Our Church celebrates the memory of Holy Apostle Nathaniel, Venerable Theodore the Sykeote and Martyr Nearchus.
Saint Nathaniel came from Cana of Galilee. He was a close friend of Philip the Apostle, who also announced to him the prophecies fulfilled by Christ.
He then became one of the Lord’s twelve disciples. His went on a missionary tour to Africa, Mauritania and Britain, where he was crucified by pagans.
Saint Theodore, whose memory is also celebrated today, was born in the Sykeon, a village in Galatia. He was the son of the Maria and Kosmas, who was appointed to carry out Emperor Justinian’s orders.
Despite the sinfulness of his mother, God did not deem him unworthy to make him an honorable High Priest. From a very young age, he showed his predilection for monastic life.
Later, with the blessings of Theodosius, Bishop of Anastasioupolis, he led a monastic life and was then ordained a deacon and presbyter. Saint Theodore used all the means of spiritual practice not only to perfect his personality but also to benefit his fellow human beings.
With all these gifts, God made him bishop, despite that he avoided the administrative responsibilities.
Venerable Theodore fell asleep in the Lord in AD 613.
Source: Church of Cyprus
