Akathist to Sts. Theodore the Great Martyrs

Sts. Theodore the Recruit and Theodore the Commander, the Great Martyrs of Christ (source)

  
Akathist to Sts. Theodore the Recruit and Theodore the Commander, the Great Martyrs of Christ
  
Kontakion in the Plagal of the Fourth Tone
The famed great martyrs of the faith, and the joyous lights that noetically beautify the firmament, as true members of the Church, and richly pouring forth rivers of miracles, Saints Theodore, O faithful, let us praise, as we cry out to them: Rejoice, O pair chosen by God.
  
The Bodiless Angels were truly astonished, (3) beholding your struggles surpassing nature, O Champions of Christ God, and as you are the namesake of His gifts, together you rejoice, as we cry out to you things like these:
Rejoice, precious dyad of God,
Rejoice, famed, holy pair.
Rejoice, O all-wise Theodore the Commander,
Rejoice, great and blessed Theodore the Recruit.
Rejoice, honored pair, and the joy of the Angels,
Rejoice, boast of the faith and adornment of the Saints.
Rejoice, true pride of the city of Euchaita,
Rejoice, blessed prestige of the Tyrian regiment.
Rejoice, dyad called by Christ,
Rejoice, you who preached Him as God.
Rejoice, through whom creation was struck with awe,
Rejoice, through whom the Creator is hymned.
Rejoice, O greatest Saints Theodore.
  
At the command of the King Licinius, O godly-minded Theodore, and Soldier of Christ, you were condemned to martyrdom, O wise one, and you achieved great feats while ridiculing the vanity of the idols, and crying out to God: Alleluia.

Saints Theodore the Great Martyrs (source)

  
Having been enriched with divine knowledge, as true Champions of the Lord, you bravely spat upon the false gods out of wisdom, and ridiculed them. Therefore, we cry out to you these things with joy:
Rejoice, Martyr and Soldier of Christ,
Rejoice, sure protector of the faithful.
Rejoice, you who deposed the command of Licinius,
Rejoice, you who hated the mute gods.
Rejoice, O Theodore the Recruit, the radiance of Champions,
Rejoice, glory and adornment of the sacred churches.
Rejoice, you who uprooted the delusion of the idols,
Rejoice, all-joyous dyad of Martyrs.
Rejoice, helper of all the faithful.
Rejoice, sure shield of piety,
Rejoice, lamp of the truth of Christ.
Rejoice, O greatest Saints Theodore.
  
You were clothed with power from on high, O Champions, and willingly ran the race of Martyrdom, and with God within your souls, you crushed the heads of the enemy, as you ceaselessly cried out to God the Pantocrator: Alleluia.
  

Saints Theodore the Great Martyrs (source)

  
Your godly life truly shown throughout the world as a radiant morning star, illumining all the faithful and driving out the darkness of impiety, therefore, with rejoicing, we cry out to you these things:
Rejoice, O dyad, the pride of Champions,
Rejoice, arrow against the faithless enemies.
Rejoice, you who trampled upon the idols,
Rejoice, you who did not shy away from the instruments of torture.
Rejoice, for you put to death the mighty dragon of the senses,
Rejoice, sword against noetic foes.
Rejoice, for you deposed the traps of Vriga,
Rejoice, for you foresaw the terrible dangers.
Rejoice, you who accepted slaughter for your Lord,
Rejoice, joyous vessel of the Trinity.
Rejoice, dissolver of the false gods,
Rejoice, divine preacher of the true God.
Rejoice, O greatest Saints Theodore.

Having been arrayed in godly zeal, you endured the movements and every threat of tyrants as if children's toys, and you chanted to the Lord, O Champions, speaking to God, Who arrayed you with strength, as you cried out: Alleluia.
  

Saints Theodore the Great Martyrs (source)

You were shown to be radiant suns, shining through the very Blood of Christ, O Champions. You illumine the Churches of the firmament and the ends of the earth, rousing us to cry out:
Rejoice, O famed dyad of Theodores,
Rejoice, gift of God to the faithful.
Rejoice, you who drive away invisible enemies,
Rejoice, you who surely shame sensible [foes].
Rejoice, for you prove the will of tyrants to be vain,
Rejoice, for you burn up the mute idols.
Rejoice, you who cast down the temples of the idols,
Rejoice, adornment of famed Martyrs.
Rejoice, the boast of all the faithful,
Rejoice, O dyad, the protecting wall of piety,
Rejoice, ever-flowing spring of wonders.
Rejoice, O greatest Saints Theodore.

The divine Saints Theodore the Great Commander and the truly brave Theodore the Recruit, let us praise with hymns, O faithful, as ones who have been enriched by them, as our mighty protectors, who have received crowns of glory from Christ. Let us fervently cry out: Alleluia.
  

Saints Theodore the Great Martyrs (source)

 

You were shown to be mighty in battles, O Champions of the Lord, arrayed in the divine might of the Precious Cross, through which you conquered all vanity of the idols, and for which we cry out to you these things:

Rejoice, O dyad, torchbearers of the world,

Rejoice, steady tower of piety.

Rejoice, you who routed the ranks of the demons,

Rejoice, you who conquered the rage of the tyrants.

Rejoice, trumpet of great voice that preached Christ,

Rejoice, lyre that gladdens the hearts of the faithful.

Rejoice, greatly-flowing spring of healings,

Rejoice, O dyad of Martyrs, through whom the faith is strengthened.

Rejoice, you who dissipate the clouds of the idols,

Rejoice, you who cleansed from the filth of the demons.

Rejoice, our protectors amidst dangers,

Rejoice, healers of the faithful in afflictions.

Rejoice, O greatest Saints Theodore.

