Fifth Week of Great Lent
30 March 2025 - 5 April 2025
Fifth Week of Great Lent Promiyon Sedro (courtesy Hymonutho): https://bit.ly/3vGGxJi
Malankara World fifth week of Great Lent Page http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Lent_week5.htm
Elements of Great Lent Liturgy a Journey through Hymns (courtesy Hymonutho): https://bit.ly/3AXT7os
Daily Prayers for Great Lent English: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hWzu86NCbWwsS7Y0IURNih27QcnHQD10/view?usp=drivesdk
Daily Prayers for the Great Lent Malayalam: https://tinyurl.com/3fd7f73n
Daily Prayers for the Great Lent Syriac: https://tinyurl.com/2u6mu38a
Malankara World Special Supplement for the Great Lent: https://goo.gl/JIr2YV
My Great Lent Weekly Reflection courtesy Orthodox Outreach Ministry (updated weekly): https://tinyurl.com/GreatLent2025
Children's & Teens Great Lent Calendar 2025: https://bit.ly/MyGreatLentCalendar2025
Great Lent Journey Preparation Bible Study: https://urhotheway.com/great-lent-journey-preparation-bible-study/
See more details
Fifth Tuesday of Great Lent
1 April 2025
Evening: St. Mark 3:1-12
Morning: Exodus 14: 21-31 Joshua 8:18-27 Isaiah 40:12-24 Acts 18:19 -28 Romans 1:26-32 St. Mark 5:2 -20
http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Lent_today-Day30.htm
Mor Philoxenos of Mabbug (Mor Akhsnoyo) martyrdom +523
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
Mor Qardagh +359
"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
RSoH
St. Mary of Egypt +422
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 threeineffectual 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
Fifth Wednesday of Great Lent
2 April 2025
Evening: St. Mark 6:30-46
Morning: Deuteronomy 31:16-23 II Samuel 19:24-30 Isaiah 41: 8-17 Acts 20:29-38 I Corinthians 10:1-13 St. Matthew 14: 14-23
http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Lent_today-Day31.htm
Mahalalel (Mahalaleel)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahalalel
In Judaeo-Christian mythology Mahalalel is an ancestor of Noah
St. Bartholomew the Apostle
St. Philip the Apostle
St. Yuyakim, father of Virgin Mary
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
Sts. Agapia and Chionia, Martyrs
"according to (the reckoning of) the Greeks, – at Thessalonike, the martyrs Chionē and Agape"
BL12150
Sts. Amphianus (Apphianus) and Aedesius (Edesius)
Martyrs. Possibly siblings.
Paris 146 and Vat. LXIX
Fifth Thursday of Great Lent
3 April 2025
Evening: St. Matthew 14: 24 -36
Morning: Genesis 50:14-22 Ecclesiastics 5:1-9 Isaiah 42:1-9 Acts 19:8-12 Colossians 3: 1-17 St. Mark 6:47-56
http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Lent_today-Day32.htm
Prophet Elijah (Mor Eliyo Nbiyo) BC 895
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
BL14504
St. Theodosia of Tyre
Sts. Chrestos and Pappos, Martyrs
"in the city of Tomis, Chrēstos and Pappos"
Fifth Friday of Great Lent
4 April 2025
Evening: St. Mark 5:21-43
Morning: Deuteronomy 27:16-28:2 II Kings 4:32 -37 Hosea 6:1-6 Acts 16:27-40 I Timothy 1:1-20 St. Matthew 9:18-31
http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Lent_today-Day33.htm
St. Zosimus the monk
Abba Zosimus the ascetic who met St. Mary of Egypt and administered Holy Eucharist for her.
Sts. Agathopodes the Deacon and Theodulus the Reader
Martyrs
Sts. Elpidephorus, Dius, Bithonius, and Galycus
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.
Sts. Theodulus the Reader and Agathopodes the Deacon, Martyrs
"the martyrs Theodoulos and Agathopous"
Abouna Rev. Fr. Yousif Aboudy +2008 in Baghdad, Iraq
5 April 2025
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"
Fifth Saturday of Great Lent
Before Holy Qurbana: Deuteronomy 30:1-7 Psalms 78:1-22 Proverbs 28:16-28 Ezekiel 15:1-8
Holy Qurbana: Acts 5: 33 - 42 I Thessalonians 2:13-20 St. Luke 6: 1 - 11
http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Lent_today-Day34.htm
Mor Ya`qub of Nisibis (+338)
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
Sts. Claudianus and Didymus, Martyrs
"at Alexandria, Klaudianos and Didymos"
Probably St. Claudianus at Nicomedia and St. Didymus the presbyter at Alexandria.
Creation and expulsion of Adam from paradise
6 April 2025
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.
Pope Gabriel II of Alexandria
Sixth Sunday of Great Lent (samyo/Healing the Blind Man)
samyo
'The 'Sixth Sunday' of the Great Lent and Healing of the Blind man (had'bshabo shtit'hoyo d'sawmo, al samyo) according to the liturgical calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church in Malankara.
This is the final week of the Great Lent before Passion Week (s'habtho d'hasho).
The Holy Bible readings from the Church Lectionary:
Evening: Mathew 9:32-35 Mark 10:46-52
Morning: Matthew 20:29-34, 12:22-28
Before Holy Qurbono: Deuteronomy 25:13-26:5 Job 42:1-8 Judges 6:11-24 I Kings 3:5-15 Ezekiel 13:1-16 Jeremiah 51:10-19
Holy Qurbono: I Peter 4:12-19 Romans 14:10-23 John 9:1-41
For Sermons/commentaries based on the Gospel reading please visit : https://goo.gl/KdSW35
Great Lent Day 35: https://goo.gl/49j1OG
Tone of the Day: 6 (2 for alternate days of the week)
Explanation of Had Bs'habo D'Samyo in Syriac by malfono Iskender: https://youtu.be/_zEhW13jzrE
Samyo Sunday hymns by HG Mor Aphrem Mathews: https://goo.gl/UgBkx5
Sixth Week of Great Lent
6 April 2025 - 12 April 2025
Sixth Week of Great Lent Promiyon Sedro (courtesy Hymonutho): https://bit.ly/3nyd2pt
Malankara World sixth week of Great Lent Page http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Lent_week6.htm
St. Cyriacus of Nicomedia, Martyr
"and at Nicomedia, Kyriakos"
St. Irenaeus of Sirmium +304
"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"
St. Knai Thoma
The commemoration of the dukhrono of St. Knai Thoma according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church in Malankara. Annually on the 36th day (Sixth Sunday) of the Great Lent
Mor Knai Thoma was a wealthy Syriac Orthodox merchant who, on a trade expedition to India, found a Christian community who were descendants of the indigenous population & Jewish migrants evangelized by St. Thomas the Holy Apostle. Tradition states that bishop Joseph of Edessa had a vision of the Christian community in India in dire need of assistance. It was soon after this revelation that Knai Thoma would personally visit bishop Joseph, upon return form India, telling him about the Malankara Nasrani community. The two would receive Apostolic blessings & permission from the bishop of Antioch Mor Osthatheos to send a mission to India. It is important to note that Canon 6 of the Holy Ecumenical Council of Nicaea affirmed the authority of the Bishop of Antioch over regions of the East including India. Historical records indicate Mor Yousef (known as Ethalaha/Aitahalla in the Chronicle of Edessa) was a loyal supporter of Mor Osthatheos, joining him at the Council of Nicaea against the Arian heretics.
