Today the Orthodox Church honors the memory of Apostle James, son of Alphaeus and brother of the Evangelist Matthew, the memory of St. Andronikos and his wife Athanasia, as well as Patriarch Abraham and Lot his nephew.
Saint Andronikos, from Antioch, then the capital of Syria, rich and pious, had a wife, Athanasia, modest and theophilic. After prayer they decided to give a part of their property to the poor, a part as a loan to those in need and a third that they kept for their family, since they had two children to raise.
Their two children died at the same time and Andronikos received the blow with a spiritual struggle, but Athanasia, devastated, asked to be buried with her children. Saint Athanasia came to terms with the death of her children when one night she heard in her prayer Saint Julian telling her that her children were deprived of earthly life but they would not be deprived of the heavenly gifts of the Kingdom of God.
Andronikos and Athanasia finally decided for the rest of their lives to become monks, remaining entirely dedicated to the will of God.
Judging by the number of temples in Cyprus dedicated to the couple of Saints Andronikos and Athanasia, and two villages in occupied Karpasia that are named after St. Andronikos, we conclude that they are two very beloved Saints, to whom many people have a special fondness because of the way that they dealt with the misfortune of their family.
Andronikos and Athanasia prove how important it is for the marital home to be blessed and protected by God. Modern spouses who have Jesus Christ as their foundation in life, live with respect for each other and experience with dignity and awe the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Children are gifts and blessings, unique images of God the Creator and light candles of God’s presence in the world.
Taking on marital responsibility, let our young people be aware of this beautiful choice, beyond the temporary and momentary. At the same time to realize the value of authentic love that leads to spiritual completion. Procreation as well is a gift and blessing of God in the absolutely great and sanctified course of married life.
Source: Church of Cyprus