 

O wise Champions, you truly became stentorian preachers of Christ before tyrants, as you proclaimed the true God, and you therefore suffered for Him, ceaselessly crying out to Him: Alleluia.

  

Saints Theodore the Great Martyrs (source)

 

You shine throughout the world as radiant morning stars, driving out the darkness of terrifying ignorance through the rays of knowledge, bringing in divine illumination, through which we, who are illumined, cry out:

Rejoice, O glorified dyad,

Rejoice, you who were crowned by God.

Rejoice, O pair that censured delusion,

Rejoice, you who magnified Christ God.

Rejoice, you who boldly censured the tyrant Publios,

Rejoice, you who raised trophies against invisible enemies.

Rejoice, pair of divine athletes filled with divine fragrance,

Rejoice, rain that waters the earth from heaven,

Rejoice, O dyad, the defenders of the faithful.

Rejoice, you who fight against the many faithless,

Rejoice, through whom the faith blossoms,

Rejoice, through whom the weapons of the enemy have fallen.

Rejoice, O greatest Saints Theodore.

  

With all the Martyrs, Apostles, Venerable Fathers, and all the Prophets and Righteous, you now stand before the throne of God, O Champion Saints Theodore, entreating for salvation for the faithful, as you cry out to Him: Alleluia.

    

Saints Theodore the Great Martyrs (source)

  

You truly bore on your shoulders divine victory and might against visible and invisible enemies, as you were translated to things divine, O wise and thrice-joyous Martyrs, having been granted God, Whom you immediately entreat on behalf of those who cry out:

Rejoice, pair bearing the same name,

Rejoice, flower of piety.

Rejoice, all-joyous dyad of Theodores,

Rejoice, true fellow-dwellers with the Angels.

Rejoice, sacrifice to Christ God, O General,

Rejoice, O Recruit honored by God, who conquered the enemies.

Rejoice, wondrous and chosen pair,

Rejoice, speedy help and protector of Euchaita.

Rejoice, the deliverer of faithful people,

Rejoice, deposer of faithless people.

Rejoice, O dyad that dwells in the Heavens,

Rejoice, O pair of champions of Christ.

Rejoice, O greatest Saints Theodore.

 

The sacred treasury of your Relics has become a two-edged sword against invisible enemies, driving away their assaults, and strengthening the ranks of the faithful, and therefore, to Christ Who granted them strength, we cry out: Alleluia.

    

Saints Theodore the Great Martyrs (source)

 

The divine mass of Martyrs left all earthly things, and sin that greatly weighs upon us, and with patience, they wisely hastened towards the struggle of Martyrdom, and therefore, we cry out these things to them:

Rejoice, sacred pair of champions,

Rejoice, joyous pride of the Church.

Rejoice, O dyad, the dissolution of the idols,

Rejoice, you who cast down the enemies that afflict us.

Rejoice, glory and adornment of the churches of Christ,

Rejoice, boast and foundation of pious Christians.

Rejoice, O General, who partakes of unspeakable glory,

Rejoice, you whose divine head was crowned with an incorruptible crown.

Rejoice, O dyad that converses with the Martyrs,

Rejoice through whom the demons are driven out.

Rejoice, you who stand before the throne of Christ,

Rejoice, you who hymn the only God.

Rejoice, O greatest Saints Theodore.

 

All the ranks of Angels were astonished, beholding your divine struggles, clapped their hands, O Champions, and through your martyrdom, you were wisely lifted on high, O all-glorious Saints Theodore, and we, rejoicing together, cry out to Christ: Alleluia.

     

Saints Theodore the Great Martyrs (source)

 

You were truly arrayed with divine power from Christ on high, O Saints Theodore, and you proceeded to the feats of martyrdom, O Champions, with manliness in mind and soul, and you departed, having astonished even the faithless, while the faithful cry out:

Rejoice, O chosen dyad of Martyrs,

Rejoice, sacred pair of lights.

Rejoice, you who trampled upon the serpent of impiety,

Rejoice, you who preached the word of piety.

Rejoice, for you proved the commands of the tyrants to be futile,

Rejoice, for you received the lot of incorruptible gifts.

Rejoice, all-joyous haven of the storm-tossed,

Rejoice, healing of many afflicted people.

Rejoice, you who drive away demonic foes,

Rejoice, O dyad that protects the faithful,

Rejoice, pair that adorns the heavens.

Rejoice, O greatest Saints Theodore.

  

Guide those who praise you towards the haven of salvation, O Champions of Christ, through your ready intercessions to God, O glorious Saints Theodore, Whom you now stand before together, ceaselessly crying out: Alleluia.

  

Saints Theodore the Great Martyrs (source)

  

You were shown to be mighty and brave soldiers of Christ, O divine Saints Theodore, as you steadfastly departed the vanity of this earthly life, deposing tyrants through martyrdom. Therefore, we cry out to you:

Rejoice, O dyad and shield of piety,

Rejoice, censure of impiety.

Rejoice, O pair, a sea of wonders,

Rejoice, you who crushed the head of the dragon.

Rejoice, O Martyr and protector worthy of praise for those who honor you,

Rejoice, O Recruit honored by God, and signature of the Champions.

Rejoice, divine sword drawn against the enemies,

Rejoice, lamp that enlightens the multitude of the faithful.

Rejoice, O dyad, the pride of the faith,

Rejoice, incurable cutting out of delusion.

Rejoice, you who are nourished in Eden,

Rejoice, you who stand on the right hand of Christ.

Rejoice, O greatest Saints Theodore.

 

While chanting a divine hymn to the Savior of the world, you departed this life through your sacred martyrdom, O divine Champions, and you were not swayed by the threats of the tyrants, but you deposed them, crying out to the Tri-hypostatic God: Alleluia.