With the blessings of the Patriarch of Antioch, Knai Thoma brought with him Mor Yousef (who was succeeded in Edessa by Mor Abraham) along with 72 families from Edessa (Urhoy), a 400 member delegation of faithful Syriac Christians. The group included men, woman, children, priests & deacons. Upon reaching Malankara, the local ruler with the honorific Cheraman Perumal, welcomed the delegation which had many traders & successful businessmen. The community was granted privileges recorded in what is known as the 'Knai-Thomman Chepped'. Through the mission work of Mor Yousef & the clergy, the Malankara Nasrani (a mixture of local individuals, ethnic Jews & earlier Syriac Christian faithful) accepted the spiritual authority of the Patriarch of Antioch and all the East. Thus the Malankara Church became an integral part of the Syriac Orthodox Church, accepting the Syriac Liturgy, traditions & customs. Soon afterwards, further cementing the eternal fraternity between Malankara & Antioch; the Holy Relics of St. Thomas the Holy Apostle were transferred to Edessa (Urhoy) on July 3rd AD394 & interred on August 22nd. When Mor Knai Thoma died, he was entombed in the church he had built in honor of St. Thomas the Holy Apostle. Sadly, this church was destroyed in the 1500s during wars between local rulers.
While sharing the same faith with the Malankara Nasrani, the descendants of those who came with St. Knai Thoma would exist as a separate community. Along with having separate churches, the community known as Knanaya practice Endogamy & have their own unique traditions & customs. The Knanaya leaders & faithful, ever loyal to the Holy Apostolic See of Antioch continue to play an important role in the history of the Syriac Orthodox Church in India. Their counterparts in the Middle East are today known as the Urfalee.
In March 1990 vis Patriarchal Apostolic Bull No. EI 30/90, the thrice blessed late Patriarch HH Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas of blessed memory declared Mor Knai Thoma as a saint, & granted permission to recite his name in the 5th Dypthic (Thubden d-Qadishe) of the Holy Qurbono. The dukhrono of St. Knai Thoma is remembered annually on the 36th day (Sixth Sunday) of the Great Lent in the Syriac Orthodox Church
Oh Mor Knai Thoma! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.
First Syrian Migration to Malabar AD345 by Dr. Sarah Knight (courtesy Hymonutho): https://bit.ly/AD345Hymonutho
Sts. Cosmas & Damian, Martyrs +306
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.
Oh Mor Qozma & Mor Dumyana! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.
120 Martyrs of Persia
7 April 2025
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.
Monday before Hosanna
Morning:Genesis 49: 8-12I Kings 17: 10 -16II Samuel 17:18-29Jeremiah 35:1-11Acts 2:37-47I Thessalonians 4: 1-12St. Luke 18: 31-34, 19: 1-10
http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Lent_today-Day36.htm
St. Aphrahat, the Ascetic
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.
St. John, Bishop of Gaza
Coptic Synaxarium Baramouda 11
St. Peleusius the Martyr
"at Alexandria, the presbyter Peleusios"
Sts. Adrian and Natalia and 33 companions, of Nicomedia
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).
Mor Dionysius I (Mar Thoma VI) +1808
8 April 2025
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
St. Agabus the Evangelist
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
Sts. Timothy and Massimo, Martyrs
"at Antioch, Maximos and Timotheos"
Possibly St. Maxima (female)
Tuesday before Hosanna
Evening:St. Luke 9:18-27
Morning:Genesis 41: 38 - 52I Samuel 17: 34-51Zechariah 9:9-17Acts 21:1-12Romans 8:12-27St. Mark 10:32-45
http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Lent_today-Day37.htm
Syriac Prayers: https://tinyurl.com/nhc648y3
Martyrs of Persia under Shapur II
9 April 2025
The forty thousand two hundred and three martyrs
Mor Yulios Kuriakose +2011
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
St. Celestine I, Pope of Rome
St. Demetrius of Sermium, Martyr
"at Sirmium, Demetrios"
St. Demetrios the deacon of Sirmium
Wednesday before Hosanna
Evening: St. Matthew 8: 23-9: 1
Morning: Genesis 46 :1-7, 28-34 II Chronicles 20:1-10 Isaiah 63: 7-19 Daniel 7:9-18 Acts 14:7 -19 Galatians 5:13-26 St. Mark 4:35-41 St. Matthew 9:2-8
http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Lent_today-Day38.htm
Barhadbshabba of Qartmin and his eleven disciples
10 April 2025
In hagiography: Barhadbeshabba of Qartmin was a monk and disciple of Samuel of Qartmin.
Martyrs of Carthage
Martyrs Sts. Africanus, Maximus, Terence, Pompeius, Theodore and those with them, beheaded at Carthage
Mor Ya`qub of Nisibin (+338)
BL14503
St. Apollonios the Martyr
"at Alexandria, Apollōnios"
Probably St. Apollonius the presbyter.
Thursday before Hosanna
Evening: St. Luke 4:33-41
Morning: Exodus 15:1-21 Joshua 6:1-4 Judges 5:1-11 II Chronicles 14:8-15 Isaiah 51:1-8 Acts 16:16-26 II Corinthians 6:1-10 St. Mark 8:22-27 St. Matthew 20: 17-19 St. Luke 18:34-43
http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Lent_today-Day39.htm
Friday before Hosanna (40th Friday)
11 April 2025
The 40th Friday of the Great Lent (Hrubto d'arbhin/Nalpatham Velliyazhcha) according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church in Malankara.
The Holy Church gives special importance to the 40th Friday of Great Lent (Hrubto D'arbhin/Nalpatham velliyazhcha). On this day Holy Qurbono will be celebrated.
Today's Gospel recounts the temptation of Christ by Satan, following Christ's 40 days of fasting in the wilderness. When the devil failed to defeat our Lord, he flees along with the other wild beasts. With a strengthened resolve, our Lord then begins His ministry of proclaiming the Good News of God's kingdom by choosing the first 4 apostles. Let us remind ourselves that we are all called to the ministry of the Gospel by the Christian life we live. In the midst of temptation & attempts by the devil to defer us from carrying out God's will, let us not be dismayed. May the fast be an undefeatable weapon against evil, & the sign of our victory over the sins of this world.
Evening:Matthew 4:1-11Luke 4:1-13
Morning:Luke 4:1-13
Before Holy Qurbono:Deuteronomy 1:3-14Jeremiah 7:1-10II Samuel 24:18-25Isaiah 58:1-8
Holy QurbonoI Peter 1:13-22Romans 13:11-14:9Matthew 4:1-11
For Sermons/commentaries based on the Gospel reading: https://goo.gl/tEMM7W
Great Lent Day 40: https://goo.gl/oH7aLw
Tone of the Day: 2
Prayers in Syriac: https://tinyurl.com/mrmh4dcv
Prayers for 40th Friday in Malayalam: https://tinyurl.com/2stsnhnp
St. Alexandra the Empress, wife of Diocletian
St. Antipas of Pergamum
St. Domnius the Martyr
"at Salona, the bishop Domnion"
St. Domnius, bishop and martyr of Salona (Dalmatia)
St. Silvanus
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.
