We celebrate Saint Euthymius (also spelled Euthemius) the Great on January 20th, commemorating his death that day in Jerusalem. We know Saint Euthymius for founding many monasteries in the fifth century. Also, he participated in the decision making of the Fourth Ecumenical Council.
Euthymius the Great
Euthymius was born in a noble Christian family in 377. Tradition holds that the couple struggled with infertility, and greatly rejoiced when God answered their prayers for a child. However, his parents died (or at least his father) and so the local bishop took Euthymius in. The bishop educated Euthymius, and then later ordained him.
Around his 30th year, Euthymius went on pilgrimage to Jerusalem. And there he was drawn further into the aesthetic life with a friend he met in the caves of Jerusalem: Theoctistus. Together they moved out into the desert and lived the solitary life as neighbouring hermits. However, as often is the case with holy men, many were drawn to be their disciples and so Euthymius and Theoctistus founded monasteries. Theoctistus was left in charge of the first monastery, while Euthymius withdrew again. Yet more souls flocked to him, and so the pattern of his life continued. (Sometimes hermits have to offer up their desire for peace and quiet just as us mothers do at times!)
Some records suggest Euthymius influenced those gathered at the Fourth Ecumenical Council: the Council of Chalcedon. Although we know for certain that he spread the condemnation of heresies from the fourth council to other recluses.
Ways to Celebrate
Pray today for those in monastic vocations, and especially for hermits.
Taking a pilgrimage to Jerusalem changed the course of Saint Euthymius’ life. While it may not be feasible to do the same, check out a virtual religious tour of Jerusalem such as this one.
The name Euthymius means “Good Cheer.” Thank God for the many blessings in your life. Also, talk to those you see on his feast day about the many reasons you have in your life for “good cheer.”
This saint was known for preaching the virtue of obedience to his disciples. Work today o the little ways you can grow in obedience to the Lord in your life.
Prayers for Father Euthymius
Troparion: (tone 8) Rejoice, o barren desert; take heart, thou who hast never known labour! For a man filled with the Holy Spirit hath multiplied thy children! He planted them in godliness and raised them in temperance to the perfection of the virtues. Through his prayers, Christ our God, grant us peace.
Kontakion: (tone 8) O Venerable Father Euthymius, creation rejoiced in your birth, and gains strength through your miracles from your divine memorial. Grant a great share in your wonders for our souls, and cleanse the stains of our sins that we may sing Alleluia.
Prokeimenon: (tone 7) Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His venerable ones. Verse: What should I render unto the Lord for all the things He has rendered unto me.
The Byzantine Life
Thank you for checking out this week’s article. If you haven’t already, you can read our article about House Blessings.
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