  

Saints Theodore the Great Martyrs (source)

 

You shine as lamps set in a high place by Christ, illumining the church of the nations and the whole earth, guiding all towards divine knowledge, O all-praised Saints Theodore, and for this we cry out to you these things:

Rejoice, O dyad, the radiance of Champions,

Rejoice, joyous followers of Christ.

Rejoice, you who shine like the moon upon the souls of the faithful,

Rejoice, you who drive away the assaults of enemies.

Rejoice, radiant star, O Champion General,

Rejoice, fragrant blossom, O Recruit and Martyr of Eden.

Rejoice, you who cast down the commands of Julian,

Rejoice, you who deliver the faithful from pains.

Rejoice, O dyad that shines like the light,

Rejoice, you who glorified Christ God.

Rejoice, you who obtained the nourishment of Paradise,

Rejoice, you who left the corrupt things of this life.

Rejoice, O greatest Saints Theodore.

  

You pour forth ready grace upon all, O wise Saints Theodore, through your intercessions to Christ the Son of God, and you preached Him as true God before faithless rulers, crying out to Him: Alleluia.

    

Saints Theodore the Great Martyrs (source)

 

We chant of your struggles, O Saints Theodore and Champions of Christ, and in faith we hymn your trophies as is right, which you raised against the foes and with which we are now enriched, as we fervently cry out to our deliverers:

Rejoice, O dyad, the surrounding wall of the people of Euchaita,

Rejoice, invincible pair of those bearing the name of Christ.

Rejoice, unsleeping intercessors for our souls before God,

Rejoice, unassailable foundation of piety.

Rejoice, gift granted by God, and breath of divine sweetness,

Rejoice, glory of the Martyrs, and deposer of demons.

Rejoice, tower that casts down the walls of the idols,

Rejoice, O dyad that shines through your struggles.

Rejoice, you who drive away the clouds of the enemies,

Rejoice, true fragrance of Christ,

Rejoice, joy of us the faithful.

Rejoice, O greatest Saints Theodore.

 

O divine Saints Theodore, and Champions of the Lord, (3) and comeliness of all the Champions, receive this our ode, and deliver from every danger all of us who take refuge in you, and who with fervor cry out to Christ: Alleluia.

  

And the Kontakion again.

(source)
  

Sts. Theodore the Great Martyr (source)

  

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

A miracle of St. Theodore Tyron

St. Theodore Tyron the Great Martyr (source)

 
A miracle of St. Theodore Tyron (amateur translation)
"You teach soldiers to abandon pillaging..."

These words are included in the service of the Saint, and relate to the following miracle:

One soldier, who had great reverence to the Saint, was compelled to go to war. Before he left, however, he went and venerated the Saint, in the Church in which was the reliquary with the Precious Relic of St. Theodore.

After the war, and following a great and radiant victory, when he returned, he went and again venerated the Saint at his Church. He left his sword, which was adorned with gold and precious stones, in thanks.

Another soldier, however, went and venerated the Saint. He saw the beautiful and precious sword, and wanted to take it.

He thought within himself: "The Saint doesn't need it. It is better that I have it, who am a soldier. I would wield it in war with the blessing and help of the Saint."

He therefore took the sword from the reliquary, put it on, venerated, and left with joy. Exiting from the Church, however, the Saint blinded him, and he could not see to walk.

He therefore repented, and again returned the sword to the reliquary, and immediately received his sight.

Seeing again the beautiful sword, and thinking that his blindness did not come from the Saint but from chance, he took up the sword again and left. As soon as he left the Church, however, again he was blinded.

At that instant the priest of the church came and saw the blind soldier, asking him what happened. He related the details of what occurred. He entreated the priest to serve Paraklesis to the Saint to forgive him. He also gave him 100 gold coins as a donation.

The priest then took oil from the vigil lamp of the Saint, anointed his eyes, and immediately he saw again. He fled with joy, glorifying God and St. Theodore.
(source)
 

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

"In Praise of Blessed Theodore [Tyron], the Great Martyr" by St. Gregory of Nyssa

St. Theodore the Great Martyr, the Recruit - Commemorated on February 17th and on the First Saturday of Great Lent (Icon courtesy of www.eikonografos.com used with permission)

  
"In Praise of Blessed Theodore [Tyron], the Great Martyr" by St. Gregory of Nyssa
"[J.61 & M.736] You, the people who belong to Christ, a holy flock, a royal priesthood which had come from every place, city and the countryside, what is the source of that sign which brought you to this sacred place? Who are you who hasten here and planned this [journey] beforehand? Is it not the season of winter which is untroubled by war, when armed soldiers are not present, sailors set sail over the foamy [waves] and the farmer puts to rest the ox used for plowing in the stall? It is not clear that the holy martyr sounded the trumpet from among the roster of warriors, rouses people from diverse regions to a place of rest, [M.737] proclaims a home, not in preparation for war but to a sweet and attractive peace for Christians? We believe that in the year when the barbarian invasion stopped and the horrible war against the savage Sythians came to an end we witnessed no frightening, terrible war, no triple crested helmet nor a brandished sword glittering in the sun, [J.62] but the all-powerful cross of Christ which wards them off, the means by which he obtained glory through his suffering.

Furthermore, I ask you to consider closely those who keep blameless religious observance such as the martyrs who compose an outstanding assembly of the just as well as those deemed worthy of recompense while still in the world, [Jms 1.27]. Let me affirm that they are still with us. Their great honor is open for all to see: by recognizing the fruit of piety, you must strive to share in their reverence. Desire the honors which Christ dispenses according to the worthiness of his athletes. But if it pleases him that we may enjoy future benefits which a pure hope offers to the just when the judge of our lives comes to us, we may see the company of the saints which is so magnificent and glorious. For the soul which is ascending is fond of residing in its own inheritance and converses in an incorporeal manner with its own brethren; the body a deserving and immaculate vehicle for that purpose which never allows the harm originating from its own passions to reside with incorruptibility. Enwrapped with much honor and solicitude, it dwells in this holy place as an inestimable treasure reserved for the time of regeneration and shares the uniqueness with regard to other bodies. For this common death which is similar in nature has no comparison. There are other abominable matters, for example, no one should lightly disregard the tomb but is this person opens himself to persuasion, he is liable to have no share in the repugnance of this present age, thereby avoiding the burden of the human condition.