St. Tryphena of Rome
Metropolitan Consecration of H.E. Mor Clemis Eugene Kaplan
12 April 2025
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
Saturday before Hosanna (noohomeh d-lo`ozor/Lazarus' Saturday)
The Saturday of the raising of Lazarus (Shabtho d'noohomeh d-lo'ozor) according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church in Malankara
Today the Church commemorates the Raising of Lazarus from the dead (noohomeh d-lo'ozor) as written in St. John 11:28-46. The raising of Lazarus is a prefigure of the resurrection for all who believe in Jesus Christ as Lord & savior. Lazarus is venerated as a saint & even from the earliest centuries in the Holy Land, Christians would celebrate on the Saturday before Palm Sunday by visiting the site from where Lazarus was raised to life (written in the pilgrimage record of Egeria).
Today the Syriac Christians of Kerala, India (St. Thomas Christians/Malankara Nazranis) have a tradition of preparing "Kozhukattai" Kozhukattai is a steamed dumpling made from rice flour. It is a sweet dish filled with Jaggery and coconut. The folklore of the Malankara Nazrani community is that this dish is believed to be a favourite delicacy of Jesus Christ. According to the Gospel of St. John chapter 12, six days before the Passover, Jesus returned to Bethany & dined at the home of Lazarus & his two sisters Martha & Mary. Being companions of Christ, they prepared His favourite dish. This same dish is prepared by the Syriac Christians of Kerala in honor of this event & shared among family members on this day annually.
Evening:Mathew 20:17-28
Morning:John 11:1-27
Before Holy Qurbono:Numbers 16:42-48II Kings 20-1-11Great Wisdom:11:22-12:4Isaiah 61:1-9
Holy Qurbono:I Peter 2:6-10Ephesians 1:15-2:6John 11:28-46
Sermons/commentaries based on the Gospel reading: https://goo.gl/me7qOx
Great Lent Day 41: https://goo.gl/pCucrx
Tone of the Day: 6
Syriac Prayers for "Noohomeh d-lo'ozor": https://tinyurl.com/ytwwnx3e
Gospel Story in Syriac presented by Deyroyo Samuel, Deyroyto Marina & Michel Issa: https://goo.gl/EnLQsI
Malayalam Hoothomo on YouTube: https://goo.gl/6G0JVs
St. Antipas, Bishop of Pergamum
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).
St. Crescens of Myra in Lycia
Also known as St. Crescus
Translation of life by Dr. Sebastian Brock: http://bit.ly/crescus
St. Julius of Rome +352
https://urhotheway.com/2020/07/07/st-julius-of-rome/
Mar Thoma II +1686
13 April 2025
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
Martyrs of Pergamon
"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?
Oosha`né/Palm Sunday
The Hosanna Sunday (had'bshabo d'Oosha`né) according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church in Malankara.
On the Sunday before Easter (had'bshabo d'Qymtho), the Church commemorates the triumphant entry of Christ into Jerusalem riding on a colt. The service commences with a procession in the church with the clergy, dressed in their vestments, carrying olive and palm branches, this is followed by the blessing of the palm leaves and finally blessing of the Holy Sanctuary.
Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!Brikh detho bashme dMoryo!
The Holy Bible Readings from the Church Lectionary are:
Evening:St. Luke 19:28-40
Midnight:Matthew 21:1-22
Morning:St. Mark 11:1-26
Before Holy Qurbono:Genesis 49:8-15Leviticus 23:33-39Job 26:1-14II Samuel 6:1-7Judges 9:7-15Proverbs 1:20-33 16:13-25Joel 3:16-21Daniel 3:7-11 Micah 4:1-5I Kings 8:1-6 Zephaniah 3:9 -20Jeremiah 30:18-22Hosea 8:14-9:7Isaiah 52:7-12
Holy Qurbono:I John 2:7-17 Romans 11:13-24St. John 12:12-19
For Procession (at the Western Entrance):St. Luke 19:28-40
For the Blessing of the Palm leaves:Genesis 49:8-12Zechariah 9:9-12Isaiah 51:9-11I John 2:7-15Romans 11:13-24St. Mark 11:1-11
For sermons/commentaries based on the Gospel: https://goo.gl/B49TAM
Tone of the Day: 7Palm Sunday Hymns (courtesy Hymonutho): https://bit.ly/3pr9Zl9
Palm Sunday English Prayers: https://bit.ly/OoshaneSundayMalayalam Service Booklet: https://tinyurl.com/32v6w46p Trilingual (Malayalam, English, Manglish) Service Booklet for entire Passion Week: https://bit.ly/TrilingualPassion
Syriac Prayers for Oosha`né: https://tinyurl.com/ynkhzwwy
Syriac Service Booklet from Ma'De'Dono: https://goo.gl/ndx3F5
Explanation of Oosha`né in Syriac by malfono Iskender: https://goo.gl/njFctI
http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Passion/Passion_Today_1-Palm-Sunday.htm
Passion (Hasho) Week
13 April 2025 - 19 April 2025
The commencement of the Passion Week (S'habtho d'Has'ho) according to the liturgical calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church in Malankara.
The days from Palm Sunday to Holy Saturday are known as the Passion Week (S'habtho d'Has'ho) a week designed to focus our attention on the "passion," or suffering, of Christ.
As we travel into the Passion Week, please keep in mind the following instructions generally given by the Malpans (learned clergy of liturgy) of India in regards to Passion Week:
1) The usual "Qawmo" trisagion (Qadishat Aloho/Holy art thou oh God) is not recited. Instead, a unique different "Qawmo" for each day, according to the (events that occurred in the Bible) is recited. If you don’t know the Qawmo for the specific day, then you can recite a ‘common Qawmo’, “Lord forgive us through Your Passion”.
2) No praying of “Shlom lekh/Hail Mary” or seeking the intercession of any saints.
3) The veil (curtain) of the sanctuary (Madbaho) remains closed for the prayers.
4) The prayers of the hours in the church are conducted with lit candles on the M’northo (Gogultha, cross stand).
5) NO kiss of peace (kaikasthuthi) is given amongst believers. No kissing of the altar, no kissing of other parts of the Church such as the Gospel stand, icons, relics, including the M’northo (Gogultha, Cross-stand). Instead we bow our heads in veneration.
6. NO kissing of a Priest (Qashisho/Achen) or Bishop's (Hasyo/Thirumeni) hand (Kai Muthu) or handcross.
7) The Gospel reading is read by standing at the ‘parts inside the rails’ (Azhikakam). During hasho the words "Peace be to you all" is not said by the priest as a prelude to reciting the Gospel.
8) There are no 40 prostrations after the Noon prayer (like that of Great Lent).
9) St. Ephrem's bovuso (Lord Thy mercy upon us... Karthave Kripa cheyaname) which is normally chanted during Soothara of other seasons, will be replaced by a version specific to Passion Week.
10) No Quqalion sung after Nicene Creed recited during Passion Week.
11) During Holy Thursday service, we skip two stanzas (3rd and 4th) of the hymn ‘Come the time of prayer’ (Yachikendum samayamitha).
12) Instead of the Sh'himo (regular weekday prayers) or the Great Lent prayers; the Phanqitho d'has'ho (haasha namaskaram) will be prayed. The hymns of the daily prayers & various liturgies will be sung in the Hasho tones (Hashonoyo) which are specific for this blessed week.
May our Lord bless all of those who use this week to fast, pray & journey to Him.
