St. Spyridon + Commemorated on December 12
Saint Spyridon of Tremithus was born towards the end of the third century on the island of Cyprus. He was a shepherd, and had a wife and children. He used all his substance for the needs of his neighbors and the homeless, for which the Lord rewarded him with a gift of wonderworking. He healed those who were incurably sick, and cast out demons.
Troparion — Tone 1
At the First Council you appeared as a champion of Truth and a Wonderworker, O our God-bearing Father Spyridon. For you spoke to one dead in her grave, and transformed a serpent into gold; while chanting your holy prayers you had Angels serving with you, most holy one. Glory to Him Who glorified you. Glory to Him Who crowned you. Glory to Him Who, through you, grants healing to all.
Kontakion — Tone 2
Wounded by the love of Christ, most holy one, your mind was given wings by the radiance of the Spirit, O God-inspired one, you found your work in active contemplation, O God-pleasing Spyridon, becoming a godly sacrifice, and entreating divine illumination for all.
St. Blaise + Commemorated on February 11
The Hieromartyr Blaise (Blasius), Bishop of Sebaste, was known for his righteous and devout life. Unanimously chosen by the people, he was consecrated Bishop of Sebaste. This occurred during the reign of the Roman emperors Diocletian (284-305) and Licinius (307-324), fierce persecutors of Christians. Saint Blaise encouraged his flock, visited the imprisoned, and gave support to the martyrs.
Troparion — Tone 4
By sharing in the ways of the Apostles, you became a successor to their throne. Through the practice of virtue, you found the way to divine contemplation, O inspired one of God; by teaching the word of truth without error, you defended the Faith, even to the shedding of your blood. Hieromartyr Blaise, entreat Christ God to save our souls.
Kontakion — Tone 2
Godly shoot, unfading flower, most fruitful branch of Christ the Vine, God-bearing Blaise, fill with joy those who in faith honor your memory as you unceasingly intercede for us all.