Should a person come to a place similar to our assemble today where the memory of the just and the rest of the saints is present, first [J.62] consider this house's great dignity to which souls are lead. God's temple is brightly adorned with magnificence and is embellished with decorations, pictures of animals which masons have fashioned with delicate silver figures. It exhibits images of flowers made in the likeness of the martyr's virtues, his struggles, sufferings, the various savage actions of tyrants, assaults, that fiery furnace, the athlete's blessed consummation and the human form of Christ presiding over all these events. They are like a book skillfully interpreting by means of colors which express the martyr's struggles and glorify the temple with resplendent beauty. The pictures located on the walls are eloquent by their silence and offer significant testimony; the pavement [M.740] on which people tread is combined with small stones and is significant to mention in itself.

These spectacles strike the senses and delight the eye by drawing us near to [the martyr's] tomb which we believe to be both a sanctification and blessing. If anyone takes dust from the martyr's resting place, it is a gift and a deserving treasure. Should a person have both the good fortune and permission to touch the relics, this experience is a highly valued prize and seems like a dream both to those who were cured and whose wish was fulfilled. The body appears as if it were alive and healthy: the eyes, mouth, ears as well as the other senses are a cause for pouring out tears of reverence and emotion. In this way one implores the martyr who intercedes on our behalf [J.64] and is an attendant of God for imparting those favors and blessings which people seek.

From all this, oh devout people, learn that "the death of his holy ones is admirable before the Lord" [Ps 115.6], for all men comprise one and the same body; they share the same substance as one dough and are carried off to death. However, the martyr's suffering bestows grace which is lovable, joyful and undeniable as the text above teaches. Therefore we believe that appearances hold out the promise of future blessings procured from trials endured in the world. Many are those who pursue [pleasures of] the stomach, vainglory and the rubbish of all this world's charms while neglecting that which is to come; rather, such persons believe that death puts an end to all these things [Phil 3.19]. But a thoughtful person will learn about great matters from that which is small and about archetypes from shadows. To whom will the honor of kings go? Who will be remembered among men with regard to that arrogance resulting from visible reality? Which general who has captured fortified cities and has enslaved many peoples is celebrated as this soldier, poor man and conscript whom Paul has armed [Eph 6.11] and whom the angels have anointed for combat and whom Christ has crowned with victory [2Tim 4.8]? Since these words unite you to the martyr's trials, follow the saint's uncommon example and forsake any useless pursuit because everyone loves such things.

St. Theodore the Great Martyr, Tyron (http://pravicon.com/images/sv/s2073/s2073007.jpg)

  
The fatherland is majestic by reason of beholding the sun. Job [J.65] is noble because he came from the [land of the] sun's rising and continued to observe those customs with which he was acquainted [Job 1.3]. On the other hand, the martyr possesses the entire earth and every citizen who dwells under the sun. However, a list of armed men is taken [M.741] from that vicinity when their regiment is transferred to our region where its leaders post them to rest during the winter. But when war suddenly arises not by an incursion of barbarians but by Satan's ordinance and decree which God opposes (for every Christian is put under the ban of a severe prescription and is condemned to death), the thrice blessed [Theodore] reveals his piety and gives witness everywhere to his faith in Christ in addition to being inscribed upon the forehead with a confession. He is no longer a novice nor untried by battle and combat but has fortified his soul to resist dangers; he is neither afraid nor a coward reluctant to speak. The evil spirits have convened a court along with their leaders and taxiarchs which is reminiscent of Herod and Pilate who condemned the Lord to be crucified by a similar judgment. They said, "What is the source of your courage, you who dare to mock the king's decree? Do you [J.66] not submit in trembling to those royal decrees? Do you not worship the authorities who are in power?" Maximianus was then king whom these leaders served.

With stern countenance and resolute mind [Theodore] responded to their charges by saying, "I do not know the gods because they are false, whereas you err by honoring and addressing them, having been influenced by demons who have deceived you from [the worship of] God [cf. Jn 3.18]. But as for me, Christ is God, the Only Begotten Son of God. Therefore on behalf of the true religion and by confessing him, let him who inflicts wounds go ahead and cut; let him who strikes thrash; let him who burns lead to the flame, and let him who is grieved by my words cut out my tongue. Each member of the body needs patience bestowed by the Creator." The tyrants were at a loss by these words and could not sustain the first refutation of his integrity because this youth was bursting with passion and sought death as if it were a sweet drink.

For a brief period the [persecutors] were at a loss and took counsel with regard to future action. One of the military leaders with a refined demeanor scorned the martyr by the following response: "Theodore, are you the Son of God? Was he born to suffer as a man? My god was not born for this purpose, but I believe that he is a son and that his birth befits his divinity. But you and your childish, pathetic reasoning should make you blush and hide due to your profession in an effeminate god whom, like a mother, you worship her twelve sons who gave birth to [J.67]a multitude of demons just like a hare or a sow which effortlessly conceive and give birth!"

The tyrants mocked the saint by this two pronged attack of idolatry and under the guise of clemency said, "Give us a short time to consider such madness. Perhaps by giving him [M.744] a brief rest he might change his mind for the better." These [despots] called wisdom insanity, reckoned madness and label derangement eloquence just like drunks who vehemently berate sober persons. However, this pious man and soldier of Christ made full use of manly behavior in the respite allotted to him.