Malankara World Passion Week special supplement: https://goo.gl/pV7D0S
Passion Week English Prayers and Service booklet: https://bit.ly/HolyPassionWeek
Malayalam Prayer Booklet: https://bit.ly/HashoMal
Trilingual (Malayalam, English, Manglish) Service Booklet for entire Passion Week: https://bit.ly/TrilingualPassion
Passion Week (Hasho) Promiyon Sedro (courtesy Hymonutho): https://bit.ly/3pEKIEz
പരിശുദ്ധ സുറിയാനി ഓർത്തോഡോക്സ് സഭയുടെ ഹാശാ ആഴ്ച ശുശ്രൂഷ ക്രമത്തിൻ്റെ പഠനം by സ്ലീബ ജോർജ് കശീശ (Courtesy Hymonutho):
Part 1- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6ZshJu2bVoPart 2- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CbF__U7JAZcPart 3- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B21uWPLjJz4
How to benefit Spiritually from Holy Week: https://www.lacopts.org/story/how-to-benefit-spiritually-in-the-holy-pascha-week/
My Great Lent Weekly Reflection 2024 courtesy Orthodox Outreach Ministry (updated weekly): http://tinyurl.com/LentReflections2024
Children's & Teens Great Lent Calendar 2024: http://tinyurl.com/LentCalendar2024
St. Artemon the Presbyter of Laodicea in Syria
St. Guhishtazad
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.
St. Romanus of Antioch +303
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.
Oh Mor Romanus & Mor Barulas! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.
St. Serapion of Thmuis
Mar Shimun Bar Sabbae
14 April 2025
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
Monday of the Passion Week (Vadhe Dhalmeeno)
The Evening of the Lights, and Reaching the Harbor (Ramsho d-Naheera, Wa'de dalmino) according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church in Malankara.On the eve of Passion Monday, ie the evening prayers following Palm Sunday (had'bshabo d'Oosha'ne) service, the Syriac Orthodox Church celebrates the "Order of the Entrance into Heaven" (Vadhe Dalmino/Reaching the harbor) also known as "The Lights" (Naheera).
This service is based on the Parable of the 10 Virgins/Bridesmaids awaiting the bridegroom as written in the Gospel of St. Matthew chapter 25. The parable reminds us as we enter this week that it is only through a life of dedication to God, vigilance, fasting & prayer can we be ready for the Resurrection & to welcome the Bridegroom into our lives.
The service commences with a procession with all lights off & the curtain of the altar drawn closed. The clergy and the faithful hold lit candles during the procession which gives the service its name. The procession may be done inside the church, which concludes at the front of the closed altar, or outside the church, concluding at the front of the closed door.
The service ends with a dramatic entrance into the altar resembling the entrance of the wise virgins into heaven; the celebrant stands in front of the closed curtain & chants the hymn 'al haw tar'o three times, each time the deacons & the faithful repeat after him.
Then the priest shouts thrice "Moran, Moran ftah lan tar'okh!" (O Lord, O Lord, open Thy door for us!) after which the lights in the church are turned on and simultaneously the curtain is opened. The clergy enter the altar with a hymn of rejoice, accompanied by the ringing of the bells, fanning of the marbaso & waving of the censer.
Evening:St. Luke 19:41-20:8
Midnight1st Kaumo:St. Matthew 21:33-462nd KaumoSt. Luke 14:12-24
Vadhe DhalmeenoSt. Matthew 25:1-133rd Kaumo:St. Matthew 22:1-14
Morning:Genesis: 22:1-14II Kings 17:7-15Judges 11:30-40Isaiah 28:5-13Acts 25:6-12Hebrews 1:6-2:4Matthew 21:23-32, 17:10-13 3rd Hour:St. Mathew 19:1-12St. Luke 9:43-45
6th Hour:St. Matthew 22:41-23:12
9th HourSt. Matthew 23:13-39
Tone of the Day: Passion Week Tones (Hashonoyo)
Holy Monday English Prayers: https://bit.ly/PassionMondaySyriac Prayers: https://tinyurl.com/3pdtzvzf Wa'de dalmino:Explanation of the service by Ranya Kucukkaplan: https://tinyurl.com/44nh3495
Explanation in Malayalam: https://drive.google.com/file/d/14aUYjNIPbs10DGlIklWjQIgQXbsBvLfP/view?usp=drivesdk
The Symbol of the “Coming to the Harbour” in the Syriac Tradition: http://bit.ly/HarbourSyriac
The "Opening of the Door" Ceremony on Palm Sunday in the Armenian Church: http://bit.ly/NahireArmenian
English-Syriac Service book in Ma'De'Dono: https://tinyurl.com/yp3cu2j3
Syriac Service Booklet from Ma'De'Dono: https://tinyurl.com/44puf8c9
Malayalam Service Booklet: https://bit.ly/VadheDhalmeenoMal
Manglish-English Service Booklet: https://bit.ly/ManglishMidLentVadheFeet
Naheera Service video from St. John The Baptist Syriac Orthodox Church. Villa Park, IL on YouTube: https://goo.gl/Ig4wMI
St. Aristarchus and St. Trophimus, Evangelists
St. Pudens the Evangelist
George Bishop of the Arabs
15 April 2025
Metropolitan Consecration of H.E. Mor Polycarpus Augin Aydin
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
St. Suchias and his Soldiers in Georgia
St. Victor
Saint Boctor Ebn Romanus
Tuesday of the Passion Week
Evening:St. Matthew 22:15-33
Midnight:First Qaumo:St. Matthew 12:38-45St. Luke 22:2, 11:53-54Second Qaumo:St. John 2:12-25; 3:13-21Third Qaumo:St. John 5:30-6:4
Morning:Deuteronomy 31:16-20Zephaniah 1:11-18Isaiah 55:4-11I John 1:1-9Hebrews 2:5-18St. John 8:28-59
Third Hour (9 a.m.):St. John 7:45-52; 8:12-20
Noon (12 p.m):St. Luke 11:37-54
Ninth Hour (3 p.m.):St. Luke 17:1-2St. John 6:30 8:21-27
http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Passion/Passion_Today_3-Tuesday.htm
Holy Tuesday English Prayers: https://bit.ly/HolyPassionTuesday
Agape, Irene and Chionia, in Illyria
16 April 2025
Martyrs of Corinth
"at Korinthos in Achaia, Leōnidas and eight other martyrs"
Sts. Leonidas, Chariessa, Nice, Galina, Kalista, Nunechia, Basilissa, Theodora, and Irene,
Mor Athanasius Y. Samuel, Holland (+1995)
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 AmericaArchdiocese of the Syriac Orthodox Church for the Eastern United StatesSyriac Orthodox Archdiocese of the Western United StatesSyriac 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
Wednesday of the Passion Week
Evening:St. John 11:47-12:11
Midnight:First Qaumo:St. John 10:15-38Second Qaumo:St. John 12:19-33Third Qaumo:St. John 12:34-50
Morning:Leviticus 6:24-7:7Ezekiel 21:26-22:3I Samuel 16:1-13Daniel 14:26-42I Kings 1:32-37Isaiah 5:1-7Acts 19:21-41Colossians 1:9-15St. John 6:63-7:13
Third Hour (9 a.m.):St. John 7:14-27
Noon:St. John 7:28-39
Ninth Hour (3 p.m.):St. Luke 13:31-33St. Mark 8:38St. Luke 12:50, 13:17St, Mark 3:6, 6:3St. John 10:39-40 or St. Luke 13:31-35
http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Passion/Passion_Today_4-Wednesday.htm
Holy Wednesday English Prayers: https://bit.ly/PassionWednesday
Syriac Prayers: https://tinyurl.com/hhawhv2w
Metropolitan Consecration of H.E. Mor Justinos Paulos Safar
17 April 2025
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
Metropolitan Consecration of H.E. Mor Nicolaos Matti Abdelahad
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
Passover (phesaho/Thursday of Mysteries(hamsho d-rozé) (Maundy Thursday)
The Passover or Thursday of Mysteries and the Service of the Washing of the Feet (phesaho, hamsho d-rozé, Thekso d'S'hyogtho) according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church in Malankara.
