By Bishop Gregorios of Mesaoria
The Church today commemorates Venerable Moses the Ethiopian of Scete, and Martyrs Diomedes and Laurence.
The Church also celebrates the memory of Righteous Anna the Prophetess, daughter of Phanuel, who saw the Infant Jesus Christ at the Temple of Jerusalem. He was brought to be dedicated to God as a firstborn child, celebrated during the Feast of the Presentation of our Lord, God, and Savior Jesus Christ in the Temple.
Saint Moses was a slave of a rich man in Egypt. Because of his black skin and strong physique, he stood out while his aggressive behaviour forced his master to dismiss him. A large, imposing figure, he became the leader of a gang of bandits for several years until he decided to give up his old way of life, repent and lead a pious life.
He retired to Skete and he became an epitome of an obedient and humble monk. He was together martyred by the bandits, who invaded his desert cell and massacred him and six monks who remained with him.
We can learn a lot from the life of Venerable Moses the Ethiopian for two reasons: first, for the power of repentance, which transforms, even robbers, into pious people, who, through the great mercy of God, are allowed to be priests and officiate the Divine Liturgy. Second, the Church is in fact opposed to all forms of social discrimination and racism and colour or origin are in no way regarded as being as a prerequisite for the salvation and holiness of each individual.
SOURCE: Church of Cyprus