St. Theodore conquering the dragon and delivering the princess Eusebia (http://pravicon.com/images/sv/s2073/s2073013.jpg)

  
What did he do? You certainly have enough time to ponder over his tale with joy. The gods' temple erected to their mythical mother was located in the capitol city of Amasea by a river bank where such mislead persons devised their folly. But the noble man remained fearless while his detractors watched for an opportune moment and a occasion because they yearned to accuse him of setting a fire and impatiently expected him to admit it. Once everyone learned of this incident (for a blazing fire started in the midst of the city), [Theodore] did not disclose the deed nor hasten to speak about it. However, it was certainly clear to [his accuser's] arrogance and to the confusion of their great joy that this incident was a source of distress for the temple and its graven image. It was reported to the magistrates that he was responsible for burning the temple and a judgment more fearful than the first resulted due to his provocation.

Once the [judges] took their seats in court, the magistrate eloquently questioned Theodore who stood in their midst [J.68] and who quickly turned the interrogation into a confession [of faith]. Since they could not accuse him and their fearful threats had no effect, they changed their tactics and benignly attempted to withdraw the accusation by offering him promises. "If you wish to submit to our counsel," they said, "we will at once reinstate your renown from such disgrace, change your ignominy into honor and will swear that you share in the glory which belongs to the office of chief priest." When he heard of this honor, the thrice-blessed [Theodore] said, "I judge the priests of idols as wretched men and pity the attendants of such vain practices. I both greatly feel for and loath the chief priest. He is among the worst and most miserable of men, a fact which is more unimaginable than any unjust circumstance; he is the cruelest of murderers and is more wanton than any dissolute person. Therefore let your devastating actions run their course. Tell me, you who make such depraved promises, by choosing a life of piety and righteousness with respect to God, it is better to be a outcast in God's house than to dwell in the tents of the wicked [Ps 83.11]? I pity the kingdom's subjects to whom you continuously read the iniquitous law because its authority is considerable. They can keep the title of chief priest for themselves, cloth themselves with dark purple in imitation of evil chief priests and wrap their melancholy with bright dignity. When approaching the impure altar, [M.745] they sacrifice butchered birds before kings, [J.69] examine the entails of wretched cattle, sell meat stained with blood and defile their clothing."

After the just man had uttered these words, the leaders no longer feigned goodwill but accused him as being most disrespectful of the gods, contemptuous of kings and a blasphemer. First they tortured him by tearing his body which they had suspended upon a tree. While the executioners were vigorously at work, he remained steadfast, constant and sang about his torments from the Psalm, "I will bless the Lord at all times, his praise ever in my mouth" [Ps 33.2]. Those torments of the flesh diminished while he sang and were as though another man were being mistreated. In this fashion the prison sanctioned his punishment. Another phenomenon occurred with regard to the saint: at night he heard a multitude singing, and those outside saw their radiant splendor in the dead of night. This marvelous visitation troubled the prison guard and a sound emanated from inside the cell; no one was present except the martyr who remained at peace with the other sleeping prisoners.

After many such events, [Theodore] was strengthened by his confession and piety, and they brought a vote of condemnation upon him. He was ordered to be burned and in the way finished his wonderful, blessed journey to God. However, [Theodore] left behind a lesson from his agony: he summoned the people, taught the church, put demons to flight, brought angelic peace, implored benefits from God, healed various illnesses in that place, provided a safe haven for those tossed by afflictions, was a rich treasury [J.70] for the poor, a quiet inn of rest for travellers and a continuous festal celebration. If we keep the yearly festival, an enthusiastic multitude will always be in attendance; the highway leading there bore them along like ants with some going and other departing.

The Martyrdom of the Great Martyr, St. Theodore Tyron (http://pravicon.com/images/sv/s2073/s2073006.jpg)

  
Therefore, oh blessed anniversary graciously provided by the Creator, we flock to your festival with the martyrs' holy band which worships a common God. By recalling the victory of our many struggles, you return to us, and when you arrive, you provide us with a day of celebration. We beseech you, whether you dwell in the air above or in some celestial circle or angelic [M.748] chorus, that you assist the Lord or worship him as a faithful servant with the powers and virtues. Come from that place to those who beseech you, invisible friend! You have learned of his death, a means by which you might give double thanks to God who conferred this favor through one passion and one pious confession that you may rejoice in the blood he shed and in the grievous fire he endured. As a result you will have as worthy ministers those who witnessed the spectacle. We lack many benefactors. Intercede on behalf of the people that they may share one kingdom because the martyr's country is one of affliction whose citizens and brethren and kinsmen have died and have been honored. We fear afflictions and expect danger because we are close to the ungodly Sythians who grieve us with war. As a soldier, fight for us; as a martyr, grant courage to your fellow servants. Since you have prevailed over this life yet are familiar with humanity's sufferings and needs, grant peace that the festivals may continue, that the furious, insolent, mad barbarians might not triumph over the temples or altars and that they might not tread the holy place.

We who have been kept safe and unharmed ponder [J.71] your beneficence and implore protection for the future. Should we experience stress and dishonor, let your people beseech the chorus of your fellow martyrs; the prayers of many just people will exonerate sin. Remember Peter, awaken Paul along with John the theologian and beloved disciple, who are solicitous on behalf of the churches which they have founded and on whose behalf they endured dangers and death. They did not engage in idol worship which was inimical to our head [Christ] in order that heresy may resemble thorns to pluck out vines, that weeds might not suffocate wheat, that no rock hinder the true, rich dew and that anything without root may show the power of the fertile word [cf. Mt 13.25, 7, 20]. But by the power of your intercession and those with you, oh marvelous and most bright among the martyrs, the young shoot will return to you, the flourishing citizenship of Christians will endure to the end in the splendid, fruitful field of faith in Christ which always bears the fruit of eternal life in Christ Jesus Lord. To him with the Father and Holy Spirit be glory, power and honor now and forever. Amen."
(http://www.sage.edu/faculty/salomd/nyssa/theodore.html)
  

St. Theodore Tyron (http://pravicon.com/images/sv/s2073/s2073004.jpg)

  
For the life of St. Theodore the Recruit and the Miracle of the Kollyva: http://full-of-grace-and-truth.blogspot.com/2009/03/st-theodore-tyron-and-miracle-of.html.
  