Today the Church commemorates the Last Supper or Passover meal Christ shared with his disciples. This event was the first Holy Qurbono instituted by our Lord. The Lord used leavened bread (lahmo) which is the bread of life.
Today the Church has a 'Service of the Feet Washing or S'hyogtho' which recollects Christ washing the feet of His disciples, an act of humility that we must all observe in our lives. This service portrays Christ's washing of His disciples' feet after the Last Supper. It starts with the celebrant calling twelve deacons representing the disciples. A priest, or the highest ranking deacon, represents Simon Peter. It is worth noting that the Judas is excluded and replaced by Matthias, the disciple who was chosen to replace Judas after the resurrection of Christ (Acts 1:26). During the service, the celebrant washes the right feet of the 12 deacons, anointing them with oil and kissing them. Then the deacon (or priest) representing Peter, with the other eleven assisting him, washes both feet of the celebrant. If the celebrant is a bishop, he is carried on his chair when he reads the Gospels, amidst the ululation of women. (Courtesy SOR)
The Syriac Christians of Kerala (St. Thomas Christians/Malankara Nasrani) have a tradition of preparing Passover Bread & Milk (pesaha appam & pesaha paal) in remembrance of the Passover event. On Thursday morning the home is cleaned, & the prayers of the day are recited. Following this, the special bread and milk (made from coconut paste) is prepared. The elder of the house will chant the following Qawmo & then break the bread to be shared from eldest to youngest in the family.
'Pesahaa-yaal pesahaadine nee - kkiya masiha Modi - ppiccharuluka krupa nin pesahaayaal'or 'Msheeho dab pesaho sroylé maru pesaho b-pesaho ab-sahalan wethraham`alayn.'or'Christ Whose – Passion abolished – the Passover lamb. Gladden us in Your - Passover'
Evening:St. John 7:37-52, 8:12-20
Midnight:First Qaumo:St. Matthew 26:17-30Second Qaumo:St. John 6:24-40Third Qaumo:St. John 6:41-63
Morning:St. Luke 22:1-13
Third Hour (9 a.m.):St. John 12:23-36
Noon (12 p.m.):St. Luke 7:36-50St. Mark 14:1-2
Ninth Hour (3 p.m.):St. Matthew 26:1-19
Before Holy Qurbono:Exodus 12:1-11Leviticus 16:3-10Joshua 5:9-12Ezekiel 45:18-25I Samuel 10:17-21Proverbs 1:10-19Amos 2:4-7Jeremiah 18:18-23Zachariah 11:10-14Isaiah 24:16-18 54:4-10
Holy Qurbono:Acts 1:15-20I Corinthians 11:23-34St. Luke 22:14-30
For Feet Washing Service:Exodus 34:18-26II Kings 23:21-25Isaiah 50:4-10I Peter 3:17-22Hebrews 10:21-29St. John 13:1-20
For sermons/commentaries based on the Gospel: https://goo.gl/zLT3qd
Tone of the Day: Hasho (hashonoyo)Syriac Prayers: https://tinyurl.com/25bnt9pm Phesaho hymns: https://goo.gl/B3eNRB
Holy Thursday English Prayers: https://tinyurl.com/2p89x4y9 Holy Thursday Malayalam Prayers: https://bit.ly/HolyThursdayMal
Holy Thursday Manglish Prayers: https://tinyurl.com/2p97yye7
Malayalam hymns and raagam: https://youtu.be/DTolg-JvrTYDiscussion about Pesaho in Syriac: https://youtu.be/enQIaiQMTLM
Service of the Feet Washing
About Feet washing service: http://sor.cua.edu/Feast/Washing.htmlSyriac-English Service from Ma'De'Dono: https://tinyurl.com/ynhdbbdn
Feet Washing English service book: https://bit.ly/FeetWashingEnglish
Feet Washing service Syriac from Ma'De'Dono: https://tinyurl.com/42nkbu89Malayalam Feet Washing service book: https://tinyurl.com/3u8vxwxa
Manglish/English Feet Washing service book: https://bit.ly/ManglishMidLentVadheFeet
http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Passion/Passion_Today_5-Thursday.htm
St. Acacius, Bishop of Melitene
St. Zoilus
Sts. Zenobius and his sister Zenobia, of Aegæ in Cilicia +285
The Hieromartyr Zenobius, Bishop of Aegea, and his sister Zenobia suffered a martyr’s death in the year 285 in Cilicia
Great Friday of Crucifixon( 'arubto rabto dazqeephootho) Good Friday, Veneration of the Cross, Friday of the Week of Passion
18 April 2025
The Great Friday of Crucifixon & Veneration of the Holy Cross ('rubto rabto dazqeephootho u seghdto da-Slibo) more commonly known as Good Friday/Dukha velli according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church in Malankara.
Today the Church commemorates the crucifixion of our Lord. Symbolically the Good Friday service is considered one of the most beautiful services, depicting the last hours of our Lord's passion from His capture by the Jewish temple authorities to the entombing of His body.
Evening:St. Luke 22:1-30
Midnight:First Qaumo:St. Matthew 26:31-46Second Qaumo:St. Mathew 26:47-48St. Mark 14:27-52Third Qaumo:St. John 18:12-15St. Luke 22:31-62
Morning:Leviticus 4:1-7Numbers 19:1-11Zachariah 13:7-14:5Habakkuk 1:1-12 Ezekiel 13:17-22II Kings 19:20-29Acts 22:30-23:16I Corinthians 1:18-31St. Matthew 27:1-14St. Mark 15:1-10St. Luke 22:66-71St. John 18:28-40
Third Hour (9 a.m.):Matthew 27:26-30Mark 15:21-22Luke 23:26-29John 19:5-14
Noon (12 p.m.):St. Matthew 27:38-44St. Mark 15:29-32St. Luke 23:34-43St. John 19:15-22
Ninth Hour (3 p.m.):St. Matthew 27:45-56St. Mark 15: 33-41St. Luke 23:44-49St. John 19:23-30
Veneration of the Holy Cross:Genesis 22:1-14Exodus 17:8-16Joshua 8:18-25Ezekiel 24:1-17Isaiah 52:13-53:8I Peter 2:19-25Galatians 2:21-3:14, 6:11-18St. Luke 22: 63-23:12 23:13-23 23:24-45St. Mathew 27:3-19 27:24-25 27:51-54 Mathew 27:60St. John 19:23- 42
For sermons/commentaries: https://goo.gl/Oz3yYJ
Tone of the Day: Hasho (hashonoyo)Syriac Prayers: https://tinyurl.com/mr2uda86 Good Friday hymns on YouTube: https://goo.gl/YMKn1qMalayalam Hymns and ragam for learning purposes: https://youtu.be/hie8hlCAL0I
Good Friday English Prayers:https://tinyurl.com/muvxwzn9
Malayalam Service book: https://bit.ly/GoodFridayMal
Manglish book: https://tinyurl.com/52fwzn76
Syriac Service Book from Ma'De'Dono: https://tinyurl.com/495ky5k7
Discussion about Good Friday in Aramaic: https://youtu.be/tZOgsQU6Gjw
http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Passion/Passion_Today_6-Friday.htm
Mor Abraham of the High Mountain
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
Mor Chrysostomos Mousa Salama +1996
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/
Mor Ivanios Yuhannon +1794
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.
