Today, the Church commemorates the memory of the Prophet Jeremiah, Saint Panaretos, and the Venerable Saints Isidora and Nikephoros of Chios.
The Prophet Jeremiah, whose name means “God exalts,” was born around 650 B.C. He was raised in a priestly family and was called to the prophetic office at a young age. Despite his objections due to inexperience, he obeyed the will of God.
The polytheism of the Assyrians had infiltrated the Jews, leading to religious syncretism. The Prophet condemned polytheism, preached the One True God, and denounced corruption. He opposed false prophets who misled the people. While he recognized some repentance among the people, he perceived it as superficial and temporary, brought about by drought. He suffered deeply, reaching a state of despair. He foretold destruction, yet also affirmed the long-suffering nature of God.
His words stirred unrest. He was arrested and imprisoned.
At the end of 605 B.C., after the defeat of the Egyptians at Carchemish, he gave his prophecy foretelling the destruction of the temple to his disciple Baruch to read publicly. Jeremiah and Baruch went into hiding to avoid arrest. Nevertheless, the destruction came to pass.
Jeremiah was stoned to death by his fellow countrymen in Egypt in 568 B.C. His book in the Old Testament contains profound theological insights.
Saint Panaretos, Bishop of Paphos, was born in Peristeronopigi, Ammochostos in 1710 A.D. He was tonsured a monk at the Monastery of Saint Anastasios in that area. He served Archbishop Philotheos of Cyprus, who took care of his theological training.
In 1757, he was elected abbot of the Theotokos Monastery in Pallouriotissa, and in 1767, he succeeded Chrysanthos as Metropolitan of Paphos. He undertook the reconstruction of monasteries and churches, such as the Church of Panagia Chrysorogiatissa, and promoted the publication of books.
He was exiled along with other bishops in 1783 and fell asleep in the Lord in 1790, having lived a saintly life.
The life of Saint Panaretos of Paphos was one of exemplary virtue. He was distinguished for his humility, self-restraint, and devotion to the Risen Jesus Christ.
Source: Church of Cyprus