For more on Sts. Theodore the Great Martyrs, see: http://full-of-grace-and-truth.blogspot.com/2010/02/agioi-theodoroi-saints-theodore-great.html.
  

St. Gregory of Nyssa (Icon courtesy of www.eikonografos.com used with permission)

  

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

"Agioi Theodoroi" ("Saints Theodore") the Great Martyrs

Saints Theodore Stratelates and Tyron, the Great Martyrs (http://www.orthodoxy-icons.com/uploads/posts/2011-05/1304240231_byzantineiconography0027.jpg)

Recently I have tried to search for additional source material on two great military Saints and martyrs of the Church, Sts. Theodore. It has become clear that some in the West seem to have abandoned the abundant church history and tradition that attests to two great military men named Theodore who suffered for Christ in a similar area of the world. Perhaps this is too much of a coincidence for some, so they conclude that they must have been the same person. However, we are in error if we believe so. In addition, such an approach to the Church I would argue is symptomatic of deeper passions (which I admit are also present within myself too).

In any case, the Orthodox Church has long praised these two great Saints and Wonderworkers of Christ. It is likely that because they share the same name, similar circumstances from their lives, and feasts that are close to each other, they are often honored and depicted together in churches as "Agioi Theodoroi", or "Saints Theodore" the Great Martyrs. I hope to continue to include information below either concerning both of them, or providing links to information about them separately. May they intercede for us and help us!

Icon of Saints Theodore Stratelates and Tyron the Great Martyrs (Icon courtesy of www.eikonografos.com used with permission)

St. Theodore Stratelates ("The Commander"), the Great Martyr - Commemorated on February 8th

-Life of the Saint: http://www.johnsanidopoulos.com/2010/02/great-martyr-theodore-stratelates.html.

St. Theodore O Tyron ("The Recruit"), the Great Martyr - Commemorated on February 17th, and the First Saturday of Great Lent

-Life of the Saint and the Miracle of the Kollyva: http://full-of-grace-and-truth.blogspot.com/2009/03/st-theodore-tyron-and-miracle-of.html.

-"In Praise of Blessed Theodore, the Great Martyr" by St. Gregory of Nyssa: http://www.sage.edu/faculty/salomd/nyssa/theodore.html.

Saints Theodore the Great Martyrs (Icon courtesy of www.eikonografos.com used with permission)

Miracles of (undetermined) St. Theodore
The following miracles are attributed a St. Theodore the Great Martyr, but neither the site editor nor the authors elaborate on which of the Saints Theodore, so I thought to include them here as a result. (http://www.ucc.ie/milmart/theodsrcs.html)

"As for his spirit, it has been privileged with great access to God, the radiance of which I shall try to show by a few examples. There is in the holy city a silversmith, of Damascus by birth, named Romulus, archdeacon of holy Gethsemane. This Romulus told me the following story: "At the time of the death of blessed Sabbas, my shop was burgled and I lost nearly one hundred pounds of silver. Going at once (he continued) to the shrine of St. Theodore, I supplied illumination for the church for five days and stayed there day and night weeping on the sanctuary rails. Around midnight of the fifth day I was rapt in sleep when I saw the holy martyr of Christ Theodore, who said to me, "What is the matter? Why are you in such distress, and weeping?" I replied, "I have lost my own property and that of others, and I have spent days here without gaining anything." The saint said to me, "Believe me, I was not here, but I was ordered to hasten to meet the holy soul of Abba Sabbas and guide it to the place of repose. But now, go to this place and you will find there the thieves and the money." Getting up at this very hour and taking some others with me, I went to the place announced by the saint, and we found it just as had been announced in the vision."
-from Cyril of Scythopolis: The Lives of the Monks of Palestine (6th Century)

Saints Theodore the Great Martyrs (https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCa_IPB79JXWs1dKt85Lrt4IL0bfiw2A9EgCnE4n6TIlNFXMm4rs5Td-2UgZMy9gm5Qfuox29BAvtJv5sMF2UdNiLfpoEVsBfbgNqF9hjoHXUzifk4XIOzrzdfMcmGBxBsEBW8MW8nHvIN/s1600/ag-Theodoros-Strat-CMYK-nef.png, https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuMD8M4eekWD7xa-q9JRYKZX1uX0Gq7X_Gn2z7_ufmyHCn9oh0RgxNKLxn7lgblZkMTdt3fdvFrI4NSbfgyH6CGzu4pQvVmu_DR-twSKHb9ynjTodXvVvReAqUSCnw5niY3-5oJQx5NE2c/s1600/ag-Theodoros-Tiron-CMYK-nef.png)