Oh Mor Ivanios Yuhannon! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.
St. Cyrus of Harran
Sts. Septimius and Hermogenes, Martyrs
"at Salona, Septimios and Hermogenēs"
Gospel Saturday (Saturday of Good Tidings)
19 April 2025
The Saturday of Good Tidings or Saturday of Light (S'habtho D'Nuhro) according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church in Malankara.
Today the Church commemorates Christ's decent into Hades, sharing of the Gospel & the releasing of the souls of all who were held captive by death awaiting the promised Messiah. The good news of the resurrection & eternal life is shared with all including Adam. Through His incarnation, life & death, Christ has fulfilled the Divine will for the salvation of mankind.
Following Holy Qurbono the faithful hold special prayers (aneedhe) at the tombs of their departed loved ones. After the priest & deacons recite the common prayer for the departed, the faithful relatives of the deceased encircle the tomb in a counterclockwise direction asking their departed loved ones to plead for our sake before God almighty.
During Vespers of Sunday (conducted on Saturday evening), there will be another service of reconciliation (shub'khono) to prepare us for the Feast of the Resurrection (Hido d'Qymtho).
Evening:St. Matthew 27:57-61St. Mark 15:42-16:1St. Luke 23:50-24:12St. John 19:31-42
Morning:St. Mathew 27:62-66
Before Holy Qurbono:Genesis 8:1-12Zechariah 12:11-13:7Jeremiah 38: 3-13Amos 6:8-14Judges 7:9-15Isaiah 59:13-18
Holy Qurbono:Acts 3:11-21Romans 6:1-11Hebrews 13:20-21St. Matthew 27:57 -61
Shub-khono:I John 4:11-21I Corinthians 13:4-10St. Matthew 18:12-22
For sermons/commentaries based on the Gospel: https://goo.gl/WN9HE2
Tone of the Day: Hasho (hashonoyo)
Malayalam Hymns: https://goo.gl/gLj5KA
English Prayers: https://tinyurl.com/36u967fh
Syriac prayers: https://tinyurl.com/3u2d9wfb
Trilingual (Malayalam, English, Manglish) Service Booklet for entire Passion Week: https://bit.ly/TrilingualPassion Service of Reconciliation (shub'khono)
Service from Ma'De'Dono: https://drive.google.com/file/d/10JQkzj4Fg4-o5ev8retaBgJK2U9ZErWP/view?usp=drivesdk
Christ's Descent to the Dead in the Theology of Saint Ephrem the Syrian (Phd Dissertation): https://bit.ly/ChristDescentEphrem
Why do Orthodox Christians commemorate the departed souls: https://tinyurl.com/3c2ns4wfhttp://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Passion/Passion_Today_7-Saturday.htm
Mar Thoma III +1688
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.
Oh Mar Thoma III! Plead for us before God's throne of grace. Amen.
http://www.syriacchristianity.info/bio/MorThomaIII.htm
St. Rufus the Martyr
"the martyr Roufos"
at Melitine in Armenia
St. Theodore of Perge
Martyr
Bright Week (S'habtho d'Hevorae)
20 April 2025 - 26 April 2025
From Easter to the following Saturday, the Syriac Orthodox Church celebrates Bright Week (S'habtho d'Hevorae). Bright Week starts on Easter & ends on the following Saturday, the Sunday after that being New Sunday (had'bshabo hadto or puthu njyaar).
In the earliest times of the Church, it was more common for adults to be baptized rather than children, however as attested from the words of the various church fathers, child baptism also existed. The Catechumens (Christian converts awaiting baptism) would be instructed on the faith & traditions of the Church. The days of Great Lent was seen as the best time for them to be taught effectively. Each Catechumen would be sufficiently taught the intricacies of Orthodox Christianity from the basic principles to the finer details, adequately preparing them for their new life as a child of God. Church fathers including St. John Chrysostom agreed that the best day for these Catechumens to be baptized was Easter, therefore at the end of their period of instruction during the Holy Great Lent, the converts would be baptized on Easter Sunday. From Easter to New Sunday there was Holy Qurbono every day, & it was customary for the newly baptized neophytes to wear a shining white robe to church during the week symbolizing the robe of heavenly glory granted to those who've received the Holy Spirit. Mor Dionysius Yac'ub Bar Salibi stresses that the neophytes were to not bathe for 7 days following their baptism. Since the churches & streets were filled with many neophytes wearing their white shining robes, the week became known as Bright Week. The neophytes would then receive Holy Qurbono on New Sunday.
While adult baptisms are comparatively less frequent in modern times, & Catechumens may be baptized on days other than Easter, Syriac Orthodox Christians (especially Infants) still wear a white robe after their baptism.
Robe of Glory by Dr. Sinu John: https://tinyurl.com/445vteam
Significance of Hevorae days (courtesy Hymonutho): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7_KghTEToc
Syriac Prayers for the week: https://tinyurl.com/mry2yutr
Brief explanation: https://goo.gl/h98Q9E
Homily 42 'On the Reception of the Holy Mysteries on the Week of Whites' by St. Jacob of Serugh: https://bit.ly/SerughHomily42
Easter Sunday (Kyomtho)
20 April 2025
The Feast of the Resurrection of our Saviour (Hido da-Qyomto foruqoyto) more commonly known as Easter, according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church in Malankara.
As Christ foretold, three days from His death He'll be raised from the dead. By His resurrection He renewed all of creation. Easter is known as the Feast of feasts, & it is among the earliest celebrations in Christendom. One of the earliest accounts on the Easter celebration comes to us through a Syriac work, 'Didascalia Apostolorum'.
In Malankara, from today till the Feast of the cross (Sleebo) we recite the prayers & hymns of Qymtho season each Sunday, also known as "Kymtha Namaskaram"
Qom Moran men Qabro! Mhaiminan u mawdenan d-shariroith qom.
Christ has risen from the tomb! We believe and confess that He truly has risen.
