of Eusebona. The head of the monastery gave him four coins which he refused to accept saying, “May your prayers be the viaticum for me.” Mor Shem'un then reached the village of Telanissos(modern day Taladah), Deir Samaan. He sat beneath a tree & prayed, “O God, My Lord, by Thy will you protected me from all adversities. Help & guide me until I reach the heavenly abode.” He then reached the nearby Monastery of Morris. He healed several sick people while staying in this monastery. St. Simon was in the habit of observing the forty-day lent in all its seriousness. During the forty-day lent he did not eat anything. In AD423, he prepared a platform of about 4 ft. high & stood on it for about five years. Mor Shem'un went around the nearby villages to preach the Gospel. Angels, prophets Elijah & Moses appeared to him. Several miracles happened through the prayers of St. Simon. He later left the Monastery of Morris, to a nearby hilltop.

St. Simon spent about forty years on a pillar upon the hilltop. He prayed, “O Lord, my God, let not the hands of mortal men be necessary for my help. Let not me step down from this pillar to see men on earth. Help me O Lord to end my life on this pillar on which I ascended by your grace. According to Thy will, accompany the soul of Thy servant from this place.” Satan became envious of the saint for all his good deeds. St. Simon developed ulcers which caused him to suffer for 9 months. Emperor Theodosius sent 3 bishops to make St. Simon step down, but he refused. Instead, he spent his time in prayer & fasting. The Saint asked Christ to supply him with water, & a spring of water sprang up at the foot of the pillar. He preached to many people, taught them, & brought many back to the knowledge of Christ. He would write letters of instruction to those gathered. After his death in 459AD, his body was taken to Antioch in great veneration & entombed in a church there.

While Chalcedonians claim him to be a supporter of Chalcedon, Syriac letters in the British Museum written by Mor Shem'un Destonoyo indicate that he was a Miaphysite & opposed the result of the Council of Chalcedon in 451AD.

He is honored in the 5th Dypthic (Thubden d-Qadishe) every Sunday in the Syriac Orthodox Church.

A large complex was built in his honour comprising of 4 separate cathedrals with the pillar of Mor Shem'un as the central monument. Now known as Qalat Siman. It was a prominent pilgrimage site. It suffered major damage following an earthquake. Later it was sacked following the Muslim conquest of Syria. In 2011 it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. In 2012 it was taken over by terrorists. It was again heavily damaged by air strikes in 2016.

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

Oh Mor Shem'un Destonoyo! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

A Defense of the Orthodoxy of St. Simon the Stylite: http://bit.ly/3t6L3PJ

Hymns of St. Severus of Antioch on St. Simon the Stylite:

"Come, hear, and I will tell you"
The sublime and great height of the life of Simeon the just and righteous brings into the mind of believers the words of the Lord which he spoke, "A city that is I set upon the top of a hill cannot be hid". For by ascending to a sublime height of virtues he showed this clearly and by means of his stand­ing on the column, signifying that he is "a pillar and foundation of the truth" as it is written; drawing both unbelievers and barbarians to godliness, and those who were sitting in the darkness of error to the light of knowledge, like a brightly-shining star by its rising: by whose prayers, Saviour of all, have pity and mercy upon us.

St. Severus the Great of Antioch Cathedral Homily # 30

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Probably different from Mor Osio?

Martyr

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

On MASOCNA Calendar

Abba Poemon

July 28th is the anniversary of the demise of of HG Mor Osthatheos Thomas +2000. Late Mor Osthatheos Thomas was the former Bishop of Kochi Diocese.

Thomas was born on 5 June 1904 to Mathai Panthalumakkil, Sitharkuzhi(Pachilakkat) Puthenpurayil & Annamma. He spent his childhood at his native Puthuveli Koothatukulam. He received the order of Korooyo from Malankara Metropolitan St. Coorilos Paulose, Kochuparambil(Panampady) at the age of nine. He joined Pambakuda seminary for theology. He was the disciple of Rev. Raban Geevarghese Kochuparambil & Rev. Konat Mathen malfono & Metropolitan Mor Themotheos Augen. Following the advice of the Patriarchal Delegate, Mor Yulios Elias Qoro, he offered his services at St. Mathias Church, Madras. He later taught at St. Stephen’s Church School Keeramabara, Vadakara High School (11 years as headmaster), helped establish TTC School Vadakara, & helped start English Medium High School Perambur, Chennai.