  
"And the servant of God entered the village called Diolko, and took up lodging in the Church of St. Theodore. And he prayed to God without interruption at all hours, since the Lord Jesus Christ had resurrected the man and brought him back to life, and he stood before him whole. And he spent four days in the Church of St. Theodore. There was a blind man named Anthony, who dwelt in the holy church, unable to see anything at all. And when the servant of God Nicholas saw him, he said to him: "How many years have you been without your sight?" And the blind man said to him: "It is now three years since I saw the sun. And I spent much money on doctors so that they would restore my sight. But it has been all of no avail, though I spent on them all that I had." The servant of God Nicholas said to him: "And why did you not put your faith in the saints? You would have been cured free of charge." And the blind man said to him: "Now that I have been found to be without faith, what should I do?" The servant of God Saint Nicholas said to him: "Will you believe from now on that the saints have the power to cure you?" The blind man said to him: "I put my faith in God and in your holy prayers, that you can persuade God to have mercy on me." Moved with compassion, the servant of God stood praying over him. And he took oil from the lamp of Saint Theodore, and made the sign of the cross upon his eyes, and said to him: "I have faith in God that tomorrow you will see the glory of God with your own eyes." And the following day the eyes of the blind man were opened , and he walked around seeing, and glorified God that he had recovered his sight through the prayer of the servant of God."
-from the Life of St. Nicholas of Sion (6th Century)

The Church of Agioi Theodoroi, Serres (http://www.serrelib.gr/gramatosima.htm)

The Church of Agioi Theodoroi, Serres

Among the many temples, [the church of Agioi Theodoroi] adorns, honours, and makes the city of Serres known to all, no less so than the other temples. It is a holy and sacred place to wonder and marvel at, built in honour of those saints whose name means "Gift of God'".

-Theodoros Pediasimos, Man of Letters and Fourteenth Century Citizen of Serres.

The church of the gloriously martyred soldier saints, Agioi Theodoroi is located in the centre of the old city of Serres. Its large square basilica (internal dimensions 15.6 by 24 metres) is divided into two parts, the portico and the main body of the church, which is itself separated by two lines of columns into three naves. The large amount of early Christian masonry that was reused in the building of the church would indicate that it was built as early as the 6th Century. The exquisite church has been renovated on a number of occasions. No information is available on the history of the monument until the Fifteenth Century. However, the manner in which the church was built, and its final form in particular, are the result of a number of bold, easily distinguished, major alterations made at different periods down the ages. The materials and methods used by the craftsman for each of these alterations have helped most of the reputable scholars who have researched the church's history to draw roughly the same fundamental conclusions as to its architecture and decoration.

Part of the Sacred Skull of St. Theodore Stratelates, treasured in the Church of Agioi Theodoroi, Serres (http://www.rel.gr/photo/displayimage.php?album=9&pos=47)

It was Basil II, the Emperor of Byzantium, who ordered the first alterations to be made to the church in thanks for an unexpected victory over the Bulgarians, won not far from Serres on July 29, 1014. The church's original design - that of a basilica with traverse aisle - was altered. The church was crowned with a dome and the side wings of the traverse aisle were extended to form a three-aisled basilica. Inscriptions bear witness to the fact that the church was dedicated to Saint Theodoros the Victorious - and him alone - during the Eleventh and Twelfth Centuries. The church was destroyed, along with the whole of Serres, in 1205 by the Bulgarians under Ioannitsis. Aggelos Komnenos, the Despot of Epirus, captured the city in 1221, and repaired the church in thanks for his great victory over the Franks - led by Robert II, the Latin Emperor of Constantinople - which made his later conquest of Thessaloniki possible. He also beautified the church with magnificent mosaics - adding to the mosaics with which the church had gradually been decorated starting in the last quarter of the Eleventh Century - as an expression of gratitude towards its patron saints.

In 1255, Theodore II Lascaris, the Emperor of Nicaea, gilded the church's icons with gold and silver in repayment for the divine assistance he had received from [St. Theodore Stratelates] during his army's conquest of Meleniko. From then on, small-scale work was periodically done on the church to keep the ravages of time at bay. The church was ransacked by the Turks in 1571, and suffered a great of damage from a fire in 1849. On June 29, 1913, the church was completely destroyed, along with the rest of the city, by the Bulgarians.

Rebuilding started in 1938 under Theodoros Orlando, and was completed by E. Stikas in 1959. The monument's future was under threat from natural decay, but the church was repaired thanks to intervention on the part of the Bishop of Serres and Nigrita, and once more took its place in the spiritual life of the city as a place of worship.
(summary of text from: http://www.serrelib.gr/gramatosima.htm)

Sts. Theodore the Recruit and the Commander, the Great Martyrs (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Theodore)

Apolytikion of St. Theodore Stratelates in the Fourth Tone

In truth enlisted with the King of the Heavens, thou didst become for Him a noble commander, O trophy-bearer and Great Martyr Theodore. With the weaponry of faith didst thou arm thyself wisely and didst utterly destroy all the hordes of the demons, as a triumphant athlete of the Lord; wherefore we ever do faithfully call thee blest.

(http://goarch.org/chapel/saints_view?contentid=419)

Apolytikion of St. Thedore the Tyron in the Second Tone

Great are the achievements of faith! In the fountain of flame, as by the water of rest, the holy Martyr Theodore rejoiced; for having been made a whole-burnt offering in the fire, he was offered as sweet bread unto the Trinity. By his prayers, O Christ God, save our souls.

(http://goarch.org/chapel/saints_view?contentid=432)

  

Saints Theodore the Great Martyrs (http://www.stjosephmelkitecatholicchurch.org/menaion_for_june/Transfer_of_the_Remains_of_the_Holy_and_Great-martyr_Theodore__General_of_the_Armies__june_-8.jpg)

  

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!

St. George the New Hieromartyr of Neapolis (+1797)

Icon of the Saints celebrated on November 3rd: (first row) Sts. Akepsimas, George of Neapolis, Joseph, (second row) George the Great Martyr (the dedication of his church) and Aethalas (taken from: http://christopherklitou.com/icon_3_nov_george_aethalas_acepsimus_george_of_neapolis_joseph.htm)

St George the New Hieromartyr of Neapolis (Asia Minor) (+1797) - Commemorated on November 3rd

"Saint George, the new martyr of Christ, lived in Neapolis of Asia Minor (Nev-Sechir in Turkish) in the eighteenth century. He was a priest at the Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos and served his flock with righteousness and holiness as a true servant of the Most-high. Gifted with the qualities of love and meekness, brotherly love and forbearance, humble and spotless was his support and consolation of the Greek Christians who then lived under the yoke of the Turks. As an angel on earth the divine George willingly served his fellow men cultivating the divine gifts and pleasing to God.