Evening:St. Matthew 28:1-20
Midnight:St. Luke 24:1-12
Morning:St. John 20:1-18
Celebration of the Holy Cross:Leviticus 23:26-32Michah 7:8-13Isaiah 57:19-20 60:17-22I Peter 5:5-14Romans 16:1-24St. John 13:34-35, 14:27, 15:11-15, 17-19
Before Holy Qurbono:Exodus 40:17-23Numbers 10:1-10Isaiah 60:1-7, 11-16, 61:10-62:5I Samuel 21:2-7Judges 6:11-16Joel 2:21-32Nahum 2:1-8Daniel 6:18-24
Holy Qurbono:Acts 2:22-43I Corinthians 15:20-28St. Mark:16:1-8
For sermons/commentaries based on the Gospel: https://goo.gl/MPakekSyriac Prayers: https://tinyurl.com/2p9h29hu
Tone of the Day: 8 & 1
Malayalam service book: https://bit.ly/EasterMal
Hymns on YouTube: https://goo.gl/zCty3F
Manglish/English Passion Week Service booklet: https://bit.ly/TrilingualPassion
English service book: https://tinyurl.com/2p8ckp38
Syriac Service book from Ma'de'dono: https://tinyurl.com/mtk7ywxf
http://www.malankaraworld.com/Library/Lent/Passion/Passion_Today_8-Easter.htm
St. Domnina and her Daughters, Martyrs
"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
St. Jacob
Probably this is Mor Jacob the Seer (went to Ephesus to condemn Nestorius), mentioned in the Life of Mor Samuel of Qartmin
St. Paphnutius of Jerusalem
Sts. Conon, Sha'ad (Saades) and Aitalaha (Ithalaha)
Bishops of Edessa
Abduction of H.E Mor Gregorios Yohanna Ibrahim, martyrdom of Deacon Fatuh +2013
21 April 2025
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.
Glorification of St. Mary after the Resurrection of our Lord
"A feast in honour of St. Mary on the day following the Resurrection of the redeemer and His rising from the dead."
Reference, "The Holy Virgin Mary in the Syrian Orthodox Church" by the thrice blessed late Patriarch HH Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas of blessed memory.
Commemorated annually on the Monday after Easter.
Hevorae Monday (Monday after Easter) (Tren-bshabo dhewore)
Monday of Bright Week (Tren-bshabo d'Hevorae) according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church in Malankara.
Commemorations (RSoH): St. Mary Magdalene and the Prophets
The Holy Bible readings from the Church Lectionary for Hevorae Monday:
Evening: St. Luke 24:13-35
Morning: St. Matthew 28:11-20
Before Holy Qurbono: Genesis 41:41-46 Numbers 7:84-89 I Kings 18:36-40 Judges 8:13-21 Jeremiah 1:4-12 Isaiah 40:9-15
Holy Qurbono: I Peter 2:19-25 Romans 6:12-23 St. John 2:18-25
Mor Augin (St. Eugene)
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
St. Arator of Alexandria, Martyr
"at Alexandria, the presbyter Aristos"
St. Malke +315
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
The Seven Sleepers of Ephesus
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
Yawmo d Thnahto da Meethe
For the Syriac Orthodox Church faithful of Tur Abdin region and their diaspora, Easter Monday is known as Yawmo d Thnahto da mithe. It is a day of celebration, Day of the Dead.
Unlike other memorials of the departed as practiced in the Syriac Church, the mood of Thnahto is not somber, rather is it very jovial. On this day, Syriac families enter the cemeteries and place candles, flowers, and other decorations around the grave. The priest and deacons arrive to offer incense at each grave. While awaiting the priest to come, Syriac families have a picnic upon or adjacent to the graves of their deceased loved ones. They share chocolates and treats, eat freshly baked bread, drink coffee and participate in playing folk games. One such game involves knocking the coloured and decorated Easter Eggs against each other.
Much in the same way that on Sunday the living parish members celebrate Easter, Thnahto provides an opportunity for the reposed to join in on the festivities. It is a reminder that the Church is comprised of both the quick and dead. Thnahto further emphasizes the victorious nature of the Feast of the Resurrection, as a triumph of the eternal soul against the temporal implications of physical death.
Even the dead hearken to hear Christ is Risen, and to boldly respond that indeed He is Risen!
Reference: 'The Construction of Equality: Syriac Immigration and the Swedish City' and 'Easter Monday (Thnahto): Syriacs gather at the cemeteries of Tur Abdin'
Hevorae Tuesday (Tloth-bshabo dhewore)
22 April 2025
Tloth-bshabo dhewore
Commemorations (RSoH): Adam, Eve, Seth, Enoch. Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
Evening: St. Mark 15:37-16:8
Morning: St. Mark 16:9-18
Before Holy Qurbana: Exodus 14:26-31 Joshua 6:9-16 Great Wisdom 1:1-8 Isaiah 63:8-14
Holy Qurbana: Acts 13:26-39 Ephesians 6:10-24 St. Mark 8:11-21
Mar Thoma I +1670
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.
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
Peter III of Callinicum +591
Patriarch of Antioch
BL17134
St. Victor and those martyred with him
Hevorae Wednesday (Arb`o-bshabo dhewore)
23 April 2025
Arb`o-bshabo dhewore
Commemorations (RSoH): St. Mary the mother of God
Evening: St. Luke 23:46-24:11
Morning: St. Luke 24:12-24
Before Holy Qurbana: Exodus 40:1-16 Joshua 2:1-6 Hosea 8:1-8 Isaiah 65:1-7
Holy Qurbana: Acts 4:8-21 Hebrews 3:1-13 St. Mark 8:27-32
Silvanus of Edessa
Bishop of Edessa
St. George the Martyr (Mor Gewargis Sahdo)
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 describedby 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 theprincess’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
Fixed Feast
Armenian/Syriac Genocide 1915
24 April 2025
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?"
Hevorae Thursday (Hamsho-bshabo dhewore)
Hamsho-bshabo dhewore
Commemorations (RSoH): Apostles and Doctors of the Church
Evening: St. John 19:30-20:2
Morning: St. John 20:3-18
Before Holy Qurbana: Exodus 34:4-12 I Kinngs 20:28-30 Micah 4:1-7 Zechariah 8:4-9 Isaiah 37:8-17
Holy Qurbana: I John 4:19-5:15 Hebrews 11:3-6 St. Matthew 16:20-24
St. Anthimus, Bishop of Nicomedia and those with him
"– … 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.
St. Barlaha
He was a former servant of pagans
Hevorae Friday/Friday of Confessors (`Rubto dmawdyone)
25 April 2025
`Rubto dmaudyone
Commemorations (RSoH): Martyrs of Maipherqat, confessors and pilgrims. St. Mary, Anne, Elizabeth.
Friday of Confessors ('rubto d-mawdyone) according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church in Malankara.
Confessors are all those individuals who continued to "confess" that Jesus was Lord despite the afflictions & persecutions they faced. (Mor Severios Mushe Bar Kifo +903; Syriac theologian & malfono of the Church). They are the men & women whom have suffered for their faith (usually physical torture, but other types of loss as well) but were not killed & are therefore distinguished from those who attained the crown of martyrdom (sohde).
In the Syriac Orthodox Liturgical Calendar, the Friday after Easter during Bright Week ('rubto d'Hevorae) is dedicated to the Confessors. However, within Syriac Christianity the Confessors are given another interpretation. They are those whom were raised from the graves by Christ who descended to Sheol. They make their confession, proclaiming the glory of Christ & then return to their graves.
German translation of the Syriac excerpt from Mor Epiphanius of Salamis' "treatise on the 12 gemstones" ( de duodecim gemmis rationalis) by malfono Gabriel Rabo about the Confessors: https://tinyurl.com/bdtwhhzj
Syriac Prayer: https://tinyurl.com/27mbzwdh
Evening:St. John 20:18-23
Morning:St. Matthew 27:50-61
Before Holy Qurbono:Deuteronomy 16:1-8Joshua 8:30-33Proverbs 9:1-11Joel 3:16-21Isaiah 26:1-8
Holy Qurbono:I Peter 3:17-22Hebrews 11:32-40St. Mark 9:9-15
May the intercession of the Confessors of the Holy Church be with us all!