The Malankara Synod selected him as a Metropolitan when he was 71. Mor Ignatius Yac'ub III of blessed memory consecrated him Metropolitan with the name Osthatheos on 12 June 1975. From 1975 to 1982, he was the assistant Metropolitan of Kandanad & Kottayam dioceses. He was appointed as the Metropolitan of Kochi during the first visit of late Patriarch Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas of blessed memory, to Malankara in 1982. He transformed Kymtha Chapel into the diocesan headquarters, & instituted many other developments across the diocese. He founded 'The Gregorian Academy.'

The Holy See honoured Mor Osthatheos by bestowing on him the title ‘Snugro’d Haymonoutho’ (the protector of faith). He was deputed to help HB Catholicos Baselius Paulose II who was unwell. He also did a commendable service as the chairman of the litigation committee of the Church. Thirumeni later retired from administrative duties, but continued training deacons of the diocese. He entered eternal rest at the age of 96 on July 28th 2000. Mor Osthatheos Thomas was entombed at ‘Kymtha Seminary' Cathedral, Thiruvankulam.

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

Huthomo sung by HG Mor Osthatheos Isaac (relative of late Mor Osthatheos Thomas) in memorial: https://youtu.be/Xq9JSZdrnjQ

Among the Seventy Two (72) Disciples

RSoH

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Daughter of Emperor Zeno and daughter of a nobleman.

RSoH

The Holy martyr Theodota and her three young children lived during the reign of the emperor Diocletian (284-305). She was a Christian, a native of the city of Nicea, Bithynia. After being widowed, Saint Theodota led a pious life and raised her sons in the Christian Faith. She had a spiritual friendship with Saint Anastasia

RSoH

Theodosius the Great (the younger)

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July 30th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of Mor Gregorios Yuhannon bar'Ebroyo +1286 according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Also known as Gregory Abu'l Faraj or bar Hebraeus, he was the son of Deacon Tajal-Din Ahroun who was a physician. Many historians mistakenly considered them Jewish converts to Christianity because of the name bar'Ebroyo (son of a Hebrew) & Aaron. However, Mor Gregorios himself has refuted the claim in a poem. On his Chrismation, he was given the name John. He was raised in Melitene, the birth place of many of our great Syriac scholars, philosophers, & historians. Their family had to leave Melitene because of Tatar raids against the city in 1243 AD, settling in the great city of Antioch, sadly even Antioch was ransacked by the Tartars after a few years. At the age of 18, bar'Ebroyo became a monk. He was then consecrated Metropolitan with the title Gregorios for the diocese of Gubos, later he was given the charge of Laqabin & then Aleppo. He was extremely fond of learning since his childhood. He learnt medicine from his father, studied the available Holy books with interpretations. After becoming a bishop, his zeal for learning from sources outside his own Church & nations increased as he encountered leaders & scholars of different peoples & Churches & had to debate them on matters of theology, politics etc. He completed his studies in medicine, then further went on to study the natural sciences of the Greeks, logic, & rhetoric (from the teacher, Nestorian bishop Jacob) from a multitude of the brightest minds of his time. Mor Gregorios was a polyglot who mastered Syriac, Arabic, Armenian, Persian. During this time he never neglected his duties to his Archdioceses, where tremendous growth was recorded under his tenure. Devastatingly, in 1258AD Aleppo was attacked by the Tartars, Mor Gregorios pleaded with the Tartar King to stop, but sadly countless people were killed in the massacre.

