Our Holy Church honors today, July 31, the memory of St. Joseph of Arimathea, who, together with Nicodemus, buried the body of Jesus Christ.
Also, today we celebrate the recovery of the holy relics of Agios Apostolos Filippos, that is, their transfer from the Hierapolis of Phrygia and their deposition in a temple in Cyprus, which bears his name.
Today, we also celebrate the opening of the Monastery of Panagia of Vlachernon and the eve of the Progress of the Holy Cross, which was transfered, from August 1, in all the parishes of Eptalofos Town, to bless them and the faithful το draw strength from it, as well as also with the blessing of the Holy Cross to get rid of every epidemic and disease.
This belief is expressed by the hymn writer with the following praise: “Cross of Christ, the hope of Christians, guide of wanderers, harbor for those who suffer, victory in war, universal security, healer of the sick, the resurrector of the dead, have mercy on us”
We also honor the memory of St. Eudokimos the just, who came from Cappadocia and lived during the 9th century AD. Having received a Christian upbringing from his parents Basil and Eudokia, the Saint was a model of virtue from his childhood.
He practiced charity to the fullest and was always just and humble, a fact which was appreciated by the emperor Theophilos, who honored him with the post of commander-in-chief of all Cappadocia.
Evdokimos left the world at the age of just 33, leaving, despite his short life, an example of restraint, almsgiving, humility, and justice, as well as unwavering faith in the Triune God.
Source: Church of Cyprus