St. Adorhormizd +447
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.
St. Hermas the Martyr
"And on the Friday after Easter, which is the commemoration of all the martyrs, – in the city of Nisibis, the martyr Hermās, on the Friday after Easter-week."Commemorated annually on the Friday after Easter
St. Mark the Evangelist
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.
Abba Lot
26 April 2025
early Desert Father
Hevorae Saturday (Shabtho dhewore)
Shabtho dhewore
Commemorations (RSoH): Priests, hermits, monks. All the faithful departed.
Evening: St. Luke 24:25-44
Morning: St. Matthew 27:62-28:20
Before Holy Qurbana: Joshua 1:5-9 I Kings 17:17-22 II Kings 23:21-25 Isaiah 44:23-28
Holy Qurbana: Acts 26:19-25 Philippians 2:1-11 St. Mark 12:18-27
St. Basil, Bishop of Amasea
Mor Behnam & Mort Sarah
27 April 2025
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.
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
Mor Gregorius of Jerusalem, North Parur (+1681)
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
New Sunday (had b-shabo hadto/Sunday after Easter)
The first Sunday after Easter & New Sunday (had'bshabo qadmoyo d'Qymtho, had'bshabo hadto) known in Malayalam as Puthu Njyaar according to the Liturgical Calendar of the Syriac Orthodox Church in Malankara.
In the early days of the Holy Church, all the neophytes who were baptized on Easter & whom were learning about the faith & traditions of the Church during the Bright Week (S'habtho d'Hevorae) would receive their first true Holy Communion. With said Holy Qurbono, it would be a new chapter in the lives of these Christians.
The Gospel of St. John recalls Christ's revelation to His Apostles following His Resurrection. Today the Church also commemorates the proclamation of faith by St. Thomas, "My Lord & my God" John 20:28. He is traditionally 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 every Holy Qurbono when the second coming of Christ is commemorated.
Evening:St. John 20:19-25
Morning:St. John 20:19-31
Before Holy Qurbono:Genesis 41:41-46Numbers 7:84-891 Kings 18:36-40Judges 8:13-21Jeremiah 1:4-12Isaiah 40:9-15
Holy Qurbono:I Peter 2:18-25Romans 6:12-23St. John 20:19-31
For sermons/commentaries based on the Gospel: https://goo.gl/HSFvfG
Tone of the Day: 1 (5 for alternate days of the week)
Hymns: https://goo.gl/YF99cj
Syriac Prayers for Hadbshabo Hadto: https://tinyurl.com/42pfr3h5
Service from Ma'De'Dono: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1a5OxR1A79gCYuXqBILLWAuPh5WNpx1FJ/view?usp=drivesdk
Pope Alexander of Alexandria
St. Christopher the Barbarian
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
St. John of Dailam
Monk and Missionary
Life of Mor John of Dailam: https://bit.ly/JohnDailam
St. Simon, bishop of Jerusalem
Son of Joseph, brother of our Lord Jesus Christ
Daniel of Edessa
28 April 2025
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.
St. Aday the Evangelist
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.
St. Aho the ascetic +524
Commemorated annually on the Monday after New Sunday (had'bshabo hadto).
Mor Aho was born around 419 A.D. in the city of Rish'aino (Ras ul-'ayn now), which is to the south & east of Nisibis in present day Syria near Hassekeh, his father's name was 'Ubadyo. Aho was one of his three children. At the age of twelve he became the disciple of a local monk, & the Lord bestowed wisdom on the child & he was enlightened and became wiser than all the other children.
Mor Aho Monastery/Dayro Daslibo(Monastary of the Cross) was founded in the 6th century AD by Mor Aho. He was trained by a local monk in the liturgy of the Syriac Orthodox Church, & founded the monastery after escaping from his conscription into the Persian army in 573. The reason why the monastery is also called the monastery of the Holy Cross is because the monastery of Mor Aho is one of many sites which claim to have a fragment of the Holy Cross. Legend states that at some point after the founding of the Monastery, Mor Aho found a fragment of the Holy Cross in either Jerusalem or Constantinople. He managed to steal the relic by hiding it inside of a wound in his leg. After placing the relic in his leg, The wound miraculously healed, allowing him to escape with the fragment unnoticed. The monastery’s main church was built over the supposed site of the relic, which is believed to of been buried in an undisclosed location in that area. Therefore, the relic can't be seen & no one knows exactly where it is. Mor Aho is also responsible for the conversion of four villages in the area of Malayta, & for the foundation of another monastery in Tur Abdin. He died at an old age, & his tomb is located beneath the Monastery.
Dayro d-slibo aka Mor Aho Monastery had to be abandoned during the Aramean Genocide (Sayfo) perpetrated by the Turks in 1915.
http://www.soc-wus.org/ourchurch/St.%20Aho.htm
St. Benjamin of Beth Nuhadra
St. Jason of Thessalonica
Counted among the 72 Evangelists
St. Pinhas
Mar Pinḥas, martyr from Persia
Sts. Bartholomew the Apostle & Barnabas disciple and martyr
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
Sts. Eusebius and Charalambos, Martyrs
"at Nicomedia, the presbyter Eusebios, and the presbyter Charalampos, and two hundred and sixty-eight other martyrs."
Abba Ammon of Nitria
29 April 2025
Nine Martyrs at Cyzicus
Theognes, Rufus, Antipater, Theostichus, Artemas, Magnus, Theodotus, Thaumasius, and Philemon
St. Germanus the Martyr
" at Alexandria, the presbyter Germanos"
St. Safanyo, Abbot of Qartmin
In hagiography: Sophenian was from the region south of Armenia between the Tigris and the Euphrates.
Mor Sufanyo (loved quiet and solitude) mentioned in the Life of Mor Samuel of Qartmin
Mor Ya`qub, son of Zebedee
30 April 2025
St. James (Jacob) is usually called “the Greater” in order to distinguish him from the other Apostle James, the “brother: of the Lord, who is called “the Less”. He was the brother of St. John the Evangelist (sons of Zebedee and Salome) and came from Bethsaida in Galilee, where his father owned a fishing boat.
Evening: St. Matthew 9: 35 - 10: 10 Morning: St. Matthew 19: 27 - 30
Before Holy Qurbana: Genesis 12 : 1 - 9 Daniel 1: 8 - 21 Isaiah 43: 1 - 7
Holy Qurbana: Acts 1: 12 - 14 I Corinthians 12: 28 - 13: 10 St. Luke 6: 12 - 23
http://www.syriacchristianity.info/doc/Apostles.htm#ST. JAMES, Apostle
Sts. Diodorus and Rodopianus of Aphrodisia, Martyrs
"at Aphrodisias in the province of Caria, the martyrs Diodotos and Rodopianos"
Saints Diodorus and Rodopianus were two deacons who suffered martyrdom in the early 300s in the persecutions of Emperor Diocletian (284-305) in Aphrodisia in the province of Caria in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). It happened by being stoned by their own countrymen.
Wednesday of the Second Week after the Resurrection
Remembrance of the Righteous Departed (BL17134)
St. Severus the Great of Antioch Cathedral Homily # 44
St. Thomas the Holy Apostle (BL14504)
Commemorated annually on the Wednesday of the second week after Easter.
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