HH Patriarch Mor Ignatius IV Yeshu took notice of this bright star of the Church. In 1264 Mor Gregorios Yuhannon Bar'Ebroyo was consecrated as Maphryono of the East (Catholicos) in an elaborate ceremony held in the city of Sis, of the Armenian kingdom of Cilicia. The event was attended by thousands of faithful, Armenian King Hethum, countless religious & political dignitaries. His headquarters was Dayro d-Mor Mattai Nineveh however he would frequently visit Tabriz & Maragh, Iran. During his 22 year reign as Maphrian, bar'Ebroyo built countless churches, ordained many bishops, initiated many monastic orders. He worked tirelessly for the interests of the Syriac Orthodox Church & entered into dialogue with numerous political & religious leaders to secure the position of the Church & her faithful in society.

Mor Gregorios was a scholar par excellence. He is the Doctor of the Syriac Church for all times, ages & generations. The World History, Secular History, & Church History (Chronicon Ecclesiasticum) are his most acclaimed works which have been praised by countless scholars, Orientalists & historians. Bar'Ebroyo also wrote the magnum opus Ktobo d-Awsar Roze (The Book of the Storehouse of Mysteries) which is a commentary of the entire Holy Bible. His books Mnorath Kudshe (Lamp of the Sanctuary) & Ktobo d-zalge (Book of Rays) were heavily referenced by Dionysius Geevarghese Vattasseril in his book Mathopadesa Sarangal, & the books written by late Kadavil Thirumeni of blessed memory. In addition, bar'Ebroyo also wrote the Nomocanon (Ktobo d-hudoye or The Book of Directions) which is the official Canon Law of the Syriac Orthodox Church. A full list of his works can be found on https://goo.gl/FesZTD & in 'The History of Syriac Literature and Sciences' by late HH Patriarch Ignatius Aphrem I Barsoum of blessed memory. His abridged version of the St. James liturgy is currently followed by all the West-Syriac churches today.

On a visit to Maragha (Iranian Persia), Mor Gregorios fell ill with fever. He reposed in the Lord at the age of 60. Countless faithful, important political dignitaries & prominent religious leaders came to pay their respects at his funeral. In attendance was Nestorian Catholicos Mar Yahballaha III who recently moved his seat to Maragha. Bar'Ebroyo was buried in the Church of Maragha, but his remains were later transferred to Dayro d-Mor Mattai.

Maphryono Mor Gregorios Yuhannon bar'Ebroyo is described as "The Ocean of Wisdom," "The Light of East & West," "The Prince of Learning Men," "The Greatest Sage," "The Holy Father," "The Most Learned Man Possessing Divine Knowledge," & "The Encyclopedia of the 13th Century."  He is the Syriac Orthodox Church's greatest & boldest knight that could never be challenged or matched in all branches of learning, theological & otherwise.

Biography courtesy of, 'Martyrs, Saints and Prelates of the Syriac Orthodox Church' and Syriac Orthodox Resources (SOR website).

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

http://sor.cua.edu/Personage/BarcEbroyo/Budge.html

Lecture Series - Life and Works of Mor Gregorios Bar Ebroyo (courtesy Hymonutho): https://bit.ly/3E1oksM

Fixed Feast

"in the city of Nisibis, the martyrs Adelphos and Gaios"

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July 30th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Cyril Patriarch of Alexandria +444 according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Coorilos was born in 376 AD in Alexandria. He was consecrated bishop by his uncle. On 17 October, AD 412 he became the Patriarch of Alexandria.

Nestorius who ascended as the Patriarch of Constantinople in AD 421 started spreading heresies about Virgin Mary, the Mother of God. According to him Mary was mother only to the humanness of Christ, who earned His divinity only after His birth. Nestorius also indoctrinated that it was wrong to address Mary as the mother of God; instead she should be called only as the mother of Christ.

St. Cyril presided over the Council of Ephesus convened by Emperor Theodosyus II. The Council which commenced on 22 June, 431 AD was attended by one hundred and fifty-nine bishops. The Council of Ephesus analysed the heresies of Nestorius and declared that “in Jesus Christ the God head and man head have converged into one unity" and that Mary was the mother of God (Theotokos/Yoldath Aloho) The profound interpretations of St. Cyril earned him the title, “the Doctor of Incarnation” He also countered the opinions of Nestorius in a book titled, “The true faith about the Incarnation of Christ.”

