The Orthodox Church commemorates today Great-martyr Anastasia the “Deliverer from Potions”, her teacher, Martyr Chrysogonus, and her three children who also gave up their souls to the Lord.
Saint Anastasia holds a prominent place in the testimony of our Church, as evidenced by the fact that poets John of Damascus, Theodore Studitis and Joseph the Hymnwriter wrote hymns in her honour. She was named Pharmacologist because, according to her majesty, “Medicines that flow from the secrets of souls and bodies heal passions and sufferings, oh Anastasia, the divine energy; by your grace we are all preached”.
She lived at the time of Diocletian’s persecution of Christians and she was a child of a prominent wealthy family from Rome. She converted to Christianity at a young age. When her parents gave Saint Anastasia in marriage to a pagan named Publius, she revealed her faith to the Lord.
Her husband tried many times to force her to reject Christ, but she remained steadfast in Him. She was devoted to preaching the word of God and taking care of the poor, the sick, and the imprisoned Christians.
Her missionary work, her steadfastness when she was in prison, and her martyrdom, that is being burned alive, converted many people to Christianity.
The relics of Saint Anastasia help many people who are hurt or traumatised to be cured and find salvation.
May everyone be healthy and courageous and may the intercession of St. Anastasia support every suffering person.
In addition, late Archbishop Chrysostomos I of Cyprus fell asleep in the Lord on Saturday the 22nd of December 2007. On the day of the 13th anniversary of his death, we hold memorial services in the Church of Cyprus and pray to God for the rest of his soul. Commemorating our ancestors is the best gift of gratitude for our living benefactors.
As the years go by, his memory remains alive. He was undoubtedly a forerunner in the struggle for freedom and restoration of the rights of the Greek Cypriot people.”
Source: Church of Cyprus