In the year 1797 he was invited to the village Malakopi-located within six hours from Neapolis-to serve at some great feast and to bless their pious Christians, because their priest was ill, and or, in the opinion of others, was hiding from the fury of the Hagarenes [Turks]. The elder George now gladly accepted the invitation without considering the suffering and above all the risks.

St. George of Neapolis (source)

Mounting his shabby donkey, he proceeded willing. He approached close to Malakopi, when suddenly at “Kobia Dere ", meaning “ravine”, he experienced a wild attack of Turkish shepherds, who angrily fell on him with an indescribable fury. They robbed him they stripped him naked, and in the end they gave him a martyric death, cutting off his precious head. His body, naked and bloodied, with his head they left in an adjacent canyon, but his soul flew close to its Lord to be numbered among the Righteous and the Hieromartyrs.

Four days passed without the Holy priest reaching Malakopi, but also not returning to Neapolis. Concerned citizens of Neapolis went in search of him. They found his holy body and his precious head and lamenting and weeping at his difficult death, a shepherd hastily buried him, fearing the fury of Hagarenes. Above his grave a stone bore the simple inscription: “The Priest George”.

St. George of Neapolis (Icon courtesy of www.eikonografos.com used with permission)

Some time passed, until one night the holy hieromartyr appeared in a vision to a pious widow relating to her what happened and urging her to inform the Mayor to look to find the location in which he was buried. The woman did not give importance to it, but when after a few days the dream was repeated, she was fearful and did what the saint asked. Without delay the pious citizens of Neapolis led by a priest, called Neophytos, son also of priest Basilios, fellow priest? [συνεφημερίου] of the saint, hastened and excavated that shallow? [πρόχειρο] grave. Oh, the miracle! The relic of the Saint remained whole and incorrupt spreading heavenly fragrance and Grace! After they venerated it with reverence and awe, they placed in a wooden casket and carried it to the home of Fr. Neophytos, according to the desire of the Saint himself, and kept it in a cell.

There many came, locals and foreigners, to venerate the Saint and receive blessing from his venerable relic. Miracles began to occur. The sick and disabled were healed, childless couples bore children, spiritual illnesses disappeared, and further during drought the citizens of Neapolis fled to the Saint, that they might shortly see the blessed rain fall strongly. All confessed how miraculous St. George was shown to be!

In 1924, with the exchange of populations, the Greeks of Cappadocia left for free Greece, each taking with him whatever he considered most precious. The then priest of the Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos archimandrite Ignatios, perceiving his first responsibility to safely transfer the miraculous and incorrupt relic of St. George, brought it from the shore of Mersinis by steamer to Attica. During the journey they had very rough seas, but they were lulled with a miracle of the Saint.

Another icon of St. George of Neapolis (taken from: http://www.holynativityconvent.com/images/Webimageslarge/Laser%20Large%20Images/St-George-of-Neapolis-web.jpg)
  

In Attica the sacred relic was handed over to citizens of Neapolis, who placed it with reverence in the Church of St. Eustathios in New Neapolis, Perissos. Since then countless are the miracles and the healings which St. George worked to those who call on his name with faith.
 

The Reliquary containing the Holy and Incorrupt Relic of St. George of Neapolis, treasured by the Church of St. Eustathios, Nea Neapolis, Perissos (Athens) (source)

 

Other Holy Relics treasured in the Church of St. Eustathios, including the Skull of St. Gregory of Nyssa, and Holy Relics of Sts. Theodore Tyron, Theodore Stratelates, and St. George Karslides (source)

 
Since 2/11/1999, at request of the first Metropolitan Dionysios and noble concession of the Metropolitan of Trifilias and Olympias Stephen, a piece of the sacred relics of the Saint are treasured at the Holy Metropolis Church of St. George of Neapolis, as a permanent blessing of the people of the Metropolis bearing the name of Christ."
(amateur translation of text from here: http://www.imnst.gr/index.php?id=11)

For a video of the Church of St. Eusthathios, Perissos, Athens, along with icons and the Holy Relic of St. George of Neapolis, see: http://apantaortodoxias.blogspot.com/2009/11/3.html.

Icon depicting Christ seated, with Saints of Neapolis: (right to left) Sts. George of Neapolis, Athanasios Koulakiotou, Akakios Asvestochoritou, and George the Great Martyr (taken from: http://www.imnst.gr/images/neapolites.jpg)

Στίχοι.

Γεώργιον ἔμψυχον Κυρίῳ ὤφθης,

Γεώργιε ὅσιε, τμηθεὶς τὴν κάραν.

(http://voutsinasilias.blogspot.com/2009/10/3.html)

Apolytikion (for a Hieromartyr) in the Fourth Tone

As a sharer of the ways and a successor to the throne of the Apostles, O inspired of God, thou foundest discipline to be a means of ascent to divine vision. Wherefore, having rightly divided the word of truth, thou didst also contest for the Faith even unto blood, O Hieromartyr George. Intercede with Christ our God that our souls be saved.

(altered from: http://www.goarch.org/chapel/saints/68)

St. George of Neapolis, the New Righteous Hieromartyr of Christ (+1797) (http://pravicon.com/images/sv/s0511/s0511001.jpg)

  

Through the prayers of our Holy Fathers, Lord Jesus Christ our God, have mercy on us and save us! Amen!