St. Cyril is described in the fifth diptych (thubden) of the Holy Qurbono, as one who proved clearly the incarnation of Jesus Christ and as the tower of honesty. The glorious saint is also described as one who revealed the humanhood of the Word. He had learned theology from many eminent scholars but he encouraged instruction from none other than the very ancient teachers. It was a strong edict practiced by him. Mor Coorilos also wrote commentaries on the Gospels and other books of the Holy Bible.

The protector of True faith, St. Cyril, had to face much harassment from the disciples of Nestorius as he opposed their dissenting views. St. Cyril is presented as a quarrel monger by some historians but his stand was always clear, “peace is desirable but it should not be at the cost of faith”.

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

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

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July 30th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Dioscorus +454 according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Dioscorus I was the 25th Pope of Alexandria & presided over the second Holy Ecumenical Synod convened at St. Mary’s church in Ephesus on 8 August AD 449. It was attended by 150 bishops.The heresy that Jesus born of Mary possessed two natures even after the miraculous union, was condemned by this synod. This synod decided not to move away from the decision reached by all other universal synods prior to it. St. Dioscorus faced many tribulations as he refused to divert from the teachings of ancient Church fathers about Christology.

There was a schism following the decision of the AD449 synod, among the members of monasteries, prelates & administrators about the dual nature of Christ. As this dispute reached its height, the faithful Orthodox Emperor Theodosius died on 28 July AD450 without leaving an heir. His sister Pulcheria was a nun. The prelates of the Nestorian congregation who desired the support of the rulers allowed her to marry. She married Marcian & ascended the throne as the queen. Marcian supported the dyophysite position.

Mor Dioscorus had to face a trial in the Chalcedon Synod. He said Falvian of Constantinople was banished because he believed Christ had two natures after attaining the human form. He possessed letters of Church fathers like St. Athanasius, St. Gregory & St. Coorilos to prove that Jesus who attained the human form after the union has only one united nature (Miaphysite theology) & it was wrong to say he had dual separate natures, known as dyophysite theology. St. Dioscorus specifically stated at the Council, "One should not conceive of two natures but of one incarnate nature of the Word". He knew he too might be banished like those fathers but he was not ready to give up their teaching.

The Chalcedon Synod of AD451 suspended Mor Dioscorus & he was compelled by Marcian’s commander to sign the decisions of the synod. The saint refused saying, “Even if my hand is severed & blood flows over the paper I will not sign it.” Then according to the orders of Marcian he was banished to Gangra (now Cankri, Turkey) where he passed away 3 years later after consecrating Timothy II as legitimate Orthodox (Miaphysite) Pope of Alexandria. Mor Dioscorus 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 Dioscorus! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. By your prayers may the Holy Orthodox Church and her faithful be protected from all manner of persecution. Amen.

Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX

July 30th is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Jacob Baradaeus +578 according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church.

Mor Yac'ub Burd’ono was born in Tella Mawzalt also known as Constantina (Viranşehir,Turkey) near Nisbis, to the Syriac Orthodox priest Theophilose bar Manu. His parents did not have children for a long time & in fulfillment of a vow made by his parents, he was dedicated to God. At the age of 2, Jacob was entrusted to the care of Eustathius, abbot of the Monastery (Reesh Dayroyo), in Phaselita. Here he learnt Greek, Syriac & the basics of asceticism. One day his mother visited the monastery wanting to take him with her. He was not willing to go home even for a visit saying, “I am fully dedicated to Christ, my mother has no share in me.” He distributed all the properties that he inherited from his parents among the poor, & reserved nothing for himself.

Jacob was ordained deacon & later Priest. He was known for working miracles; sick people came from far & wide to be healed by him. St. Jacob raised the dead, restored sight to the blind, gave rain, & even made the Sun stand still. His fame spread all over the East.

Mor Yac'ub lived during one of the harshest periods of the Syriac Church. After the Church refused the Chalcedonian formula of faith, it came under the oppression of the Byzantine emperors. The Syriac Orthodox Church did not accept the Chalcedonian definition, but along with the Copts accepted only the 3 Holy Ecumenical Synods. The Church affirms that the Lord Jesus Christ is the Incarnate Son of God, who took a perfect manhood without sin, & who bore the human sins on the cross & died for the sake of all humanity. Jesus made His Humanity one with His Divinity without mixing nor mingling nor changing. The teachings of St. Athanasius & St. Cyril of Alexandria & St. Severus of Antioch are very important in understanding the tenet of Christology of the Syriac Orthodox Church. This faith is known as Miaphysite, while the Chalcedonian faith is dyophysite & resembles the Nestorian heresy which was rejected previously.

Emperor Justinian had resolved to enforce the Chalcedonian decrees universally, & the Bishops, clergy & faithful who refused to accept the decrees were punished with imprisonment, deprivation, exile or death. As a result, the Orthodox were deprived of their spiritual leaders & for about ten years many churches had to forgo the sacraments. The faithful were not ready to accept the sacraments from the heretics. Chalcedonians were known as the Melchites/Melkites (from the Syriac Malkoye - the royal party or the Emperor’s men) since the emperor ardently supported them. The wife of Justinian was however a staunch Orthodox Christian, the daughter of a Syriac Orthodox priest. It is important to know that Empress Theodora was enthroned with equal rights & powers as her husband. St. Theodora requested Mor Yac'ub to visit Constantinople, however he didn't want to go. He later received a vision from Mor Severus & Mor John of Tella directing him & so he went. While the Emperor & the courts wished to persecute Jacob, he was welcomed with honour by the Empress. At the personal castle of Theodora, many Orthodox faithful & leaders sought refuge including Coptic Pope Theodosius I.

With the support of the Ghassanid King al-Harith Ibn Jabalah al-Ghassani (The Ghassanids were an ethnic Arab Syriac Orthodox kingdom), Theodora managed to get Mor Yac'ub Burd'ono ordained as "universal bishop" "by Patriarch Theodosius I of Alexandria, Patriarch Anthimus I of Constantinople & another imprisoned metropolitan to spread the Orthodox faith & ordain clergy.

St. Jacob is known by the surname Baradaeus. The surname Baradaeus is derived from ‘baradai’ (clad in rags) or the ragged beggars garb, patched-up out of the old saddle-cloths which he used for his multiple swift & secret journeys across the land. He walked on foot through Asia minor, Syria, Mesopotamia, the adjacent provinces, the borders of Persia & into Alexandria. He both exhorted the faithful & sent encyclicals encouraging them to remain steadfast in the true Orthodox faith. He ordained 2 Patriarchs; Mor Sergius & Mor Paul II, at least 27 bishops & thousands of priests & deacons for the Orthodox Church. The Melchites were furious at the successful efforts of St. Jacob in protecting the true faith, even offering a reward for his capture. But by the grace of God almighty, Mor Yac'ub always eluded the persecutors. He also worked tirelessly to reconcile the Miaphysites & the Chalcedonians but extremism, misunderstanding & ecclesiastical politics hindered his efforts.

Mor Yac'ub wrote an anaphora in fifteen pages beginning with “O Lord, the most Holy Father of peace” & several letters, four of which were published in the Syriac Documents—3 addressed to John of Ephesus & others, & a general letter to the various clergy which is mentioned in his lengthy biography.

He continued his work for thirty-five years, tirelessly fighting the good fight for the Church of God, which he diligently supported in the time of great adversity until he died at the Monastery of Romanus or the Monastery of Cassian on July 30, 578AD. According to a short account by Mor Quryaqos, bishop of Mardin, the remains of Mor Yac'ub were kept at the Monastery of Cassian in the confines of Egypt until A. Gr. 933 (A.D. 622), when they were translated to the Monastery of Phaselita, near Tella Mouzalat by Mor Zakkai, bishop of Tella. A portion of the relics of Mor Yac'ub Burd’ono was interred at St. Stephen’s Bes-ania Church, Chelad, Kothamangalam by St. Gregorius Geevarghese Chathuruthil (Parumala Thirumeni).

Although the political & dynastic storms again the Holy Church swept that portion of the world, the efforts of St Jacob preserved the true undefiled Orthodox (Miaphysite) Faith. The Melchites (Chalcedonians, including current EO & Roman Catholics) derogatorily referred to all Miaphysites (including the Coptics, Armenians, Abbyssinians etc) as Jacobites. The term Jacobite was used to insinuate that the Miaphysite Orthodox broke away from the Melchites. The name Jacobite has been associated with the Orthodox Church since the 6th century, it was used by the Melchites to disgrace the noble Church. However, the Syriac Orthodox Church does not consider St. Jacob as the founder of the Church, but one of its greatest fathers. Mor Yac'ub Burd’ono did not introduce any new doctrines to the Church but fought to preserve its True Orthodox faith & Apostolic origins since the Holy Throne was established by St. Peter the chief of the Holy Apostles in AD 37.

All Orthodox faithful should gratefully remember St. Jacob Baradaeus as he is responsible for restoring the Church from extinction by his indomitable zeal & untiring activity, as the Church was threatened by the persecution of imperial power. He is one of the most illustrious Church Fathers, known for his godliness & piety; he attained the summit of religious & austere asceticism. Mor Yac'ub Burd’ono was arguably the greatest Apostolic fighter in support of the true Orthodox faith, unceasingly working to protect & promote Orthodoxy in the face of immense persecution. He is honored in the 5th Dypthic (Thubden d-Qadishe) every Sunday in the Syriac Orthodox Church as "...Our venerable and Holy Father Mor Jacob Baradaeus, the upholder of the Orthodox faith"

Biography courtesy of, 'Martyrs, Saints and Prelates of the Syriac Orthodox Church' and Syriac Orthodox Resources (SOR website).

Oh Mor Yac'ub Burd’ono! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.

To read the biography of Mor Yac'ub Burd’ono in Arabic: https://goo.gl/mBo4pX

Fixed Feast

Pope Timothy Aelurus, the cat

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Among the Seventy Two (72) Disciples

Vat. LXIX

July 31st is the commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Anthimus according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church. He was the last Orthodox Patriarch of Constantinople.

The Orthodox Churches refused to accept the Council of Chalcedon held in 451AD, only accepting the 3 Holy Ecumenical Synods & espousing the Miaphysite Christological formula of St. Cyril. Mor Anthimus was originally the Archbishop of Trebizond. He regularly corresponded with Mor Severus of Antioch & Mor Theodosius of Alexandria. With the help of St. Empress Theodora, Anthimus became the Patriarch of Constantinople following the death of Epiphanius. Emperor Justinian had resolved to enforce the Chalcedonian decrees universally, & the metropolitans, clergy & faithful who refused to accept the decrees were punished with imprisonment, deprivation, exile or death. Roman Pope Agapetus arrived in Constantinople & with the support of the Emperor he exiled Anthimus, & recognised the Chalcedonian Mennas as the Patriarch. Anthimus was forced into exile, being taken into the protection of Empress Theodora.

With the support of the Ghassanid King al-Harith Ibn Jabalah al-Ghassani (The Ghassanids were an ethnic Arab Syriac Orthodox kingdom), St. Theodora managed to get Mor Yac'ub Burd'ono ordained as "universal bishop" by Patriarch Theodosius I of Alexandria, Patriarch Anthimus of Constantinople & another imprisoned metropolitan, to spread the Orthodox faith & ordain clergy. Thus the True Orthodox faith was able to survive even under Byzantine imperial persecution.

Patriarch Anthimus reposed while in exile & an Orthodox Patriarchate of Constantinople never succeeded him. However, his legacy lives on in the Oriental Orthodox Church. He is honored in the 5th Dypthic (Thubden d-Qadishe) every Sunday in the Syriac Orthodox Holy Qurbono.

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

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